We are Alexa, Emily, and John

For over a decade, Alexa and Emily have designed patterns together at Tin Can Knits (read our story here). We have always focussed on crafting clear and concise knitting patterns and top-notch support, but we've recently begun exploring the ways patterns could be even better.

While discussing the problems and possibilies with Emily's husband John (who is a software developer) the seed of an idea was planted, and soon after we started work on the Tin Can Knits app.

Why a pattern app?

We want to make knitting patterns EVEN BETTER. With the app, we can improve your experience in the following ways:

• Simplicity:

  You only see numbers and pattern sections that are relevant to YOU.

• Support:

  At a tap, you can find excellent tutorials and learn something new.

• Value:

  The app allows us to add MORE value - more yarn weights, sizes, and options - without making a pattern longer or harder to follow.

• Accessibility:

  In the app, patterns can be adjusted to a range of individual preferences, making them accessible to more knitters.

What does the future hold?

We’re not sure what the future will bring, but here are a few of our visions:

• More patterns!

  We'll add more Tin Can Knits designs soon! You won't have to pay twice - if you've purchased a pattern, and we add that design to the app, we'll pop it into your pattern library in the app for free.

• Charts

  Imagine you could switch back and forth between text and chart views of a lace pattern and then watch a 10-second video in the app, to learn how to work an ssk decrease.

• Adjustment points

  Imagine how helpful it would be if there were 'adjustment points' where you could enter your desired sleeve length (or add waist shaping), then the rest of the pattern numbers changed to suit.

• More yarn-weights and options

  Imagine how valuable patterns would be if designers were able to include multiple yarn-weight options without losing the simplicity and clarity that makes knitting fun and relaxing.

• Adjustable for diverse needs, preferences, abilities

  Imagine how helpful it would be to modify pattern views in ways that allow individuals with different needs, preferences, and abilities to access knitting – such a fundamentally accessible and simple past-time.

• Trusted support in context

  Imagine you could find the support you need, precisely when you need it, at a tap, right from the context of the pattern you were knitting – and you could trust the quality of that advice.

• Free tools and resources

  Imagine if these materials were available FREE to use for knitters and knitting teachers around the world.

• Your language

  Imagine you could translate patterns into any language.

Community commitments

Read our Commitments to equity, diversity, inclusion and anti-racism

Read our Land Acknowledgement