During lockdown, many of us looked for new hobbies to pass the time. For Sonia, this meant turning her love for knitting into a fun crochet journey with Crochetree. Read on to see how Sonia overcame challenges and found joy, making dolls that brought happiness to her family and community.
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Hi, everyone! I'm Sonia. I've been a loyal Crochetree fan for about 2 years now, and yes, I may have bought almost all their beautiful patterns (don't judge me).
When Ticiana asked me to share my crochet journey, I was thrilled. Why? Because I hope my story will encourage others to pick up a hook, learn, and start making these beautiful dolls.
I was always an avid knitter, creating shawls, blankets, and baby clothes for my family. However, due to severe osteoarthritis, I could no longer handle the weight of my projects, leading to the heartbreaking moment when I broke both of my thumbs. My auntie tried teaching me crochet, but I just couldn't get it and gave up.
Then COVID happened, and with the U.K. in lockdown, I decided to give crochet another try. Armed with yarn and a 4mm hook, I taught myself through YouTube tutorials.
Once I could follow a pattern and with a granddaughter on the way, I decided to make dolls. My early attempts were okay but marred by horrid plastic eyes that I felt were unsafe for small children. Despite my efforts to embroider eyes, they always looked scary.
In a stroke of luck, I discovered Crochetree and Ticiana's stunning dolls. I ordered my first four patterns and was amazed at the beautiful, high-quality photos paired with easy-to-follow instructions.
Even as a novice, I watched my dolls come to life. I've now made around 11 dolls and numerous outfits.
My Goddaughter Lily loves the doll I made in her image, and my granddaughter enjoys tea parties with hers. I love my little family of dolls.
We often visit playgroups or child minder settings where children choose a doll to cuddle while I read them stories about sharing, kindness, inclusion, and acceptance. The children remember the dolls' names and look forward to playing with them again.
What I love most about the dolls that Ticiana & Adriana create is that they all have their unique personalities and come alive as you complete each step. They are a world apart from any other doll patterns I've seen.
If you're wondering if you can follow Crochetree’s patterns as a novice crocheter, I promise you can. If you know basic crochet, these dolls will be easy to make. If you get stuck, drop Ticiana a message, and she will help you.
After taking a break to make summer cardigans for my granddaughter, I'm excited to start on a new project: a grandma doll that looks like my beautiful mum, who passed away six years ago. This will help keep her memory close for my grandchildren.
To all you dear readers, I hope I’ve inspired you to try, and I can’t wait to see photos of the dolls you make.
