My story of surviving cancer and physical and mental illnesses.
Me? Crochet?
With its powerful influence, Pinterest lead me to the yarn isle of Hobby Lobby. I was going to make a cute boho style macramé wall hanger, but I saw the crochet section of hooks and books. It reminded me of several family members who tried to get me to learn the craft, but I always replied with some comment as to why I would never be good at crocheting. Patience was the biggest skill I lacked when it come to learning new hobbies. For some reason, I decided I would give it a try that day. With several YouTube videos and many cuss words, I taught myself the very basics of crochet.
Hooker Business
Within a few months, I was a legit hooker (the pun term for crocheter). I gave several of my friends and family members handmade gifts for Christmas, and their pleasant responses prompted me to start selling my items. One thing lead to another, and I am now a tax paying small business owner. Currently, I make enough to stay afloat, but I hope to eventually start making a profit. My physical disabilities limit me in the amount of time I can actually work; however, I think that will soon change. So, I know that I have room to grow and become more successful in the future. After all, I built this business by myself within 6 months of picking up the first hook. With improved health and continued support from loved ones, nothing can stop me!
It’s exciting because it has been so long since I was good at something, until I started to crochet. I didn’t think I could learn new skills or provide much to the outside world. Remember, those thoughts of worthlessness were so overwhelmingly loud. However, with some self-patience and those great coping skills, I opened my mind to the world of starting new. I’ve spent hours learning how to blog, crochet, read patterns, file business taxes, market my items, manage day to day business operations, run an online store, photograph products, brand my business, etc. Not only have I started a hobby, but I have gained experience in completing tasks that make me more marketable for future employment. That’s one reason why this is all so important to me; it’s giving me the opportunity to be productive again. With each crochet item I make and sell, I am working…on me, by me, for me!
Friends
I couldn’t be this successful without meeting some amazing crochet people along the way. A few months ago, I joined the Ash and Tay Crochet Facebook group. It is hands down the most supportive crochet and small business group I have been in. Ashley and Taylor are both ladies I consider to be mentors, and I am so thankful I found them. Because of that group, I have met a soul sister, a BHF (Best Hooker Friend), and a mentor, Lizette of Chrisette Designs. The girl just gets me! From the first interaction, we have laughed, cried, vented, and encouraged each other. I can’t forget to mention my other friend, Lacey Ellen of Lacey Ellen Crochet, who allowed me to test her pattern even though I had never tested before. Since then, we developed a friendship of encouragement and laughs. Beyond those ladies, there are at least ten more women I could mention. Because of them, I don’t feel as lonely during the nights when everyone else is asleep. I found a place that allows me to express myself freely, encourage and support other women, and get inspired to make more things!
In summary, crochet gave me a time-killer, a hobby in the beginning. Throughout a few months, it became a job that provided me with purpose and esteem. I’ve met several awesome women who support me in this adventure and encourage me to grow in my successes. I took the hard road to get here, but now I am crocheting my own damn path to a brighter future!
That’s it! That’s my story! I hope you have found it to be genuine and inspiring. It gets better! It always gets better!
Thank you for reading!
Comment below and/or email me at allison@spunkyowl.com
Allison Marks
Girl I had to read your stories again because of the positive side you give and strength admit and shared your struggles. I to struggle day to day, threv are days when I just look at my yarn, unfinished WIPS and just lay in bed. I’m at a point where I don’t want to go out or do anything. Ditto to Ash and Tay but I really haven’t opened up on FB page. Like you I’m up late and everyone sleeping and no one to confide in.
I too made my hobby to a new found business that is really really new! Budget slim to none, I did have one sale yay but with all Etsy fees etc I should just sent beanie for free. Since then traffic good but no buyers or orders which is discouraging big time. I got a long road a head of me and then I just want to give up. Research, Pinterest, IG, FB and now Etsy, so much more to learn, brand, etc when all I want to do is make items lol. Anywho I should go to bed it’s a new day and New beginning to attack my to do list.
Cynfi,
Thank you for reading my story. It warms my heart to know it is reaching other women.
Starting a business is not easy, especially one that relues on your craft for success. I struggle with similar issues. You can’t give up. It wouldn’t be fair to yourself to quit on something you have already invested. Maybe you can take a step back and just make. Enjoy the “hobby” side of the business. Take photos of your items and share to your regular social medias.
I hope you find peace and rest soon. You’re not alone! Always feel free to reach out to me. 😘
Allison