Q&A with Monica Russel

The Campaign for Wool was lucky enough to have creative master Monica Russel join the team to be part of Knit Nation in Edinburgh, where she taught Knitters both novice and advanced, and old and new. We grabbed 10 minutes with her to find out why wool is her fibre of choice.

Monica Russel is a qualified Teacher and Art Therapist, and has worked in schools, Further Education and Mental Health services. In 2009, she set up a knitting and cake-stand making business using her creative skills. Monica designs all her own patterns and sells her knitting kits, which use only natural fibres, through her website. She attends many craft and knitting fairs and loves craft challenges. Since setting up her craft business, she has had patterns featured in Knitting magazines and books.

1, Tell us a little about why you choose wool over other fibres?

I love the feel of wool and the natural warmth it gives.
2, What was your favourite moment from your Wool Week experience?

A 12 year old boy knitting away whilst his family went off shopping. It was great to give him the opportunity to be creative with all the yarns available.
3, How do you source your wool?

Through meeting new suppliers and trying to find exciting new British products
4, What does the Campaign for Wool mean to you?

The opportunity to spread the word about great British yarns and to get more people being creative and confident to knit
5, What does the SS14 season hold for you?

Another new book on wrist cuffs with Search Press. Developing new designs for knitting patterns. Extending my range of knitting courses
6, At what age did you first start knitting/crocheting?

When I was 11. I learnt to knit with my mum and a friend of hers.
7, Technologies to further the potential of wool are advancing all the time, i.e. wool velvet, how do you think this will affect the wool and clothing industries?

It will make them even more exciting and there will be a greater choice for customers.
8, How does using woollen cloths differ to other man-made materials?

They are more durable and warmer than man made fibres.
9, What is your favourite woollen item of clothing and why?

A wonderful cashmere cardigan made in subtle colours that feels wonderful on and is snuggly.

To purchase Monica’s brilliant books please visit;

http://www.searchpress.com/book/9781844489114/easy-knitted-scarves

http://www.searchpress.com/book/9781844488490/knitted-boot-cuffs