Ways to Turn Knitting Into Your Career

August 23, 2022 2 min read 0 Comments

start a knitting career

When most people think of knitting, they think about a fun, creative hobby. But, did you know that there are professional designations for knitters that can lead to lucrative careers? Even without a knitting certification, there are several ways to parlay your knitting hobby into your professional life. If you are thinking about upgrading your knitting hobby into a career, here are some great ideas for how to do that. 

Become a Certified Professional Knitter

If you want to be among the most well-respected knitters in the industry, consider seeking the designation of Master Knitter or Professional Knitter. To qualify for these distinguished certifications, a knitter must meet high competency standards in the following categories:

  • Achieve even tension in stitch patterns
  • Measure knitted fabrics accurately
  • Block according to standards
  • Weave in yarn tails

To enroll in these programs, knitting work must already be exceptional in these areas. Once a knitter has earned these designations, they can earn as much as $100,000/year using their knitting skills and knowledge.

Become a Knitting Instructor

If you are an experienced knitter, consider becoming a knitting instructor. Some instructors are paid to teach in-person at local community centers or knitting shops. Sometimes knitting instructors upload instructional videos as part of paid curriculum. 

Design Knitting Patterns

Most knitters, even ones with significant experience, follow a knitting pattern. Designers have the skills needed to conceptualize a knitting project and develop a pattern for others to follow. Designers are typically freelancers who may work with knitting brands or sell their patterns on their own. 

Freelance Knitter

Everyone loves a hand-knitted garment, but not everyone has the skill to knit one. For people who want a particular pattern knitted but don't have the knitting capability to create it, they may commission a freelance knitter to knit the project for them. 

Knitting Machine Repair Tech

One well-paying career within the knitting industry is a knitting machine repair tech. Commercial knitting machines require continuous maintenance and occasional repairs.  A person who trains to maintain these machines will always have a job within the knitting industry.

Knitting Operator

Another in-demand career within the knitting industry is a knitting operator. To do this job, one must understand knitting standards and be able to identify issues with commercial equipment that cause defects in the final product. A person in this position is expected to support the function of the commercial knitting process. 

Knitting Shop Owner

If you have a true passion for all things knitting and want to become an entrepreneur, you can start either an online or brick-and-mortar knitting shop. Source and sell yarn, knitting needles, looms, and any other knitting supplies. 

Yarn Dyer

A bit of chemistry and a bunch of artistry and creativity is what it takes to become a yarn dyer. The hand-dyers at Zen Yarn Garden are masters of their craft and develop the most brilliant colourways from their small batch dyepots. 

Taking your knitting hobby to a professional level will take some preparation, but we encourage you to follow your knitting dreams- no matter where they take you.



Also in Zen News

Deciphering Your Knitting: Becoming Fluent in Stitch-Speak
Deciphering Your Knitting: Becoming Fluent in Stitch-Speak

May 30, 2023 4 min read 0 Comments

Discover how to read your knitting with our comprehensive guide. Dive into the world of knit stitch, purl stitch, and yarn over, and learn to interpret your stitches like a pro. Understanding the language of knitting not only enhances your craft but also helps avoid and correct errors. Turn your knitting into a story with our tips and techniques. Knit with love, passion, and newfound understanding. Happy knitting!
Read More
Yarn Chicken Champion: Defying the Odds and Winning
Yarn Chicken Champion: Defying the Odds and Winning

May 23, 2023 4 min read 0 Comments

Discover the hilarious and triumphant tale of a Yarn Chicken Champion who defies the odds in this upbeat and funny blog post. Join our intrepid crafter as they navigate the thrilling game of yarn chicken, battling against dwindling yarn supplies to complete their project. This post explores the courage, determination, and unexpected surprises that come with playing yarn chicken. Learn valuable lessons about preparedness and the joy of having extra yarn while indulging in two humorous quotes that will leave you chuckling. Don't miss out on this delightful read that celebrates the triumph of creativity over uncertainty.
Read More
Embrace the Adventure: Tackling Knitting Challenges
Embrace the Adventure: Tackling Knitting Challenges

May 18, 2023 4 min read 0 Comments

Embark on a joy-filled knitting journey with our upbeat blog post! Explore common knitting challenges and discover exciting solutions to help you master the craft. Turn your knitting hurdles into stepping stones with our insightful guide. Perfect for beginners and pros alike, this post is all about celebrating knitting, embracing its challenges, and enhancing your skills. Join the adventure and keep your spirit soaring with each stitch!
Read More

Subscribe