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The SweetGeorgia Show // S5 E6: Amy Sadler from Knittty

In this episode of The SweetGeorgia Show, Felicia Lo chats with Amy Sadler, editor of Knitty.com, the longest-running free knitting magazine online. They talk about how Knitty got started, Amy’s path through the knitting world, and how both the magazine and the community have evolved over the years. Together, they explore the changing landscape of online platforms, the role of Patreon and BlueSky in building community, and how designers can find support while navigating the pressures of creative work. 

This conversation offers thoughtful insights into the heart of the fibre arts community, along with advice, inspiration, and a look at the trends shaping knitting and crochet today. Please join us!

Episode Highlights

  • Knitty was founded in 2002 and has become a staple in the knitting community.
  • Amy Sadler’s background in editing and proofreading shaped the quality of Knitty’s content.
  • The magazine started as a way to centralize independent knitting patterns.
  • Knitty has launched the careers of many well-known designers in the knitting industry.
  • The transition from print to online allowed for more detailed and accessible patterns.
  • Community engagement has shifted from traditional forums to platforms like Patreon and BlueSky.
  • Amy emphasizes the importance of making patterns understandable for all knitters.
  • The knitting community is diverse, including many neurodivergent individuals.
  • Knitty remains free to readers, supported by patrons and advertising.
  • There is a growing interest in returning to long-form content and blogs. Community engagement has shifted from blogs to platforms like YouTube.
  • Monetization strategies for creators include Patreon and YouTube views.
  • Support from patrons can lead to feelings of guilt for creators.
  • Good design and quality patterns are essential for success in the knitting industry.
  • Trends in knitting are influenced by yarn availability and fashion.
  • Cropped and oversized designs are currently popular in knitting.
  • Crochet is gaining recognition and popularity among knitters.
  • Resources like Knitty provide valuable information for knitters and designers.
  • Innovation in design is crucial for standing out in a crowded market.
  • Building connections and consistently producing good work can lead to greater visibility.
Amy Sadler 2002
Amy Sadler, 2002, when Knitty launched.
Amy Sadler Knit City 2024
Amy Sadler, 2024, KnitCity Toronto.

More About Amy Sadler/Knitty

Clapotis shawl
Clapotis is one of the most popular patterns on Ravelry, with over 23,000 projects completed. To celebrate its 20th anniversary, the pattern was relaunched with a make-along called Clapotis Fest. Enjoy both the original and updated versions for free!

Thank You for Listening

Thank you for spending time with us in this episode! If you enjoyed it, we’d love for you to share it with your fellow fibre-loving friends. And if you’re enjoying the show, please consider leaving a rating and review on iTunes; it helps us reach more makers like you.

If you’d like to hear more, you can subscribe to our podcast and never miss an episode!

We read every message, whether it’s on Instagram, Ravelry, Discord, or in our School of SweetGeorgia Community Forums, so we welcome you to share your thoughts with us.

The SweetGeorgia Show // S5 E6: Amy Sadler

Join Our Community!

  • At the School of SweetGeorgia, we’ve built a vibrant and welcoming community of fibre-loving makers, passionate instructors, and dedicated staff. Whether you’re looking for guidance on a new technique or just need a little creative encouragement, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
  • Not yet a member of the School of SweetGeorgia? No problem! You’re invited to join our open SweetGeorgia Discord server, a vibrant, inclusive, and welcoming space where fibre artists connect. If you have a question, need inspiration, or just want to chat with fellow makers, our community and staff are here for you.
  • Join our SweetGeorgia Ravelry group! It’s a wonderful space where fibre artists come together to share their projects, celebrate yarn and fibre, dive into make-alongs, and discover new patterns. We’d love to see you there and be part of the creative conversations!
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The post The SweetGeorgia Show // S5 E6: Amy Sadler from Knittty appeared first on SweetGeorgia Yarns.



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