Knitting Pattern Announcement

Dear friends, knitters and readers,

         I am writing today to share an announcement with you about seven of my knitting patterns which are currently available for free on our website. After much thought and reflection, I have decided to convert these seven knitting patterns to paid patterns, available on Ravelry and Etsy. Just over five years ago I fell down, down, down... into the "rabbit hole" of writing knitting patterns, beginning with our first book, Phoebe's Sweater. It has been an incredible experience for me both personally and creatively. In the early years of my journey, I had the opportunity to create several knitting patterns to offer free of charge to our readers. Through this process I had the honor of collaborating with some amazing online publishers, namely, Knitty, Petite Purls, and Rhythm of the Home. I am very thankful for the relationships forged through the creative process. 

         Through the years I have learned the hard way that there really isn't such a thing as "free". Although I can publish a pattern on our website, write about it on Ravelry, share photos of it on Instagram and email the link to my readers, all for "free"- it still has a cost. Along with the "free" pattern I bear the cost of pattern writing, editing, proof reading, professional photography, test knitting, pattern support, and upkeep of notes. I am a writer, a publisher, a wife, and a mother of three. Every hour I spend doing these tasks is time I am taking away from my work, my family, my relationships, my self-care, and my other pursuits. I am sure you all would agree that my time is just as valuable as the time of your dentist, your mechanic, your child's teacher, your plumber and all of the other professionals from whom you purchase goods and services. Our oldest child is now a teenager and looking to the future to pursue her own dreams and interests. And as she does so I also wish to set a good example to her as to the value of my own dreams, time, and talents.

          Two weeks from today I will be converting the following patterns to paid patterns:

Sheep Wagon Shawl, Foliolum, Christopher Robin Pullover, Klickitat, Little House Shawl, Polly Flinders, and the Acorn Doll Blanket. If you are interested in these patterns this will give you a window of time in which you may access the patterns in their entirety.

           Thank you deeply for your understanding, and for being a part of Slate Falls Press growing far beyond our dream and into reality.

                                                                Sincerely,

                                                                        Joanna