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About

Hi, I'm Donna Estin & I design artistic, innovative knitwear.  I specialize in blending creative stitches into comfortable, modern sweaters. With pattern support and tips to help knitters create the best possible garment, I create easy-to follow-patterns for intermediate and advanced knitters, for a fashion forward sweater.


I worked in the travel industry in sales & marketing, and have been a successful entrepreneur in the Washington, D.C. area for over 20 years. Combining my love for designing knitwear and my business background, I launched Donna Estin Designs, LLC in 2015 to expand my artistic talent. I earned my Master Hand Knitter Certification in 2017 from The Knitting Guild Association and currently serve on the Board of Directors as Vice President of Public Relations.  I developed and currently teach two courses; "Marketing Yourself within the Knitting Industry" and "Professional Knitwear Designer Certification" both sponsored by TKGA.


My designs can be seen in top knitting magazines and books around the world, including Vogue Knitting, Interweave Knits, Nomadic Knits, Wool Studio, Knit Now, Knit Picks, and more. I love collaborating with yarn dyers and farms to help family businesses expand their hand-knitting product lines and increase yarn sales. My interest in supporting those who raise sheep and alpacas extends from the family of people to the family of animals. As a vegetarian, the care and well-being of animals is an important issue in my life. Awareness of fiber sources is the first step towards supporting the ethical treatment of the animals who provide the amazing fiber for our craft.


I live on the Eastern Shore of Maryland and usually have two or more projects on my needles. I love wool, sheep, dogs, and sailing on the Chesapeake Bay.

Photo of designer Donna Estin

"Knitting is a wonderful skill full of challenges and joys.

It provides meditative qualities and is an outlet for creative thoughts

and problem solving. 

It’s a way to play, create

and be productive at the same time. 

It’s methodical, creative, technical and necessary if you want

a fine, unique product that can’t be bought at any price.

It’s a form of individual expression

and pride. It takes days to learn and a lifetime to master. 

I hope you enjoy these designs!"
Donna

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Affiliate Disclosure

When I link to products, those links may be affiliate links.  If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase within a certain period of time, I may earn a small commission from the company.  The commission is paid by the supplier and does not affect your price.   I only provide links to products that I personally use myself and highly recommend.  When I discover a good product that could help knitters, I want to share it with you.  The small commission helps my business and allows me to continue designing. Thank you for supporting me and for keeping your love of knitting alive.  I do love feedback, so if you've tried any products that I recommend, I would love to hear about your experience.    
 

© 2015-2026 Donna Estin Designs LLC, All Rights Reserved

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