Interview: Eszter Sarkadi Nagy
Today’s second interview is with Hungarian designer Eszter Sarkadi Nagy of Wondrlanding.
Eszter Sarkadi Nagy
Who taught you to knit/How did you learn to knit?
I was about 10, when my grandmother taught me how to cast on, knit and purl, since then I train myself from books and the internet, or just experiment. But I have only been knitting madly since I have had my kids.
How did you get started designing?
Creating and design was always part of my life, only the medium changes from time to time: painting, weaving, sewing, then graphics, architecture and now knitwear. A friend asked me once why I don’t design knitwear and it was the right question, since it applies pieces from all the things I was doing before.
What inspires your designs?
In my opinion anything could be inspiring around us, so an open eye and creative mood is a good start. Ideas sometimes hit me after a long day, when I lay in bed and stare at the darkness – this time the bits of things I have met recently build up the image. Other times ordinary things turn into something interesting, for example the lines I see in the water falling down from the tap.
Which comes first – the yarn or the inspiration?
Usually inspiration comes first, then the idea will find its suitable form and material.
What characteristics do you try to incorporate in your designs?
I like to pair simple lines with interesting detail. I think these elements have to have their space, and for that stockinette stitch provides an excellent canvas. Furthermore, I prefer to design seamless items, I love, that these structures apply different techniques.
What is your favourite type of item to design?
Until now I haven’t thought about favorites, I love accessories and garments, too.
Tell me about “Fold”, what is the story behind this design?
A knit item is not merely functional, it has an effect on the senses, has to be touched, so texture is elemental. I wanted to create a three dimensional, creased effect over Fold that plays with scales, too. I came up with this gathered panel, sort of a magnified stockinette row.
What is coming next? What’s in your release queue?
An adult sweater-dress with some interesting detail. I am super excited about it, and hope to release it very soon.
Your desert island yarn? (if you could only knit with one yarn from now on which would it be?)
Hard question, I love yarns that combine animal fibers with plant fibers.
Which is your most under-appreciated design?
Citta skirt, that has an asymmetrical, draping front overlay. Maybe because it requires sewing a lining, but I think the extra effort turns this item more special.
What’s the one piece of advice you’d like to share with other knitters?
Experiment. It is a great fun to find a technical solution, the right stitch, the right technique.
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View all of Eszter’s patterns here. All photos copyright Eszter Sarkadi Nagy. All images used by permission.
You can find Eszter on the following social media sites:
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