It's finally happening: a collection that features matching crochet hooks and yarn (along with candles and soap!). I actually had plans to create a collection that followed a specific colour palette last February, however life had other plans...so here we are one year later. Can't rush into these things, right?
This collection is inspired by the view out my back window, and seeks to invoke the feeling that comes with stepping out into the crisp February air just as dusk settles in. Frost covered evergreen branches glistening as snowflakes drift lazily through the quiet air, snow crunching underfoot, the day's last light casting shades of pink and blue over the crisp landscape. Deep navy blues and forest greens, soft greys, pale pinks and lavenders.
Once I had the colour palette picked out, it was time to decide which woods Scott and I were going to include in the crochet hooks. We opted for aromatic cedar, cherry and purpleheart for the pinks and purples, limba for the shades of grey, and blue and green spectraply (which is a dyed birch) for those pops of colour that don't come naturally.
Scott did his thing, as he always does, and conjured up some pretty spectacular hook designs. I wasn't sure how I felt about incorporating so much spectraply, since I'm usually drawn to more natural colours and neutrals, but dang. The blues and greens really do add a wow factor!
I am of course excited about the crochet hooks, but the level off happy dancing I'm at for the debut of YARN is off the charts. All fibre will be sold under the label of Annapolis Fibre Co, a venture I'm thrilled to be on with my good friend Sara that I met when I started a casual part time position at a local fibre mill in the summer of 2021. Sara still manages the mini mill (where she processes fibre for the mill's owner, along with custom processing for local sheep owners), and has been holding down the Annapolis Fibre Co fort while I flounder around finding my footing as a new parent. So you have her to thank for the GORGEOUS Midwinter yarn - it's a special kind of talent to take a palette someone thrusts at you and bring those colours to life in the form of a skein, and I couldn't be happier with how these five colourways turned out.
Each skein is a 2-ply fingering weight, 370 yards per 100 grams (well, they have at least 370 yards...many of them have more so you're welcome!). The fibre is 100% Canadian Rambouillet, which is a type of merino. The wool is untreated (meaning it's non-superwash), and it's soft + springy. The special way it's processed gives a heathered look that is basically to die for. As it's milled on a very small scale, you'll find bits of vegetable matter and slight "imperfections" like floofs and slubs, though I hate to call them anything other than unique characteristics of small batch locally spun yarns. The bumps and twists give these skeins an almost hand spun look, don't you think? CHEF'S KISS.
And no, your eyes do not deceive you...that's a soy wax candle! Scott and I have been dabbling in candles with concrete vessels since late 2021 (they were supposed to be part of this collection when it launched in February 2022...ha...ha...). It has been refreshing to try a totally new craft that isn't related to knitting / crocheting / wood, especially because candle making is much easier on your hands than woodworking is. We've done several local markets with our candles, but this is the first time we've offered them online (with your choice of pink or grey vessels) - we hope you love them.
The final addition to our Midwinter collection is a delicious-smelling goat's milk soap, which is made by a dear friend of ours. It's not just any soap either...it's soap on a ROPE, which makes it easy to hang up in your bathing area and prevents a mushy bar (meaning it'll last much longer than a typical bar that sits on a surface slowly washing away). These soaps come in three colours (pink, grey, cream) that match our palette.
And that's that. I hope this is the first of many themed collections. We've got our spring palette picked already, so Scott and I are choosing woods while Sara and I plot our next batch of beautiful yarn - I cannot wait to see what this year has in store for all of us!
]]>As this unusual year comes to a close, naturally, we begin to reflect on how we will be better in the new year. 2020 has been brutal on all of us. Let’s not forget our shine. Like in Zoolander, we have more than one look, but you know there’s that one “really, really, really, ridiculously good looking” fierce one. Yeah, that’s the vibe I want you to own.
Hi everyone, I'm Kate! I was born a crafty person, but I never imagined making a career out of it. In 2004, I started college with no friends, no cell phone, and no car. I found entertainment in teaching myself an assortment of things and crochet just happened to be one that stuck. A number of years passed as I graduated & worked various jobs before I became fully yarn-obsessed. One of AKate wasn’t born until 2013 when i also opened an Etsy shop to sell finished makes. In 2017, I decided to start an Instagram dedicated solely to my yarn things with all intentions of blogging. I quickly found a community filled with people like me and found myself testing my first pattern in 2018. I also began designing in the same year.
Last year, I started my YouTube channel & have found even more joy in documenting my yarn journeys. Soon after, I met Lion Brand representatives who expressed interest in collaborating with me. My first kit with them was released last April & my maker life has not been the same since — now, I live a dream that I never really even knew I had.
One of a Kate Q&A
When you first started your maker journey, what was your goal? How has it changed?
Well, I basically just gave the play-by-play; but, truth be told, I can’t say that I ever really had tangible goals. This was always more of a hobby. I’ve been fortunate that I married a man who supports our family, so I can spend so much time yarning. For the first time, I can actually see this forming into a business. It has been a turtle race for me, yet, ohhh so worth it.
What is your favourite inspirational (or creativity-related) quote?
If you follow me, you already know that I have a thing for quotes. Choosing one is hard, but we’ll stick to the theme here: “Confidence. If you have it, you can make anything look good.”—Diane Von Fürstenberg
What is your main creative struggle, and how do you work through it?
I suffer from major FOMO. I want to make all the things, test all the things, design all the things, watch all the things, participate in literally ALL THE THINGS . . . but I am only one person with two hands. It would sure be convenient if i could make with my feet or even have a clone. I spend almost every waking moment making, and it’s hard to separate from it to take care of other life responsibilities. Needless to say, I am still working at finding a balance.
Tell us about a total maker FAIL. What did you learn from it, and how did that failure help you grow?
I have tried that whole Etsy hustle twice and failed both times — like made zero sales. Etsy has won with me. I never got any of those free listing benefits. I learned that selling finished makes is just not my lane.
What do you feel has been your biggest accomplishment?
I cannot confidently say I have reached my biggest accomplishment but I can say that i am proud of my perseverance — that I haven’t quit trying & growing.
What is one goal you’re working towards right now?
I know numbers are not everything, but there are conveniences that come with them. I have tried to avoid comparing my numbers to others, but it’s hard not to wish for certain features like Instagram swipe up ability and YouTube/blog ad revenue. So, I hope to really achieve 10k followers on IG and 1k subscribers on YT in 2021. Outside of the algorithms, I know I play a role in not having already reached these goals. I struggle with procrastination, organization & marketing—all key things that influence a successful business. I’m hoping to implement new strategies & tools to help me overcome these traits that are stunting my growth.
Name three creative people who inspire you, and why? (include IG / site link)
There are sooooo many who i find inspiring but these 3 makers have been idols & basically goals for countless years:
What is your best piece of advice for someone who has lost their creative mojo?
I would not even know what this is like. I guess my best idea would be to surround yourself with people and things that inspire you. The best things come when you’re not looking for them & when you’re just enjoying life as it is.
Share five fun non-maker-related facts!
I love real life crime shows but can not do horror movies.
I’m happy to watch all the bags while everyone rides rollercoasters.
I can go from rbf to grinning ear-to-ear if you give me some food.
I actually grew up as a tomboy & would only wear a dress if i could wear my ninja turtle stockings.
With the holidays upon us, and after weeks of deep reflections, let’s lighten things up with a simple, yet subtle question - What’s your favorite color? It seems easy enough, yet there’s always more to think about. Are there particular shades or moods that you gravitate towards? Has it always been your favorite, or has this choice slowly evolved over time?
I’m ChiWei, and I’ve been crocheting for about 10 years, and knitting for around 5 years. I was a computer engineer in a previous life, an obsessive plant mama, a Covid baker, and an avid yarn hoarder. My designs are inspired by necessity, with a modern, minimal aesthetic to balance the chaos in my life.
One Dog Woof Q&A
All about you + the biz: tell us about yourself and your maker life
I’m ChiWei, and I’ve been crocheting for about 10 years, and knitting for around 5 years. I was a computer engineer in a previous life, an obsessive plant mama, a Covid baker, and an avid yarn hoarder. My designs are inspired by necessity, with a modern, minimal aesthetic to balance the chaos in my life.
