Norwegian Knitting Success: Tuva Sandok Designs Hat for Emma Roberts
Tuva Sandok, a knitting influencer, recently received a direct message from Hollywood actress Emma Roberts on Instagram. Sandok, along with Simone Bergh, created a knitting pattern for a unique hat-scarf combination called the balabonnet, which is a mix between a balaclava and a traditional bonnet. They hosted a workshop at the Fæbrikstad festival where participants learned to make their own balabonnets, sharing videos on social media afterward.
In her message, Roberts expressed interest in the balabonnet. She wrote, “Hiii I love your hat scarf. Do you sell them made or just the pattern? Xo.” Sandok was excited but initially thought the message was from someone else with the same name. She confirmed it was indeed the famous actress. After discussing it with Roberts, Sandok decided to sell one balabonnet on Etsy for $30, about 330 Norwegian kroner. Roberts requested a red version made with specific yarn.
Emma Roberts is known for her roles in films like “Wild Child,” “Nancy Drew,” and “We’re the Millers,” as well as the series “American Horror Stories.” She has over 20 million followers on Instagram and is also the niece of actress Julia Roberts. Sandok shared that watching “Wild Child” was a significant part of her childhood, and she often dreamed of living in the U.S.
What inspired Tuva Sandok to create the balabonnet design?
Title: Knitting Dreams: An Interview with Tuva Sandok on Her Viral Balabonnet Design and Celebrity Connection
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today, Tuva! It’s exciting to hear about your recent interaction with Emma Roberts. Can you tell us how that all started?
Tuva Sandok: Thank you for having me! It all began when I received a direct message on Instagram. At first, I thought it was just another fan or a person with the same name. But when I realized it was really Emma Roberts reaching out, I was completely blown away! She expressed her love for our balabonnet design, asking if we sold them pre-made or just the pattern.
Interviewer: That’s incredible! For those who might not know, could you explain what the balabonnet is?
Tuva Sandok: Absolutely! The balabonnet is a unique creation that blends the functionality of a balaclava with the charm of a traditional bonnet. Simone Bergh and I designed it to be both cozy and stylish, perfect for chilly weather. We recently hosted a workshop at the Fæbrikstad festival, where participants made their own balabonnets and shared their creations on social media.
Interviewer: It sounds like a fantastic event! How did it feel to have such a renowned actress interested in your work?
Tuva Sandok: It was surreal! Emma Roberts is someone I’ve admired for a long time, especially after watching “Wild Child” as a child. Knowing that she loves our design feels like a dream come true. When we chatted, I decided to take a leap and sell one balabonnet on Etsy for $30, and she requested a red version with specific yarn.
Interviewer: That’s a great way to celebrate the connection! You mentioned you included extra items in the package for shipping. What made you decide to do that?
Tuva Sandok: Well, the package needed to weigh at least one kilogram, so I thought, why not include a little extra? I added a crochet bikini pattern, some hooks, and some yarn. It’s a small gesture, but I wanted to make it special and show my appreciation for her interest.
Interviewer: We can’t wait to see the photos of Emma in her balabonnet! How has this interaction impacted your work as a knitting influencer?
Tuva Sandok: It has been such a motivator! My goal has always been to inspire others through knitting, and having someone like Emma appreciate my work reinforces that I’m on the right path. I hope to continue sharing my passion for knitting and create even more designs that resonate with others.
Interviewer: Thank you for sharing your story with us, Tuva. We look forward to seeing the balabonnet trend grow and wish you all the best with your future designs!
Tuva Sandok: Thank you so much! It’s been a pleasure talking with you.
Sandok previously studied in California, giving her a taste of her dreams. To fill the package for shipping, which needed to weigh at least one kilogram, she included a crochet bikini pattern, hooks, and yarn. Now, she hopes to receive a photo from Roberts wearing the balabonnet, showing her appreciation for the design.