Here at Crochet Foundry, we LOVE working with all the talented crochet designers that we have the privilege to showcase in our magazine. In this Designer Interview series, we'll get to know some of this month's issue's designers. Today we're talking to crochet designer Jessica Dodson, who contributed the Storybrooke Shrug crochet pattern featured in our January 2023 issue.
Can you tell us a little bit about what inspired your design for this month?
Winter where I live is cold. The wind makes it miserable. So any chance I have to make something cozy and warm, I do. A shrug is something that can be worn while out and about, or while lounging at home to avoid the chill. I wanted to make something comfy with one of my favorite stitches, so a shrug sounded like the perfect option.
What were some challenges about designing this piece?
Deciding how I wanted the sleeves was probably the most difficult part of this pattern. I wasn’t sure if I wanted to make it an all-in-one piece, or add the sleeves at the end. I think I still want to design another one so I have either option.
How did you learn to crochet?
I taught myself to crochet from “how-to” books when I was 19. I was in the Air Force and stationed in Alaska. I had no car and was living in the dorms on base. Everyone else in the dorms would go out Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night, so I needed something to do.
What is your favorite crochet technique or stitch pattern?
I have several, but right now I been loving the mixed cluster stitch. It generally depends on what I want to make and if it is a pattern I will be making several of or just a few.
How do you hold your crochet hook?
I use the knife hold. I have tried pencil grip but can’t seem to make that work for me.
What are a couple of fun facts about you?
After teaching myself to crochet I decided to also teach myself how to knit, then Tunisian crochet.
I am also a lactation consultant and birth doula as well as a tech editor. Because 4 active kids just doesn’t keep me busy enough (ha, just kidding).
Are you a crochet designer (or would you like to be)? Crochet Foundry works with independent crochet designers to produce the gorgeous designs featured in our magazine. To find out more, visit our Submit a Design page and be sure to sign up for our Designer Email list to be notified of design opportunities.