I am a hooker. And by that I mean that I am a crocheter. My focus is 100 percent amigurumi. And by that I mean the Japanese term for making crochet stuffed dolls. It’s a magical, quirky and cute (or ‘kawai’) world of animals, monsters and creatures that fall nothing short of an obsession for me.
Why do you do it?
Eleven years ago I had a broken heart. My best friend knits and crochets like a demon. I asked if she might show me how to crochet as I thought it might be something I could learn and do to help stop me feeling so blue. It turned out to be the best Sunday morning ever and the moment I found my calling in life.
What do you love about the city you live in?
I grew up in a country town. I swore I would never live in Brisbane. And now I do. I could not be happier. We live in a leafy suburb close enough to the city that a cab fare home costs much less than a night out enjoying the wonderful dining delights Brisbane town has to offer. I am so happy to have found my way in to the craft-beer community and that it is blossoming in Brisbane. The bars are mushrooming, the beers are good and the people are quite extraordinary.
Where did you go for your last holiday?
Wellington, New Zealand. It was all too brief and mainly business. The World of Wearableart is a garment/ costume competition that has been held in New Zealand for the past 26 years. I have entered and been a finalist for the past two years. My 100 percent, crochet full-body garment Hobart the White placed third in the Children’s section in this year’s show at the end of September. We went over for the awards show and had a fantastic time.
What's your favourite item of clothing?
I’m so happy that overalls are back. In fact I love a bib and brace be it a dress, shorts or full-length overalls. They’re comfortable and practical.
What was your favourite TV show when you were a kid?
‘Countdown’ and ‘The Goodies’.
If you could travel back in time for a day, where would you go?
Victorian England. Wandering about the grounds of Pemberley, looking out for Mr Darcy to walk out from a lake.
If we were coming over to your place, what would you cook us?
Gyoza with rice, edamame and wilted greens.
What's the best lesson you've ever learned?
That Sunday I learned how to crochet. I’m still working out the other life lessons.
Tell us one thing about yourself that nobody else knows...
I’m a big fan of making up a small bowl of chocolate icing to use as a dip for salted, potato chips.
Are you happy with your work/ life balance?
In 2012 I was one of 14,000 public servants made redundant. It was one of those bad-but-good things. I took the chance to focus my life on my creative pursuits. I haven’t made a bundle and certainly would not survive on my earnings. I am however the happiest I think I have ever been in my life. I have had to accept taking on a part-time job to finance my passion. Though even when I’m at work those days my mind is probably 25 percent thinking about crochet so I guess it’s not so bad.
How do you define success?
Doing what you love and hearing someone say that they like it.
What's your spirit animal?
A bower bird. Gathering up all the things I love: yarn, beads, buttons, stationery and yarn. Did I say yarn?
