For the creators, thinkers and day-dreamers. Our monthly Residency is back. Chapter 3, and the first of 2024, welcomes Megan; a crochet and knitwear designer and founder of her lockdown brand, Knot Nice.
Meet Megan…
During lockdown Megan created her brand, Knot Nice, inspired by her passion for crochet/knitwear design after leaving the corporate fast lane. Megan’s main focus is on crafting sustainable and ethically sourced garments using second hand or deadstock fibres and materials. While she favours simple silhouettes as a foundation, she love that the textures of knitwear adds a handmade, one-of-a-kind allure that can make simple items so much more intriguing. She stayed at Pablo to find inspiration for her next piece.
What prompted you to ditch corporate and become a full-time creative?
Recently, I've experienced new opportunities and significant changes in my life, which has left me feeling a little overwhelmed at times. The slow and detailed process of hand crafting clothing was a well needed change after working in corporate settings in London. It has allowed me to learn so much about my own creativity and running a business and has given me the opportunity to work with so many other creatives that continue to inspire me. Knot Nice was born out of this shift and is inspired by my passion for design along with my commitment to sustainability.
“It became clear to me that I needed a space where I could hit the reset button to focus on my future, both creatively and personally.”
Where do you find creative inspiration?
Nature serves as a huge inspiration for my work, particularly because many of my creations are crafted from natural fibres. I find myself drawn to the organic beauty of my surroundings, often incorporating elements I encounter into my designs. Rather than selecting a design to create, I often to choose the yarn first, allowing its texture and colour to guide my creative process. My designs focus on practicality and creativity in clothing, driven by a desire to evoke a sense of well-being and confidence in those who wear them.
Have you previously tried to get out to nature or go totally offline while creating new items?
During last summer, I took a three-month trip across Europe. Intent on immersing myself fully in each experience, I consciously disconnected from my phone and embraced the beauty of my surroundings. Throughout my travels, I discovered an abundance of materials and seized every opportunity to create in different environments — from riverbeds to mountain vistas and beautiful beaches. For someone whose work predominantly exists in the online realm, disconnecting entirely was a novel experience. Yet, it proved to be a welcomed shift, allowing me to prioritise the act of making and focus on a few personal projects instead of making solely for others.
What do you think other artists can learn about taking time offline to help with their creative process?
As an artist and maker it's easy to focus on your competitors and trend cycles. When you remove the digital element from your work it gives you a chance to make what you truly want to make and not to think about any external influences. The internet has a way of altering your vision and goals, for better or worse, but taking time to focus on your own core values and design identity is really important. The isolation that the cabin provided was the perfect location for this kind of reflection.
“The intentional shift towards offline experiences has been really interesting and it is definitely worth trying.”
What was a highlight from your Unplugged escape?
Redirecting my focus from social media and trends to the tangible process of creation. I found renewed inspiration and joy in the slower processes instead of focusing on deadlines.
How do you unplug in everyday life?
Disconnecting from the digital world has been a challenge as so much of my job relies on the consistent user of social media. However, I've made a conscious decision to adjust my goals for the year, focusing on reading more, attending art shows and changing my daily habits to ensure I'm reducing my screen time.
You can check out Megan’s beautiful creations via her website or via Instagram: @_knot_nice.
