Instead of the usual crochet cuties post, I will be posting about the designers who create these cuties.  There are so many wonderfully talented and inspiring artists out there and I am always curious about them.  I also love that most designers have a distinctive style about them

Today’s designer is Julie King, she designs really cute hats and adorable amigurumi.  Isn’t that Elefoof so cute?

Avenue C Slouchy Hat	Elefoof	Fruit Ipod Cozies

How do you introduce yourself to total strangers?
I’m Julie! I make stuff & I blog about it!
What inspired you to first start crocheting?
I think it was because I wanted a scarf but rather than buy one, I wanted to make it myself. I’m like that with a lot of things. Being a crafty person, I always feel like if there’s any chance that I could possibly make something myself, I usually feel compelled to attempt it!
How did you get into designing crochet?
Designing my own patterns has always come naturally to me. When I was a kid, I would look at craft catalogs and design my own patterns for things (plastic canvas & cross stitch) based on the photos because I didn’t have the money to buy the pattern/kits. Eventually I started making my own sewing patterns by tracing clothes I owned. When I learned how to crochet, it was just natural to me to make up my own patterns.
Do you have a favorite yarn?
Caron Simply Soft, Red Heart Soft Yarn, Naturally Caron Country to name a few!
Where do you find inspiration for patterns?
For amigurumi, I usually just design whatever I think is cute. Sometimes I’ll see a drawing and think, “that would make a perfect amigurumi!”. I designed a mouse based on a Christmas card illustration. My hats have always been something that I’ve designed because I wanted to wear it myself. Sometimes I look at catalogs like Free People or Urban Outfitters for style inspiration.
Do you have a secret crochet tip for beginners?
The internet is your friend! If you ever get stuck on something, don’t worry! There are so so so many tutorials out there that can help you. I love learning new things on YouTube!
What is your favorite pattern that you have designed?
Probably my Pineapple Coconut Slouchy hat because I find myself wearing it more than any of the others! I think I have it in like six different colors now. Every time I make one to put in my shop, I end up keeping it for myself! 😛

Is there another craft that you would love to learn?
I’d love to be really good at painting and drawing! I get so inspired when I look at artwork and I really wish I could express myself that way. I also wish I were better at knitting. I learned it after crochet and I’ve never gotten good at it because I’m too obsessed with crochet to ever trade my hook for needles!

If you want to see more of Julie’s lovely patterns check out her website or Ravelry Page.