Stephen Barendt

Stephen Barendt

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been passionate about the design process and empowering others to unlock their creativity.

I began knitting during college; the local yarn shop was located on the ground floor of my freshman dorm. My life changed the day I wandered into that shop and purchased a how-to knit book, yarn, and my first set of needles. From that day on, I became obsessed with every aspect of creating: the process, the product, and most importantly, our legacy as handcrafters.

I believe firmly in the world-building power of artistic creation. No matter how difficult or scary this world becomes, it is the artisans, handcrafters, and creatives of all disciplines that have always stood as the bulwark against darkness. We use simple string (or wood, paper, metal, & countless other materials) to create something with both aesthetic value & practical purpose, something that is lasting and good. With our two hands, we each have the opportunity to engage in the process of creating a more beautiful world.

To that end: as long as the knitter finds passion in the creation & joy from the final product, there is no right or wrong in knitting (no yarn snobbery or pattern elitism here)!

If you peruse my knitwear portfolio, you might notice that many of my designs are named after characters from the pantheons of classic mythology. In many ways, this reflects my obsession and passion as a designer: Just as we hand down stories & archetypes through the ages, I love creating timeless pieces that will never go out of style, and may even be passed down for generations.

original designs

Ajax Hat
Ajax Hat & Mitt
Ajax Mitts
Ajax Hat & Mitt
Ajax Pullover
Stephen Barendt's Ravelry Store
Achilles Cardigan
Stephen Barendt's Ravelry Store
All You Wanna Do Socks
Ex-Wives Socks
No Way Socks
Ex-Wives Socks
Heart of Stone Socks
Stephen Barendt's Ravelry Store
Get Down Socks
Ex-Wives Socks
Market Cowl
Stephen Barendt's Ravelry Store
Every Which Way Scarf
Stephen Barendt's Ravelry Store