Creative crochet
CROCHET is a process of creating textiles by using a crochet hook to interlock loops of yarn, thread, or strands of other materials – and one could say that 34-year-old Amrita Devi Lal is the queen of crocheting.
From milk bottle covers and doll clothes to tissues boxes and Christmas trees together with Christmas ornaments, you name it, Ms Lal has got the magic in her hands to bring them all to life.
"I was a stay-at-home mother who wanted to do something for herself," the mother of two said.
"Nine years ago I did just that by teaching myself how to crochet."
"I didn't really think much of the hobby to be honest, I would just make my daughters bottle covers and her bag but there came a time when my extended family members began asking me to make things for them once they knew I did crocheting."
Ms Lal said in 2016 she started selling from a small coffee table set-up at RB Centre Point with a few crochetted items and pot plants.
"I was lucky enough to be spotted by the Ministry of Women as well as the Fiji Arts Council, that's when y business grew," she said.
"I first started off with milk bottle covers, tissues box covers, baby bags and shoes but as the years went on I began making elaborate things like dream catchers, earrings and tekiteki.
"My crochet items are all Fijian crafted and I am really grateful for that."
The crochet queen is now permanently located at Downtown Boulevard, along Ellery Street in Suva, where she sells her pot plants and crocheted items.
"I began selling here in 2019 but because of COVID-19 I had to put my business on hold and early 2022 I resumed selling," she said.
"I absolutely enjoy doing this – not only does it keep me on my toes, it also rakes in money to help my husband and our little family, which I am thankful for.
"I thought after my two kids started school, I'd go find a job but because the work I do actually brings in good sales I started my own business and now I am here at Downtown Boulevard selling four days a week."
Her message and advice to young mothers and women is to "get out there and don't be shy. If you know in your heart that you can do it, then go for it and reach for the stars."