plum - adjective - rewarding, highly desirable

I have been experimenting with fabric and yarn from an early age, and was fortunate to grow up with a Mom who was not only an accomplished sewer, but also a trained teacher and interior designer. In high school, and at University, I began to realize that not everyone grew up learning these skills and it was 20 years ago (gasp) that my friend Karen and I first taught our roommates to knit. As my friends progressed from students to homeowners to parents, the focus of these projects changed, but the essence of each project - teaching people to create something they were proud of- stayed the same.

When our first daughter was born in 2004, I began to investigate organic and natural materials, mainly to lessen the impact of off-gassing in our home and reduce our footprint on the environment. I found these materials were scarce, and it was sometimes difficult to ascertain what was more relevant, local or organic.

After lots (and lots) of research, I have started Plum Project Studio to offer guidance, selection and quality as you choose your materials, work through your projects and learn new skills, all of which are sustainable, from start to finish.

heather ross

An experienced knitter, Heather has completed coursework (and projects) covering a variety of skills and techniques, including cables, intarsia, stranded colour work, lace, beaded knitting, magic loop, knitting in the round on dpns and finishing methods. She previously developed and taught an 8-week intermediate level knitting course for Vancouver School Board Continuing Education, where topics included various methods for casting-on, casting-off, increasing, decreasing, fixing mistakes, finishing, and reading your knitting pattern.

Currently, Heather is also a busy Mother to Nicholas and Eliza (the model in the seamless kimono sweater project photo), so we're very happy she is taking time out to teach some of our Saturday workshops and contribute to our blog!

the studio

Our studio space in Deep Cove opened on February 9, 2010 and features: sewing and knitting classes; sewing workstations for hourly rental; a knitting lounge area; and of course, our lovely fabrics and yarns can be purchased at the studio as well as online.

We have stocked the studio with a variety of reference and pattern books, for those of you who would like to have a tea or coffee, take a seat in the lounge and find the answers / inspiration you are looking for.

If you have a moment, please visit our virtual studio and blog featuring tips on learning new skills and working with the projects featured here.

Thank you so much for visiting and for your interest in sustainable skills and projects!