Yeah so maybe it’s weird to show winter items in the middle of summer but, hey, NEXT BIG THING is very forward-thinking. And we just couldn’t resist these amazing crayon scarves from UK supertalent Knit and Destroy! Read on to learn about founder Kandy Diamond’s dream project with John Waters.

How old is your company and how did you get your start?
18 months old… We’re just learning to walk now, he hee! After 4 years at University I had acquired some skillz on the knitting machine and was itching to make something just cos I liked it, y’know?! I got a knitting machine for my birthday and started by making scarves and selling them through a friend’s stall in Manchester. It has just developed from there.

Tell us about the name.
I saw it on a journal, c’est tout! But I think it fits with what I do cos I try to knit (that’s the knit part, everything I do is knitted, woo) things that haven’t been done before and/or things that people wouldn’t always immediately associate with knitting (that’s me “destroying” the stereotype of what knit is… along with thousands of other super ace rad knitters out there!)

What would be a dream project for you?
Making knitted costumes for a John Waters film about knit addict-craft fetishists… Anyone got his number? We need to hook up!! I also really like making giant knitted things so any project involving giant knits, maybe knitting the set of this imaginary film that me ‘n Mr. Waters are gonna make.

OMG, there’s so much amazing talent in the UK! How would describe the British indie craft/design scene?
One word: craftalicious! There’s always something going on and there’s a great sense of community. Everyone knows everyone, even if it is just virtually! Crafting is growing and people are realising it’s not just something yr nan does and there’s loads of exciting new creations popping up all the time. As a result of this “crafting is cool” realisation there has been an upsurge in the number of non lavender scented craft fairs such as Pretty Crafty Things in Leeds, run by Michelle who also introduced the Craft Mafia to the UK! As well as amazing craft-based small businesses such as Dottie’s Fake D.I.Y. (awesome craft-themed items) and Helpless Romantic. I have also seen amazingly enthusiastic responses to craft zines such as Sugar Paper… Crafternoons and pom-pom making sessions and new knitting groups are still cropping up on every corner!

What’s been the hardest thing about running your own biz?
Mostly that there’s only one of me. Unfortunately I haven’t mastered making a cup of tea and knitting at the same time… Yet! Apart from that, I love having my own business and making stuff all the time. Also, I’m a maths nerd so things like doing my accounts is FUN. I love the variety and “job satisfaction” that getting my craft on everyday gives me!

Tell us a little bit about the philosophy behind Knit and Destroy.
I always double triple check what I’m about to make doesn’t already exist somewhere. I hate copying and love the challenge of making something new. I have always loved novelty things and when I realised I could knit a scarf that looks like a tape measure I was away. I make things that people who don’t “get it” like to go, Awww, they’re lovely for kids… The point is they ain’t for kids, they’re fun knits made for those of us who frequent childrens clothes departments shrieking, “Why don’t they do that in MY size?!”