Have you ever seen a gorgeous pattern or a crochet item and wondered the story behind it? What was the inspiration and who created it? Jenia from Stitch of Nature is amazing in her crochet patterns and her story. Her interview below is full of inspiration and caring on the tradition of yarn work from her mother and grandmother. Jenia created a Wattle Stitch Crochet Tutorial to share with you and we’ve included several of her patterns that use it in the tutorial. You can find links to Jenia’s patterns and lots more projects in the Crochet Stitch Tutorial Series.

By Michele of VAMICreations and Jenia of Stitch of Nature

Crochet Designing with Stitch of Nature

How did you start Stitch of Nature? 

I spent 6 months creating and writing down the patterns for my first collection, then I hired a photographer to take pictures on my cute models (my older son and friends’ daughters). The last step was publishing them.

What gave you the idea/inspiration?

I made a Newsboy cap and some other cute animal hats for my newborn son who is now 8 and a half years old. People were complimenting them anywhere we’d go, and I decided to write down the instructions for other people to be able to make them as well.

Tell us a little about yourself. 

My name is Jenia Daugherty. I am a creator of "Stitch of Nature".

I was born in the Altai Region of Russia. Like many women do in Russia, I grew up around needle arts. By watching my Grandmother and Mother, I learned to knit and sew at the age of 10.

Later, I met a friend who showed me some basic crochet stitches. It was a great first step towards learning new skills and tricks through tutorials, crochet magazines, self-discovery and experimentation.

In 2006 I moved to the US where I now live with my husband and two young sons. I work from home and get inspired by the beauty of nature around, the ever-present diversity of life and all the simple things that I cherish the most.

I have been crocheting for over 20 years, but I still like to learn new crochet stitches and new ways to do old things. I like stitches that are simple but give an item a nice, rich texture like for example this “Wattle Stitch”. (Michele here - you can find Jenia’s Wattle Stitch Crochet Tutorial here which also lists some of her beautiful patterns that use the Wattle Stitch)…… - put in link!!!!!!

How long has Stitch of Nature been around? 

Since May 2016. 

What is Stitch of Nature all about? 

It is about creating timeless practical accessories with love of life and nature in mind. 

How do you choose the designs you create? 

Not exactly sure. I already have a lot of new designs in my head ready to be realized. Honestly, I can’t keep up with my imagination.

How do you choose the yarn you use? 

I try to choose yarn of good quality but also available to most of my customers. No specialty yarns. Something that can be easily substituted.

What has inspired you to create different designs and other pieces? 

Sometimes I see an interesting sewn or felted accessory and find a way to make it with a hook. Sometimes I take a popular idea and add some detail to it to make it more interesting and different. 

What are your favorite designs to work with? 

I love creating vintage hats. Something interesting and original.

What would you tell a new designer or crocheter for encouragement? 

Experiment, try new things, learn new things! Improve your skills! Listen to your customers!

What is something you are passionate about and why?

 I am passionate about crochet, healthy lifestyle, essential oils and my family. This is just the way I am.

What is your dream for Stitch of Nature to be (where do you see Stitch of Nature in 5+ years)? 

I do not see myself as an entrepreneur. Stitch of Nature is a way to express myself that brings our family some extra income. Hopefully, I will still be designing in 5 years. 

 If you like this, you may like:

• Step by Step How to Block Your Handmade Items

• Ultimate List of Yarn Dyers

• Crochet Designer Wilamade- Thriving with Facial Differences

Jenia does gorgeous work and to give you a taste of what she has created, here are several example of her work as well as offerings she has.

Thank you for joining us for this Maker Feature with Stitch of Nature!! I’d also love to hear from you about what types of resources you want more information on as well as Makers you would like to nominate for a Maker Feature! Please email me or leave a comment on this article!  Looking forward to hearing from you and have a great day!