When you first started your maker journey, what was your goal? How has it changed?
I really wanted to crochet a granny square quilt that my son could take to college and show off to his girlfriend. Ask me if I’ve finished weaving in my ends yet...
The maker journey has since taken me around the country, widened my friend circles, increased my skills, and given me the reputation of “oh, just ask mommy, she can make/fix/design it.”
What is your favourite inspirational (or creativity-related) quote?
Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. - Leonardo Da Vinci
What is your main creative struggle, and how do you work through it?Sometime, creativity blooms under pressure, and other times, it chokes. I try not to force the creative process because it never turns out well. If the spark isn’t there, I give myself permission to let it simmer as needed, and when that bolt of lightning does appear, I run with it. Being flexible and kind with yourself is so important.
Tell us about a total maker FAIL. What did you learn from it, and how did that failure help you grow?
I don’t know that I’ve had a major fail, only because failure is based on your own perception. I’ve had to frog projects back to the beginning, cut projects apart, or give up designs completely. They’re all scary, frustrating, and deflating experiences. Throughout, the biggest lesson is to plan better - whether that’s swatching correctly, or sketching, or checking gauge, it’s all a matter of planning ahead.
What do you feel has been your biggest accomplishment?
I think my biggest accomplishment has been to quit my office job to work on this maker endeavor full time, while reserving time for my family, and securing the flexibility I need and want in my life in order to be happy.
What is one goal you’re working towards right now?
More sweaters, and creative garments
Name three creative people who inspire you, and why? (include IG / site link)
What is your best piece of advice for someone who has lost their creative mojo?
Take your time, listen to what your body is trying to tell you. Surround yourself with friends who support your decisions. Explore other art forms, and play!
Share five fun non-maker-related facts!
While Instagram is an incredible tool to help makers grow their business and their craft, it also feeds into the common misconception of overnight success and an active, thriving business from day one. It doesn’t show the countless failures along the way. It doesn’t show the ideas that just didn’t land, or the products that never saw the light of day. It doesn’t showcase everything a maker has been through to get to where they are. I wanted to talk about the one, three, and five year journey to highlight the fact that where you begin isn’t where you’ll end. The products you launch your business with could completely change as you grow and evolve, both as a maker and as a person. Your business should showcase your growth, and growth is impossible without mistakes and failures along the way. You by no means need to have everything figured out when you start, and thinking you can is an exercise in futility. There is no magic pill or bulletproof plan that will guide you through the process. You have to put in the hours and the effort. You have to do the research. You have to experiment and stretch yourself. When you do, you’ll look back on the beginning of your maker journey with a sense of pride, because it all has led you to where you are now.
So, where to begin? How about we start with my obsession with the color mustard, because, obviously. These days I live on a steady drip of coffee while chasing around my two daughters with the help of my husband, who I’ve been with since high school. That’s 16 years for anyone keeping track. I know. Gross. On the maker side of things, my journey with yarn started at the age of ten when my mom taught me how to crochet. While I never thought I’d wind up here, my dad always told me I should start my own business, which I always laughed off. Sure showed him, right? I now spend every free moment I have frantically making stitch markers for all of the wonderful members of the knitting and crochet community. If you had told me five years ago that I would be making stitch markers out of polymer clay as the main focus of my business, I would have laughed. Just like I did with my dad, and we all know how that turned out.
Hello Lavender Design Q&A
When you first started your maker journey, what was your goal? How has it changed?
When I launched Hello Lavender in 2016, I had absolutely no idea what the hell I was doing. It was born out of a need to bring in extra money for my family, while still leaving me enough time to spend time with my daughter. From the outset, I knew I wanted to be flexible with the business, even down to the name. Rather than picking a name that tied me to a certain craft, I wanted something a bit more ambiguous that would still fit if the focus of the business ever changed, hence landing on Hello Lavender. Five years later, I’m glad I had the foresight to make that call. When I first started the business, I was making hand painted wooden signs that I would sell at craft fairs and have on displays at local businesses. Getting my work into a local coffee shop was a HUGE deal to me at the time. I quickly introduced crocheted items, which eventually evolved into knitwear a year or two later.
The cycle of craft fairs continued, followed by Spings and Summers filled with me trying to come up with other products to sell during the off season, because who needs a double layer merino wool hat in July? Turns out, no one. That’s who. This continued through the end of 2019, when I only managed to do one craft fair after the birth of my second daughter. I made the product, and my husband took everything to the show and manned the booth for two days. Good times.
Seemingly on a whim, I decided it would be fun to make a few stitch markers out of clay in early 2020. I knocked out a few designs and put them on my site, not knowing if they would get any kind of response. As you might have guessed by now, they did. So I made some more. Those sold too, only faster. The cycle continued, and with every update, I was sure that people were already tired of my designs, and the few people who wanted stitch markers already had them, and sales would inevitably taper off. Except they didn’t, much to my surprise. I then dabbled in earrings with the Lola design, which has become one of my best sellers. So here we are about eight months and a few collaborations later, and I never could have guessed at how this would have panned out. Started at wooden signs and now we’re here. Every now and then I just look at my husband and say ‘f’in stitch markers!!!’ in disbelief, because, honestly, who knew?
What is your favourite inspirational (or creativity-related) quote?
Honestly, I’m not really a quote person.
What is your main creative struggle, and how do you work through it?
I struggle with the idea that the interest in my stitch markers is a fad, and eventually people will stop caring and everything I’ve worked for will fall apart. To combat that, I push myself creatively to come up with new, innovative designs that test my limits and abilities. I’m always looking for other ways to grow and expand the business beyond stitch markers. More on that in the future ;)
Tell us about a total maker FAIL. What did you learn from it, and how did that failure help you grow?
When I was still making knitwear, I had designed a few patterns for pieces I sold on my site and at craft fairs. In an effort to expand the business, I decided to try my hand at publishing and selling the pattern for one of my most popular designs. I saw others in the space doing that, and thought it was the next logical step for my business. As it turns out, logic and art don’t always see eye to eye, as the process of trying to publish the pattern was an absolute nightmare, and I didn’t enjoy a second of it. After months of back and forth with pattern testers and my own struggles, I decided it wasn’t worth the effort. I knew from that point forward I would only move my business in directions that spoke to me, rather than seeing what others were doing and thinking that I needed to mirror them in order to be successful. I try to avoid categorizing events as failures, as that implies a negative outcome. Instead, I think of my stumbles as learning experiences, each one nudging my business further in the right direction.
What do you feel has been your biggest accomplishment?
In July of 2020 I collaborated in the Italy Collection with Ali of @explorerknits, and that entire process was a huge turning point for me personally and my business. The collaboration involved creating ten stitch marker designs to match ten colorways created by Ali. Not only did I match the colors, but being the insane person I am, I also crafted each design to match the inspiration behind each colorway. From the architecture of the Duomo to the waters of Venice, I stretched myself creatively in ways I never thought possible. What I was able to do with the Italy Collection made me feel like a true artist, and allowed me to express my deep love for Italy through my work. It also gave me insight on what it’s like to work with another amazing artist, as Ali is incredibly talented and dedicated to her craft.
What is one goal you’re working towards right now?
I’m working on something pretty big right now, and it’s… a secret! The one thing I can say is that it’s something I’ve dabbled with in the past through Hello Lavender, and this time it will be here to stay. Spring 2021. Mark your calendars.
Name three creative people who inspire you, and why?
What is your best piece of advice for someone who has lost their creative mojo?
I’ll start my answer with a recent anecdote. When I was working on the Italy collection, I had two designs left that I just could not for the life of me get down. I worked on them for a week straight, but nothing seemed to fit. I was in the middle of breastfeeding my youngest daughter when I scrolled across something fuschia on my phone. In that moment, I knew, above all else, that I HAD to make fuschia Lolas. Was fuschia a color I had used in the past? No. Did it match the mood of my other Lola colors? Absolutely not. Did any of that matter? No, because my brain wouldn’t rest until I got the design out of my head and into the real world.
