We are so pleased to have super talented Ilaria Caliri of Airali Design on board as a designer for Box 2 of the crochet society! Find out all about her and her inspiration for the designs she creates!
When did you learn to crochet?
I learned how to crochet when I was very young, I believe 7 or 8 years old and honestly, I was not the best pupil… I tend to do things in my own way which is not always the right way! – I’m quite stubborn sometimes – but I was quite proud of my first filet crochet piece.
And how did that turn into designing your own patterns?
As soon as I learned the technique it was natural to start making my own designs. I started with small accessories and bags just for personal use then since I’ve always loved to sketch quirky characters, making them real in yarn and polyfill stuffing seemed the next step!
What is your favourite thing to make?
I should say Amigurumi, but I’d love to have more hours in a day to make all the stuff 😀
Which colours do you love working with?
Pastel colours, mustard and grey.
Where do you find your inspiration?
Inspiration can come from anything! I look for nature and architecture photos when I’m looking for a starting point for a new project.
Which other designers do you admire?
Irene Strange and Lydia Tresselt for amigurumi designs.
Elena Fedotova and The Crochet Project for crochet designs.
How many WIPs do you have?
Please, I do not want to know the exact number!!! Let’s say many!
Where is your favourite place to crochet?
My studio chair, at my desk in front of my laptop.
Who do you like to make crochet gifts for?
My sister’s always been the greatest recipient (if I count all the “borrowed” items)
What piece of advice would you give to a new crocheter?
It may help to start with a medium size crochet hook (around 4 mm) – starting with a small or a very big hook could be more tricky. Don’t rush to learn, start slowly with the basic stitches, you can make some sample squares as a training. You can choose a suitable yarn to use your sample squares as coasters or potholders.
What are your crochet plans for 2019?
I’m currently running #AmiguruMay the first Instagram amigurumi challenge and it’s amazing! There’s a long list of new amigurumi characters, next two are a hedgehog and a squirrel. I’m working on the second Amigurumi Advent MCAL (with Irene Strange) and some crochet patterns to fill the time between the big projects.
Where can people find out more about you?
website and blog: www.airalidesign.com
instagram: @airali_gray/
Emmy2405
I can’t wait to see what she has designed. I’ve just had a browse if her IG and it’s ALL a beautiful!!!!