About Me · ParkaDesigns
Who am I?
In love with yarn, full of ideas, and always thinking about the next stitches.
Hi, I’m Kathrin.
Designer behind ParkaDesigns and stricken-im-trend.com.
For more than 10 years, I’ve been designing knitting and crochet patterns that don’t just look good – above all, they work.
Clearly explained, thoughtfully constructed, and designed so you can enjoy making your project instead of getting frustrated along the way.
And if I’m being honest: life without yarn would be pretty boring.
My Story
From my first stitches to my own design language.
It all started rather simply: with my grandmother, some yarn, and my first stitches.
My grandmother taught me my first stitches.
What started as a small hobby quickly became my creative retreat – and eventually something much bigger.
Knitting stayed with me throughout my studies and became such an important part of my life that it even found its way into my thesis.
My thesis explored the stress-reducing effects of knitting.
The Turning Point
From hobby to design.
A real turning point came when I started working with a local yarn shop. Suddenly, my designs were displayed in the shop window – and people began asking for the patterns all on their own.
Over time, individual designs developed into a style of my own: modern, wearable, and created with the belief that something special should still work beautifully in real life.
Along the way, I’ve collaborated with brands including Pro Lana and Belousek – and, most importantly, with many wonderful people who continue to bring my patterns to life, stitch by stitch.
A Little Look Behind the Scenes
I rarely work completely on my own.
Muki and Emma are almost always nearby. Sometimes they’re quiet observers, sometimes very strict quality control – usually right in the middle of the yarn.
And truthfully? It wouldn’t be half as lovely without them.
And Sometimes It Becomes Something More
Some stories begin with a stitch.
I’m currently working on a project very close to my heart, one that has been with me for quite some time:
a children’s book about Muki, Emma, and the world of stitches.
There’s still plenty in progress – but perhaps you’ll get a first little glimpse here soon.
What I Stand For
Style knows no Size.
I design fashion for real people and real life. Pieces that can be special without feeling like a costume – and patterns that guide you confidently from the first stitch to a finished piece you’ll love.
To me, good design and clear instructions belong together. Because in the end, it shouldn’t only be the finished piece that brings you joy – the making should, too.
Good designs shouldn’t only work in a photograph. They should be made to wear.
And the story continues.
What began many years ago with the first stitches my grandmother taught me has become ParkaDesigns today. And I’m genuinely curious to see which stitches will be added next.
I still believe that knitting and crochet connect us – with ourselves, with others, and with our creativity.
Kathrin