The Creatives of Sew Dandelions - part TWO - Knitting
Back to School Spotlight On Our Teachers: Meghan Love
Sew Dandelions knows no creative bounds. Through sewing, knitting, crocheting, and fashion, we provide a nurturing environment where budding artists and seasoned crafters can explore, learn and master the textile arts. Our dedicated instructors inspire and guide students of all ages, helping them transform ideas into beautiful, handmade creations. We always come into your home with all of our “treasures”: machines, knitting needles, yarn, paper and fabrics. Whether through a joyful celebration or a hands-on workshop, our team brings passion and expertise to every moment. Having each lesson on your own turf, creates a more relaxed atmosphere for you and your children.
In this second installment of our "Spotlight On" series, we continue to shine a light on the talented individuals behind Sew Dandelions, celebrating their unique contributions in our community and the lasting impact they have on our students.
Teacher of this week is Meghan Love.
Meghan is a trained, professional dancer with a vibrant creative side that extends into knitting, crocheting, and furniture restoration. As a knitting teacher with us, she has a unique and thoughtful approach to teaching children, which shines through in her classes at Sew Dandelions.
At home, she balances life as a wife and mother of two small children with her passion for crafting and transforming old furniture. Whether she’s guiding young minds, working with yarn, or breathing new life into vintage finds, Meghan brings warmth, creativity, a special touch to the way she teaches crafts to others, and she’s always ready to take on new projects—both big and small—all while keeping her home buzzing with activity and joy.
Meghan, your background is in dancing. How did you find your way into knitting and crocheting?
I luckily was taught how to knit when I was around 8 years old by a family friend. But then life became busy as I went through school, so knitting took a break. I rediscovered knitting in my early 20’s, and then in my mid-20’s I was taught how to crochet by a roommate.
With two small children at home, how do you find time for knitting, crocheting, and other crafts?
Like most busy parents, I use any opportunity of “free” time. Usually when my husband and I are watching tv at night, my hands are always busy crocheting. For furniture restoration, I use a few hours on the weekends here and there.
Do your kids enjoy joining in on any of your creative activities?
My 5 year old daughter has asked to try crocheting every now and then and she has even done a few brushes of paint on furniture. I have even taught my 7 year old son how to use a sewing machine!
What’s the most challenging project you’ve ever worked on, whether it’s knitting, crocheting, or another craft?
I once was knitting a shawl using the seed stitch, and it was quite time-consuming, especially since the purl stitch isn’t exactly my favorite… And recently I painted a side table for a client and it was challenging in that I doubted myself. Did I sand the table enough? Was it the right paint? Did it need a topcoat? But it came out beautifully and the client was so happy!
How did you overcome that challenge, and would you take on a similar or harder project again?
When I teach knitting (or anything crafty) I remind my students to “trust the process”. Something may look weird, or you may think you made the wrong choice, but it will work out. And if not, you will learn and grow. So I will definitely take on challenging projects in the future.
Refinishing furniture sounds fascinating and is something you enjoy doing. What has been your favorite furniture transformation thus far, and what made it special?
Believe it or not, it’s a piece I posted for sale, but then ended up keeping! It’s a dusty blue cabinet with hairpin legs and abstract blue dot peel-and-stick wallpaper on the inside. We now use it as a computer desk for my son.
Do you have a dream project or piece of furniture you'd love to refinish one day?
After my father in law passed away in 2020, we kept his Mid-Century Modern bar cabinet. I love MCM furniture! I would love to clean it up and paint it a vibrant gem tone (ruby? Sapphire? emerald?)
Do you have a go-to crafting or knitting project when you’re feeling stressed or just want to relax?
I have been crocheting triangle shawls every chance I get! They are simple, beautiful, and necessary. Otherwise, I’ll knit cozy scarves or a soft baby blanket.
Is there a particular type of music or environment that helps you get into the creative zone?
Not really. I can create pretty much any time, anywhere, but I have been thinking about starting to listen to audiobooks, or a podcast while I’m working.
Are you knitting anything at the moment?
I’m knitting dishcloths and coasters with organic cotton yarn.
As someone with a busy life, what are your top tips for balancing creativity and family life with young children?
Just do it! Let your kids see you knitting and crocheting. Let them hear the hum of the sewing machine while they’re watching tv. Get their opinion on paint colors and drawer knobs. They need to see that you love what you do, and that they can be involved!
If you could introduce everyone (kids and adults) in New Providence and surrounding towns to knitting, what’s the one project you’d choose for them to create?
A cup cozy. It is so handy and they’d get to see their hard work almost every day.
Thank you, Meghan.
Currently, Megan teaches her knitting classes on:
Mondays (daytime)
Wednesdays (afternoon)
Fridays (daytime)
and is also free on weekends