Have you ever wondered where crochet actually came from? When you dig into the archives, you won’t find ancient Roman ruins or Egyptian tombs—instead, you’ll find one of the biggest mysteries in the fiber world.
In this episode, we are taking a deep dive into the fascinating, rebellious, and survival-driven history of crochet. From the rugged origins of "Shepherd’s Knitting" in Scotland to the trenches of World War I, we explore how this craft has always shown up exactly when humanity needed it most.
In this episode, we cover:
The Ancient Mystery: Why crochet appears out of nowhere in the 19th century and the theories behind Shepherd’s Knitting and Tambour Embroidery.
Royal Influence: The story of Queen Victoria personally crocheting scarves for soldiers during the Boer War at age 81.
Crochet as Survival: How the Red Cross used crochet for WWI trench gear and how soldiers used it to cope with "shell shock" (PTSD).
The Revolution: How the humble Granny Square went from a "make do and mend" necessity to a symbol of 1970s counterculture and fashion.
For a deeper dive into growing your handmade business, check out my new book, Hooked on Growth, which goes into much more detail on scaling!
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Hey friends! In this episode, I want to share a story with you from a couple of weeks ago that I just can't shake. You know I’ve been working hard for a solid four years to really scale my crochet business. I’ve been moving the needle forward just a little bit every single day—it’s slow growth, but it is growth.
Recently, I joined a business coaching program that has been a total game-changer (there is no way I would have learned what I know now without it!), but that doesn’t mean the doubt simply disappears.
Join me as I open up about a recent "Debbie Downer" moment I had while driving home. I was letting the doubt creep in, wondering exactly when that life-changing breakthrough was finally going to happen, until I had a powerful realization at a red light that shifted my entire perspective. If you are a creative business owner waiting for your sign to keep going, this episode is for you.
Connect with Me:
For a deeper dive into growing your handmade business, check out my new book, Hooked on Growth, which goes into much more detail on scaling!
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🔆Join The Next Crochet Kit Club
🔆Learn to Crochet Course
🔆Shop My Crochet Patterns
We are heading into the end of the year, which means it’s time to start dreaming about your 2026 goals. If seeing your name in print or landing a major brand deal is on your vision board, this episode is your blueprint.
In this "Best Of" archive episode (originally recorded when my book Crochet Snuggle Buddies launched!), I am breaking down the exact behind-the-scenes story of how I landed a book deal and international magazine covers with a single cold email.
I used to think editors were unreachable. Then, I learned a "service-first" pitch strategy from entrepreneurs Susie Moore and Cathy Heller that changed everything. Instead of asking for a favor, I asked, "How can I help you meet your needs?" The result? A book contract, multiple magazine features, and a massive shift in my business trajectory.
In this episode, we cover:
Whether you want to submit a pattern, write an article, or pitch a collaboration, this episode proves that you are one email away from a completely different career.
Mentioned in this Episode:
Connect with Me:
Note: This episode is a replay from March 2025, but the strategy is timeless for anyone looking to make big moves in 2026!
For a deeper dive into growing your handmade business, check out my new book, Hooked on Growth, which goes into much more detail on scaling!
🔆Join Our Skool Community
🔆Join The Next Crochet Kit Club
🔆Learn to Crochet Course
🔆Shop My Crochet Patterns
If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to build a successful crochet business, this episode is for you. I’m sharing exactly what I would do if I had to rebuild my crochet business from scratch.
After many years of owning a crochet business, I’m breaking down the 13 smartest decisions that changed everything—from choosing what to sell, using pattern testers, Pinterest and SEO, blogging for organic traffic, building an email list, running ads the right way, managing money, understanding seasonal sales, and protecting the joy of crochet.
Whether you sell crochet patterns, handmade items, run an Etsy or Shopify shop, or want to build passive income with your craft, this episode will help you stop guessing and start building with clarity and confidence.
This isn’t theory, it’s lived experience. Press play and start building smarter.
For a deeper dive into growing your handmade business, check out my new book, Hooked on Growth, which goes into much more detail on scaling!
🔆Join Our Skool Community
🔆Join The Next Crochet Kit Club
🔆Learn to Crochet Course
🔆Shop My Crochet Patterns
🔆Grab The Crochet Snuggle Buddies Pattern Book
This Thanksgiving, take a few quiet minutes just for you. In this calming guided meditation, we slow down, reconnect with gratitude, and ground ourselves before the whirlwind of cooking, hosting, traveling, and giving begins.
