A few of my favorite crochet designer friends

June 8 is National Best Friend Day in the US. In this post, I’ll be introducing you to five of my favorite crochet designer friends.

Crochet design can feel very isolated. The process involves creating a design idea and working out the details to make the design come to life. After working up a sample, designers usually write a pattern for publishing. You don’t really need to interact with anyone else to make that happen.

Relationships in business are essential, though. If you work in an office, many opportunities present themselves for forming relationships because everyone is in the same place. Because an office worker is usually one piece of a larger puzzle, forming relationships is critical for getting the job done.

In the isolated world of crochet design, relationships are no less essential but they almost have to be sought out. I’ve sought out and interacted with other designers because I benefit from their knowledge, from their varied ways of looking at the world of crochet, their unique styles – so many different reasons. But, let’s be honest. Crochet people are just so much fun and I want to spend time with them!

Relationships in the crochet business can start in different ways. I’ve collaborated with Fiona. I’ve tech-edited Beth’s patterns. I tested patterns for Peg and Rachel. And, I’ve asked Whitney for business advice. That’s how the relationships started. They continue to grow on social media, through common organizations, and through continued collaboration.

I’ve chosen these 5 women because I respect their work ethic and commitment to the businesses they’ve built. Each has a unique crochet style and I adore them all! They are fabulous crochet designers and I want you to get to know them and discover their amazing work.

I’ve asked each of them 3 questions: 1. Describe your crochet style in one sentence. 2. What’s your favorite crochet technique? 3. Besides, crochet, what do you love to do?

Let’s find out what they have to say!

Fiona says: "I’d like to think that my crochet style is pretty and practical! I am so inspired by the mid-century/vintage fashions and homewares but like to create patterns and projects that use modern colours.

I’m not sure I can pick just one crochet technique! My favourite stitch will always be the granny stitch, but I love that it can be used in so many projects from mason jar cozies through to blankets, and even clothing! One technique I really love has to be joining granny squares with single crochets (UK Dc). I love to make it a feature and work the stitches in a different colour so the join along the squares stands out.

What do I love besides crochet? My other obsessions change depending on the season. I love to spend time in my garden when the weather is warmer – it’s pretty low maintenance, but it really is one of my happy places to sit and relax. I also love looking for vintage finds from old lace, furniture (although I have no space left for more) and I’m slowly starting to build up a collection of vintage/thrifted clothing. Any other spare time is spent with friends and family, dining out, or watching live music and traveling! Maybe there is a lot more to me than just crochet now I think of it!"

Beth says: "I enjoy the “Throw the pattern into the wind!” style. Rules, what rules? It’s an exciting challenge to envision a crochet piece, figure out how to translate it into instructions then teach other crocheters how to make it. Watching their enjoyment is the icing on the cake!

A favorite technique is incorporating special details into a piece; like lace, colorwork or adding an applique. I also love techniques that add shape to pieces giving them realistic qualities; petals on a flower, a curve to a shoe’s sole or an A-line to a dress.

Aside from crocheting I love sewing, jewelry making, baking, gardening, paper crafting…anything that involves making things that bring joy!"

Rachel says: "My crochet style is on-trend and ever changing.

I really like granny squares and the continuous join. But, I don’t know if I have a favorite.

Besides crochet, I also knit and read a lot. I also enjoy traveling the world!"

Whitney says: "My crochet style is quick, easy and colorful wearable accessories and home decor accents.

My favorite crochet technique is surface crochet. It adds so much fun detail, like the waves on the Coastal Wave Runner I recently designed.

Besides crochet I love to skate. I learned how to figure skate growing up and now compete on a synchronized skating team every winter. I also love kite flying and mountain biking."

Peg says: ‘My crochet style is fast and easy.

I absolutely love the half double stitch and all its variations. I can quickly add texture, create a knitted look, and whip up a beanie in 30 minutes.

Besides crochet, I’m an avid wanderer, yoga & meditation teacher, and grandma to 7 beautiful little humans.

I hope you’ve enjoyed meeting these amazing humans. Take a moment to show them some love by visiting their websites and pattern shops. You won’t be sorry!

And, take a look at these friends of mine who are also celebrating Best Friends Day. You’ll love reading what they have to say.