about kate oates
kate oates is a knitting pattern designer, instructor & author. In the past 15+ years as a full-time fiber artist, Kate has published well over 300 original patterns and authored several books: grown, knits for boys and knitting clothes kids love. under her own name, she creates modern, wearable and stylish knits for adults. kate’s patterns are known for her attention to detail & fit, extensive size ranges, providing a multitude of option-sets along with thorough technical instructions that often link to video tutorials. Her other line, tot toppers, features whimsically wearable garments and accessories for babies and children. as an instructor, kate is passionate and organized, especially when it comes to enabling knitters to create garments that fit and flatter. with over 20 years of teaching experience, her classes are well known for their high quality, original content, thorough materials & detailed workbooks that allow knitters to soak in their class experience without scrambling to take notes. Kate is a neurodivergent & under-abled chronic pain warrior who advocates for others while fighting her own personal battles and choosing JOY. She has endured through more than a dozen surgeries, primarily due to spinal fusions resulting from a childhood injury. you can listen to some of kate’s personal story here.
you can find kate’s patterns at your local yarn store or online through a variety of platforms. she also does freelance work for a variety of publications and yarn companies and loves to collaborate with independent brands. Shops and event organizers, click here to learn about bringing kate for a visit. knitters, click here to subscribe to kate’s mailing list to stay in touch & enjoy exclusive discounts. if you love kate’s designs and appreciate the hard work she puts into free tutorials for all knitters, consider a donation or being a bestie. this subscription-based program provides tons of perks for members and is such a great way to support kate.
Prior to her transition to knitwear design, Kate earned her b.s. at Clemson university, then her m.a & Ph.D from the University of Florida with concentrations in political science & methodology (aka= math!). She's always been driven, self-motivated and committed to performing at the highest level despite her limitations. she lives with her family in south carolina, which includes her husband and incredible boys (4 very handsome previous tot toppers models) & sweet doggie Hazel. you might also see the oates crew at a clemson football game. go tigers!
My customers love Kate's designs! The Tot Toppers collection is adorable and whimsical, and her adult designs are beautiful and wearable. And all Kate's patterns are well-written and easy to follow.
- Craig Rosenfeld, Owner, Loop (Philadelphia, PA)Kate’s patterns are well-written, thorough, and have been quite popular in our shop. She includes helpful tips, clear instructions, and her photos are quite inspiring!
-Mindy Owen, Owner, A Yarn Less Raveled (Danville, CA)We want to create quality yarn, patterns and knitting products that will stand the test of time. Kate Oates not only partners with us in creating some of our most favorite and thoughtfully written knitting patterns using our yarns, but is also a true pleasure to work with on so many levels. Her skills and knitting experience are beyond compare and we treasure our friendship with Kate in this lovely knitting community of ours.
-Ve, Big Sister of YOTH Yarns