Knitwear designer & author šŸ§¶šŸ“š
Timeless knitting patterns.
Creating my first small-batch knitwear collection šŸ‘š
Follow the journey šŸ’«


Ashley Lillis

I know AI can be a controversial topic, especially in creative spaces…. And honestly, I was hesitant to share this but I’m trying be as transparent as possible.

I don’t think AI can replace creativity, good judgment, lived experience, or the relationships we build with people.

However, I also don’t think pretending it doesn’t exist is the answer…. And I’d rather learn how to use it well and in a way I’m comfortable with.

As I’ve been building my first small-batch sweater line, I’ve been using AI to research manufacturers, compare business scenarios, organize complicated thoughts, challenge my assumptions, and help me think through decisions more intentionally.

The more I’ve used it, the more I’ve seen it as a tool that helps me prepare, explore ideas, and make better decisions.

I still have a business coach and I very much still rely on my own creativity and experience… it’s helped me get more out of those things because I spend more time focusing on what actually matters.

If you’re curious how I’m actually using AI while building this business comment AI below. If there’s enough interest, I’ll share more of what I’ve been doing ā¤ļø

#smallbusinesstips #womeninbusiness #knitweardesigner

2 months ago | [YT] | 31

Ashley Lillis

For years, I designed sweaters as patterns but now I’m designing them as actual finished pieces and it’s a very different kind of creative process.

There are fiber decisions, fit questions, samples, production details, and a lot of moments where I realize how much I still have to learn.

Who knows if this will work but I sure am going to give it all I got! Hope you follow along as I try to build something new at 45 šŸŽ‰šŸ§¶ā¤ļø

#knitwear #knitweardesign #knitweardesigner #creativebusiness #smallfashionbrand

2 months ago | [YT] | 119

Ashley Lillis

Last summer I probably would have looked at this and thought none of it was productive enough…. No big goals or perfectly optimized routine.

I’m just simply reading more, walking more, spending time with my kids, getting dressed, working outside, and making things for fun.

What’s funny is that slowing down a little has actually made me feel more creative, more energized, and more excited about what’s next rather than constantly trying to squeeze more into my days.

I’m still building things and working toward big goals; however, this summer, I’m trying to remember that a good life can’t just be something you work toward someday. It has to be something you’re living right now, too.

What’s one small thing you’re doing differently this summer?

2 months ago | [YT] | 56

Ashley Lillis

I've got an amazing spring pattern bundle with 4 of my best-selling patterns! The bundle includes the patterns, a style your knits guide, AND an exclusive invitation to a virtual knit night with me on April 22nd!

ashleylillis.myflodesk.com/springsummerbundle

5 months ago | [YT] | 59

Ashley Lillis

This is my Haven Harbor Slipover Vest included in my upcoming book, Timeless Return. The book includes 7 knitting patterns…. Make sure you’re on my email list to get notified of the release with a special gift for the first 100 people! So much more coming soon!

www.ashleylillis.com/newsletter

7 months ago | [YT] | 141

Ashley Lillis

I used to pour so much energy into Instagram…. But I knew I wanted to try out other platforms to get seen more. But I was scared it was going to take so much time and be exhausting…..

So instead of focusing on just one platform, I built a simple content system that worked everywhere.

Now I have:
- 122K on Instagram
- 98K on YouTube
- 104K on my email list
- Thousands of monthly views from Pinterest

It doesn’t take more time…. It’s just a smarter strategy to use what I’ve already got.

Want to see exactly how I do it? Here you go šŸ‘‡šŸ»
ashleylillis.myflodesk.com/createonce

What platform are you struggling to grow on right now?

1 year ago | [YT] | 27

Ashley Lillis

Hey friends šŸ‘‹

It’s been a little while since I’ve posted here, and I wanted to share something important with you.

For the past few years, I’ve poured so much of my heart into designing knitting patterns, filming tutorials, and building a creative business from the ground up. And while I loved that season, I started to realize something: the business model I had created wasn’t sustainable. I was constantly creating new content, trying to keep up, and feeling like I had to hustle just to maintain momentum.

The turning point for me was when I launched a simple digital gauge converter tool—and it brought in over $10K in a single month. That product followed a completely different model. It was focused, scalable, and built around solving one specific problem. And it completely changed the way I think about creative business.

Now, I’m pivoting—and I’m so excited to share my next chapter with you.

✨ I’ve created something called The Creative Shift Framework—a course for creatives who are ready to pivot their business, build a simple digital product, and finally create something that feels aligned and scalable.

Whether you’re a knitter, maker, artist, or coach, this course is here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence—without burning out.

šŸ‘‰ You can join the waitlist here to get earlybird access + a special discount:
ashleylillis.myflodesk.com/creativeshiftwaitlist

Thanks so much for being part of my journey. I hope this next phase helps you build something that truly works for you.

1 year ago | [YT] | 80

Ashley Lillis

Classica Pattern and full video tutorial are now available! https://youtu.be/fNKPLQrZvoA

1 year ago | [YT] | 198

Ashley Lillis

🧶 5 Upcoming Knit Sweater Designs You Don’t Want to Miss 🧶
youtube.com/shorts/i29rEw-Ft-...
1ļøāƒ£ Classica Top Down Raglan knit with @dropsdesign Air available mid-March
2ļøāƒ£ Woodland Worsted Pullover knit with @knit_picks Wool of the Andes + Aloft
3ļøāƒ£ Woodland DK Pullover knit with @dropsdesign Nord + Kid-Silk available early April
4ļøāƒ£ Bridges Raglan Cardigan knit with @modeatrowan Softest Alpaca available late April
5ļøāƒ£ Spring Lane Pullover knit with @dropsdesign Big Merino available early May

1 year ago (edited) | [YT] | 158

Ashley Lillis

Check out my latest FREE pattern and tutorial! https://youtu.be/_479loYaULo

1 year ago | [YT] | 195