Meet the Makers – Hook, Twine and Stitcher
Can you introduce yourself and describe what you do?
Hello, I’m Diane, I’m 35 and I crochet. I make memory animals for those who have tragically lost children, gifts for friends and family, and I can also make some items to order.
Have you always wanted to be a maker?
I’ve always enjoyed making things and using my hands and I love how I can create anything with a hook and some yarn.
What was the first thing you made as Hook, Twine and Stitcher?
The first thing I made as Hook, Twine and Stitcher was a small Amigurumi bunny rabbit for a friend (Amigurumi is the name for crocheted animals/creatures/objects), and she loved it so much it used to come to Yoga with us!
Any mishaps / funny moments along the way ?
I’ve had plenty of mishaps along the way, I made a flamingo once and put his head on backwards! No one noticed, so I got away with it! My cat Martha constantly gets caught up in my yarn and it ends up all round the room!
How would you describe your aesthetic and how did you develop your style?
I’m not sure I have my own style as such, because I mainly work from patterns created by designers, but I am quite fussy about my makes; I prefer more contemporary looking crochet items.
Where does your inspiration come from?
My inspiration comes from my mood mainly, nature and the animal kingdom and I really enjoy crocheting inspiring individuals from history.
Who are your design heroes?
My design heroes are the crochet designers whose patterns I spend far too much money on! YarnWave, LittleAquaGirl and AmoufouCrochet.
Can you describe your workspace? Where is it and what is in it?
I’ve recently moved home and am yet to figure out my crochet work space. I used to have a corner with an armchair, trolley for
my tools and a bookcase for my yarn and books. I just need to recreate that in my new home. For now, it’s the sofa!
Is there anything in your kitchen that you couldn’t live without?
I couldn’t live without my Clover Armour crochet hooks. They were the best buy because they stopped some wrist pain I was getting. I made sure I have two sets so I can always lay my hands on one.
What’s the best thing about being creative?
The best things about being creative is being able to create really personal gifts for my friends and family; something special and unique that takes a lot of time and effort shows just how much I care about them. Especially if it’s all black yarn!
How does it feel to be part of the UK craft scene?
I’m not sure I’m really part of a craft scene, but I enjoy sharing my makes on instagram with likeminded people and everyone I’ve met is friendly and full of encouragement.
What would you say to someone thinking about getting into crocheting?
I would say to someone who wanted to start to crochet; try it! You need a hook and some yarn and YouTube to get you started. Just keep practicing; the first time I tried to learn I couldn’t get it. When I tried again ten years later it very quickly became second nature.
What does craft mean to you?
Craft is my happy place; my relaxation, it’s an outlet for my creativity and it feels really special to have developed a new skill in my mid 30’s. Im unashamedly proud of the progress I’ve made since I picked up a hook under two years ago and I love that I can share my knowledge and have enjoyed evenings teaching friends.
You can find Hook, Twine and Stitcher on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/hooktwineandstitcher
