I have been head-over-heels in love with crocheting for years now, and my list of resources continues to grow. Though you may think of crochet as the source of the ugly vests your grandma used to make for you (though those were most likely knitted), today’s crochet makers are creating amazing on-trend pieces that are beautiful and unique. Here are the makers who I’m totally obsessing over in the new year.

LEESA’S KNOTTY CORNER

I recently stumbled onto Leesa’s patterns via Facebook and her Etsy shop. Her hat patterns are gorgeous and very now. You guys know I hardly ever pay for patterns, but I treated myself to two of hers and will definitely purchase more. They are well written and easy to follow; and when I contacted her with a question, she responded immediately. That’s service! She has a great social presence and frequently offers sales on her patterns. Check her out if the cold temps are leaving you jonesing for a new hat.

MAKE AND DO CREW

I am always very hesitant to crochet garments because I have so. much. trouble. matching gauge, and the finished pieces often leave my 5’1” frame looking and feeling like I’m wrapped in one of grandma’s afghans. (And not in a good way.) Enter Jess at Make and Do Crew! She is an amazing teacher, who offers tons of awesome patterns and projects (not just for crochet) through her blog. Under her direction, I’ve made two cardigans that I love (and wear!) and I’ve picked up some great sewing tips along the way. If you like making garments, or have been considering trying one for the first time, definitely check her out.

PAMELA GRICE AT CROCHETPRENEUR

I first heard Pam speak at an online business summit and and it was love at first listen. Her tagline at Crochetpreneur is “helping crocheters turn yarn into money.” That might sound weird if you think of the yarn arts as something your grams did to keep her arthritis at bay, but today’s makers are sharing their passions with the world and helping to support their families in the process. Win-win! According to Pam, she primarily creates patterns which are “profit-optimized” with sellers in mind. That means she creates pieces that look great, but come together quickly to boost your bottom line at craft fairs or through other sales channels. I love how she balances creativity with a business flair and is willing to share her knowledge with other makers out there.

Can I share a secret with you guys? A huge bucket list item of mine is selling at a craft fair. Maybe this will be my year!

There are so many talented makers out there and it’s never been easier to pick up a new skill! If you’re interested in learning to crochet this year, check out the artisans listed above and my other go-tos here.

Never stop creating. XOXO.