TANIS GRAY - KNITTING HER WAY TO THE STARS

Last week, I introduced you to a brand new book written by Tanis Gray and published by Pavilion Books. It was called 'Star Wars: Knitting the Galaxy', and as the title suggests, it's a visual guide that teaches people how to knit a variety of different designs based on the characters, weapons, vehicles, and institutions featured throughout the Star Wars franchise. Now don't worry if you didn't get to see my introduction because you can click here to check it out. Otherwise, feel free to have a look at the following interview I had with the nicest knitter I know, Tanis Gray.





1) Name three words that best describe who you are.   Creative, productive, and observant. 

2) Who or what inspired you to start knitting?   My Mom. My Mom inspired me to knit after I saw her knitting a sweater for me when I was 8 years old. I was suffering from a sleep disorder at the time, so to channel my energy in a more positive direction I decided to knit while everyone else was asleep. Fortunately, I come from a very long line of knitters and crocheters and am happy to be another link in that particular chain. 

3) Your book, ‘Star Wars: Knitting the Galaxy’, is full of fascinating designs, but which one is your own personal favorite and why?   I’ve been fascinated with Lightsabers ever since I learned how the color of the blade changes when a Jedi and their Lightsaber are paired together! Therefore, my favorite would have to be, the Lightsaber socks.

'Star Wars: Knitting the Galaxy' by Tanis Gray is published by Pavilion Books.

Photographs by Tyler Chartier.

4) If you could knit something for a character featured in the Star Wars Universe, who would it be and what would you want to make them?   I would like to make a fantastic sweater for General Leia Organa because I love the fact that she's a Princess who eventually became a General. Seriously, she's such a strong, female lead, that I would want to honor her legacy by making her a woolen garment that’s fashioned with some form of chain mail design.

5) If you could get a celebrity – either living or dead – to promote your wares, who would you choose, and why would you want to choose this particular person?   No one could rock a sweater better than Mr. Rogers. Well, did you know that his Mom made all of the sweaters he wore on his children’s television show? I did, but then again, I did watch his show while I was growing up, and over time, grew to respect him for being a truly kind man who genuinely embraced everyone for who they really are.  Bless him, for he was a gift to the world. 

6) What was the most surprising thing you learned about yourself while writing this book?   That I was able to write three books and wrangle virtual school with my kids during a global pandemic!

For further information on 'Star Wars: Knitting the Galaxy', please feel free to check out the official Website, Facebook, and Twitter pages for Pavilion Books. Or better yet, why not pop on over to Tanis's Website to see what else she has up her sleeve.