More About AKD

The ASSOCIATION OF KNITWEAR DESIGNERS (AKD) is an independent organization dedicated to the promotion of the art and business of knitting. AKD provides professional accreditation, networking, education and assistance to knitwear designers worldwide. With two levels of membership, Professional and Associate, we strive to fill the needs of designers at every level.

Professional Level

Professional level membership is juried. To be judged by a committee of Professionals, applicants must provide an original, self-knit garment, a resume, as well as proof of a past history of professional endeavor. AKD recognizes a variety of categories of Professional membership:

Author Designer
Teacher
Technical Editor
Editor/Publisher
Gallery Knitter
Retailer
Yarn Manufacturer

Members can be accredited in one or more categories according to their proven skills and professional interests.

We invite yarn companies, conference organizers, publishers or anyone else to consider AKD members in filling their needs. The Member Showcase features a sampling of the work of our members. We've also provided Accreditations listings to assist you in finding an AKD member in a particular category of expertise.

Associate Level

Associate level membership is open to all new designers who wish to increase their designing skills and professional contacts. New members have a period of two years to prepare for entry into the Professional level. During this period they may be assisted and mentored by a Professional Member.

For more about the member benefits and the process on applying for membership, see Member Benefits.