Today we're talking with Susanne of SOSU Knits who designed the fabulous Conflux shawl/ vest in Issue 24. This design can be worn upside down, as a vest, or as a shawl, but no matter how you wear it, it is guaranteed to be a cozy statement piece!
Susanne tells us about the challenges of making this design, the start of her knitting journey, and introduces us to her favorite Austrian sweet treat, too. If you have an appreciation for the sweeter things in life, make sure you read until the very end.
amirisu: What, if any, challenges did you encounter during the design process?
Susanne: As this a somewhat untraditional garment, a mix of shawl and vest, I had to make some changes to the original sketch to create a better fit, and to balance the simplicity of the shape with the complexity of the pattern and the sizing range.
amirisu: If you were to knit this design in another color, what would it be?
Susanne: I already have yarn picked out and ready to cast on another version in Sand and Rhubarb, but I will keep Curry as the contrasting color. I love the combination of pink and yellow!
amirisu: How did you start your knitting journey?
Susanne: I learned to knit when I was very little from my grandma, who sadly passed away too early. I picked my needles back up after graduating, as a way to rediscover my creative side, and have not stopped since!
amirisu: Tell us a little bit about a favorite place of yours in the town or area you grew up in or where you live now.
Susanne: My favorite place in my hometown also happens to be the inspiration for Conflux. There is a large meadow right next to the confluence of the two rivers, where the most beautiful wildflowers grow in summer. I love taking my dog for daily walks along the riverbanks and through the meadows, which are surrounded by the hills that feel so much like home. It’s a tranquil place full of inspiration.
amirisu: What is one handicraft or traditional art or skill (other than knitting) from your country or region that you like or have an interest in?
Susanne: Austria is rather well know for its cuisine, and I especially like the hot deserts that are eaten as main dishes, as well as the traditional Christmas cookies that I like to bake. My favorites are called Vanillekipferl (vanilla crescents), and it takes a bit of skill and practice to get them the perfect crescent shape and tiny size, so they melt in your mouth. While they are usually only eaten in December, I like to make at least one batch in summer as well. I might have a bit of a sweet-tooth!
Thank you, Susanne!