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 Smitha Crasta, who contributed the Tranquility Tunisian Pullover crochet pattern in our November 2023 issue.
How did you learn to crochet?
I learnt to crochet in 2017 for my niece by watching tons of YouTube tutorials. Once I learn to make a few basic stitches I made a doily which looked like a weird omelette.
What is your design for this month, and can you tell us a little bit about what inspired it?
I’ve designed the Tranquility Tunisian Pullover for this month. Fall is rich with colors and sounds. The rustling of the leaves, an array of foliage and yet in the midst of all, tranquility fills the air. An oversized sweater with Tunisian knit stitches, beautiful v neck and an amazing drape translates the simplicity of the fall into a simple Tunisian pullover.
It is a quick Tunisian crochet garment. The design features Tunisian knit stitches and a simple single crochet edging. Pattern is worked in panels, bottom up. Shoulders are seamed and the sleeves are worked flat and seamed to the panels. The side seam and under the sleeves seam is worked with a faux Tunisian knit stitch using a crochet hook.
What were some challenges about designing this piece?
Crocheting the sample with a newborn was definitely a challenge. The pattern itself is pretty simple and easy, something you can work on while relaxing in front of a warm fire.
What is your favourite crochet technique or stitch pattern?
I love the simplicity of half double crochet and Tunisian knit stitches. There’s so much you can do by working them in different loops.
How do you hold your crochet hook?
I have a knife or overhand grip.
What are a couple of fun facts about you?
I can’t work without a to do list. It feels so good when I get to check out the boxes.
I am a bibliophile and yarn hoarder. It gets really hard at times when I have to select between reading a book or starting a project.
How can our readers find you?
Pinterest: https://in.pinterest.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_
Ravelry: https://www.ravelry.com/
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.