nice and niche

Discover the crafters who are turning crochet into an ultra-specialised art form

- Judy Darley

Are you a crochet all-rounder? Do blankets, scarves, jumpers and amigurumi all roll off your hook with equal ease? Well, imagine a world where you have found the one crochet ‘thing’ that makes your heart beat faster and then have practised and refined it until you are truly an expert in your niche. Read on to delve into the creative world of specialist and talented hooksters who have done just that.

INSTANTLY FAMILIAR

Texas-based Allison Hoffman crochets amazingly recognisable dolls of well-known figures. This led her to launch her ‘skin tones’ yarn to encourage inclusivity in the fibre world.

“In 2007 I started crocheting toys for my kids and learning about shaping. Then I began drawing and sharing my patterns at a time when no-one was really crocheting people. I made who I liked and started getting requests, ranging from comedian Pee-wee Herman to music producer Questlove. Rapper Post Malone orders dolls of himself to give his mom each Christmas. She has 13 now!

After Joe Biden’s inauguration I wanted to highlight the powerful women present. I crocheted Kamala Harris and then US Youth Poet Laureate Amanda Gorman. I sketch details like clothes or a certain smile. For Amanda I added an extra strand on her top lip.

My AmiguruME Skin Tones yarn comprises eight shades from light to dark. I brush out yarns or use a flat iron to create believable hair textures. I love trying new techniques. It’s neat taking yarn to make something people love!” www.craftyiscool.com

FANTASTICAL THREADS

Going from reality to fantasy, Dee Irvin makes extravagant cosplay outfits to blow your mind.

“I started crocheting in 2015 or 2016. At first I wanted to learn how to make really pretty lace but then changed it up and tried making crop tops, doilies and little puff flowers.