- When did you learn to crochet, and why do you love it so much?
I first learnt to crochet in mid-2014. I am completely self-taught with the help of books, online videos and blogs. I think this is part of why I love the craft so much – that anyone is able to learn crochet, the financial outlay is minimal and the opportunities are endless. Another reason why I love crochet is because it provides a relaxing break from thinking about work and a chance to be creative and make cute things for myself and others to enjoy!
- What is your favourite thing to make? Which colours do you love working with?
I design mostly amigurumi and I just love creating cute animals hopefully with heaps of sweet personality! I am all about pastel shades as I adore the softness and elegance of a pastel palette.
- We like to focus on the mindfulness benefits of crocheting, how do you like to relax?
Crochet! It is my outlet for relaxation. Whilst it may be cliché, I also do enjoy reading a good book (with Michael Bublé in the background) as another way to relax. It is nice to be carried away with the characters in each story and immerse yourself in their world. Unfortunately, I just finished binge watching all seasons of Downton Abbey. That was a nice way to crochet and relax after work for a few weeks there…at least there is still the movie to watch!
- What is your top tip for new crocheters?
Don’t give up if you are feeling like you are unable to get it the first few goes. I remember being unable to coordinate holding the hook and yarn to do a chain stitch and thinking this is just not for me. It is something that will get more comfortable with experience.
For those who are now past that stage, I would recommend exposing yourself to following as many different patterns as possible from various designers. You start to learn different ways of creating shapes and achieving a desired outcome and will help any aspiring pattern designers.
- Any big crochet plans for next year?
I am very excited to have been invited to my very first international workshop! I cannot wait to be a part of it and meet other crocheters from around the world. More details to follow….
I am also going to make myself finish developing my website, which I started over a year ago (ok, maybe two years)! Fingers crossed this will eventuate and be a useful resource for crochet and design tips, as well as patterns, yarn, kits and other cute supplies!
- Tell us something unexpected about you!
I wanted to be a ballet dancer growing up and obtained my classical ballet teaching qualifications, then became a cancer researcher and now design crochet amigurumi patterns. One never knows where life can take you….
- Where can people find out more about you?
I would have directed you to my website if I had it finished J. However, the best place to see my work is on Instagram where I go by the handle of @littleaquagirl. I also share more about myself in my book Amigurumi Treasures, which was published by AmigurumiPatterns. My patterns are sold on Etsy through The Little Hook Crochet and on AmigurumiPatterns.net. My mum also loves crochet and she sells finished dolls (some made from my patterns) through our other Etsy shop Bubbles And Bongo.