Behind the Scenes with: Third Vault Yarns

Meet Lola Johnson, a self-confessed knitting addict and the creative force between Third Vault Yarns. Lola dyes her yarns into stunning, statement colourways, using a wide range of bases from wonderful wools to plant-based fibres. She is passionate about crafting and has a “steadfast commitment to staying geeky”. Read more about Lola’s ideas and inspiration below!

“Third Vault Yarns was barely even a concept when I started dyeing yarn back in 2013,” reveals Lola. “I taught myself how to dye yarn so I could teach other people as part of our University Union Stitch and Bitch society. Back then I was using food colouring and Kool Aid, to see what effects I could get and it was a wonderful and playful entry route to dyeing yarn for fun.”

Much of Lola’s colour inspiration comes from the worlds of science fiction and fantasy, and she find influences in books, films, television programmes and board games. “Nowadays we’re quite removed from the very basic dyeing with food colouring, working with professional dyes,” Lola explains. “Yet my favourite part of the process will always be going from that white yarn and choosing colours based on my inspirations, to laying up those colours and watching something beautiful take shape.”

With yarns ranging from pure merino 4ply that’s perfect for shawls, to merino-nylon DKs and soft aran and chunky skeins for cosy accessories, there is plenty of choice for any knitter who loves colour. “I adore working with different fibre mixes,” says Lola. “There is a lot of richness in some of the British sheep breeds, and the lustre they give is absolutely luscious. Hence, my slight addiction to Bluefaced Leicester, Corriedale, and Polwarth wools. I also love the beautiful Falklands merino that I work with regularly.”

See Lola’s yarns at thirdvaultyarns.com and discover her exclusive pattern designs on her Etsy shop. Follow Lola on instagram @thirdvaultyarns