I have created custom crocheted blankets since I was a girl. Both of my Grandmother's taught me to crochet and work with my hands. Working with color and textures of yarn has always been a passion. I have been crocheting since I was 12. When I was 15 I crocheted three blankets as Christmas gifts for my family. I have designed custom blankets for my husband and each of our children as they have grown through the years. Opening an Etsy shop in 2008 was simply the next step. I have recently started writing my patterns down so others can create their own masterpieces! Frankly, I just love crocheting something new and rarely do I go back and create two blankets that are identical.
Living in South America and then England has given me a unique perspective on design and color. Seeing and enjoying the bright beautiful colors of the local handwork has had a great influence in all of my crochet design work. I love bright colors that work well together. It is a stretch for me to use neutral colors or a more muted pallet. I have been very influenced by Laura Ashley designs, South American textiles, Molas, historical textile design and just the beauty and rhythm of a city pulsing with life. I have difficulty creating with the crowd and find myself forging my own path. I have been taking drawing and painting lessons this year along with quilting lessons and it has been fun to continue my education into new arenas.
I spent years testing different craft arenas before I came back to crocheting, and sewing with a sprinkling of other crafts tossed in on the side. I hope you enjoy ChocolateDogStudio items as much as I love making them!