Stitch by Stitch: Finding Joy, Therapy and Love in Crochet
Crocheting has become a heartfelt journey of love, creativity, and self-expression for me—a passion rooted deeply in my childhood and nourished by my experiences as an adult.
Growing up, my mom was a craft enthusiast who introduced us to the joy of creating with our hands. By the age of four, she had already begun teaching us various handcrafts. For years, I was a "scrapbook girl," completely immersed in my colorful, fantastical world of paper, glue, and memories. These early creative endeavors sparked my lifelong love for handmade treasures.
As I transitioned into adulthood and embarked on my journey as a hardworking foreign teacher from the Philippines, life brought its share of challenges. Between work responsibilities and personal worries, I longed for a hobby that could provide an escape—a space to unwind and recharge. I initially tried cross-stitching, but the intense focus it required strained my eyesight, forcing me to look elsewhere for solace.
That’s when crocheting entered my life. It wasn’t an instant connection—it took me nearly a year to truly get the hang of it. But once I figured out patterns that resonated with me, something clicked. It became my creative refuge. At first, I hoped it could be a shared hobby with my husband, but the intricate coordination it required proved a bit overwhelming for him. Still, I pressed on, falling more and more in love with each project I completed.
My first major endeavor was a baby blanket, created as a manifestation of a dream close to my heart: the hope of one day having a child of my own. That blanket symbolized more than just warmth; it carried my dreams, prayers, and love. From that moment forward, crocheting became more than just a pastime—it was my therapy, my way of channeling emotions into something tangible and beautiful.
Over time, my confidence grew, and I began making crocheted gifts for friends and family. The joy of creating something with my hands and seeing it bring happiness to others has been incredibly fulfilling. Crocheting is not just about the craft itself but about the love and care woven into each stitch.
Now, I want to share this joy with the world. Through my carefully crafted projects, I hope to spread not just warmth and beauty but also a deeper appreciation for the art of crochet. Every piece I create carries a part of my heart—a testament to the power of handmade treasures in connecting us, comforting us, and celebrating the beauty of life.