So, I finished breastfeeding my daughter, got out my clay, and made my first pair of fuschia Lolas. Instead of going back to Italy, which I had been forcing myself to work on, I instead listened to my instincts and put my effort in what I WANTED to do, rather than what I SHOULD do. In the process, I created a new Lola color, which was hugely popular, and in doing so freed up the creative block in my brain, and soon thereafter knocked out the last two Italy designs. All of this to say, if you’re stuck, listen to your gut. Create what is calling to you. It doesn’t matter if you’ll never sell it or no one will ever see it. It doesn’t matter if it’s the complete opposite of what you would normally make. All that matters is that you create in a way that fulfills you. The rest will follow
Share five fun non-maker-related facts!
My parents still don’t know what I do for a living. No, seriously.
I can’t swim. Floaties for days.
I possess a dangerously deep well of knowledge of the show Friends, down to spotting inconsistencies in the characters birthdays. Yes, I’m THAT person.
Italy is my soul home.
In this week leading up to the holiday season, it seems like a great opportunity to not just be grateful for your creativity, but to also push yourself to extend that gratitude towards someone who may or may not know that they’ve been part of your journey this year. Let’s let those special people who inspire us know how much they matter to this community!
I’m Maressa, a creative coach that wants to empower and affirm your creative journey however it manifests! What I love about creatives is that even though we can all have such differing ways of showing that artistry to the world, there is a thread that collects us into a community and gives us comfort when we truly need it. That’s what I am to help provide through my creative coaching on Patreon: a place where creatives can openly discuss their obstacles with one another and find some action forward.
Maressa Made Q&A
When you first started your maker journey, what was your goal? How has it changed?
When I first began my maker journey, it was definitely to combat loneliness. As a former stay-at-home military wife with a husband on deployment pretty consistently, I needed something that would fill a hole that I was slowly seeing in my life. I needed an outlet for some true self-care in that I prioritized some time to myself and my dreams. I picked up a pair of knitting needles, and I never looked back!
What is your favourite inspirational (or creativity-related) quote?
“Great things are done by a series of small things brought together.” - Van Gogh
What is your main creative struggle, and how do you work through it?
Perfectionism is definitely the bane of my existence! I won’t start a new venture because I’m terrified that I won’t be amazing at it from the first step. As mundane as that can seem, it’s a significant obstacle for me in that I avoid the growth that I would get if I leaned into more of the hard things that would take me awhile to succeed at, but I attempt to combat this perfectionism with patience and grace. I know that I will not always be in an ambitious season of my life, but when I’ve learned to recognize the signs of when I am and when I’ll be most comfortable pushing myself beyond my comfort zone.
Tell us about a total maker FAIL. What did you learn from it, and how did that failure help you grow?
I would LOVE to make prints of some of my favorite quotes from my Maker Affirmations video series, but whatever skill I thought I once had in hand lettering is long gone now, lol! But what I’ve learned is that I should never take a creative skill for granted and that also I should never let go of the hope that I can relearn what was once lost. I’m still practicing and hoping till this day!
What do you feel has been your biggest accomplishment?
My biggest accomplishment has been advocating for women of color on my Instagram and Patreon. I’ve tried to give a voice to many of us in this industry - though the thoughts on the industry’s progression towards diversity and inclusion are always my own - and I’m incredibly proud of the courage it has taken (and still takes!) to step up and speak our truth to power.
What is one goal you’re working towards right now?
I’ve recently released an e-book on healthy practices for growth on Instagram, and I would love to turn that into a series of helpful topics on Instagram for creators that are just looking for a little help to go in the right direction. There are plans for more e-books in the future, but they are definitely far in the future for now. I’m also currently trying to grow our Patreon community a wee bit larger so that I can afford to produce my Maker Affirmations into a podcast format! I love the idea of creatives getting a short motivational push on their daily commutes or on the way to the grocery store. One day!
Name three creative people who inspire you, and why?
What is your best piece of advice for someone who has lost their creative mojo?
It’s okay to have lost it in the first place! So many times, we take the opportunity when we’re already down to beat ourselves up even more. Just remember that your creativity is like a muscle: as much as it needs exercise and healthy practices, it also benefits from rest, relaxation, and restoration. Gift yourself the time and space to get back into the practice and the awareness that this is just a season, and it shall too pass.
Share five fun non-maker-related facts!
If I had to choose to do one task for the rest of my life, it would be to proofread documents. I have a weird obsession with grammar, and I’m not sorry about it.
I’ve lived in 7 different states and still miss something from all of them.
I’m a black belt in Tang Soo Do martial arts.
I love to read books more than anything else I do creatively!
I have four beautiful children that keep me on my toes daily.
There has been no shortage of uncertainty and obstacles in 2020. Sometimes the biggest win is simply getting out of bed in the morning. I chose this prompt, because navigating obstacles is a never ending journey! What tools or best practices do you use to stay motivated to act on your ideas, evoke positive thoughts, and/or enhance daily productivity. My hope is that this prompt will make space for moments of introspection, problem solving, reconciliation, and inspire new perspectives!
Hello, I’m Leah! I’ve been a life-long lover of creation. At a young age, crochet connected me to my mother and the world in an amazing way. I lost my mother in 2006 to breast cancer, and my will to create right along with her.
As of 2017, I’ve since reclaimed my creative expression. My fiber art has expanded into jewelry making, knit, macrame, punch needle, and embroidery. My work reflects my love of texture, tessellation, and color exploration.
I create to connect to passed loved ones, heal, and design my future.
I Play With Fiber Maker Q&A
When you first started your maker journey, what was your goal? How has it changed?
My initial goal was to be a crochet market seller to make my own money and help my husband support our family. Due to expanding my family and lifestyle changes I’ve pivoted to digital pattern selling, creating jewelry, and blogging. I simply don’t have the time to crochet or knit ready to sell/ship items.
What is your favourite inspirational (or creativity-related) quote?
“Do what you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” - Maya Angelou
What is your main creative struggle, and how do you work through it?
My biggest creative struggle is comparison. At times I feel as though I don’t fit in the IG fiber community or any singular community. I like existing as I am regardless of how that’s received, but social media/internet places a high value on the appearance of perfection. I thrive in my evolution and growing through what I go through. I very much value my journey almost more than destinations along the way.
Tell us about a total maker FAIL. What did you learn from it, and how did that failure help you grow?
My first pattern was a FLOP, my first Etsy shop was a FLOP, and my first blog was a FLOP. I could go on. I feel as though failure has taught me how to refine my approach to the things I’m passionate about, and has also shown me how to be more intentional. We learn from pain and loss.
What do you feel has been your biggest accomplishment?
I would say that so far getting published in We Crochet Issue 4 the Fall ‘20 issue has been my biggest accomplishment.
What is one goal you’re working towards right now?
I’m currently working towards making my blog successful! I would love to collaborate with yarn companies and share free patterns and other resources to help other emerging designers and makers.
Name three creative people who inspire you, and why?
What is your best piece of advice for someone who has lost their creative mojo?
Be kind with yourself. Inspiration and mojo are heavily affected by priorities and life circumstances. Choose what aligns with your goals and dreams over constant hustle culture. Being well rested and hydrated work wonders for cognitive clarity and productivity.
Share five fun non-maker-related facts!
What do you do when you get ready to knit and crochet? Do you simply clear a space to sit on the couch? Do you wake up early before the world and your family starts their day? Do you brew a pot of coffee or tea? These often subconscious routines play a huge role in your maker journey!
When I found my way to the fiber arts, and completed my first project, I wanted to turn to crochet and knitting as a way to relax and find peace-of-mind amidst my school studies. A large part of that relaxation came from what I did BEFORE I even started to work the first stitch. I turn on a candle, pop on some jazz or soul music, and make a cup of tea. If you don’t set the mood for your making, I hope this will challenge you to give intentionally “setting the mood” a try! I don’t think you will regret it.
Hey everyone! I am Vincent, the crochet/knitwear designer and instructor behind Visuvio’s Crafts, which was born from my longing for stunningly timeless knits that’ll keep you warm in the coldest of mid-winter horse pastures. When I’m not crafting, I’m working with dogs, horses, and playing music. So if you ever see me without headphones and a tapestry crochet design in the works, you are truly in for a treat!
