Meet Nancie Wiseman - Knitting Author, Designer & Teacher
by Roxanne of WorldKnit.com

MPLS (Feb-01) - We recently had the opportunity to talk with author, designer, teacher and fiber artist entrepreneur Nancie Wiseman. Nancie is a well-known and highly respected figure in the knitting community. She has written articles and created patterns for Knitters, Interweave Knits, PieceWork, Knit 'n Style, and Cast on. She created the scarf pattern for Martha Stewart Living's recent "Knitting 101" feature article. Nancie has seven videos and four books to her credit, and owns a retail-and-wholesale business called Nancie Knits. Her book, Knitted Shawls, Stoles, and Scarves is simply fabulous! Twenty glamorous wraps including Interlocking Diamonds Scarf, Textured Squares Mohair Shawl, Cabled Stole, Lavender Linen Lace Shawl ... sure to elicit "oohs and ahhs" from all who see them! We are excited to be able to introduce you to such a talented, renowned member of the fiber art community! You may click on any of the pictures within the article to learn more or to purchase her products.

WorldKnit.com: How did you originally become interested in knitting and how long have you been practicing your art?

Nancie: My mother was a crocheter, sometimes a knitter and dressmaker. I learned all of these skills from her when I was about 5 or so. I preferred knitting to crochet because I wanted to make sweaters. We didn't have a lot of money and that was the only way I got new sweaters to wear to school. My mother worked in a yarn/sewing/dime store in the 50's and I often went to work with her. I would always work on my knitting or sewing or crocheting while I was there, so that I would not get into mischief. When I was in college I often knit during lectures to keep myself from getting bored. It worked very well. I worked in a fabric store while I was in college, and made wedding dresses in my dorm room to help support my education. I guess I've been working on knitting and crochet, as well as sewing for about 45 years. Yikes... that is a long time.

WorldKnit.com: Do you have any formal Design/Art/Business education?

Nancie: No, I am pretty much self-taught in the school of hard knocks.

WorldKnit.com: At what point did you evolve from knitting enthusiast to retailer, designer, teacher, writer, etc.? Was becoming a well-known and respected teacher/author/designer a goal or dream when you initially started, or was it something that evolved over time?

Nancie: I always wanted to own a yarn store and played "store" with my mother's yarns and my little cash register. I had the opportunity to open a store when some friends were opening a quilt store and needed someone to share their store until they got their feet on the ground. It was the perfect opportunity to share expenses and get some experience as a retailer. I was still working as a Registered Nurse in a local hospital, so I worked during the day at the shop and the evening at the hospital. After a couple of years we both grew and I moved my part of the shop to a small strip mall in the same neighborhood. Everything just fell into place. At first my only goal in owing the shop was to keep my head above water, so to speak. The designing and teaching just sort of happened the more experience I got. I have always gone with the theory that you can try anything and see what happens. You won't know if you will be successful unless you jump in with both feet and try your hardest.

WorldKnit.com: You do a lot of designing for yarn companies. How do you take a simple ball of yarn and turn it into a masterpiece? Do you see it, visualize it, dream it, feel it or does it just evolve from sudden inspirations? Basically, how does your mind engage and create the work?

Nancie: This is a very interesting question. I have a zillion designs in my head and sometimes when yarn arrives one of those designs just fits it. Other times, I swatch and play with the yarn and see how it looks the best. Often I get to a point where I don't think I will come up with any good ideas and then "click" it all falls together. One method I use is just to leave the yarn on my desk and sort of "live with it". Often just looking at it for awhile sparks an idea. Unfortunately, I often only have a week or two to come up with a design, knit it and write the pattern, so the ideas need to come pretty fast. My mind is always seeing designs around me. Nature, current fashion and just what I think would be fun to knit inspire my designs. I don't want knitting to be boring, so I like to throw in little twists and turns to keep it interesting for everyone, including me.

WorldKnit.com: When designing for yarn companies, do you have to take into account the demographics of the customer (i.e. age, weight, height, $ willing to be spent on a project)? Or do you simply design something you would personally like?

Nancie: I don't take those things into consideration unless the designs are for books or magazines. Often all of that information is taken care of by the yarn company or the publisher. Seldom are those considerations a problem, and for the most part I design what I love. I like color and new techniques, I'm not a huge fan of cables, so you will see lots of color in my work, but not a lot of cables.

WorldKnit.com: What is your preferred method of knitting - hand or machine? Do you design on the machine first and then translate it to hand?

