An Interview with...Ayako Monier

 

https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/asseleen

Once a week I post interviews with interesting people about their insights on their experience of working in the Knitting industry. I’ve noticed that every one of these individuals makes their living in a slightly different manner bringing their own unique presence to the knitting world.

You can find Ayako here on Ravelry.

Where do you find inspiration?
It could be anywhere around me – nature, architectures or even in bakeries and restaurants. Any colour combinations, shapes or any organization of matters give me a hint.
 
What is your favourite knitting technique?
Anything that has less purling would be better. So working in the round, or if working in flat, garter stitch or reversible ribs, etc., you know what I mean.
 
Do you look at other designers’ work or are you afraid that you will be influenced by their designs?
I do all the time! There are so many talented designers out there.

https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/nagarray

 
How many sample/test knitters do you have working for you or do you do it all yourself?
I make one sample for each of my design. I usually have one or two testers for each size.
 
Did you do a formal business plan?
No.

https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/sochi-kochi

 
Do you have a mentor?
No.
 
Do you have a business model that you have emulated?
No.
 
How do you maintain your life/work balance?
Hand knitting is a time-consuming and labour intensive activity, while it is quite meditative and creative. I enjoy running, swimming and cycling to compensate for the sedative time of knitting. Also, I have a supportive and understanding husband and four healing cats to keep me always balanced.
 
How do you deal with criticism?
It was tough for the first time, but eventually I realized that it is up to me to take any criticism in any way I would like to. Fortunately it is for the better in the future.

https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/juraku-pullover

 
How long did it take for you to be able to support yourself?
I am still working on it!
 
What advice would you give someone who wants to pursue a career in knitting?
Go for it! It is your life after all.
 
What’s next for you?
I am into textures. I am planning to make an e-book with several pullovers and cardigans with interesting and unique textures.

https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/tessarina

 

"Dressing well is a form of good manners." - Tom Ford

I've been thinking about this quote lately. I've recently attended several events that normally guests would dress up for. We have become a very casual world in the area of wardrobe but sometimes I feel we're slipping past enjoying personal comfort into disrespect. 

Etiquette is all about the expected behavior of members of society that demonstrate respect. The rules are there to make everyone feel comfortable. It's all about how you treat others. We should either be making people feel appreciated or being considerate of their feelings. 

I was at the ballet twice last month and spent an afternoon at a funeral. Most of the other guests were appropriately attired. It seems however, that there are always a few people who turn up looking like they are in the wrong place. I'm not thinking of those who are casual and tidy. I'm looking at the more extreme examples, of "I'm ready to work in the garden", take a nap in the "I'll just wear them one more time pajamas" or at the opposite end of the spectrum "let's get it on".  I'm never sure if they are making a statement or are being purposely contemptuous of the occasion? 

According to Emily Post  for funerals you should "Remember, though, that it is a serious occasion and your attire should reflect that, especially if you are participating in the service. At the very least it should be clean, neat, and pressed as for any other important occasion."

From about.com dance when attending the ballet the advice is, "Dress Appropriately. Although there is no specific dress code for ballet performances, most people try to dress up out of respect for the ballet. Some people prefer to dress in business attire while others prefer trendy, but casual, clothing. Formal attire is not generally worn. If you are attending the opening night performance, however, the atmosphere will be a little more formal."

The two pieces of advice above seem to be simple to follow. I enjoy dressing up. I enjoy the sense of occasion it brings to any event. I enjoy seeing others turned out fashionably. I'm not saying that those of us who dress casually most of the time are never appreciative of anything. However,our culture does seem to be demonstrating an indifference  towards many traditional occasions. I find myself wishing that social mores hadn't changed so much. I suspect it's reflecting a shift in what we value in modern life. Most of us still dress up when we feel that an activity warrants the effort. I personally will continue to do so and at the same time I'll feel a little sad for those who don't see the value in taking the trouble.