Visuvio's Crafts Maker Q&A
When you first started your maker journey, what was your goal? How has it changed?
When I first started my maker journey, I wanted to make myself the coolest crocheted and knitted wraps to don while outside in chilly early morning weather of horse pastures and use knitting/crocheting to be a relaxing escape from my science studies when my brain needed to rest. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d become a designer and instructor creating patterns that inspire others with those same sparks of maker magic that pulled me into this yarn world in the first place. Now I can’t wait to take Visuvio’s Craft to the next level!
What is your favourite inspirational (or creativity-related) quote?
“Embrace, Spread, and Stand In Your Light!” -Vincent Williams
This quote literally embodies my entire life experience. There is only one “you,” and even if there aren’t those who look like you, speak like you, are interest in the same things as you, simply learning to embrace, spread, and firmly stand in the light of who you are will catapult you to places that you couldn’t even think of aiming for. Being a 6’3” tall black man with locs in a hobby, degree, or space where every single one of your peers is a petite white woman or someone who hasn’t experienced life through your perspective can be very unsettling to navigate. But standing in your joy, doing what is right, and treating others with respect can eliminate many of those feelings of “Hopefully I’m not making so-and-so uncomfortable? Who is there to make me feel comfortable/not afraid/not in danger? I am here to play music, learn about horses, or knit this shawl just like you, but is it my responsibility to always validate my being and interest?” Those sorts of worries and internal questions can be dangerously debilitating to a child or adult just the same. So always embracing your passion, standing in your joy, and choosing to share (or not always share) your light with others is such an inspirational and empowering way of life.
What is your main creative struggle, and how do you work through it?
At the beginning of my designing journey I was really rattled by the thoughts of my patterns “needing” to be unique enough or “fancy” like the big designers to be worthy of being a “for purchase” pattern. The comparison game and imposter syndrome are two rude and shifty bullies that can test your will to believe in yourself, and asking if your original creation accomplished the goal of the original intentions has helped me keep those two struggles in check.
Now I’d say my main creative struggle is really following through with knowing when to say “no.” There is an empowering and comforting respect that is tied to saying no. And though my maker heart can dream up all these super fun and intricately thoughtful designs, there are only so many hours in a day, outside of your standard work schedule, that you can dedicate to things before you begin to neglect taking care of your mind, heart, and physical body. So as a person who THRIVES on being creative within a sense of structure, paper agenda planners have been my best friend since the dawn of time. I try to plan many months ahead what my design and content calendar will generally look like, and pencil in realistic windows of time that offer a comfortable buffer for life things to happen amidst the journey.
Tell us about a total maker FAIL. What did you learn from it, and how did that failure help you grow?
Learning that you have to WIND yarn that comes in hanks into a ball of cake BEFORE you actually start to knit or crochet with them. We all know that dreaded sense of doom and “we’ve passed the point of no return,” that comes along with not removing all the ties from a hand. Or removing all the ties, putting the open hank of yarn in a grocery bag to start working a scarf and mere moments later finding a spider web of a mess that resembles the aftermath of a hurricane and tornado playing pattycake with your yarn.
What do you feel has been your biggest accomplishment?
The opportunity to inspire others, one heart at a time! Whether that is through my creations/patterns, a thoughtful conversation, handcrafting a one-of-a-kind gift that can be passed down from generation to generation, or helping someone do knitting surgery to correct an error 8 inches down the fabric, I love to see that spark of maker joy and inspiration.
What is one goal you’re working towards right now?
Honestly, one of my more personal goals is perfecting a seamless work flow, planning the rest of my 2021 Collections, giving my 2021 agenda planner this WORK, and creating fun/thoughtful collaborations, while continuing to honor my overall health/wellness!
Name three creative people who inspire you, and why? (include IG / site link)
What is your best piece of advice for someone who has lost their creative mojo?
As makers, many of us turn to our crafts as a source of joy, peace-of-mind, connection, escape, a way to work through grief/stress/sadness, simply to relax, and so many more reasons. When you feel like you have lost your creative mojo, I think that’s often a reflection of something in your life becoming a bigger bite than your knitting/crocheting can chew. So take a moment to step back, break down the source of that stress into an ever so slightly smaller chunk that you can address, work on the part you can control, step away from the part you can’t and create a safe space for your mind and heart. After taking however much time you need in that safe mind/heart space, surround yourself with meaningful “everyday” sources of inspiration to spark creativity. These everyday sources could be waking up earlier than the kiddos to make a fancy breakfast (or drink like tea/coffee), turning on a candle, listening to the sounds of the nearby birds, or running river, massaging on some hand balm, watching your favorite nostalgic movie, taking a good inhale/exhale, smiling like a puppy frozen in the middle of playtime zoomies to simply smile as the breeze caresses you. Don’t forget to genuinely take in these everyday sources of magic, then scoop up some squishy yarn and simply stitch away for 30 minutes. Put your project away and repeat that 30 minute session until you feel like, your inspiration has graced you once again.
Share five fun non-maker-related facts!
When I created my first sweater, making it past the fear and apprehension of constructing clothing when I thought it wasn’t feasible was such a pivotal moment creatively. I selected this notion to reflect and recall that moment where the momentum, the drive of creating, truly came alive. I hope the reflections assists on glancing back at how far you’ve come creatively and what lies in the future of your craft.
Hi everyone, I'm Ashlee! I discovered a love for crocheting prior to starting college and was swiftly moved by the opportunity as well as the ability to create. The Dream Crochet Shoppe came along through being influenced by others to exhibit, share those creations with those who retain the same appreciation.
The Dream Crochet Maker Q&A
When you first started your maker journey, what was your goal? How has it changed?
The aspiration was to create something that I always envisioned-maintaining that goal of always creating something that I would love to perceive, by experimenting as well as challenging myself, I so long to stay on that course always.
What is your favourite inspirational (or creativity-related) quote?
“Creativity is oxygen for Our Souls.”
What is your main creative struggle, and how do you work through it?
The main creative struggle is most likely the wip list. So excited to start new projects and not entirely completing the current ones-though I like to go with the creative flow of things at times and if I feel compelled to “rest” a project to initiate another-that’s okay. As long as I eventually make my way back to it, eventually!
Tell us about a total maker FAIL. What did you learn from it, and how did that failure help you grow?
Starting out in the beginning-realizing how vital my measuring tape is, how important gauge is, etc… Glancing back you perceive the tips and tricks you know now to improve your work is quite beneficial. As well as the current process, there are failures, that’s a guarantee-though I feel as long as you continue to work at your flaws that’s the only way you can grow.
What do you feel has been your biggest accomplishment?
Pushing through apprehension as well as anxiety to share what I love to create. With a Passion, there is vulnerability there, to look past that and to just go for what you love is such a major move.
What is one goal you’re working towards right now?
There are many goals, though primarily mine is to continue to create and push the idea, notions of constructing new design perspectives within the world of Crochet.
Name three creative people who inspire you, and why?
What is your best piece of advice for someone who has lost their creative mojo?
It’s entirely fine to rest and allow inspiration to come to you, there’s no rush to it, everything happens within the time it is meant to exist in.
Share five fun non-maker-related facts!
I’ve seen Lord of The Rings too many times to count!
Creating music is a passion of mine
Writing a fantasy/adventure book + poetry as well
Coffee and Cheese (not together lol) can’t live without those two
Love Collecting journals/books
Sometimes it’s a matter of not wanting to step out of our comfort zone or just not having enough time. What if our main craft, which was once our hobby, becomes our job, then what hobby do we have? I sometimes step away from my work as an amigurumi artist and I’ll either crochet a shawl or knit socks. This break helps me so much and I always feel more creative and full of new ideas for my business.
Hi everyone! I’m Lauren and I’m the maker behind A Menagerie of Stitches. I’m an author of two crochet books, completely obsessed with amigurumi and have been a full time crocheter for nearly 5 years. I started crocheting back in 2009 when I got my first amigurumi book and a set of hooks. No one in my family knew how to crochet so it was up to me to teach myself. Youtube became my best friend during those first few months! After getting the hang of it, I started to make my own patterns and would crochet things for friends and family.