Nancie: I will always be primarily a hand knitter. I own machines and use them, but I don't design with them and then translate the directions to hand knitting. I will use them to knit plain sections of a sweater because of the speed in which I have to get things done. For the most part, I use them as tools to increase my hand knitting production. I bought my first machine to learn how to use it because sometimes I get questions in classes about converting hand techniques to machine techniques and I wanted to be able to answer those questions.

WorldKnit.com: We are sorry to hear that you no longer have a store. What influenced your decision to no longer be a retailer after 12 years of owning Nancie Knits in Sacramento?

Nancie: I was in an old building with many problems, I was about to re-negotiate my lease and was having difficulty getting these problems taken care of. My husband was about to retire, and I didn't want to sign a long lease. I didn't want to tie him down if he wanted to travel because of the store. The store was very busy and I had 3 employees, but with all of these other problems, I decided it was time to close. We then decided to move to Whidbey Island, Washington so the timing was perfect. I miss the store and my wonderful customers, but now I have more time for my true love: designing, teaching and writing.

WorldKnit.com: We are so excited about your new book, Knitted Shawls, Stoles and Scarves! So elegant and beautiful. 20 absolutely stunning patterns! It must take quite a lot of time and energy to develop and write a book. Most of us have no idea or appreciation of the amount of work that goes into creating a book like this. Please tell us a bit about the process and time frame for creating a book.

Nancie: Writing a book, for me, is one of the most pleasurable experiences I have had. I love the deadlines and the pressure and the need to keep ever vigilant in the design process. I have had a contract before writing the current three books. I write out an outline, write a few chapters and get some of the knitting done before I present it to the publisher. I like to have a head start because you don't always have a lot of time to produce the work. For Lace from the Attic, I had six months to do all of the knitting and writing, and for the Shawls, Stoles and Scarves book, I had 4 months. I will have 6 months for the next sweater book that will be out next Spring. I do all of the writing myself, draw diagrams that are then interpreted by a graphic artist to achieve what you finally see in the book. I have had a couple of items proof knit, but other than that I do all of the knitting for all of the books. As an example, I have knit 5 sweaters between Christmas and the end of January. You have to treat it like a job, it is no longer leisurely knitting in the evening. I rent videos and have marathon knitting sessions.

When I submit the manuscript, written in a particular format designated by the publisher, my editor will go over it and ask questions. We will agree on any changes that get made. I then get an edited version of the book back, make changes and send it back, usually with a deadline of 10 days or so. The photographs and illustrations are then inserted in the appropriate place, and I get a color version of the book back to make any last changes. This is the last chance to proof read for math and errors, etc. The whole process including the printing can take about a year, some of the time in the printing, because it is done in China. I love the process, but it isn't for everyone.

WorldKnit.com: How does working for a publisher differ from self publishing?

Nancie: I love working for a publisher, I work well under deadlines, and love the fact that another set of eyes will go over the work. In the case of self publishing it is sometimes difficult to make changes and do rewrites, because once your brain has set it down in writing it is hard to see it another way. In the case of videos, I do all of the filming and editing. I use a professional video editor to help with the music, title pages etc. Did you know that if you say the wrong word they can take that word from somewhere else in the video and replace it? Well, it's all wonderful, but takes time. I can usually count on 8 hours of taping and 8 to 12 hours of editing to produce a 1 hour video. The end result is usually worth it though.

WorldKnit.com: You are hailed as a wonderful teacher and are highly sought after for workshops across the US. On average, how many workshops do you teach in a year? Do you ever travel outside of the US to teach? How do you decide where and what you are going to teach? (i.e. do you teach things that you are currently interested in or pursuing)

Nancie: First of all thank you. I love teaching what I love to knit. I usually travel about 8 to 12 times a year. I have gotten a little more careful about the length of time I'm gone. If I travel East, I have to have a three day workshop to make the time worth it to me. Anything less and it is just to tiring. Sometimes I am gone every other weekend in the fall, so I try to limit my traveling to longer events. I have recently started teaching in Canada, and find that to be a most rewarding experience. The biggest knitting and stitching show in North America is in Toronto every Fall. 50 to 75,000 people attend. The energy and the creativity is wonderful to be a part of.

When someone asks me to teach I send out a syllabus of my classes as well as my fees etc. They usually choose the classes they want, sometimes with my letting them know what is popular at the time. I only teach what I love, and sometimes that changes for a short time depending on the projects I am working on. You will always see me teaching classes that involve color and technique, but won't see me teaching cables that often. They aren't my favorite thing. I don't mind them, but there are other techniques I like better.