Whether you're a crocheter, a creative entrepreneur, a busy mom, or someone craving more peace in the middle of a full life, this meditation helps you return to center.
You’ll release tension, reset your mindset, and remember the powerful truth: your life can change simply by choosing gratitude, one moment at a time.
This episode blends gentle encouragement with mindset principles you love — the belief that gratitude opens doors, shifts energy, and helps you design a life full of joy, abundance, and purpose.
For a deeper dive into growing your handmade business, check out my new book, Hooked on Growth, which goes into much more detail on scaling!
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Running out of time but still want to give handmade? 🎄 If you are looking for last-minute crochet gifts that don't take weeks to finish, this episode is your survival guide.
In this episode of Simply Hooked, I’m sharing 12 fast crochet projects perfect for family, friends, teachers, and neighbors. These are beginner-friendly patterns you can often finish in a single sitting using yarn you already have!
In this episode, you’ll discover:
One-Hour Projects: Quick wins including ornaments and stocking stuffers.
Stash Busting: How to use scrap yarn and cotton yarn to make beautiful, low-cost gifts.
Gift Guides: Specific ideas for hard-to-buy-for people like teens, coworkers, and coffee lovers.
Plushies & Decor: Adorable items that look impressive but work up fast.
Whether you need a gift for a new driver or a thoughtful token for a teacher, these easy crochet ideas will save your holiday season without the stress. Grab your hook and let’s get gifting!
PATTERN LINKS
For a deeper dive into growing your handmade business, check out my new book, Hooked on Growth, which goes into much more detail on scaling!
🔆Join The Next Crochet Kit Club
🔆Learn to Crochet Course
🔆Shop My Crochet Patterns
Welcome to Threads of Wisdom, a bite-sized series from Simply Hooked: A Crochet Podcast for makers who want to grow their mindset, creativity, and handmade business.
In this inspiring mini-episode, we revisit a timeless quote from Earl Nightingale — “You become what you think about.” Discover how your thoughts shape your crochet journey, influence your business success, and determine the kind of creative life you build.
You’ll learn:
● How your mindset directly impacts your crochet business, creativity, and motivation
● Simple ways to reframe negative thoughts and boost your confidence as a maker
● Why focusing on your goals and visualizing success helps you grow faster — in life and in business
Think of this as a mental reset for makers — a reminder that the same way each stitch builds a masterpiece, each thought builds your future. Tune in, realign your mindset, and start crafting a life (and business) you truly love.
For a deeper dive into growing your handmade business, check out my new book, Hooked on Growth, which goes into much more detail on scaling!
🔆Join The Next Crochet Kit Club
🔆Learn to Crochet Course
🔆Shop My Crochet Patterns
In this confidence-boosting episode of Simply Hooked: A Crochet Podcast, we dive deep into overcoming imposter syndrome as a crochet designer and creative entrepreneur. If you’ve ever questioned your talent, compared yourself to other designers, or wondered why anyone would choose your crochet patterns, this episode will speak straight to your heart.
I share personal stories from my own creative journey—including a moment in the frozen food aisle that completely transformed the way I view creativity, originality, and the crochet industry. You’ll walk away with practical tools, mindset shifts, and encouragement to help you step confidently into your role as a designer.
Inside this episode, you’ll discover how to:
✨ Rewire negative self-talk and build a stronger mindset as a crochet designer
✨ Find your unique creative voice in a crowded crochet pattern market
✨ Confidently grow your crochet business without comparing yourself to others
✨ Understand why variety, originality, and authenticity matter in the handmade world
✨ Remember that your creativity is needed—and someone is waiting for the exact patterns only you can create
For a deeper dive into growing your handmade business, check out my new book, Hooked on Growth, which goes into much more detail on scaling!
🔆Join The Next Crochet Kit Club
🔆Learn to Crochet Course
🔆Shop My Crochet Patterns
Is your creative space disappearing under a mountain of yarn? If you are drowning in unfinished objects (WIPs) or struggling with yarn organization, it’s time to take control of your craft.
In this episode, I’m unveiling the Simply Hooked Crochet Project Planner—a complete system I designed specifically to help fiber artists finish what they start. We aren't just talking about a notebook; we are talking about a workflow that keeps your crochet patterns and supplies organized.
