Artyarns Founder and Head Designer, Iris Schreier, Talks Stitch Red

Why did you choose to get involved with the Stitch Red campaign and what does Stitch Red mean to you?

I am a firm believer in preventative care, and exercise and good nutrition are part of my lifestyle.  There are several members of my family and my husband's family who have had close calls with heart attacks, and I want to ensure that we take all the steps we can to avoid this deadly killer.

What product have you created for the Stitch Red campaign and what was your inspiration behind it?  

I created the heart-shaped cape with the diamond clasp (that uses Artyans Rhapsody Glitter Light yarn), to identify with the heart-healthy focus of the book.

What is your heart healthy tip? 

Eat plenty of lean protein throughout the day (I try to eat 4-5 portions), and that will prevent cravings for unhealthy processed foods and snacks that are harmful to your health.

What gets your heart racing?  

I love coming up with new creations, and combining unlikely designs, yarns, colors, etc. to startle and amaze others.  It is my passion in life, and I think I always love to challenge myself to take it to the next level.  I am a social media junkie, and I post photos on Pinterest of projects on my needles, some of which are just swatches that I'm playing with to get a reaction.  My favorite thing of all is to inspiring others to knit along with me, and it is such a great feeling when some design I have created ends up being improved upon by one of my students.  I run knitalongs on Ravelry that have had many participants, and it is always a race to the finish to stay ahead of some and make sure that I complete the pattern before they are ready to move on. 

Examples of these are the Dangling Leaves Knitalong (current) and the Undulating Leaves knitalong, which is now a free pattern with yarn purchase.   

If you follow me on Facebook.com/Artyarns you'll see that I post things, mostly photos, nearly every single day.

I also have a new book out, One + One: Scarves, Shawls& Shrugs, which is a great way for people to discover Artyarns yarn, by combining 2 skeins of their choosing in any of these 29 projects.  I'm excited about my newest pattern in Vogue Knitting Spring 2012, which combines a cable with lace pattern, and is such a fun knit.

- Iris Schreier, Artyarns