About Brian Crimmins
Who is Brian Crimmins?
In 2008 I set out, as I often do, to learn something new. This time, I wanted to learn how to knit. I thought it would be one of my “phases” and within weeks I would have mastered the basics and moved on to something else. History did not play out this way as expected.
In fact, that fateful day when I drove to a large craft store, purchased yarn and needles, and came home to watch knitting instructional videos online would be the day when I would begin my love affair with yarn.
I’m originally from California, but have lived in Orlando, Florida since 1994 after graduating with my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from California State University, Chico. I work in corporate communication by day, and I share my life with my partner, Richard. We’ll celebrate 10 years together in July 2011. In addition to all things yarn, I enjoy cooking, travel and activities that celebrate the moments and milestones of life, both great and small.
A Fiber Artist’s Timeline
Fall 2008 – I learned how to knit.
Spring 2009 – I started taking classes at local yarn stores and began expanding my yarn stash.
Summer 2009 – I wanted to fuse my love of yarn with my passion for writing, so I started this blog, BrianKnits.com.
Spring 2010 – I purchased my Schacht Matchless spinning wheel and began to make my own yarn.
Summer 2010 - I began teaching knitting at The Black Sheep Shop, a local yarn store in Orlando, Florida.
As you can see, my journey into the fiber arts continues in new and exciting ways!
What’s next?
This fall, I will begin pursuing a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing degree at University of Central Florida. I’m so excited to return to school and I’m looking forward to elevating the quality of my writing and working on my first book.
E-mail me at: brianknits@yahoo.com
Follow me on Twitter: BrianKnits
Friend me on Facebook: Brian Crimmins
Find me on Ravelry: BrianKnits
Hi Brian,
Well, I already found you on Ravelry which led me to here at Brian Knits. I am a self taught knitter also and have just came into my first Turkish drop spindle ( I had my brother-n-law make it for me, he is very good with wood) have some pratice roving and the book Respect the Spindle. This will be my newest thing to teach myself. One thing on my list is to someday visit NYC. Maybe see you there, well and if not at least around RAV after all we are in the same group. Mary Ann
Hi, Mary Ann! Isn’t spinning with a spindle awesome? It looked a bit daunting, and I too have “Respect the Spindle,” but after getting a bit of instruction, I was spinning in about 20 minutes. I love the process of learning the technique and then using creativity to find ways to add your own “spin” to it (pun intended). Thanks for stopping by!
Hi Brian!
How do you teach people?
Hi, Jonathan – I haven’t had the opportunity to teach as yet. I am expecting my materials for certification in the next week or so. So far, I’ve shared what I know more informally through discussions on Ravelry, or in talking with other knitters at knit-ups around town. I’ll be writing here about my upcoming adventures so will be sure to keep everyone posted!
Hi Brian,
Twitter led me to your blog. I really enjoy your posts! I’ve been teaching knitting for a few years and I’m really interested in how your experience unfolds
Thank you so much for your note – I’m glad you enjoy my blog. I always enjoy hearing from readers! My first class is 4/3, so will be sure to post about my experiences shortly thereafter.
Hi Brian,
Than you for sharing your passion.
I’ve always wanted to learn how to knit.
Do you have any advise for a beginner? Where do I start?
Hi, Luis – The place where I started was watching knitting videos on YouTube. Then, I picked up a few books (“Knitting for Dummies” was the best) and also a basic knitting instructional DVD at a local craft store. With those tools, I just kept trying, going through each technique and practicing. I have to admit I got a little frustrated early on as I knew just enough to be dangerous without knowing how to fix mistakes. Perhaps you give it a try on your own first, and then consider going to take a lesson or two at a local yarn store. If you don’t have a local yarn store, you can certainly learn from the resources I listed above. I hope that helps, and if there’s anything I can do to help, please let me know.
Thanks for your advice, Brian.
The size of the needles and what sort of yarn to buy was a mystery to me (too many choices made me dizzy). I sheepishly grabbed what looked right and came back home on Thursday with needles and yarn in my satchel. I found some good videos on you tube and have been stubbornly practicing since. Lovin it!
Technical problems so far, I think I may be knitting too tight,and I lose concentration now and then which leads to holes here and there.
BTW, loved the pics of the alpacas.
Take care,
Luis
Hey Brian,
Long time, no see. Spinning is so much fun! I’m glad you enjoy it. I have a Schacht Ladybug, a sister to your Matchless. I love it! Have fun! I guess I’ll see you around.
Best Regards,
Kimberly
Kimberly! It’s great to hear from you! Where can I see some posted pics of your spinning work? I’m always looking for inspiration! Hope all is well in your world… Brian
You can see some of my hand spun on Ravelry. I will be adding more soon. I’ve just recently spun some beautiful hand dyed alpaca silk blend and hand dyed tussah silk.
Hi Brian,
I’m in writing class. Have learned to crochet, but not knit. I wish I lived in Orlando would surely try your classes. My step son dos live in Tampa area, south of that, so maybe????
I think the fascination with yarn and what it can do it really cool. I have some friends who are quiltmakers and their journeys into what a quilt can say are very exciting. I have only writing as my outlet, and wish I could knit quilt, paint, etc. I am interested in what you are doing and like your web site. Claire Holcomb/MNaryland Tinklingbells@hotmail.com (Gotham)
Hi, Claire! Thank you so much for your note. I’ve enjoyed reading your comments in our writing class’ discussion boards and I appreciate your visiting my site here!
My fascination with yarn continues to grow and expand and I am looking forward to learning more in our writing class that helps me capture my journey in a more compelling and engaging way.
Looking forward to learning with you in the weeks ahead!