For those of you who are plant lovers, or who love to work up amigurumi, this is the designer interview for you! Samantha is an amazing artist who designs both adorably cute patterns, and ones that are super realistic as well. I first found Samantha on Instagram, and I found her creations really inspirational as they were so realistic and at the same time, so fun too. I really love plants, and Samantha’s patterns allow you to add them to any space where plants might otherwise suffer.
Meet Samantha! Her designs bring to life the beauty of the natural world and are great for both beginners and more experienced makers.
I love that Samantha’s patterns allow those who aren’t always gifted with a green thumb to have very realistic plants in their homes and others spaces and the way she has allowed inspiration to give life to her own very unique designs.
Interview
1. Can you describe how you first became a pattern designer?
My crochet journey began when I discovered a crochet booth at an art fair. I was immediately inspired to teach myself how to crochet, with a particular interest in amigurumi. After crocheting and selling items made from existing patterns, I felt motivated to create my own designs. Many people at the markets requested more crochet car hanging plants, but I couldn’t find a suitable one. So, I decided to design my very first pattern: the Car Hanging Plant Collection. Since then, I have been passionate about designing my own crochet patterns.
2. What keeps you inspired and designing?
Most of my inspiration comes from the plants and nature around me. I love how plants enhance the beauty of a home, serving as vibrant decor pieces. However, I’ve struggled to be the best plant parent. That’s when I got the idea to crochet plants, inspired by one of my favorite designers, Lauren from A Menagerie of Stitches. She has significantly influenced my passion and is one of the reasons I decided to create my own crochet plants. Whether I’m strolling through a garden center filled with greenery and color or hiking in the woods, I often find myself thinking, “I could crochet that.” I enjoy the idea of incorporating more plants into my home decor, especially knowing that I won’t have to worry about taking care of them.
3. How would you describe your patterns and designs?
All of my designs feature crochet plants, including potted plants, hanging plants, and more. I offer a blend of simple and intricate patterns, catering to crocheters as they develop their skills. I enjoy incorporating floral wire into my designs, particularly in my flower patterns, to enhance their sturdiness. My goal with each design is to create patterns that are both realistic and fun to crochet.
4. What do you hope to accomplish with each of your patterns?
One of the greatest compliments I have received is when people are surprised to learn that my crochet plants are not real. While some of my designs feature cute and playful faces, my ultimate goal is to create crochet plants that look realistic. I enjoy challenging myself by incorporating new techniques and stitches into my designs. As I grow as a crocheter, I hope that those who appreciate my patterns can grow alongside me.
5. How have you grown and changed as a designer over the years?
I have made significant progress in my crochet pattern writing. I’ve worked on making my patterns more understandable and readable by using new techniques and resources, including hiring a tech editor to enhance my work. My stitch dictionary and YouTube have been invaluable tools in improving my craft. I am always eager to learn and try new things. Stepping outside of my comfort zone has been crucial for my growth over the past year. While marketing my designs can be challenging, I have gained confidence in myself and my abilities. This year, I also started my first YouTube channel, which I am very proud of.
6. What tools do you like to use best?
My trusty set of Clover Amour hooks will always be my go-to choice. For most of my projects, I use a 3.75mm (size F) crochet hook. My favorite yarn weight is worsted weight, and I primarily work with acrylic or cotton-based yarns.
7. Who do you want to share your creative journey with?
All of the crochet plant lovers out there, of course!
8. Who are designers that you admire or that influence your work?
The designers who have inspired me the most are Lauren from A Menagerie of Stitches and Theresa from Theresa’s Crochet Shop. Without their beautifully written and easy-to-follow amigurumi patterns, I wouldn’t be the designer I am today; they sparked my interest in amigurumi. I also want to highlight my incredible tech editor, Cherie from Sweet Bird Crochet. She is one of the most knowledgeable people in the crochet pattern writing business that I know. Cherie has helped me improve my patterns to ensure they are the best they can be while also educating me along the way.
9. Where are you from and how does that influence your work as a designer?
I am from Bellbrook, OH, a small town just outside of Dayton. While I wouldn’t say that my hometown specifically influenced my work as a designer, my love for the outdoors and hiking in our local metro parks keeps my passion for nature alive and inspires my design ideas.
Final Thoughts
I’m so glad to be able to share Samantha’s work with all of you, and that she so kindly agreed to be featured here on my blog. I think her patterns are perfect for spring time, when we are all thinking of ways to brighten up our homes. Be sure to follow Samantha on all of her socials: www.squibblescrochetcorner.comInstagram: @squibblescrochetcornerFacebook: Squibble’s Crochet CornerPinterest: @squibblescrochetcorner
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