Meredith—known to knitters as LeafhopperKnits—isn’t your average designer. By day, she’s a Ph.D. student in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of Arizona, studying the complex relationships between insects like leafhoppers, ants, and aphids. By night (and sometimes in the field, hiking or camping), she transforms her entomological passion into stunning knitwear designs inspired by the insect world.
Her background as a scientific illustrator shines through in every chart and motif she creates. Meredith’s designs aren’t just garments or accessories—they’re wearable tributes to the beauty, resilience, and ecological importance of the tiny creatures that often go unnoticed. She embraces what she calls “extreme knitting,” encouraging makers to take their projects outdoors and connect fiber arts with the natural world.
Meredith also believes in giving back: $1 from every pattern sale is donated to wildlife organizations supporting conservation and expanding access to nature for historically underrepresented groups. Her commitment to science, sustainability, and community makes her a truly unique voice in the knitting world.
For knitters eager to join in, Meredith runs testing calls through her newsletter first, ensuring her patterns are polished and ready for adventurous knitters of all skill levels. Beginners are welcome, though she encourages them to brush up on stitches and techniques before diving in.
You can explore her work on the-leafhopper.com, follow along on Instagram for bug facts and sneak peeks, and join her growing community of knitters who share a love for both stitches and species.
Follow her on IG @the_leafhopper