Inside the Planner System:
Project Trackers & Logs: Never forget hook sizes or yarn lots again.
Yarn Inventory Sheets: Manage your stash so you know exactly what you have.
Pattern Organization: A dedicated system with alphabetized folders for printed patterns.
Lifetime Value: Includes printable refills so you never run out of pages.
Great for Gifting:Available in two editions (Classic or Deluxe with crochet stickers and a pen!), this planner makes one of the best gifts for crocheters this season.
For a deeper dive into growing your handmade business, check out my new book, Hooked on Growth, which goes into much more detail on scaling!
🔆Join The Next Crochet Kit Club
🔆Learn to Crochet Course
🔆Shop My Crochet Patterns
Do you have piles of unfinished crochet projects tucked away in baskets and bags? In this episode of Simply Hooked: A Crochet Podcast, we dive deep into the world of crochet WIPs (Works in Progress). Whether you’re a beginner crocheter or a seasoned maker with a growing yarn stash, you’ll learn practical tips to organize, track, and actually finish your projects—without feeling overwhelmed.
I’ll walk you through my favorite WIP tracking methods, how to set realistic crochet goals, and why using a crochet project planner can transform your workflow. You’ll discover strategies for managing multiple amigurumi patterns, keeping your yarn inventory under control, and finding joy in every stitch—even when projects pile up.
-- GRAB THE CROCHET PROJECT PLANNER HERE --
✨ What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
● Why crocheters accumulate so many WIPs and how to avoid “project guilt”
● Simple systems for organizing crochet patterns, yarn, and tools
● How to create a crochet WIP tracker or planner that actually works
● Tips for staying motivated and finishing crochet projects faster
● Ways to turn your unfinished WIPs into crochet gifts, donations, or items to sell
If you’ve ever felt stuck in WIP overload, this episode will help you reclaim your crochet confidence, finish more projects, and fall back in love with the craft you started for joy.
For a deeper dive into growing your handmade business, check out my new book, Hooked on Growth, which goes into much more detail on scaling!
🔆Join The Next Crochet Kit Club
🔆Learn to Crochet Course
🔆Shop My Crochet Patterns
What happens when something you make with your own two hands ends up in one of the most iconic places in the world? In this episode of Simply Hooked: A Crochet Podcast, I’m taking you back to 2014—before I ever had an Etsy shop, before I started designing crochet patterns, and before I dreamed this business would exist.
This isn’t a “how-to” episode. It’s a story—a reminder that the work of your hands matters more than you realize. I share the behind-the-scenes of how my hippo landed in Times Square, the lessons it taught me about showing up, and why I even started this podcast in the first place: to leave a legacy of stories and encouragement my kids can one day listen to.
✨ In this episode you’ll hear:
● The true story of how my crocheted hippo was featured in Times Square
● Why sharing your creativity—even in small ways—can lead to big opportunities
● The importance of leaving a creative legacy for your loved ones
● Encouragement to keep putting your handmade work into the world
Whether you crochet for fun, for business, or simply for yourself, I hope this story inspires you to keep creating and sharing. Because you never know when your “hippo moment” might come.
For a deeper dive into growing your handmade business, check out my new book, Hooked on Growth, which goes into much more detail on scaling!
🔆Join The Next Crochet Kit Club
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Today, I’m joined by the lovely Emily, the creative heart behind Emily Makes Crochet. Emily has been crocheting since she was just 12 years old, and now, as a busy mom of two girls, she’s balancing family life, part-time work at a ceramic shop, and her thriving crochet business.
In this conversation, Emily opens up about how crochet has brought her joy through every season of life—whether it’s during carpool lines, late-night stitches, or creating new designs that bring her community together.
We talk about her journey from hobby to business, the challenges and wins of running a creative brand while raising kids, and the way her online community has supported and inspired her along the way.
Emily’s story is such a reminder that creativity doesn’t have to wait for the perfect season—it can weave itself beautifully into our everyday lives.
If you’re looking for encouragement to chase your creative spark (even in the middle of a busy schedule), you’ll love this conversation.
✨ Check out Emily’s Daisy Pop Pattern
For a deeper dive into growing your handmade business, check out my new book, Hooked on Growth, which goes into much more detail on scaling!
