Welcome to the July edition of Meet the Maker – Designer Spotlight! This month I am excited to introduce Lauren, crochet designer behind Curly Ginger Creations. I got to know Lauren when we were both testing a new pattern for another designer. We have tested many more since, and we have even helped test each other’s patterns.
How long have you been crocheting?
I have been crocheting for almost 5 years and I started when I was on maternity leave with my son. I never thought it would have gotten this far, but I wouldn’t change it for anything
What types of patterns do you design? Do you focus on any certain types?
So far my only patterns I have designed have been small items such as a few cozies and a bangle bracelet.
Is there anything in particular that inspires your designs?
There are a couple things in particular that inspire me when I’m designing and that’s see a need, fill a need and other designers textures, patterns and ideas.
What is the main reason that you crochet?
One of the main reasons I crochet is because I have always loved working with my hands and this keeps my mind and hands busy while I watch my kiddos during the day.
How did you decide on your maker name?
My maker name was quite a challenge. I definitely wanted to incorporate my hair into the name and had to include creations since I don’t just work with one medium. So, CurlyGinger for my hair type and color and creations since I work with multiple mediums.
Do you have a favorite pattern you designed and why?
My favorite make would have to be my first pattern “The Stepping Stones Cozy” since it was my first pattern I designed and wrote. It has a special place in my heart. You can find the patterns below by clicking the pattern name.
What do you love most about being a designer/maker?
What I love most about being a designer/maker is watching other designers create and I get try and build my skills up. Its a great community that likes to help lift others up and I love knowing that I have fellow makers to promote my patterns and test them.
What do you love least about being a designer/maker?
What I love least about being a designer/ maker is often the writing aspect of a pattern. Building up your pattern as you go is great, but then trying to transcribe it a written pattern that others need to understand poses a challenge sometimes.
Is there any helpful advice you could give someone just learning to crochet?
My advice for new crocheters is never give up! When I was first learning to crochet the first pattern I was working on was supposed to be for a rectangle coaster and my first attempt I got a triangle, but I was determined to get this down.
When you are not crocheting, what are you most likely doing?
When I’m not crocheting you can find me still crafting with either my 3D printer, customizing with my Cricut or resin goods. When I’m not crafting at all you can usually find me watching my kiddos and being a stay at home mom. Always busy.
What is your favorite type/weight of yarn to work with and why?
My favorite type of yarn is #4 worsted weight acrylic. I just love how easy it is to work with and the color variety is amazing!
Where is your favorite place to crochet?
My favorite place to crochet is anywhere. That’s the beauty of this craft, it is mobile. Not like my other crafts.
Do you have any upcoming designs or new plans in the future as a maker?
A goal of mine for 2021 is to get a hat pattern written for the fall/winter season and I have a secret cartoon character in my head that I would like to finally execute and make a reality.
For more about Lauren and her many other makes from Curly Ginger Creations, check out her Etsy Store.
You can also find Curly Ginger Creations on Facebook and Instagram.
If you like FREE crochet patterns, Check out Lauren’s Beaded Bobble Bangle Bracelet below.
I hope you enjoyed learning a little bit more about Lauren, from Curly Ginger Creations in this month’s edition of Meet the Maker – Designer Spotlight!
Come back next month to meet another awesome maker!!!
While you are here, check out all my free patterns on the blog HERE or find some below.