Today we’d like to introduce you to Julie Likley.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Julie. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
My grandmother taught me to crochet six years ago when my family and I were in-between homes and had to move in with her and my grandfather for a while. It wasn’t the ideal situation at the time but looking back, I am thankful because I learned a craft that has shaped my life ever since. I fell in love with crochet and the ability to create with my hands. I was a young stay at home mom of an 8-month-old at the time and desperately needed a creative outlet – something that would ignite the passion to make. Enter in crochet. My grandmother taught me a few basic stitches and since then everything else I have learned has been self-taught (thank God for YouTube). I eventually started writing my own patterns and somewhat modernizing the craft of crochet. I don’t just sit around making doilies – I make bikinis, crop tops, dresses, bags, scarves, beanies, ponchos, and even recently released a pattern for a mini succulent plant hanger. As cliche as it sounds, the possibilities are endless; and I have every intention of continuing on to learn more, challenge myself, and see where these zealous hands can take me.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It hasn’t always been easy. There was a period of time, during the pregnancy of my second child, where I didn’t really pick up a crochet hook. Sometimes, I have gotten creative block and felt uninspired, but it honestly never lasted too long. Writing patterns was HARD. And still is! It is a very tedious and somewhat intimidating job, however, I enjoy the challenge.
Please tell us about Hands of Zeal – what should we know?
I specialize in crochet design. I write crochet patterns for other crocheters to buy so they too can make what I have made. I enjoy creating flawless designs with high-quality material. I have accepted custom orders in the past but haven’t as of late since my main focus is now on pattern making. It is very rewarding when someone shows interest in and/or purchases my work.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
It is important to have the skills and knowledge required to crochet as well as write patterns. Also, great customer service and professionalism is important to me. I am so appreciative to everyone who supports my work and I want that to show in everything I do and say.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.handsofzeal.com, hands-of-zeal.myshopify.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: instagram.com/handsofzeal
- Other: handsofzeal.etsy.com
Image Credit:
Carly Hoffman – CarlyJeanPhotography
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