I never know how to answer the question, “What do you do?” Once on an airplane I replied, “I’m a forensic topologist.”

The two men sitting beside me suddenly sat up straighter. “So you’re a medical examiner?” one asked.

“No, I’m a knitter,” I replied.

And I wasn’t fibbing or even exaggerating. Knitting is indeed topology (the study of knots and pathways) and I am filled with immense curiosity about how it’s been done and how else it might be done, which is forensics.

But most of all I am a person who loves the innocent, unfettered intelligence and sense of wonder that rises in knitters as we explore this sensuous world of pulling loops through loops and rearranging them to create beauty .

I absolutely love to teach, and it is natural to me to perceive each student as their best self. This, and my passion for teaching, make each workshop whole and fresh. One of my students wrote: “Your generosity of spirit and kind attention to everyone set the stage for all to grow and learn.” You will find a list of my upcoming workshops and retreats in the menu to the left.  And here is an interesting podcast that includes Jan Hamby’s interview with me during one of my island knitting retreats.

I am the author of one novel and am the artisan publisher of all 5 of my knitting books, as well as my new eBook collection, Cat’s Sweet Tomato Heel Socks and a number of single patterns. You’ll find links to all of these in the menu to the left. Since 2005 I have been leading Visionary Retreats, mentoring other knit designers and fiber artists dedicated to artisan publishing spirited books of unique and enduring value. We call ourselves the Visionary Authors and you can find more information here. I am exceedingly proud of what my Visionary colleagues have accomplished.