A few years later I ended up in a completely new state with my husband. I was working a retail job that I absolutely hated and crocheting became my creative outlet when I came home. In 2015 I decided it was finally time to start an Etsy shop and that’s when A Menagerie of Stitches was born! I quit that horrible retail job and the following year started working at a science and nature museum, all while trying to do AMOS as my side hustle. That year I created a crocheted chemistry set for an art show the museum was hosting, which the photo of my set ended up going viral. My shop really took off from there and juggling my job at the same time became too much. I realized I couldn’t do both and decided it was time to take my shop on full time. Since then I’ve released tons of patterns and have crocheted my way through enough yarn that I still haven’t made a dent in my stash!
In 2018 I published my first book of amigurumi patterns! It was an absolute dream writing that book and I learned so much about myself and what I’m fully capable of doing. When writing my second book last year, it pushed me out of my comfort zone and I have never felt so much accomplishment as I did the day I received the finished book. Seeing where my crochet journey started and where it is now is like night and day. I never thought I would be here, publishing patterns and books and connecting with people from all over the world.
A Menagerie of Stitches Maker Q&A
When you first started your maker journey, what was your goal? How has it changed?
My goal when I first started was to just make cute things, as cheesy as that sounds! I love surrounding myself with things that make me happy and I wanted people to have the same experience as I did. When I started my shop, my husband and I were living in a basement apartment loft that had tiny windows. I crocheted a few plants because 1- nothing ever stayed alive in that apartment and 2 because I needed something that would make me happy! Plants with smiling faces were just the thing I needed!
My goal of sharing that happiness with others has grown in a couple different ways. Mostly because people want to crochet these things for themselves and I never thought I would be a pattern designer. When I started my shop, I was only going to offer finished pieces, and while I do still offer those, my main goal now is releasing patterns for others to enjoy.
What is your favourite inspirational (or creativity-related) quote?
“Don’t compare your life to others. There’s no comparison between the sun and the moon, they shine when it’s their time.”
What is your main creative struggle, and how do you work through it?
Finding the time to make everything! I have an ever growing list of things I want to make and it becomes overwhelming at times. I find the best way to work through it is to pick a few of the ideas and sketch them out. It gets the designing process started and I can picture how I want to make it in my head. I also have a hard time staying focused sometimes so if I make a to-do list of what I want to make that day, it helps keep me on track.
Tell us about a total maker FAIL. What did you learn from it, and how did that failure help you grow?
When I was selling the crocheted chemistry sets, I offered wayyy too many and was scrambling to get them all made and shipped on time. It was a stressful nightmare! I try to keep the amount of items I offer to a reasonable number but I still find myself struggling with this, even years later. Christmas time is usually when I want to make allll the things and there are just never enough hours in the day!
What do you feel has been your biggest accomplishment?
Publishing both my books! It takes so much dedication and A LOT of work to publish those and I’m incredibly proud of the patterns I designed for them. Becoming an author was always just a dream of mine and I never in my wildest dreams thought that would ever become a reality for me.
What is one goal you’re working towards right now?
I really want to put more effort into my blog and maybe, maybe start a Youtube channel! I’m so nervous about starting a Youtube channel because it’s way outside my comfort zone. But I’ve had many people say they would love to learn from me so I think it would be so fun!
Name three creative people who inspire you, and why? (include IG / site link)
@storyland_amis -Anything Holly makes is absolutely adorable! Even being an amigurumi artist as well, it’s inspiring to see all the things she comes up with!
@ilovetinderbox and @knitbyzoe -These two come as a package deal! I was lucky enough to meet them both at OML in Toronto and we’ve been friends ever since. They’re both amazing at knit and crochet and it’s so inspiring to see the things they make. They’ve helped me step out of my comfort zone and have been there for me when I needed them most.
@the.hook.nook -Jessica and I have been friends going on 5 years now and being able to watch each other and our businesses grow has been really special. We’ve spent a couple weekends hanging out (at OML and The Maker’s Retreat) and each time I’ve gotten to see how genuine and caring Jessica is. I’ve never met anyone who is as big of a cheerleader as she is. She’s the best encourager, a true gem and I’m lucky to call her my friend.
What is your best piece of advice for someone who has lost their creative mojo?
Switch to a different craft or take a couple days to reset! I always find that working on something that isn’t crochet related helps get my ideas flowing again. That time away really helps inspire new ideas and most of the time I feel refreshed and ready to jump back in.
Share five fun non-maker-related facts!
I’m a HUGE believer in gauge swatching but it’s a polarizing topic. You either love it or hate it. This week I want to see the projects that were a big fail and made you believe in gauge swatching, your gauge success stories, your stacks of swatches or why you choose to never ever swatch!
Hey all! I’m Stephanie the designer, behind By Stephanie Erin. I am obsessed with crochet garments and designing sweaters that are going to fit and look good on a wide variety of shapes and sizes. I have been designing for 2 years and can’t wait to see what the future holds!
By Stephanie Erin Maker Q&A
When you first started your maker journey, what was your goal? How has it changed?
I first picked up a hook about 5 years ago because I thought that little amigurumi were the cutest things ever! I had these grand ideas that I would just create all the little stuffed toys. Then I realized you could also make accessories and garments and I have never looked back. 2 years ago I decided to try designing because I found myself casually sketching ideas and it’s like a floodgate was opened. I suddenly had an outlet to use all of my creative energy. Now I pretty much only make garments and the occasional accessory but I could not be happier.
What is your favourite inspirational (or creativity-related) quote?
BE BRAVE. Without bravery, you will never know the world as richly as it longs to be known. Without bravery your life will remain small - far smaller than you probably wanted it to be. - Elizabeth Gilbert (Big Magic)
This speaks to me because I think as makers anytime we make anything we put a little piece of our soul into it. We put time, sweat and sometimes tears into our makes. Also trying something new can be scary! Trying to make your first sweater, or taking on a big blanket, or signing a contract to work with a company all take bravery. Without it we will never grow.
What is your main creative struggle, and how do you work through it?
Wanting to take on all the projects. I still work full time at my day job, so By Stephanie Erin is done on evenings, late into the night and weekends. I have so many ideas that I want to bring to life and I often struggle with knowing which ones I can do now and which ones need to stay a sketch.
Tell us about a total maker FAIL. What did you learn from it, and how did that failure help you grow?
Well on theme with this weeks prompt, I have a massive gauge fail story. I was designing a sweater and I was doing something new in the yoke and I was tense while making it. So my gauge was smaaaaall. But that’s fine because I liked the fabric! Once I got to the body I relaxed into my work. Then when I went to try it on it was MASSIVE on me. I was so confused as this was supposed to be a tight fitting sweater. I checked my gauge and it had changed from 26 sts in 4” in the yoke to 20 sts in 4”. There was no way to recover it. I needed to frog so much work. So now I check my gauge every few rows and always have a measuring tape on hand!
What do you feel has been your biggest accomplishment?
Oh this is a hard one. I have been so lucky to accomplish so many things in a relatively short period of time. I think right now I am most proud of being a regular teacher for Vogue’s Virtual Knitting Live. I absolutely love teaching, there is something special about seeing the lights go on in someones eyes when they understand the concept you just explained. I am really proud to be able to show people what crochet can do and share my knowledge with people.
What is one goal you’re working towards right now?
I’m always working towards a huge list of goals, but the most important one at the top of the list is taking care of myself. Since this is all done in my spare time I can very easily get into a routine where I am not eating properly, not running, and sleeping very little in order to get all the things done. This is not healthy and I know when I get into these funks my creativity suffers. I’m actively making sure I take a deep breath to ensure I am balanced.
Name three creative people who inspire you, and why?
@montana.crochet - Ashley’s yarn is truly next level. The depth of colour she is able to achieve is truly one of a kind. She is also such an incredible person and makes me laugh like no other!
@tlyarncrafts - I had the pleasure of meeting Toni in January at VKL and she inspires me over and over. I am in awe of what she has built and her smile absolutely lights up every room she’s in!
