ELISA SARTORI
My mom has been crocheting since I was a little girl, and I’d always wanted her to teach me, but I rarely had the time. Then 10 years ago my husband received an offer for an assignment in the US (we’re both from Italy), and I left my job, we left family and friends, and moved to our new life. I wasn’t working and had to find things to do to occupy my time, so I started experimenting with different arts and ultimately crochet. My mom showed me some basic stitches, and that’s where it all started!
I create a lot of amigurumi animals. They are fun to crochet, and make great gifts. I start thinking about a specific animal, and then imagine its personality, hobbies, interests, and what kind of colours match. I first sketch it, and keep making small adjustments until I’m happy with its look. Ultimately, I create a character, and give it a name. This helps me decide what ‘works’ and what doesn’t when I finally put together the amigurumi. My personal goal is to create a new pattern every week, which can be challenging. I must be ‘vigilant’ all the time, ready to take note if an idea comes to my mind.
Recently I created a beaver toy. I put a lot of effort into it and was very happy with the end result, as it was expressive yet the pattern was fairly simple. Shortly after I shared it on my socials, I was contacted by a publisher who wanted to include my amigurumi beaver in their book! Needless to say, I was excited.
I like to think the dolls I design help bring joy in someone’s life; those who make them and those who receive them.
For more on Elisa Sartori follow her on Instagram at @elisascrochet, visit www.elisascrochet.com for her blog and find her patterns on Etsy, Ravelry, and Amigurumipatterns.net as Elisa’s Crochet