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Course dates 2018

Course Completed

Profile

Popular knitwear designer, Lisa Richardson, is a name instantly associated with the Rowan pattern house. Lisa joined Rowan in 2003 and, after years of turning her hand to many different roles and tasks as part of the set-up, is now a celebrated and well established designer in her own right.

“I’ve always made things – my Gran taught me to knit and crochet – but I started at Rowan doing homeware, not knitwear at all. Working there you are surrounded by yarns, and people creating amazing things with them, and I was soon finishing off and doing bits of embroidery to help out. Then I got asked to crochet a cardigan and it just went from there. I don’t think there’s a job at Rowan I haven’t done.”

Inspired by shape and texture, Lisa’s designs showcase interesting stitch details, unique garment structure and stylish techniques with a classically understated, yet innovative brilliance which is reflected in the global status she now commands.

In addition to Lisa’s designer role, she also manages the pattern editing process and mentors newer members of the design team, whilst managing to squeeze in time to enjoy running, climbing, biking, swimming, cooking, dancing and reading.

Lisa admits to leading a very busy day-to-day existence, but cites her biggest drive as helping people create something that they will cherish for years to come, demonstrating why she is so integral to the Rowan design process.

Knitting projects

Lisa's Knitting project

Lisa has just decided her projects for 2018 and here they are:

Celebrating Italian floor tiles

The first project is a fairisle and textured cushion using rowan felted tweed, inspired by the different tiles that you will find in the various rooms at the watermill. Shown in a muted palette.

 

Knitting project by Lisa Richardson

Textured and lace beret

The second project will be a textured and lace beret worked in the round using a beautiful cashmere yarn.

 

Praise

Here’s some praise from knitters on Lisa’s course in 2017:


I had the most wonderful holiday. Everything was perfect. What a lovely time we had thanks to you all. And Lisa was just fantastic for us knitters and such a nice person. Robert (non-knitting partner) had a good time, too, and was happy he came along.


I had the most wonderful knitting holiday at the Watermill in Posara! Really everything was taken care of by our perfect hosts Lois and Bill as well as by the rest of the great staff. Having Lisa Richardson as our knitting tutor was a delight and great inspiration! A huge thanks to you all.


A simply heavenly knitting retreat at the Watermill with the lovely Lisa Richardson. Many thanks to Lois and Bill for being the perfect hosts.


Such perfection, I am spoiled for anywhere else! A wonderful relaxing holiday with knitting. Everything was superb, and I was particularly touched by the warm friendly reception from Bill and Lois. The knitting was led by the talented and delightful Lisa Richardson, a calm presence who worked miracles with those of us who struggled from time to time. Our finished work is something we shall all treasure.


Knitting for a week. Sounds strange? Couldn't have been better. Bill and Lois are the most welcoming and generous hosts for whom nothing was too much trouble. Lisa Richardson a patient and experienced tutor. Our outings were all perfectly chosen. Our food divine. My room very special with gorgeous views. Lovely gardens and flowers everywhere. The sound of the river flowing by and the church bells ringing. Lovely group of people to spend time with. Perfect peace at The Watermill


Praise for Lisa’s previous course:


Lisa Richardson, our knitting/crochet teacher is exceptional - generous with her knowledge, creative with her teaching and inspiring with her personality. I've made some beautiful projects which I can complete at home, made some new friends, and I've seen and experienced the breathtaking Tuscan countryside. I think I need to go again!!