A leading knit and crochet designer, Melissa Leapman has over 1,450 published designs.
We are delighted to share the third edition of our Designer Showcase, a series created to
highlight the talent behind Cascade Yarns’ designs. Each showcase features an exclusive look at the designers who
bring our yarns to life.
This month, Melissa Leapman joins us to share her creative journey and
the thoughtful process behind her work as a multifaceted fiber artist.
What first drew you to the craft and later designing?
When I was four years old, my paternal grandmother, “Nanna”, taught me how to crochet.
(I was the only little girl in the sandbox crocheting.) By the time I was in high school, I couldn’t find any
crochet sweater patterns I would be caught dead wearing, so I taught myself to knit!
How would you describe your design aesthetic or signature style?
I would classify most of my designs as contemporary classics, items that are useful,
relatively easy to stitch, and fun to make.
Where do you find creative inspiration these days?
I find design inspiration EVERYWHERE, from the view from my 29th floor
apartment in beautiful New York City to art and nature.
Can you walk us through your design process—from creative spark to finished
sample?
Most of my designs begin with a stitch pattern. I love swatching and I save those
swatches until I find the perfect use for them. (Storing and organizing and keeping track of the notes on how I
actually made the swatch is a whole other process.)
Lately I’ve been working on designs that teach something: a new technique, an interesting
construction, etc. No matter how long you’ve been knitting, there’s always so much more to learn about the craft.
It’s fun!
What do you look for in a yarn when starting a new design?
If a design includes various stitch patterns, it is important to find a yarn that lets
those textures shine; if one uses basic stockinette, it’s fun to use a novelty yarn and let it do the work.
Do you have a Cascade Yarns favorite? What makes it special for you?
I have a soft spot for the original Cascade 220. It is beautiful, has great stitch
definition, comes in oodles of colors, and is priced right. What more could a designer ask for?!?!
Where does inspiration for your Cascade Yarns project(s) come from?
Usually, I’m asked to provide pattern support for a new yarn, so the special features of
that particular yarn typically drive my design process.
What tips do you have for makers working through your patterns?
Always read through the entire pattern before starting to knit. And be sure to match the
stitch and row gauges stated in the pattern to ensure that the garment will be the correct size, and that you will
have the required amount of yarn to complete the project.
What’s lighting you up creatively these days, or what are you excited to work on
next?
I’m working on two new books. They’re like gigantic term papers about techniques that I
love!
What excites you most about the future of fiber arts?
I’m noticing that makers are seeking community through their crafts: cruises, retreats,
and virtual events.
My next US-based event is KNITopia Milwaukee August 14-16, 2026. I’m also hosting an exclusive KNITopia chartered
Rhine River cruise with Franklin Habit and Casapinka in May of 2027.
Featured Designs
Stone Harbor Vest by Melissa
Leapman
Yarn: 220 Superwash® Sport Wave
Download Pattern
I love this design because of its simple construction. Made from two easy rectangles, it
comes together to create a useful silhouette that allows this special yarn to shine.
Bubble Pullover by Melissa
Leapman
Yarn: Lana Grande
Download Pattern
Who doesn’t love a chunky pullover with an interesting stitch pattern? This design
features tuck stitches worked in easy colorful stripes. The loftiness of the yarn keeps the finished sweater light
and easy to wear despite the heavy gauge.
Saddle Shoulder Aran by
Melissa Leapman
Yarn: Eco+
Download Pattern
Anyone who has followed my career know how much I enjoy cable knitting. This traditional
Aran pullover combines lots of fun cables and other textures stitches in a durable, economical yarn that comes in
nearly every color you could imagine.
Gotta love those entwined cables going up the shoulders!
Girls Plaid Dress by Melissa
Leapman
Yarn: 220 Superwash® Sport
Download Pattern
What fun it was to design this playful little dress! I love how the colorful bobbles
complement the stranded plaid. Best of all, this project includes some challenging areas as well as simple
stockinette to keep any knitter engaged.
Margareta by Melissa
Leapman
Yarn: Cantata
Download Pattern
This is one of the most useful designs ever! Everyone needs a go-to year-round cardigan.
This one is worked in a super soft yarn with wonderful stitch definition.
And like most of my designs, it includes a touch of intricate stitching up the sleeves with smooth, simple
stockinette for most of the garment.
Jean Pullover by Melissa
Leapman
Yarn: Anchor Bay
Download Pattern
This design is a knitter’s dream! It uses several simple lace patterns balanced with a
bit of garter stitch. Tiny design elements such as a wavy lower hem and empire waist make it especially fun to knit.
Men’s Retro Fair Isle V-Neck
by Melissa Leapman
Yarn: Cascade 220® Sport
Download Pattern
There’s more to come from our Designer Showcase series.
Until then, enjoy exploring Melissa Leapman’s work through the links below.