@knitatude - Chantal is so creative but also a boss business babe. I have learned so much from her and feel so incredibly lucky to be able to call her a friend.
What is your best piece of advice for someone who has lost their creative mojo?
Know that it’s ok to take a break. If you are a designer, maybe test for someone else? If you’re a tester, make without a deadline. Don’t be afraid to completely walk away for a bit and enjoy some other activities in life. The world is full of amazing things and we should be doing what brings us joy.
Share five fun non-maker-related facts!
When you think about why you knit/crochet/dye, what really stands out as the reason? And knowing the reason, what do you hope to see yourself doing with it in the future?
Some of our goals are big, and some of them are teeny tiny. All of them are important to moving us forward as Makers! Whether your daily goal is just to carve out some time to work on your fiber arts or something more ambitious, writing down your goals can have a big effect on ensuring they get done.
Hi everyone! I started CoCo Crochet Lee when my babies were small so that I could use crocheting to get my creativity out. I had gone to University for Visual Arts and being a new mom meant that I had less time to paint and draw. I found crocheting relaxing, baby-friendly, and challenging!
It eventually led to applying for an entry level position with a crochet magazine, and after a time, becoming Assistant Editor. I then moved on to work with Annie’s, a large fiber arts company. Since then I have had so many wonderful opportunities in the Fiber Arts field to build CoCo Crochet Lee in to a full-time business in itself, and crocheting and designing has become my every day job. I love every minute of it!
Coco Crochet Lee Q&A
When you first started your maker journey, what was your goal? How has it changed?
When I first started my maker journey, I was a young mom just making for the sake of making. It was a delightful discovery to find out that the things I was making could turn into something bigger and even lucrative! The goal of carving out a living from my Fiber Arts work hasn’t changed from the beginning of my journey so much, but the kind of work I do has changed and evolved. As I continued to work hard, opportunities to branch out presented themselves and I was able to grow along with them!
What is your favourite inspirational (or creativity-related) quote?
Oh gosh, that’s hard. Let’s go with Michael Scott from the Office - ‘I knew exactly what to do. But in a much more real sense I had no idea what to do.’ I love this one because it just makes me laugh and is so ‘me’. I often find myself learning as I go, or learning when I’m already part of a situation. And that’s okay, because even when we think we know everything, we really don’t, right?
What is your main creative struggle, and how do you work through it?
I think my main struggle is that I want to do EVERYTHING and I don’t have time. I sometimes put too much on my plate and then stress about it because I don’t want to take anything off of it. Admitting I’m not a super human untouched by time constraints is difficult for me. I wish I had twice the amount of time and triple the amount of coffee lol.
Tell us about a total maker FAIL. What did you learn from it, and how did that failure help you grow?
A total maker fail….hmmmm…. Trying to think of one in particular is so hard because we all make mistakes all the time. I know I do! Where you get that feeling of a huge wave of dread that starts at your toes, and rushes up to your face making it burn with embarrassment. It happens. But I think being kind to ourselves, and acknowledging that we’re not only human, but often handling all aspects of our businesses solo needs to be stronger than the feeling of a fail. If you wrote down everything you were currently handling in your life from mom, to designer, to website creator, to writer, and then wrote down what the fail was you would be like, ‘well, no wonder! Look at all the cool stuff you have going on!’ Anyone would drop something from time to time.
What do you feel has been your biggest accomplishment?
I know the answer to this one right away! I am so so so proud to have been able to support my family financially with my work so that my husband/best friend Sean could go back to school full time. He was working a retail job that he hated while I grew my business and raised our babies, and when I was able to turn around and do this full time, it was one of the best days of my entire life. He applied for University as a returning adult student, and when he got the acceptance letter, we both cried, it was the best day. He was so happy! It was his dream to go back, and we were able to do it together. I’m not crying, YOU’RE crying lol. He’s almost done, by the way! He’s in his final year now!
What is one goal you’re working towards right now?
Right now I am working towards the goal of being kinder to myself and enjoying the moment I am in. I often find myself chasing the next big thing, and forgetting that going back a few years ago or so, I would have never dreamed of doing what I am doing today! Learning to appreciate what I have right now is something I want to get better at.
Name three creative people who inspire you, and why?
Reshma from @hellolavenderdesign - she knits the most beautiful sweaters and she’s so fast! Not only that but I love all of her stitch markers and jewelry that she posts, she’s so amazing.
I’m fascinated by Scottish Artist, Sila Gur @jolly_hoops. Her embroidery is just mesmerizing, and so life-like. I love the way she uses colour!
And for the third I would say @cosmic_crochet_creations because Nkese is so fierce and stunning! I wish I had half the amount of confidence that radiates off of her when she posts. She is goals.
What is your best piece of advice for someone who has lost their creative mojo?
I would definitely say try switching it up with something different! I love knitting, and also drawing/lettering. Sometimes I need a break from what I’m working on to immerse myself in something completely different.
Share five fun non-maker-related facts!
I thought it would be fun to remind ourselves of what we are capable of creating! My hope is that by revisiting the pieces that bring us the most joy, we can reflect on our proudest moments as makers together!
Hello everyone, I’m Ashley - the dyer, crocheter, and creative heart behind Montana Crochet! I dye yarn, design colorful crochet patterns, crochet full-time and have been doing so for just over two years.
Montana Crochet Q&A
When you first started your maker journey, what was your goal? How has it changed?
When I first began dyeing yarn, it was honestly just to experiment and play with a new creative outlet! I ended up going out on a limb and decided it might be fun to dye up some colorways and maybe see if anyone would like to purchase them and before I knew it, my first update sold out in just a few hours! At that time I had around 2,500 followers and couldn’t really even wrap my head around the thought that people were actually interested in what I was dyeing, when there were and are so many talented dye artists out in the world!
Fast forward just over two years later and I couldn’t imagine myself doing anything else. Dyeing yarn has become something that I never even realized I needed, and I have found so much joy and self-worth in creating something that brings so much happiness to others within our community.
What is your favourite inspirational (or creativity-related) quote?
“Comparison is the thief of joy.”
Comparison is this massive demon that so many within our maker community struggle with on such a deep level. I don’t want to get too preachy here, but I’m telling you right now, you have to stop. You, yes YOU reading this: You have to stop comparing your maker journey to anyone elses. What someone else is doing, what someone else is creating, what someone else is accomplishing, what someone else is insert the bullshit here. Everything, and I mean every single little thing that you have experienced in your life, has led you to this moment right now. Only you can bring what you bring to the world. Only you.
Once you squash that comparison thief in yourself - grab the creativity reins and hold on for dear life, friends! You are the only thing that’s stopping yourself and YOU ARE WORTHY OF YOUR JOURNEY!!
What is your main creative struggle, and how do you work through it?
My main creative struggle is taking on too many projects, even when I’m completely aware that I shouldn’t. This could be a collaboration, testing patterns for other designers I admire and love, or even pushing my physical limits on how much yarn I can dye in a given time frame. For me, I’ve learned that I need to check in with myself and realize that the more boundaries that I create and hold myself accountable to, the more balanced and happy I end up being in the end.
Tell us about a total maker FAIL. What did you learn from it, and how did that failure help you grow?
Oh goodness. Soooooooo this one time I had this incredible collaboration planned!! (The kind that dreams are made of, y’all!) When the collaboration went live it sold out in hours, which had me totally elated! Like, I was sincerely blown away. Something totally slipped my mind throughout the entire process, and though it was very simple - I had completely forgotten to stock up on citric acid. (So SO necessary to the dye process, you guys.) At the time I only had enough citric acid to dye half of the orders, which was a massive and I mean, massive issue. Knowing that I couldn’t get enough citric acid delivered in time, I literally went to every single grocery and hardware store in town buying up all the citric acid I could find! (We're talking even little packets with two tablespoons in them, y’all. It was hysterical!) In the end, everything worked out just fine but let me tell you - I now have at least 200 POUNDS of it on hand at any given time. Lesson learned, lol!
What do you feel has been your biggest accomplishment?
