With the fabulous Lola Doily Rug crochet pattern already available, and more patterns in the works, we thought you might like to get to know our wonderful designer, Jocelyn Bignill of In Stitches Sydney, a little better.
How did you get into crochet?
I was taught how to crochet by a friend. I went over to her house and she showed me how to chain and double crochet and I sat at her house all day while she fed me cheese and biscuits and I practiced over and over and over. That was at the end of 2014. I really got going with it about 6 months later.
What do you do during the week? Is crochet a full-time gig?
I am a full time student at a Bible college in Newtown, so crochet is something that I fit in around studying.
What is your favourite crochet creation, to date?
I love so many of my projects, they're all so different! I really love a blanket I made for my mum that was from a stained glass window pattern.
Do you have a favourite crochet technique?
I really like doing Pom Pom and puff stitches. They're so fun and give a project lovely softness and texture.
What's your favourite material?
I love working with heaps of different materials. T-shirt yarn, chunky yarns, 8 ply, wool, cotton. I get bored with one by the end of a project and then do something completely different.
How did you get into pattern making, and do you have any advice for aspiring pattern designers?
The lovely Bek from Ministry of Yarn asked me to start writing patterns! I am still very new at it, but have always done variations and improvisations in my projects. For anyone wanting to design patterns (and this is something I'm learning myself), you can't rush the process. You need to be willing to make lots of mistakes and re-start as many times as it takes to get it perfect.
Do you have any other crafty passions?
I used to do a lot of scrap booking but haven't got the space for it while I'm at college. I'm pretty crochet obsessed.
Why do you love crochet?
I love having a creative outlet, creating beautiful and fun items for people to enjoy. It's great making something tangible, having something to show for a days work. You don't get that much when you're studying!
Jocelyn's new tote bag pattern will be making it's way in store very soon. Meanwhile, if you're looking for some more inspiration, check out her Facebook store at In Stitches Sydney.
