Inspiring knitwear designer wins Framework Knitters’ Award

Bethany Young, a 28-year-old Fashion BA (Hons) student at Northumbria University, has been awarded the prestigious Framework Knitters’ Livery Company Award, in its annual competition which includes a £1,500 bursary.

Beth is the third Northumbria student to receive this award, which encourages higher education students to engage with the knitwear industry and develop their skills in this highly technical field.

The competition consists of two stages: applicants must first submit a proposal, followed by an interview with up to four Framework Knitters committee members. Beth presented her final-year concept, which is inspired by Teesside’s historic iron and steel industry, reclaiming craft, heritage, and forgotten legacies.

Beth showcased her sketchbook and portfolio pages alongside knit samples she crafted from metal wire, metallic cord, monofilament, and silk – materials that reflect the skills she has developed while studying at Northumbria.

In 2022, Beth’s first-year university work was also displayed in the window of the popular UK department store Fenwick as part of its 140th-anniversary celebrations.

Originally from Teesside, Beth reflected on the significance of her work, stating: “The collection pays tribute to the region’s industrial resilience while incorporating a personal and feminine perspective through delicate lace artistry. Interestingly, I’d never knitted before university. I initially thought I’d focus on print design, but after learning knit techniques in my first year, I was hooked. The process of transforming yarn into fabric, exploring textures and colours, is endlessly rewarding.

“Knitwear to me isn’t limited to winter wardrobes. With the variety of yarns and gauges available, it can be worn year-round. Some of my favourite knitwear designers –  A. Roege Hove, JW Anderson, and Paloma Wool – demonstrate the versatility and creativity of knitwear.

“Winning the award is an incredible honour. The financial support will be invaluable in covering the cost of yarns and materials, allowing me to further develop my designs. I’m also excited about the opportunity to apply for Associate Membership with the Company."

Eleanor O'Neill-Murray, Assistant Professor at Northumbria University, said: “Beth’s award is testament to her passion and dedication to her discipline and the whole team is very proud of her achievement. Through a blend of academic and technical support, knitwear students at Northumbria are encouraged and supported to develop their knowledge of knitwear and apply it to industry in practice.

“Our final year students are encouraged to propose, research and develop an original fashion proposal that presents their creative vision, clearly positioning them for employment in the industry upon graduation. Beth’s recognition from the Framework Knitters’ Company supports her deeply authentic creative vision and skills and demonstrates their value and desirability beyond the studio.”

Sheila Turner, Chair of The Worshipful Company of Framework Knitters’ Education Committee, was part of the team to interview Beth.

She said: “We visit over 20 Universities and Colleges, interviewing around 50 short-listed students.  By being selected for interview Beth was in the top 50 textile students in the UK specialising in knit.  We were struck by Beth’s creative talent coupled with her excellent presentation of her work. Her technical knowledge of knitted structures, yarns and costings of manufacture were sound. Our award is to not only a financial advantage to Beth, but also she can tap into the tremendous knowledge and experience of the members of our 368-year-old Company.”

Find out more about the Framework Knitters Award.

Find out more about Fashion BA (Hons) course at Northumbria University and how to apply.