Each and every collaboration I’ve had with such an amazing array of designers feels like my biggest accomplishment! I’ve been beyond blessed to collaborate with the talents of @tlyarncrafts, @hookedhazel, @detroitknots, @knitbrooks, @by.stephanie.erin, @evolvecrochet, and @littleredknits - just to name a few! Each and every time I’ve had the opportunity to work alongside these amazing women, feels like such a triumph of creativity coming to life!!
What is one goal you’re working towards right now?
Balance. Making sure that I don’t work myself into the ground on the regular, and keeping myself in check to my responsibilities as a mother, wife, daughter, and friend amongst running a business that I love as much as I do.
Name three creative people who inspire you, and why? (include IG / site link)
@by.stephanie.erin - Have you SEEN her designs? Stephanie is turning crochet on it’s head, flipping it sideways, and shattering all preconceived ideas about what crochet is in the fiber world!
@1dogwoof - ChiWei is mind-blowingly talented. Her eye for design and structure is something that I feel few can achieve the way that she does. From Amigurumi to shawls, from baskets to blankets...this woman is genius!
@tlyarncrafts - When I first discovered the crochet community on Instagram back in January of 2018, Toni was one of the very first people I followed. She never ceases to blow me away with her creative prowess and cultivating a friendship with her is something that I value beyond words. Also, she gives the BEST HUGS EVER!
What is your best piece of advice for someone who has lost their creative mojo?
Don’t be afraid to step away for a bit to regain your drive and purpose. That may look like taking a break for the afternoon to focus on family, taking the weekend to commit to anything (and I mean anything) that isn’t related to your craft, or maybe it’s stepping away for a lengthy amount of time to rediscover where your passions truly lie. Whatever that looks like for you, it’s important that you realize that stepping away is truly okay - the internet, Facebook, and the ‘Gram will be there for you whenever you return!
Share five fun non-maker-related facts!
If nothing else, 2020 is providing all the incentives to make changes as needed to suit your brand, be it for personal or business-related issues. For one reason or another, I've made crucial pivots in how I presented iiirdwind, as well as what I bring to the table, to accommodate my then-growing family. Those pivots were critical in my approach to overcome an issue and yet still manage my business. As we all continue on our maker journeys, I think it is vital that we highlight the moments that got us where we are.
Hi everyone, I'm Kaelyn!
Despite being largely business-oriented in a male dominated fields, I have spent the majority of my life balancing multiple creative outlets. Looking back now it's crazy to think that I've painted, drawn, beaded, woven and rehabbed furniture for nearly 20 years! But the birth of iiirdwind begins with me being taught to crochet nearly six years ago by my mother-in-law. I found crochet enchanting and an easily adaptive craft for me as a new mom. I quickly sought to make affordable, yet cute photography props for newborns.
iiirdwind Q&A
When you first started your maker journey, what was your goal? How has it changed?
The goal back then was simple: become the first Black Martha Stewart (I kid, but seriously). And while that goal hasn't changed, it has evolved-- largely because I've met so many inspiring women of color that are already well ahead of me in that race!
What is your favourite inspirational (or creativity-related) quote?
Oftentimes as a military spouse I find myself starting over in new cities, absent familial connections and needing to re-establish myself as both a mom, maker and woman in new places quickly to re-establish networks. It's exhausting. I've never been more motivated than by the simple phrase: Just keep swimming. So applicable and valid across many challenges.
What is your main creative struggle, and how do you work through it?
I have some lofty goals (see above lol). So I like to insert myself in roles that challenge what I think I should be doing, constantly pushing myself beyond my self-imposed creative "box". That said, imposter syndrome-- the sneaky, icky feeling that you don't belong--plagues me often. I try to cut through those feelings by looking at old work that I find successful and talking out what is problematic about the current project that causes me to project feelings of inadequacies. It works ...most of the time.
Tell us about a total maker FAIL. What did you learn from it, and how did that failure help you grow?
My biggest maker fail was thinking I HAD to sell my crochet wares. The pressure I put on myself to start an Etsy shop, do markets and make sales was so immense, it nearly stifled all my creative energy. I sincerely enjoy crocheting for the sake of crochet. No more no less. Walking away from my Etsy shop allowed me to explore punch needle in way that exposed what I DID enjoy selling. Life is a strange beast friends.
What do you feel has been your biggest accomplishment?
I am currently living my biggest accomplishment and can't quite share it. Guess you'll have to follow along to figure that one out!
What is one goal you’re working towards right now?
Currently I'm working towards learning more about crochet pattern design (grading, guidelines, the works)!
Name three creative people who inspire you, and why?
I'm am continually inspired by the creative efforts and just genuine positivity of:
What is your best piece of advice for someone who has lost their creative mojo?
My biggest piece of advice for finding your way back to the juice is to get lost in something else. Sounds counterintuitive because it is. Try your hand at some new skill, get physically active. Take up a new hobby. It will find its way back to you.
Share five fun non-maker-related facts!
We all spend so much time and energy making that it’ll be a waste not to wear them and show them off! This will hopefully spark inspiration on what to make next, to encourage slow making, and to help understand what you want/need in your wardrobe of pieces you’ll actually wear versus just making the next trend. I hope it inspires people to create consciously from their existing wardrobe and to better understand their own style through this challenge. I want to see people dive into their pieces, and think about what they might want to add to it.
Hi, I’m Tina and I’m an American-born Chinese knitting designer. I’m a knit textile designer by trade, currently designing and managing a technical knit team for sporting goods using industrial knitting machines. My background is in the fashion industry, working as a knitwear specialist for designers and companies in NYC and beyond.
For Tina Tse Knits, I’ve been designing hand knitting patterns since 2017 based out of Metro Detroit, Michigan. Over the years, I’ve designed self-published accessories and garments. I’ve also been published in PomPom Quarterly magazine, Woolfolk collection, Nomadic Knits, LITLG magazine and worked with KnitCrate. This year, I was invited to be a Knit Star and will be teaching a workshop on my Home Sweet Home Formula and how to create with freestyle modular knitting. It’s important to me to represent myself in creative spaces as an Asian American and defy stereotypes and eliminate the model minority myth.
Tina Say Knits Q&A
When you first started your maker journey, what was your goal? How has it changed?
Tell us about a total maker FAIL. What did you learn from it, and how did that failure help you grow?
What is your best piece of advice for someone who has lost their creative mojo?
Rest, get inspired by doing something other than your craft, and keep doing your craft even when it’s not perfect, even when it might not become anything, even when it matters to no one else but you.
As makers we are often juggling SO MUCH! Life can get a little crazy and finding balance at times can be extremely difficult. I find myself constantly learning and reevaluating my process. Organization is an incredibly beneficial skill - it reduces stress, increases productivity, and helps us regain a sense of control. We are constantly growing and evolving, and it’s important that our organizational tools and systems grow with us too!
We belong to such a unique and beautiful community and I think that this is a great opportunity for us to share our experiences, reflect on how far we’ve come, as well as creating a hashtag full of useful resources for other makers to have access to when evaluating their system!
My name is Jessica, I am 29 years old and I am the maker, designer and faux fur pom maker behind JBK Crochet! I have always been a dreamer, very passionate, a little goofy and a “The cup is half full” kind of gal! I love camping, spending time with loved ones, cool weather, PSL, and am always crocheting!
My maker journey so far has absolutely taken me by surprise! At a young age my grandmother tried to teach me how to crochet and as much as I enjoyed the time being spent with her it just didn’t stick. Then out of nowhere when I was 27 I decided to take a trip to my local craft store to buy myself a crochet hook and some yarn. It was completely unprompted; I had no idea what I was doing but I thought I would give it a shot! I started watching YouTube videos and before you knew it, I was hooked – pun absolutely intended!
I was so proud of my work and decided to document it on social media platforms. Before I knew it orders started flooding in and I accidentally started a side business that I was incredibly passionate about. Through Instagram I found a group of ladies that met every week for sip and stitches, and they opened my eyes to all the possibilities this new passion of mine had!
I started building connections with other makers in the community, learned some new skills and mapped out what I wanted JBK Crochet to look like. I am now selling faux fur poms, testing crochet patterns and have even started designing! I feel so lucky to have found a way to start a business doing something that I love.