RESOURCES & LINKS
🔆Learn to Crochet Course
🔆Simply Hooked on Facebook
🔆Simply Hooked on Instagram
Did you know crochet has two different languages? 🧶 If you’ve ever been confused by a crochet pattern that doesn’t look right, chances are you’ve run into the difference between UK vs US crochet terms. In this episode of Simply Hooked: A Crochet Podcast, we unpack why crochet stitches are named differently, how this split happened, and what it means for your projects today.
You’ll learn:
● The fascinating history behind UK and US crochet stitch names
● Why a UK double crochet is the same as a US single crochet
● Crochet tips for beginners on how to read patterns confidently
● How to spot which terminology your pattern uses before you start
Whether you’re just learning how to crochet or you’ve been making projects for years, this episode will help you master crochet pattern reading, avoid mix-ups, and understand the story behind the stitches you love.
Read this blog for a printable PDF of this abbreviation chart.
For a deeper dive into growing your handmade business, check out my new book, Hooked on Growth, which goes into much more detail on scaling!
🔆Join The Next Crochet Kit Club
🔆Learn to Crochet Course
🔆Shop My Crochet Patterns
If you’ve ever wondered how to design a crochet pattern and actually turn it into a profitable part of your crochet business, this episode is for you. I’m walking you through my complete crochet pattern design process—from the very first idea to launching the finished pattern in my shop.
In this behind-the-scenes look, you’ll learn:
● Crochet business tips for designing patterns that stand out in a crowded market
● How to brainstorm unique crochet pattern ideas that actually sell
● My step-by-step crochet design process: sketching, prototyping, testing, and formatting
● Why pattern testing is essential for creating professional, beginner-friendly crochet patterns
● How I photograph, write, and format patterns for platforms like Etsy, Shopify, and Ravelry
● Marketing strategies for promoting your crochet patterns with social media, email, and Pinterest
Whether you’re dreaming of starting a crochet business, already selling patterns and looking for fresh tips, or just curious about what goes into crochet pattern design, this episode will give you the roadmap.
By the end, you’ll know exactly how to:
● Turn crochet ideas into polished, professional patterns
● Build a crochet side hustle or full-time business with patterns that sell
● Use my proven system to go from idea → pattern → launch day with confidence
👉 Tune in for practical crochet business tips, pattern design strategies, and inspiration to help you grow your crochet business and share your creativity with the world.
For a deeper dive into growing your handmade business, check out my new book, Hooked on Growth, which goes into much more detail on scaling!
RESOURCES & LINKS
🧶Grab the Crochet Pattern Template
🧶Enjoy a FREE donkey pattern!
🔆Learn to Crochet Course
🔆Simply Hooked on Facebook
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Hey friend, if you’ve ever felt stuck in your crochet business or handmade journey because the results aren’t coming fast enough—you’re not alone. In this episode of Simply Hooked: A Crochet Podcast, I share a lesson every creative entrepreneur and handmade business owner needs to hear: belief comes before results.
Here’s what you’ll take away:● How to stay motivated when your crochet patterns, handmade crafts, or online shop sales feel slow● Why consistency and mindset are more powerful than instant results for long-term growth● Encouragement for makers, crafters, and small business owners who feel like giving up when progress doesn’t show right away
If you’re a crochet lover, handmade seller, or creative entrepreneur looking for inspiration to keep going during the slow seasons, this episode will remind you: belief is the fuel that keeps us stitching, creating, and building businesses we love.
✨ Your crochet business matters. Your creativity matters. And the results will come when you lead with belief.
For a deeper dive into growing your handmade business, check out my new book, Hooked on Growth, which goes into much more detail on scaling!
RESOURCES & LINKS
🔆Learn to Crochet Course
🔆Simply Hooked on Facebook
🔆Simply Hooked on Instagram
Don't guess what to make for your next event—know exactly what sells. If you are prepping for Fall craft markets or Christmas holiday fairs, you need inventory that is quick to make and high in demand.
In this episode, I’m sharing my top crochet business tips for stocking your booth with profitable projects. We discuss why switching to chunky chenille yarn can save you hours and increase your profit margins during the busy Q4 season.
Inside this episode, we cover:
Market Bestsellers: The specific hats, plushies, and accessories that fly off the shelves in Autumn and Winter.
Inventory Strategy: How to build stock for Christmas markets without burning out.
Booth Display Hacks: Using bundle pricing and psychological triggers to boost sales.
