Wreaths aren't just for Christmas! Anna Nikipirowicz, author of Crocheted Wreaths for the Home, joined us for a crafty catch-up and chat about her book, her upcoming crochet workshops, as well as sharing her crocheting advice. What's more, Anna has given us an exclusive crochet pattern especially for members of the Search Press Craft Group!
We’re very excited about the publication of your brand new book, Crocheted Wreaths for the Home; you have designed some gorgeous wreaths in this one. Which project was your favourite?
It’s so hard to choose; each project in this book is so precious and my heart went into every single one of them, but if I had to choose it would be the Succulents Wreath – it’s a true explosion of colour.
Every succulent appears different simply by changing colour. It’s closely followed by the Autumn Wreath; this one is all about woodlands and my love of animals and nature. I also must mention the Spring Wreath; this one is all about flowers and the beautiful awakening of spring, when everything starts coming to life again and the colours are vibrant. It also incorporates my love of mohair yarn.
Where do you find inspiration for your designs?
Nature: it’s my biggest inspiration. My husband and I are huge nature lovers and spend as much time as we can outdoors. There’s no greater beauty than you can find in nature. The colours of changing seasons, the beauty and wonder of animals; it’s all absolutely enchanting.
This is your third book with us. How/where did Search Press discover you?
My friend, Angela, used to own a craft shop, The Creative Sanctuary. I designed a crochet purse kit for her and while she was at a craft show she was approached by Search Press who later contacted me about ideas for purse book; that’s how my first book, 20 To Make: Crocheted Purses, was born.
How long does it take you to complete an average piece (from the book) from start to finish?
I would say about 3-4 evenings for one wreath.
Do you have a favourite room at home to work in?
I have a studio in my living room, which really is just a corner. It is the messiest and most disorganised bit of my home, but I love it. My cat, Brick, very often comes and sleeps in the basket on the top shelf above my desk and it’s the most adorable sight.
Are the projects in the book difficult?
They range in difficulty. I tried to cover all levels as I would love everyone to have a go. I’ve included a few interesting techniques and stitches such as waistcoat stitch in the Mini Wreaths and colourwork in the foxes from the Autumn one; but if you are beginner a great place to start is the eggs in the Easter Wreath; it's the perfect project to practise working in the round, increasing and decreasing.
Do you have any tips for beginners?
Do not give up; crochet is a wonderful craft, but it takes a bit of patience. Start off with an average size hook such as 3.5 or 4mm, light coloured double knitting yarn (one that does not split easily), and do not rush – enjoy the process of learning and creating.
What are you working on now?
At the moment I have two very exciting projects I’m working on but I cannot reveal what they are – watch this space!
Do you have any exciting plans for 2020?
Loads! An exciting book launch at The Yarn Dispensary, in Faversham, Kent on 28th March, then loads of classes at John Lewis, Oxford Street inspired by the book and, of course, lots and lots of crochet!
For full list of Anna's book events check out the workshop page on her website: www.moochka.co.uk.
Anna's book, Crocheted Wreaths for the Home is available now from Search Press, RRP £12.99.
Join our Search Press Craft Group and try an exclusive free bonus project designed by Anna!
You don't need to be green fingered to crochet this quirky hyacinth bulb! We are offering this exclusive project to all members of our Search Press Craft Group on our Facebook page.
Follow the link below to become a member and try your hand at making this great fuss-free house plant! Don't forget to share photos of your finished piece and tag us @searchpress!
Search Press Craft Group is a space for fans of Search Press books to show us what they've been making from the books. Meet a community of like-minded crafters and discuss what they’re currently crafting - best of all, it's absolutely free to join!
Click here to join the Search Press Craft Group now for FREE!
