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Name: Phanessa
Instagram: @designsbyphanessa
Click here to visit Phanessa's Website!
Scrolling through the Instagram feed of @designsbyphanessa, you'll see crochet projects, and the love they can bring, through a beautiful lens. In the 2 years that Phanessa has seriously been crocheting, she has worked to create a community of 33,000 engaged followers, and a successful website.
When did you start crocheting? How did you learn?
I’ve always enjoyed arts and crafts. I started crocheting in 2012 when I started diving into Newborn Photography. I wanted to learn how to
make crochet props for the newborn session. I learned through YouTube.
I knitted my first hat in high school but was discouraged at the result (uneven stitches; the time it took to make one baby hat!). I didn’t pick up knitting again until 2016. It was my New Year’s resolution…. but I decided to start in December of 2015. I instantly fell in love! I learned through series of videos on
YouTube.
What is your favorite memory involving crocheting?
My 2 favorite memories would be the first time I completed a crochet hat. It’s great to see a finished product that you made yourself! I also felt the same way when I recently started knitting again with my first beanie (not counting the one in high school).
What inspired you to create your own small business?
Great supportive makers I’ve met on Instagram. I’ve shared patterns because why not? I wrote them down. I was never confident enough to sell or publish frequently. Encouragement and support from friends gave me that extra “push” I needed.
4. What has been the biggest challenge you have faced so far in your fiber arts career?
Keeping up with a full time job and young kids is my biggest challenge. I love designing, knitting and crocheting but have other priorities (but I much rather just play with yarn all day!).
5. What tips do you have for other crafters who are looking to take their art to the next level?
Don’t doubt yourself. We all have insecurities but don’t be afraid to try something new or push yourself to experiment.
Don’t compare yourself to others. Everyone starts from the beginning.
6. What’s next for you?
I don’t have any big plans. My personal goal is to design more garments.