Live Crocheting: Why working on a project at your table attracts customers.
Whether you are selling at local craft fairs or stocking your Etsy shop for the holiday rush, these tips will help you prep smarter and leave your next market with empty tables.
Read this blog for links to patterns mentioned in this episode!
For a deeper dive into growing your handmade business, check out my new book, Hooked on Growth, which goes into much more detail on scaling!
🔆Join The Next Crochet Kit Club
🔆Learn to Crochet Course
🔆Shop My Crochet Patterns
🔆Grab The Crochet Snuggle Buddies Pattern Book
🧶Grab The FREE Donkey Pattern
We Wish You a Merry Christmas by Twin Musicom is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Artist: http://www.twinmusicom.org/
Do you ever feel guilty spending time on your business? If you have ever wondered if pursuing a creative dream is selfish, this episode is for you.
In this episode of Simply Hooked, I share my personal journey of questioning whether my work truly mattered. We dismantle the myth that art is "indulgent" and explore why your crochet business is actually an act of service.
In this episode, we cover:
The "Selfish" Myth: Why creativity is generosity, not an indulgence.
Mental Health: How the rhythm of stitches supports your well-being (and makes you a better parent/person).
The Ripple Effect: How your business fuels the economy and inspires other makers.
Creating Legacy: Why your patterns and products are future heirlooms, not just "stuff."
Your work matters more than you realize. Tune in to find out why your crochet business is worth celebrating.
For a deeper dive into growing your handmade business, check out my new book, Hooked on Growth, which goes into much more detail on scaling!
🔆Join The Next Crochet Kit Club
🔆Learn to Crochet Course
🔆Shop My Crochet Patterns
If you’ve ever felt confused about crochet hook sizes, letters, and shapes, you’re not alone! In this episode of Simply Hooked: A Crochet Podcast, I break down everything beginners need to know about crochet hooks—from U.S. vs. U.K. sizing, to the difference between tapered and inline hooks, to which materials (aluminum, bamboo, plastic, or steel) make the biggest difference in your projects.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
● How to read crochet hook sizes in millimeters, letters, and numbers
● Why millimeter sizing is the most reliable across brands
● The pros and cons of tapered (Boye) vs. inline (Susan Bates) crochet hooks
● How ergonomic crochet hooks help with hand pain and comfort
● My recommendations for the best crochet hooks for beginners, amigurumi, and bulky yarn projects
By the end, you’ll know exactly which crochet hook to use for your project, what features actually matter, and how to choose the one that feels best in your hands.
For a deeper dive into growing your handmade business, check out my new book, Hooked on Growth, which goes into much more detail on scaling!
🔆Join The Next Crochet Kit Club
🔆Learn to Crochet Course
🔆Shop My Crochet Patterns
Struggling with the magic ring in crochet (also called the magic circle)? You’re not alone! In this first Quick Stitches mini-episode of Simply Hooked: A Crochet Podcast, I share beginner-friendly tips on the magic ring vs. chain start method—so you’ll know whether you really need to use it for amigurumi or if a simpler alternative works just as well.
Whether you’re just learning how to crochet or starting your first amigurumi stuffed animal, this bite-sized episode will help you confidently choose the best way to begin your crochet rounds.
For a deeper dive into growing your handmade business, check out my new book, Hooked on Growth, which goes into much more detail on scaling!
🔆Join The Next Crochet Kit Club
🔆Learn to Crochet Course
🔆Shop My Crochet Patterns
Ready to crochet your first plushie but confused by all the yarn options? In this episode, we break down everything you need to know to start making Amigurumi with confidence.
We skip the trial and error and dive straight into the best materials for making those soft, squishy stuffed animals everyone loves.
In this episode, we cover:
Yarn Reviews: The best chenille and velvet yarns (Bernat Blanket, Premier Parfait Chunky, and Loops & Threads).
Tool Kit: Choosing the right hook size to prevent holes in your work.
Safety First: How to securely attach safety eyes and stuff your plushies for a professional finish.
Beginner Tips: Avoiding common mistakes so your first project is a success.
Whether you want to sell at craft fairs or just make gifts, this is your crash course in Amigurumi.
For a deeper dive into growing your handmade business, check out my new book, Hooked on Growth, which goes into much more detail on scaling!
🔆Join The Next Crochet Kit Club
🔆Learn to Crochet Course
🔆Shop My Crochet Patterns