Kathryn Perkins is the founder and designer behind Vashon Knitwear Studio, a small-batch knitwear studio creating handcrafted accessories inspired by coastal living, real people, and real weather.  Designed on Vashon Island, her work draws from the beaches, forests, and gardens of the Pacific Northwest. Each piece is thoughtfully crafted using luxury merino wool and alpaca yarns certified by the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS) and sourced from artisan dyers and independent ranches that share her commitment to quality and sustainability. Design is at the heart of Kathryn's work. In addition to producing heirloom-quality knitwear, she creates original knitting patterns that are enjoyed by knitters around the world. Her aesthetic blends clean Scandinavian design with the textures and colors of the Pacific Northwest, resulting in timeless pieces made to be worn outdoors—from misty beaches to mountain trails. Kathryn's love of knitting began in childhood, learning alongside her Swedish grandmother and mother. Her mother was passionate about traditional Scandinavian stranded colorwork, and together they sought out Norwegian elders who translated vintage knitting patterns into English, passing along techniques and stories that continue to influence Kathryn's work today.
After a successful career as a software executive, Kathryn founded Vashon Knitwear Studio in 2025 to devote herself fully to designing and making knitwear. Her work celebrates craftsmanship, natural fibers, and the enduring comfort of handmade objects created to be worn, treasured, and passed along.