WorldKnit.com: You have also written articles and patterns for Interweave Knits, Piecework, Knitter's Magazine...How did you get involved with writing Knitting 101 for Martha Stewart's Living? This article was published in the fall of 1998. Since that time, knitting has been experiencing a great resurgence in popularity. Do you think articles in highly publicized magazines like Martha Stewart's Living have helped to promote and rekindle interest in knitting?

Nancie: Writing the article for Martha Stewart Living was a very interesting project. I got a phone call, out of the blue, from one of her assistants and asked me if I could help them. They had seen my video on Continental Knitting. They knew they were in trouble, so to speak, when it came to writing patterns because they didn't have anyone with that experience on their staff. After getting over the initial shock of Martha Stewart Living magazine calling little ole me, I was able to help them with the knitting and the pattern writing. It was a great deal of fun, and a once in a lifetime chance to be involved with such a prestigious magazine.

WorldKnit.com: Of all the many activities (teaching, designing, writing) you do, which is the most rewarding personally?

Nancie: In some ways all of them are rewarding in their own way. Teaching: I love to see the light bulb go on over someone's head when they finally get a concept. Designing: What a thrill to see someone wearing a sweater you designed. Writing: Knowing that what you say is irreversible and may affect someone's desire to knit a project is very rewarding. To be considered an expert is a huge responsibility.

WorldKnit.com: Many fiber artists dream of turning their passion into a business. What advice would you give to aspiring fiber entrepreneurs?

Nancie: It isn't an easy job, and sometimes it takes awhile to become well known for what you do. The money isn't always great at first, so don't quit that day job. Be willing to knit things that are not necessarily your style or anything you would wear. When knitting for other people, it is amazing what people will want you to make.

WorldKnit.com: Are there any new books and creations you are working on that we can look forward to in the near future?

Nancie: My new book, deadline for me, May 15th, is on sweaters based on four of the techniques used in the Knitted Shawls Stoles and Scarves book. There will be a sweater for every season using each of the techniques, with some simple accessories to learn the techniques. My hope is that there will be garments for every climate that people will want to knit. Each garment will advance the knitters skill level in that technique. The working title is : Sweaters for Every Season. It may change so stay tuned.

WorldKnit.com: We would really like to thank you for taking the time to talk with us! We are thrilled to be able to carry your wonderful books, videos and reproduction needle point covers. We hope all fiber artists will take the opportunity to learn from such a well-known and respected knitter. We eagerly await all of your new books, patterns and future creations! Thank you Nancie :-)!

~ End ~

Books and Videos by Nancie M. Wiseman:

Knitted Shawls, Stoles, and Scarves	Lace from the Attic

Hand Knitted Lace Video	Learn to Knit Video	Three Techniques for More Colorful Knitting Video

Basic Sock Video	Continental Knitting Video	Entrelac and Seamless Bobbinless Argyle Socks Video

Nancie offers the following workshops:

Intarsia Basics: Intarsia knitting is not only beautiful but challenging, often leading to frustration if it is not done properly. Holes are a common side effect of intarsia done incorrectly. This class will cover winding bobbins, either plastic or butterflies and when it isn't necessary to use bobbins. How to prevent holes when 2 colors meet, and how to take care of all the ends one acquires when working with multiple colors. While working on a small swatch in class utilizing the graph provided the different problems will be discussed and how to handle them. Graph reading will be covered and the differences between Fair Isle graphs and Intarsia graphs.

Basic Charting For Basic Sweaters: Designing and charting one's own sweaters is every knitter's goal. The ideas are all in their head, but they don't know how to come up with the numbers that eventually equal a well fitting sweater. The student will take measurements, and with a series of charts and simple math create their own sweater design for a pullover and a cardigan. Large graph paper will be provided as part of the handout so that the sweater can then be drawn on the graph paper showing the entire design. Through charting, written directions can become a thing of the past as the student learns to put their own designs on paper. Better fitting sweaters for everyone can be accomplished with the knowledge of how the arithmetic for sweater knitting is done.

Victorian Knitted Laces : During the workshop we will explore lace as you create some for your own notebook. The laces will be blocked in class and mounted on felt for further research and study. The student will then work on two basic types of doilies utilizing the borders. The first doily will be worked utilizing short rows creating the center and the edging simultaneously. The second doily will be knit using a linen center with hem stitching. The knit border will be attached as it is knit using a technique Nancie created for her book, Lace from the Attic. Basic care and storing of lace will also be discussed.

