MEET YELENA

My name is Yelena Sonkin, and for more than 30 years I have worked in the fashion industry as a sweater designer, pattern maker, technical designer, and product developer. Throughout my career, I have collaborated with fashion companies, developed knitwear collections, and transformed ideas into beautifully crafted garments.
 

Teaching has always been one of the most meaningful parts of my career. I had the privilege of teaching at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM) in downtown Los Angeles—one of the country's most respected fashion schools—where I shared professional machine knitting techniques with the next generation of designers. In addition to teaching at FIDM, I have spent more than 11 years providing specialized instruction in machine knitting.
 

I founded Knit Atelier because I believe machine knitting is more than a craft—it's an art form. In an era of fast fashion and mass production, there is something extraordinary about creating a garment from a single strand of yarn. Every stitch reflects patience, creativity, and craftsmanship.
 

My mission is to preserve these professional techniques and make them accessible to anyone with the desire to learn.
 

I don't simply teach people how to operate a knitting machine. I teach the complete creative process—from understanding yarns and stitch structures to garment construction, shaping, finishing, and design. My goal is to give every student the confidence to create pieces they can truly be proud of.
 

Whether your dream is to design luxurious sweaters, create one-of-a-kind accessories, develop a fashion collection, or simply enjoy a rewarding creative hobby, I will guide you every step of the way.
 

I believe the most beautiful garments are not simply worn—they are created with intention.
 

My hope is that every student leaves with more than technical knowledge. I want them to gain confidence, creative freedom, and a lifelong appreciation for the art of knitting.
 

Every masterpiece begins with a single stitch.