Hooking With Fay from Stitch by Fay

Welcome back to Hooking With–today, we interviewed Fay from Stitch by Fay.  I must say that I like that she does something different than we do, which is Amigurumi!  Read on to find out more…

Introduction

Hi! I’m Fay and I’m an amigurumi artist, designer and pattern tester. I live with my partner and son in beautiful New Zealand.  I’m a completely self-taught crocheter through Google and YouTube so my technique is a little unconventional but I’m a strong believer in doing whatever works for you. I’m also a qualified
proofreader which lends itself well to the pattern testing side of things. I love being a part of the process whether it’s my own design or testing someone else’s.
I’m crafty by nature and have dabbled in a few different crafts over the years – scrapbooking, cross stitch, sewing, jewelry making – but crochet is the one that has stuck with me the longest.  Aside from my love of crochet, I also enjoy reading, watching anime, horror movies and playing games.

When did you start designing?

I started designing at the beginning of 2020 but it became a lot more serious after I started my blog.  Designing doesn’t come easy to me and unfortunately the creativity isn’t always flowing but it’s extremely rewarding when people make and enjoy my designs.

Do you have a blog? If so, when did you start that up?

I started my blog at the end of May 2020. I wanted a place to share free patterns and other crochet related content. I’ve had previous blogging experience and it used to be something that I really enjoyed so it felt natural for me to go back there.

What was your initial plan with your blog and designs?

My initial plan with my blog was always about sharing patterns. Prior to my blog I’d shared a few on Instagram but I wanted to make them more accessible to a wider audience.

How have your designs and designing process evolved?

My designs and processes are changing all the time as I’m still learning and developing my own style. I have a strong focus on keeping things as simple as possible without sacrificing functionality or appearance.

What designs do you specialize in?

I mostly design amigurumi as that is what I’m most comfortable with but I also like to step outside my comfort zone and push myself to design different things.

Do you have a favorite few stitches you like to use or do you always try to do new ones?

As an amigurumi artist I use a lot of single crochet but I also like to experiment with texture when a design allows.

When you come up with an idea, does it come first from yarn you have or do you find yarn to fit the idea?

I find yarn to fit the idea. I don’t like buying yarn without a plan as it often just doesn’t get used.

When did you start crocheting?

I started crocheting in 2012. I’d actually tried a few years prior to that but I just couldn’t get my head around it so ended up putting it aside. I don’t remember exactly what prompted me to try again but I’m glad I did.

What made you decide to become a designer?

I enjoy pushing myself and it just felt like a natural progression of my craft.

Are there any patterns not your own that you just love?

Of course, too many to count! I started out crocheting other designer’s patterns and I still do when I need a break from designing.

Who/what inspired you? Does this still inspire you? Why?

My son is my biggest inspiration. For years he’s been pushing me to share/sell my designs and I finally found the confidence to do it. I love that I can lead by example and show him that you can follow your dreams. Yes, it’s hard work but so worth it to do something you love.

Of your patterns, which is your favorite and why?

Don’t make me choose! I love them all equally as I know just how much time and effort went into each one.

Are there any crochet techniques/stitches you wish to learn this year?

I completed my first mosaic project just before Christmas and I’d like to explore that more this year as well as give tapestry crochet a go.

What are your biggest crochet challenges and how do you plan on overcoming that?

My biggest challenge is figuring out how to juggle everything without making sacrifices. Between my blog, designing, social media, family – it’s a lot! I need to work on taking care of myself as well so I can give my best in all areas.

Have you ever lost your crojo and how did you overcome that?

Unfortunately, I tend to lose my crojo quite a bit especially if life is particularly busy. Inspiration can’t be forced so I take some time to do other things that I enjoy. It always comes back eventually.

What three tips can you offer to anyone that crochets?

Practice and patience. It’s ok if there’s a particular style or technique that you just don’t get. Keep working at it and you’ll get there.

There’s no right or wrong way to crochet. Everyone has their own style and their own way of doing things. All that matters is what works for you.

Don’t compare yourself to others. This is an easy trap to fall into and I’m guilty of it as well. Everyone is at a different point in their journey and has their own story of how they got there. We don’t always see the struggles and hard work put in but I assure you it’s there.

Free Patterns Offered by Stitch by Fay

You can find my free patterns here

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