JBK Crochet Q&A
When I first started my maker business, I wanted to make ALL OF THE THINGS. I wanted to sell finished items, do markets and sell on social media platforms. Although I do still sell some finished items my maker journey has taken me on a completely different path. I’ve learned how to crochet garments and started testing – as a plus sized woman this was always intimidating. I’ve started making and selling faux fur poms and have fallen in love with design! Although I am a brand-new designer, I have had ideas and patterns in my head for well over a year and have never had the courage to type them up. I have no idea where JBK crochet is headed next, but I know I am excited about it!
What is your favourite inspirational (or creativity-related) quote?
“You can’t use up creativity, the more you use it the more you have.” I love this quote because it is a reminder that creativity is a skill that we are constantly nurturing and growing. Every time we pick up a needle, hook, or yarn we are developing our skills and opening the door to more possibilities.
What is your main creative struggle, and how do you work through it?
I would say my biggest creative struggle is not being able to say no. It is something I have always struggled with as a persona and it is only amplified in the maker world. My whole heart wants to jump on every project, make every order, all while accomplishing the tasks I’ve already lined up for myself.
I’ve learned how to work through this by not saying yes so quickly! If I even have a sliver of a doubt in my abilities to accomplish a task I’ve learned to ask if I can reply at a later time or date in order to evaluate my schedule and make a realistic decision.
Tell us about a total maker FAIL. What did you learn from it, and how did that failure help you grow?
My biggest maker fail would have to be taking on way to many orders this past holiday season. I was drowning and did not know how I was going to get myself out of it. I have learned my limits, how and when to put up boundaries and document EVERYTHING. My calendar and agenda are now my saving grace. Seeing everything on paper really puts things into perspective and makes it easier for me to say no when I can’t take anything else on.
What do you feel has been your biggest accomplishment?
Honestly, I feel that I am still at the very beginning of my JBK Crochet journey, so my everyday accomplishments become my new biggest accomplishment! I work hard at actively trying something new everyday and I feel it really helps me grow.
What is one goal you’re working towards right now?
One goal that I am working towards right now is starting a YouTube channel. This is SO out of my comfort zone but something that I’ve always been drawn too. I am a visual learner and have always found video tutorials and vlogs extremely helpful. Now that I have found a fire in me for design, I think complimenting that with a YouTube channel would be very natural and helpful for anyone new to crochet!
A strong brand identity will dictate all other aspects of your business. From how you are marketing, to who you are marketing to, to how you write your copy and what you share on social media. Crafting a unique and memorable brand is what sets your business apart. You are uniquely you and have your own passions, quirks, childhood favorites, and things that will remind people of you that may have nothing to do with your business. These unique things create a connection between you and your audience.
Hi friends! I’m Chereen...owner, designer, and maker of Smeeny Beanie Knits. As a California native turned Colorado mountain girl, I’ve always loved and cherished time spent in the great outdoors. I loved hiking and camping as a kid, and after college, spent two seasons working and living in Yellowstone National Park.
I’d always wanted to learn how to knit and found a couple of knitting needles at the local thrift store. I taught myself how to knit watching YouTube videos, and what started off as a fleeting fancy became a passion. I LOVED seeing my stitches become something more. I was obsessed with figuring out new patterns and new techniques. After several years of making things for close friends and family,
I decided to start Smeeny Beanie Knits in 2018, and opened my shop in January 2019.
Like most of us, knitting for me began as a hobby that soon became an obsession! From there, I started my side hustle and got more and more excited about starting my own Etsy shop. When I was first starting out on my maker journey, I listened to hours and hours of podcasts, googled everything under the sun, and read tons of blogs to try to figure out how I could take my little hobby to a successful, meaningful business. I first started off thinking I would only sell my items, then started selling my patterns, and have now discovered that I really love helping others start on their maker journeys too! The maker community has been so inspirational and supportive and I want to give back by sharing some of that knowledge with you!
As of 2020, I am fully self-employed with Smeeny Beanie Knits and my farm-to-table private chef business, Wilderbean Provisions.
Thank you for being a part of my story.
Smeeny Beanie Knits Q&A
When you first started your maker journey, what was your goal? How has it changed?
When I first started on my maker journey, I thought it would be a cool side hustle selling finished beanies and my goal was to have my own website to sell them on. As I’ve gone along on the journey, I discovered how amazing the knitting community was and started selling my patterns. This year, I discovered how much I loved talking business and sharing things I’ve learned and would love to do more to help other makers on their business journey’s too!
What is your favourite inspirational (or creativity-related) quote?
“Your life doesn’t have to make sense to anyone else, as long as it makes sense to you.”
What is your main creative struggle, and how do you work through it?
My biggest creative struggle right now is shiny object syndrome. I have so many ideas and things I want to accomplish, but I keep getting distracted and feel like I’m not actually getting anything done!
Tell us about a total maker FAIL. What did you learn from it, and how did that failure help you grow?
A total maker fail was not being prepared enough for my first winter selling beanies. I started stocking a local shop and thought that what I brought in would get them through the season. WRONG! I ended up panic ordering more yarn, pom poms, tags, etc right in the middle of the busiest time. I kept running out of things and waiting on shipments and knitting until 2am for nights in a row because I wasn’t prepared.
What do you feel has been your biggest accomplishment?
I feel that my biggest accomplishment has been writing and releasing my Creating Your Brand workbook. It was such a labor of love and something I discovered I was very passionate about, so getting it out there and actually selling some workbooks has felt amazing!
What is one goal you’re working towards right now?
A big goal for me right now is to successfully sell on my ecommerce website and really reach my target market for my products. I feel like I’ve been putting most of my energy into cultivating my audience in the maker community, but want to do more for my audience that is buying the actual hats!
Who are three creative people who inspire you, and why?
Valley Knits - Her photography and knitwear is beautiful and I so admire her outdoorsy vibes and spirit! @valleyknits
Cedarwood Ceramics - I am a huge ceramics fan and Jenny makes the most beautiful pottery! Her style is totally my vibe and I love how she presents her products. @cedarwoodceramics
Powers Provisions - Gretchen has become a close maker friend to me and I admire how she has seamlessly combined all of her different creative hobbies into one successful platform. I love how much outreach and activism she does through the shop and strive to be more of an activist in my own shop as well! @powersprovisions
What is your best piece of advice for someone who has lost their creative mojo?
My best piece of advice for someone who has lost their creative mojo is to take a break! And don’t feel guilty about it. Sometimes, stepping away, getting outside, and doing other activities is the best way to get over a creative rut.
Share five fun non-maker-related facts:
Hi friends, and welcome to my very neglected blog!
There was a time when I blogged on the regular, *tumbleweed rolls by barren posting desert* I actually loved it, but it's just one of those things that didn't end up high on the priority list as my life filled up with other things I found enjoyment in, and ya know, adulting is hard with the juggling of the responsibilities and all.
So here we are, at the beginning of September, and this year has been... a lot. We're all feeling the pressure in one way or another, whether it's personally, professionally, physically, financially, spiritually, all of the above. The ways in which 2020 has challenged us is a long list, and it’s easy for creativity and motivation to take a hit when our daily life is filled with uncertainty. I know mine have.
Enter: the Creative Roots Challenge. Sometimes we have to go back to the basics to rediscover our creative roots, and remember that creativity is deeply rooted in us all (even if we have to dig frantically to find it again). In order to motivate myself and hopefully bring some of you along for the ride, I've decided to host the Creative Roots Challenge on Instagram as a way to collectively spark our maker mojos! This challenge will include a weekly posting prompt, prize, and blog post. The best part? Each week's prompt will be conjured up by a different maker in our wonderful fibre arts community, and you can pop back here every Monday to read a Q&A all about each wonderful human!
OH yes, I am very excited about this my friends. Because I have the first 16 weeks spoken for and, if all goes as planned, I won't be stopping this challenge anytime soon. Here's a little rundown on how each week will work:
At the end of every month, one winner will also be selected from the main #CreativeRootsChallenge hashtag to win a special prize! If you're interested in contributing to the monthly prizes, shoot me an email to knitbrooks@gmail.com.
Let the challenge begin!