Today we have an interview with Cate from Infinite Twist. Come see her beautiful hand dyed yarn and cozy knits this Saturday from 11-4!
How long have you been in business?
Infinite Twist will celebrate its second anniversary this May. What a wild ride it’s been!
What is your background? How did you end up in the business you’re in?
I used to do Product Marketing for Apparel and Accessories, and that’s what initially brought me to China.
After finding my corporate experience unfulfilling, I was ready to take the leap and do something different. Infinite Twist was born out of the dream to create something of my own, based around what I love most – yarn!
Now, I spend my days dyeing yarn and fiber, designing knitwear, making kits, and teaching classes for knitters of all levels. I love what I do!
What has been the biggest challenge so far in the running and setting up of your business?
Time – why is there not more of it? It’s true what they say – you work so much harder when you’re working for yourself, but the work itself is a lot more fun. I just wish there was an extra day in the week.
Out of all your products, which is your favourite?
My favorites are the Paintbox knitting kits. They contain around a dozen different yarns, 500 yards in all, each a different color. They’re really fun to make, and to knit with!
Have you any advice for someone setting up a market stall for the first time?
Tell your friends! It’s always a treat to see a friendly face, and the people who already know and love you are the ones most likely to come down and support your new venture.
What do you enjoy most about the Shanghai Saturday Markets?
The quesadillas! I spent my childhood in San Diego, and the pesto chicken quesadilla is my soul food.
I also love being able to do my weekly shopping directly from the purveyor – getting my cheese from Daniel, jams and chutneys from Amelia, and olive oil from Kastro’s is truly a delight!
Finally, what is your favourite place in Shanghai/thing to do in Shanghai?
I love the trimmings market on Renmin Lu. It’s a great place to let your creative imagination run amok in a four-floor paradise of buttons, ribbon, pompoms, feathers, beads, rhinestones, and more.