Featured Artist

When I was 10 years old, I picked up my first crochet hooks. My mom wanted me to learn, so she sent me over to a friends house to learn. My older sister and I had a few lessons, then I don't know what happened, but we didn't continue. Last year, I was cleaning out a closet and I re-discovered my hooks and yarn. After strolling through Etsy - land, I found patterns by Crochet My Love Designs and I've been "hooked" ever since (pun intended). 

Today, I probably own most of the patterns that are listed in Crochet My Love's Etsy Shop. My favorite so far has been her Undersea Mermaid Set. 

Mermaid Cocoon Copyright JULIETTE HILLIARD PHOTOGRAPHY

I am inspired regularly by Crochet My Love, so I thought I'd share with you all a little bit about this wonderful artist. Below is my "interview"...

Tell the world a little bit about Crochet My Love Designs?

My goal with Crochet My Love Designs is to try to create trendy crochet patterns that are as different from other designs as possible. I look at the world around me and think "how can I crochet that". There is absolutely nothing more satisfying than seeing other people create beautiful projects from  my patterns.      

What was your motivation in starting Crochet My Love? How did it come to life?

I have crocheted my entire life, and when I discovered etsy it was a dream come true. I couldn't believe all of these talented people were making  a living doing what they love. I threw myself into it entirely and I am very blessed with a talented group of photographers to bring my products to life.

When you aren't making beautiful creations for the world, what are you doing?  

I spend my time with my 20 month old son.....who has a severe attitude and is entering the terrible two's AHHH!!!! I also like to think I may someday organize my craft room.

Quote/motto you live by: 

"911 , What address is your emergency" LOL just kidding, boy i spend too much time at my "real" job and hope to quit some day.

What is one of your guilty pleasures (not necessarily crafting related)? 

ooh dear, I love love love reality tv and docu- dramas. I am definitely curled up with a crochet hook watching 16 and pregnant week after week LOL. Oh, I am also desperately in love with Gerard Butler, so if any one knows him..... tee hee :)

Lip gloss, cell phone & gum - I can't leave home without it! What's yours (not necessarily crafting related)?

hmmm, I have to have my cell phone, I also have a crochet hook on a key chain... just in case

What/who inspires your designs? 

I actually look through my son's books and toys, animals, childrens clothing. Certain yarns are so amazing, sometimes I just wing it.

Can't craft without it...what is your favorite crafting item/product? 

A 5.50 mm crochet hook. I refuse to use anything else

When did you start crafting?

I taught myself how to crochet from a 1970's crochet book when I was 11 years old. I am talking hideous granny square vest patterns... bleh just aweful

What was your first project/item for sale?

It was actually my Chocolate Cherry Washcloth pattern which i still sell today

What has been your favorite thing about being an Etsy shop owner? 

The community of women with the same goal as myself. I have definitely made life long friends from this experience. In real life, My friends make fun of me for doing an "old lady" craft, but my internet friends get it.

If you were a fruit, what fruit would you be? Why?

umm i hate fruit, the texture totally grosses me out. Can i be an Avocado?

What is the most unique thing about your creative process?

  

The fact that I can crochet anything. I have no idea where the ability came from. One of my photographers asked for a mermaid tail and I just sat down and did it. I don't even visualize my projects first. I let my hands do the work and try to leave my brain out of it. My best projects have been accidents!

Any words of wisdom you want to share with other mommy crafters? 

YOU CAN DO IT! If your goal is make this a job so you can be at home with the kids, or just something fun to do, be passionate and motivated and it will come to life.  I think about crochet 24 hours a day  (as sick as that sounds) I am always planning my next idea, thinking of colors, surfing the net for inspiration, crocheting til 2 am even if i have to get up with the baby at 8 am. Its hard work, but worth the rewards.

Are you inspired?? Visit Crochet My Love on Etsy!

Until soon....
Meredith & the 8 Little Monkeys