Hi! I’m Brenda Schack, owner, knitwear designer, and Mrs. Do It All for BrenJS Knits. I live in coastal Connecticut with my husband Rick. Together we have about 10 kids and 5 fun grandkids. Two loving kitties keep me company (steal yarn and chew cables) as I design.
In a living room, a long, long, looong time ago, I would get so damn frustrated with my knitting and patterns! In the early years of my knitting, there were a couple of things that bothered me about patterns. I couldn’t understand why designers didn’t include tips or tricks in the instructions, or tell me what cast on they used, or what bind off was better for the pattern, and what was gauge all about? Did you have this experience too?
It lead me to ask “What makes a pattern a pleasure to knit?”
- Clear and easy-to-understand instructions
- Has all the special details about casting on and binding off
- Able to memorize the (lace) pattern
- Has both written instructions and charts (full page charts!)
- Swatch directions that really let you get to know the pattern and techniques
- Clear pictures that show the details
- Schematic with lots of measurements
- Tells me exactly how much yarn I’ll need
- Lists the skills needed as well as the tutorials that are in the pattern
As I create patterns, I keep that list in mind. My goal is to create high quality patterns for you with accurate instructions that include tips and tutorials.
I like to create potato chip patterns.
You know, the kind you just can’t put down. And when you’re done, you’re excited to make another one. I want you to feel amazing and so proud of your knitting – every . time. That’s why I also spend the time and money to have all of my patterns tech edited and test knit.
What makes a pattern a pleasure for you to knit? I’m sure you have some great ideas and suggestions.
If you ever need assistance or have questions while knitting one of my patterns, please contact me or visit my forum on Ravelry. I’d love to help you.
