In Knit&Note, you can find knitting patterns by many talented designers, and we want you to get to know them even better! Every month, we will interview one of our designers, get to know them a little better, and maybe learn a few things we didn’t already know. The designer of the month in June is Karen Charlotte, better known as Klin Cocos.
Who are you?
I’m Karen Charlotte, 24 years old from Asker, now living in Oslo. In my everyday life, I work as a communications advisor alongside my knitting. When it comes to knitting, I mostly go for chunky needles, fluffy yarn, and beginner-friendly patterns.
Tell us a bit about your knitting journey
It all started during Covid when, like many others, I had a lot of free time! The very first thing I made was the Holiday Slipover as a gift for a cousin. After that came the Louisiana Sweater, and it didn’t take long before I was completely hooked on knitting! Not long after, I started creating my own pieces
What made you start designing?
As soon as I cracked the knitting code, I quickly started dreaming of creating my own designs! I dug out my old Top Model sketchbooks and began sketching sweaters and cardigans. As I started sharing pictures on Instagram, people began asking where they could buy the patterns. I experimented a bit, and after a while, the #KarenGenseren was ready. It’s still my best-seller!
What inspires your design process?
I love visiting high-end stores to be inspired by great design and craftsmanship! I often borrow details, cuts, and color ideas for my own pieces. I also like to think, “What am I missing in my own wardrobe?” and use that as a starting point for a new design. Not all of my patterns are visually groundbreaking, but I always try to make them as beginner-friendly as possible – that’s where I aim to stand out from other designers.
What do you do when you’re not knitting?
When I’m not knitting, I spend time with friends and family, do pilates, or check out new restaurants!
What can we look forward to seeing from you in the future?
Moving forward, there will be continued collaboration with TheaMarie, and I’m also planning to release some simple colorwork patterns over the summer – stay tuned!
5 quick questions
Describe yourself in 3 words: Enthusiastic, curious, and impatient!
Favorite candy/snacks: Smash! The perfect combo of chocolate, salt, and crunch if you ask me!
Favorite TV-series: It has to be the classic Gossip Girl, but I have to say White Lotus is a strong runner-up!
Guilty pleasure: Casting on a new project (even though I already have at least 10 unfinished ones).
Dream travel destination: I went to Bali last year and completely fell for Indonesia, so exploring more of the islands is at the top of my list!
