Hi! What are you up to today?
Hello! I spend most of my mornings with a cup of coffee and I spend a few hours
crocheting or knitting. When I’m not working on my craft or designing, I’m am teaching
students how to paint and draw in Florence, Italy.
What inspired your design for this box?
I was inspired by the White domes and blue waves on the Island of Santorini, Greece.
I visited this mediterranean island a few years ago and I have longed to return.
What is your favourite type of project to crochet?
I really love to crochet garments. I have a few sweaters that I am currently working on
that involve 2 colors and a geometric design. I love to challenge myself with a new stitch
pattern with every new design. I also have enjoyed making baby blankets like this one
because I have several friends who have recently become mothers, and blankets like this
are such great gifts.
Where’s your favourite place to crochet?
When the weather is nice I like to crochet outside, at a park, or on my balcony. I love
to be in the sun! I am known to take my current project everywhere with me. I’ve
crocheted in the bar, on breaks at work, during a dinner out, I will crochet anywhere!
Which of your crochet projects are you proudest of?
My Simonetta Dress! This dress is by far my best work, and was probably the hardest
that I have designed so far. I am a new designer and I take a lot of care to be sure that
my crochet designs are different, have a fresh or new stitch, and are inclusive for all
body types.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve ever faced with your crochet?
I often have some physical problems after a LOT of crochet time. I have to be
conscious to stretch and take care of my spine and neck. I have worked so much before
where it left me unable to crochet for weeks. Slow and steady is better and healthier for
the body.
What’s the best piece of crochet advice you’ve ever received?
Never compare your work to another maker’s work… you have no clue at what stage
in their making journey they are in. They could have 20+ years of experience! Instead,
compare your work today to the work you first created… celebrate how far you have
come and how much you have learned and improved. Keep doing that and you will
keep approaching your work with positivity and growth.
Do you have any big crochet plans coming up?
I have several self published crochet designs coming up! One I am particularly excited
about is testing for the Simonetta Dress. It’s been a project over a year in the making and I’m so happy to share it with everyone.
Where can people find out more about you?
Instagram @artisthaileyhodge
Facebook : Graphic Knits
Ravelry: Graphic Knits – Hailey Hodge
Blog: www.graphicknits.net