About BC
About Brian
Originally from California, Brian has been a Florida resident since 1994. He works in corporate communications by day, and is a writer always. He has his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from California State University, Chico. He lives with his partner, Richard, in Orlando, Florida, and when he’s finished his MFA program, he would like to get a Pug. Spending long weekends in New York City is one of his favorite things to do, along with writing, drinking coffee, knitting, and enjoying a good meal. He’s currently developing memoir pieces to be workshopped and included in his graduate creative thesis.
About BrianKnits.com
I originally started BrianKnits.com in 2008 when I discovered the art of knitting. I wanted a place to write about the things I was learning and the projects I was completing. I hoped I would be able to help others who were learning how to knit prevent making similar mistakes that I did.
In 2011, I began my graduate studies (MFA, Creative Writing) at University of Central Florida. This has inevitably filled my mind with a variety of ideas on myriad topics and that has, ultimately, been infused into what I write about on my blog.
But what about the name, “Brian Knits!” then?
At this point in my life, I see myself as one who knits things together – whether that be yarn or words – and present them in new and interesting ways. That is my goal here. Each time you visit this site, it could surprise and delight you with a post about knitting or yarn, but it may also present you with a post about LGBT equality, Queer Literature, travel adventures, literary endeavors, and more.
Contact Brian
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!