Karie Westermann's Crowdfunding Exceeds Target + Kate Davies Reveals Hap Designs

Image courtesy of Karie Westermann

As I mentioned in a previous post, indie designer Karie Westermann has plans to publish a pattern book called This Thing Of Paper, inspired by Johannes Gutenberg's invention of the printing press. It will have ten projects with accompanying essays.

Her dream has come that much closer to reality since her crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter met her target in a day. Thanks to the extra cash she's planning a larger print run and a launch party in Glasgow, which everyone who has pledged £30 or more will receive an invite to.

As of 1st June there are still 20 days to go before Westermann's Kickstarter campaign closes. I choose the £30 option. Offers include:

• £5 for a printed thank you in the book
• £20 for a copy of the book and a printed thank you
• £30 for a signed copy of the book, a printed thank you, two bookmarks and an early backer pattern
• £500 for a signed copy, two bookmarks and badges, tote bag, access to exclusive Facebook group, a printed thank you in the book and a weekend with Karie in Glasgow (travel, accommodation and food not included).

Meanwhile Kate Davies has revealed the patterns which will appear in her Haps book. It's now available to order on her website for £19.99 plus postage and packing. 

Image courtesy of Kate Davies

As with Westermann's book each pattern will be accompanied by an essay detailing the history, construction and design inspiration of the garment.  There are 13 patterns, all beautifully designed using different construction techniques and well photographed.

A hap is a traditional Shetland shawl. The book looks like a great coffee table tome for those interested in the history of knitting, but would you wear a hap? Apart from on a mannequin at a knitting show I've never seen one worn. They are large garments that require a lot of time and yarn. I'm a great fan of Davies and, as I'm typing this, I'm wearing her Owligan cardigan, but this time I think I'll be giving The Book of Haps a miss.