Knitting with Copper Wire: I found that knitting with copper wire can be an extremely interesting way to create "artful" knitting. The wire is really easy to knit with on a size 4 knitting needle. The finer the gauge the easier the wire is to work with. Creating home decor items or jewelry is simple with the wire and a few basic tools and supplies that we don't normally carry in our knitting bags. In this 3 hour class the student will knit a small bowl or a small piece of jewelry using the wire. The techniques for finishing off the wire, adding in new wire, and creating shapes will be covered.

The Magic of Short Rows : Short rows have their own special charm when it comes to shaping garments, making them fit better, and making beautiful seams. With two basic short row techniques you can learn to shape shoulders, make darts, create interesting backs of sweaters, and make sleeves knit across instead of up from the cuff. The 2 basic rules for short rows are easy to learn and utilize in your knitting. You'll love the way your garments fit and go together once you learn to adapt commercial patterns or create your own designs using the magic of short rows.

Diagonal Knitting: Tired of knitting on the vertical and horizontal, want to learn a new direction? Knitting on the diagonal is the answer. It is an absolutely intriguing way to knit especially with some of the space dyed and multi colored yarns available today. Adding texture to the knitting will also make it more interesting as the pattern stitches and rows are knit at a 45-degree angle.

Fancy Borders: No more plain ribbing at the bottom of your sweaters. You'll love all of the new options like, ruffles, pleats, bobbles and much more. A variety of patterns from simple to advanced will be given and the student can choose which they would like to work on. A notebook of samples can be created from the samples made in class. Lots of variety and options with a discussion on how and where to use the borders. Cast on and cast off versions of many of the borders are given as well.

Lace Basics: This class was created to assist the student in learning the basics of creating knitted lace. A sampler of many lace patterns will be worked during the class while the student learns to read charts, becomes familiar with smaller yarn and needles, and corrects mistakes.

Interlocking Diamonds: Based on a design I did for Prism Yarns, this interesting technique is similar to Entrelac, but produces diamonds instead of squares. It's a great way to use up small bits and pieces of yarn for a very dynamic look.

Heirloom Lace Doilies: I did research in the Shetland Islands in October, 1996, including a class from Gladys Amedro. The information I have gathered I believe would make a very interesting class. Lace knitting can be very "addicting" as you watch the patterns form It's actually very relaxing as the repeats are usually short and easy to memorize. It does require concentration, but can be learned with a moderate amount of time and knitting experience. The student will knit a small doily to learn the techniques. It is a simple pattern and most people can finish in the amount of time given for the class.

Continental Knitting: Continental Knitting is well known as a faster more efficient way to knit. Utilized in parts of Europe as well as the United States it is often envied by people who knit American Style. It is essential for Fair Isle Knitting when using 2 colors at a time, one in each hand. Knitting, purling, ribbing, decreases such as Knit 2 together and Slip, Slip, Knit, and increases such as Knit in the front and the back of a stitch and Make One will be shown. A discussion of when to use Continental Knitting as opposed to American Style Knitting as well as the value in learning the new technique. This class has been one of the most popular classes to date. It is always wells received and people who have never been able to master the technique seem to do very well.

Tuck and Roll: Using a design created for Trendsetter Yarns this class will demonstrate ways to put intarsia tucks, both vertical and horizontal in your knitting. These tucks are similar to a machine knitting technique used in famous designs from Australia. The tucks stand out on their own and can be used in multiple widths, or colors.

Color Work with Short Rows: Short rows are a simple way of adding color and design to your knits. After the concept of short rows is understood with a basic demonstration and sample knitting, learn how to use short rows, instead of intarsia, to put wonderful color and design in your garments. There are fewer ends to weave in , and the need for following a chart is eliminated. This is a form of freeform knitting that you won't be able to put down.

WorldKnit.com encourages you to contact Nancie if you have any questions regarding her workshops and teaching schedule.

YARN | CONED YARN | FIBERS | DYEING SUPPLIES | SPINNING WHEELS | SPINNING SUPPLIES
WEAVING LOOMS | WEAVING SUPPLIES | KNITTING | MACHINE KNITTING | FELTING
CROCHET | KITS | BUTTONS & EMBELLISHMENTS | BOOKS & VIDEOS | KNITTING PATTERNS | GIFT CERTIFICATES
HOME | LINKS | SHOPPING | AUCTION | SWAP | GALLERY | MEMBER GALLERY | GUILD | HOW-TO
INTERVIEWS & CHATS | COMMUNITY SIGN-UP | CALENDAR | CUSTOM CREATION | GLOSSARY
ARTICLES | THE BEAT | LEGAL NOTICES | CUSTOMER SERVICE