Melanie Morita @KnotToo ShabbyCrochet

Knot Too Shabby Crochet

Melanie Morita aka KnotTooShabbyCrochet has designed a pattern for box 6 of the Crochet Society!

You can subscribe to box 6 up until the 20th of November 2019. We asked Melanie a few questions so you can get to know her and her style a little better. Take a look through her gorgeous Instagram account to see if you can guess what kind of pattern she may have created for this bumper box!

When did you learn to crochet, and how did that turn into designing your own patterns?

I first learned to crochet at daycare when I was very young. We made these bright neon doilies that were just awful, but I absolutely loved them. Unfortunately, I was too young to comprehend what I was doing and quickly forgot the stitches and techniques.

My passion for crafting continued, but I didn’t pick up a crochet hook again until college. During a girls night in, with a glass of wine in hand, my friend showed me how to make a magic ring, single crochet, and increase. We worked through the night and after a lot of trial and error, I finally made my little blue birdie plush. From there, I was hooked and ready to make all sorts of projects. But I almost immediately felt limited by the patterns I found online. So I played around with different stitches and techniques to develop my own unique style and patterns!

What is your favourite thing to make? Which colours do you love working with?

I love cute bubbly plushes with beady little eyes and a sweet smile. This applies to any manner of critters OR inanimate objects, from snappy crabs to sticky sweet cinnamon rolls. I mostly like to work in pastels to give my pieces a playful and whimsical feel!

Which other designers do you admire?

I think there’s something to learn from any designer and I admire them all. A few of my favorites are Storyland Amis, Theresa’s Crochet Shop, Knot Bad, The Hook Nook, Sewrella, De Brosse, and the list goes on!

How many WIPs do you have?

I have too many WIPs to count! I think I have a pile of arms and legs somewhere because once it’s time to sew on pieces, I lose interest. That’s why I love developing patterns that require little to no sewing!

Who do you like to make crochet gifts for?

I love making crochet gifts for my friends and family. My favorite part is knowing that they are going to someone special or that it holds a special meaning to the receiver. What a beautiful way to spread the love and beauty of crochet!

What piece of advice would you give to a new crocheter?

My advice for new crocheters is to just go for it! There are so many resources available online and an incredible community of makers to lean on. Focus on sharing your passion and the rest will fall into place.

What are your crochet plans for the rest of the year?

To be honest, I have no plans for the future! I work full time, I’m constantly taking on home projects, and I have 2 ridiculous dogs to take care of. So I never put much thought into growing my crochet business. But I’ve been fortunate enough to have some incredible opportunities present themselves. So I will continue to just share my passion and see where it takes me!

Where can people find out more about you?

You can find out more about me on my instagram, @knottooshabbycrochet!
Tell us something unexpected about you!

I used to dance competitively, I dabble in aerial silks, I crochet… all things that require a considerable amount of dexterity and coordination. But in my day to day life, I am somehow still incredibly clumsy. I can lose my balance just standing!