A Dolly World Visit With Kristin of Jay Bird Finnigan Etsy Shop

Today I am thrilled to introduce you to a fellow Canadian and Etsy Shop owner and pattern designer, Kristin of Jay Bird Finnigan. Kristin creates knitting patterns for dolls that are age appropriate, fashionable and fun! Today she shares with us a behind the scenes look at her work.

How did you get started knitting?
"I think my Grandma taught me when I was 8 or 9. I found it pretty boring at the time and I don't think I ever made anything more exciting than a teddy bear scarf. Then, when my son was about 2 (he's 14 now), for some reason I decided I needed to knit something for him. I purchased a kit for a pullover hoodie with a pocket on the front and managed to work my way through it. I did the 3-needle bind off on the hood backwards, but he didn't care! Then I discovered seamless knitting and Elizabeth Zimmermann and haven't stopped since."

 

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  How did you get started knitting for dolls?
  
  "My daughter has a late November birthday. When she turned 5 we gave her a Corolle "Les Cheries" doll for her birthday and I sewed and knit the doll a wardrobe for Christmas. My daughter loved this, so it has become a bit of a tradition. When she turned 6 she received a Bitty Baby for her birthday and a wardrobe for Christmas and when she turned 8 she received her first 18" doll (American Girl Ivy) for her birthday and I made Ivy a Hogwarts set for Christmas."

  
  

  

  

  
  

  
  
  How many dolls do you have?
  
  "I have 2 American Girl dolls - Molly and MyAG#4. My daughter also has 2 (Ivy and Kit). I also collect Asian ball-jointed dolls and knit for them and have knit outfits for Waldorf dolls that I have made."
  
  What is your favorite thing to make for the dolls?
  "I'm a jeans and sweatshirt kind of girl, so I would have to say I like knitting hoodies the best."

  

  

  
  
  What is your top selling pattern?
  I think my top selling pattern is the "Ready for Spring Top and Tunic".

  
  

  

  

  
  

  
  
  What advice do you have about starting knitting?
  
  "Knit something that actually excites you. I wouldn't suggest starting with cables or stranded colour work, but with so many online tutorials and vibrant knitting communities for support like Ravelry, there is really no need to start with a scarf (unless a scarf is what you want!). I think you are most likely to stick with it and work through the tough bits if you are really looking forward to the finished product"

  

  

   Thank you Kristin! You can find out more about Jay Bird Finnigan Etsy Shop by clicking here

  

  Now it is your turn to share your story with us! Email me at karenmowen@gmail.com to share your story about your dolls, your collection your shop and you may just find your story featured here!

  As with all my posts I would love to hear from you so please leave me a comment here or email me at karenmowen@gmail.com