Meet the Maker: Gnome Depot Fiber

In times of uncertainly, it's SO comforting to dig your hands into a squishy pile of colorful yarn. That' why we're totally chuffed to offer a most satifying rainbow Trunk Show this month from local Chicago dyer, Grace of Gnome Depot Fiber! You can shop Gnome Depot's joyful yarns at String Theory in-store or online through October 25 - Be sure to shop early for the best selection! 

Get to know Grace from Gnome Depot below!

How did you get into dyeing? Tell us your story, and where you're located! 

I am located in Chicago, way up in Rogers Park. My first dyeing job was in 2015 for Lorna's Laces, and I worked there until the company moved to Louisville in 2019. I dyed privately for a yarn store for a couple years and in Nov 2021 started dyeing under my own label as my own business Gnome Depot Fiber.

What is your favorite part of the process?

I love when the idea I have in my mind actually works the way I expect it to. Sometimes I think dyes should give me one result and they don't, so it's the fun version of FAFO. I take copious notes so that I know what works and what works differently than expected.

Where do you get your inspiration for colors?

I take a lot of inspiration from nature, from artwork, and photographs. I often think of yarn dyeing as a type of abstract art when I'm using these types of references.

How do you come up with names for the colors?

Sometimes I have a theme in mind so it's easier to come up with names. Sometimes it's just what I've been calling it in my head and then say  ¯\_(ツ)_/¯  well that's your name now.

Tell us about a WIP or a project in your queue that you're really excited about! Which of your yarns would you recommend for this (or these) project(s)?

Summer Lee has a new sock pattern, True Crew, out and I'm excited for her new heel. I love classic simple pattern that allow the yarn to shine. Tin Can Knits Basics Collection written for multiple weights of yarn and Enoki Fingering has excellent stitch definition for every project. Porcini Worsted is soft, lofty, and easy care and also excellent for Basics.

Of what you are sending us, what are your favorite colors or color combinations?

'86 Remix is my favorite, and was my birthday present to myself in 2022. It's inspired by the cityscapes of my favorite anime from the 90s, Sailor Moon. In terms of color combo, I revamped my Bold Rainbow set with the punchier Spooky Purple and the crowd pleaser Peacock. (Spooky Purple, In the Navy, Peacock, Olive, Yellow Ochre, Gourd-geous, and True Blood). I'll be using this version of Bold Rainbow to make the Geddy Tee with Olive for the body and the rest for the granny squares.

What is your best knitting or crocheting tip?

When in doubt, pull it out.

What are two interesting things about you that aren’t fiber related?

I have been rolling in The Skee League since 2016, and love the skeeball community. I help organize/ref games and often get to help the rookskee (rookie) rollers get acclimated. I also love powerlifting! I belong to a strength and conditioning gym (like crossfit w/o the cult-ish aspects) that is women owned, very inclusive, and extremely supportive.

If you didn’t dye yarn, what would be your dream job?

Teaching/coaching. In addition to dyeing yarn I have been teaching knitting and crochet since 2010. I love teaching and love bringing people into the fiber family. I'm excited that weaving is having its boom, as well as the return of pin looms. One day when I stop dyeing yarn I'll continue to teach fiber arts.

What is the best advice you've ever received?

It's not a race.

Share with us one great thing you're either listening to or watching right now (audiobook/podcast/show/etc) - we love recommendations for what to check out while we're knitting!

It's spooky season so I def recommend Old Gods of Appalachia (podcast). I've read (and enjoyed) all of Sarah J Mass (ACOTAR, Throne of Glass, Crescent City) and am excited for her next book to come out sometime next year.