Hidden Talent Spotlight: Ina L. B. Frye (Financial Aid Manager)

In this month’s “Hidden Talent Spotlight,” we interviewed Ina L. B. Frye (Financial Aid Manager). Frye has worked at Boston University since 1980.

We hear you have a hidden talent—what is it?
I do a lot of crafts, but knitting is my passion. Sometimes I even include crocheting into the things I knit.

When did you become passionate about knitting? And how did you learn?
I started knitting in the fourth grade. I would find books around the house that my mother used to use, and I actually taught myself. I would practice at home, find different patterns, and even bring it to school to practice at recess. One of the first things I knit was a sweater for a baby from a kit I bought.

And now you teach others?
Yes—I’m a certified knitting instructor, so I’m certified to teach anybody who wants to learn. We actually started a knitting club here. We meet weekly and work on different projects. Anyone is invited to join us!

What do you like about knitting?
It’s relaxing. Plus, I really like creating something and seeing the finished product.

What challenges does knitting present?
Learning how to knit is easy but navigating different patterns can be hard. Each time you have to learn a new language because everyone writes patterns a little different.

What’s the future for knitting?
Well, knitting is not a dying art. As long as people wear knitted garments—people will learn how to knit. Now, thanks to technology, knitting is easier than ever because you can just watch videos on YouTube or look up patterns online.

What tips do you have for the novice knitter?
If you’re someone who can learn from a book or video, that’s great, but the best way to learn—I think—is for someone to show you. Everyone will eventually develop their own style. One of my favorite quotes that I always remember when it comes to knitting is by F. Scott Fitzgerald: “Vitality shows in not only the ability to persist but the ability to start over.”

Do you have any favorite knitters?
Lily Chin is one—I always see her stuff, she knits and crochets. Vickie Howell is another—she has the best cables and I have several of her books.

Do you have a favorite thing to knit?
I enjoy knitting anything, not one thing in particular. I always have it with me wherever I go — it relaxes me. I like to design things, and I like trying new patterns and techniques. One of my designs was published in Interweave Crochet.

How long did those booties take you?
They took a couple of weeks. I knit the entire boots, and then embellished them with crochet.