Introducing Contours Collection
Discover the perfect gift for Mountain & Map Lovers
Introducing the Contours Collection, a unique tribute to the beautiful contours found on walking maps. Inspired by my lifelong passion for exploring mountains and my shared love for maps with my husband, Mark Appleton Design, we collaborated to bring this vision to life. Mark crafted a stunning graphic of Scafell and Snowdon, while I dedicated weeks to perfecting a knitting pattern that complements his design. This collection is for all map enthusiasts and lovers of the Lake District fells & Snowdon.
A Bit of My World
The reality of the work
I gave myself permission to have a day off yesterday, and it was about time.
Fair warning, this is a long post. You might think it's about pretty pictures of the fells where I spent my time yesterday, but for some reason it became something else...
Being self-employed has its advantages, but more often than not these days we're working longer hours for less. It's a reality many small businesses are facing — the turbulence in the world impacts us first, postage and tariff increases are a real threat, and the constant rise in running costs is a nightmare to navigate. With all that negativity, we still have to find our inspiration to create — the beating heart of a creative business is its inspiration, without it we can't make our unique, individual designs.
Unlike those who take other people's ideas and mass produce them abroad using cheap labour, we care about the provenance of our tools and materials, and we respect our customers enough to provide our goods with integrity.
That day off gave me clarity — how much harder it is to run a small business now than it was 10 years ago, and how many of us will still be here in years to come if there isn't a shift in how people buy, and in governments that actually give a damn about small businesses.
02/08/2026
Lake Makers Fair, Staveley
I'm so glad I remembered to post the photo of one of my fantastic customers at the Lake Makers Fair in Staveley. It's always a pleasure when a customer becomes my model – she looks wonderful in it. 💛
03/08/2026
When a customer becomes my model for the day.
A day off in the fells, and some honest thoughts about running a small business right now.
Mid-creation
Taking a peek at what's currently on my machine. It's the intriguing reverse side of contours, showing off all the colourful strands of wool.
04/07/2026
Celebrating Success at the Westmorland County Show - Crafts from Cumbria
The Westmorland County Show is not just a regional highlight; it's a celebration of craftsmanship and creativity that captivates artisans and visitors alike. 2025 was a particularly exciting, as the Crafts from Cumbria Marquee featured an impressive collection of talent. Among many talented participants, I was happy that Elizabeth Larsen Knitwear's stand caught the judges’ attention and proudly won the first prize.
Preparing for the Westmorland County Show is a rigorous process. For several months, artisans dedicate countless hours fine-tuning every detail of their crafts. From selecting materials to perfecting techniques, the work is intense and rewarding.
The Crafts from Cumbria Marquee is renowned for its variety of handmade items, including pottery, textiles, and jewellery. Each display reflects the artisan’s unique vision. A successful setup not only showcases beautiful items but also creates an inviting atmosphere that draws visitors. This year, statistics indicated that visitor attendance reached over 12,000, underscoring the importance of making a lasting impression.
Customer Reviews
Contours - Scafell Pike Cowl / Snood
"I love it, I saw them on your Instagram and asked for one for Christmas ☺️" Olive Home & Gifts, Grange-Over-Sands
Seashore Merino Textured Women's Poncho - Teal
"Bought this for my wife's birthday. It is soft, well made and beautiful. She loves the colour as well. Very light in weight." Bryan, UK
Contours - Scafell Pike Hat
"Two beautifully knitted hats - both in the “Contours” design. One a treat for myself in green and purple and one a Christmas gift for my husband - in light and dark grey made to order. Love Jan’s work. Excellent service as ever." Anne, UK
Celebrating Janice's lovely feedback
Sometimes a small message lands and it makes everything feel completely worth it.
Janice just got her third jumper from (me) Elizabeth Larsen Knitwear, and her little note — "Thank you for my beautiful jumper! Love it!" — quietly made my whole day.
This is why I do what I do. Not for the metrics or the algorithms — but for the moment someone unwraps something handmade and feels that little spark of joy.
Three jumpers in, Janice. That means the world. Thank you for trusting me with your wardrobe. 🤍
About
Elizabeth Larsen Knitwear is a distinctive British Knitwear brand known for her Scandinavian‑influenced designs. Based in Cumbria, UK, Jan the creative person behind Elizabeth Larsen Knitwear designs and creates unique, high-quality knitted accessories and garments inspired by the natural landscape of the Lake District and Scotland. Using a traditional knitting machine, she blends traditional techniques with modern, vibrant, and often British yarns.
Why layer?
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Regulate a fluctuating temperature with ease — add or remove layers as needed throughout the day
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A great solution for women who experience temperature changes and want to stay comfortable
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Natural fibres make all the difference — they breathe with your body rather than against it
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Helps to flatter your silhouette by softening and concealing areas you're less confident about
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Creates a complete, polished look that looks considered and intentional