Carly Bettinson: Crochet Queen
Firstly, tell us about yourself! When you're not crocheting, what are you doing?
When I’m not crocheting or sewing, I’m usually found singing, working on various creative projects, teaching choir, or hanging out with my family.
How would you describe your pieces?
My pieces are happy, charismatic and lovingly handmade. I want every piece to feel like receiving a hand made garment from your Grandma, that she carefully made with love for you! Nothing hits as good as a gift from Grandma.
If you could transport to any fashion era in history, what would it be?
Oh man, that’s so hard to pick. I feel like we’re kinda entering this awesome time in fashion now where so many periods of style and trends are coexisting together… it’s very exciting. But I have always been quite in love with the 1940/50s era of fashion. The high waisted shorts, swimmers and simple sophistication of the garments are truly beautiful.
How did you start crocheting? Was it something you have known how to do for a while?
I started crocheting around May 2020 (hello pandemic hobby). I think it was around the time this cardigan Harry Styles wore went viral on Tik Tok & I thought…. I reckon I could make that. And then started my sweet sweet romance with all things crochet and yarn!
Did you have any doubts or anything when you started posting/selling your designs?
Oh absolutely. I took me so long to find my confidence… I even stopped posting for about 8 months or so because I just thought my work was so average. This year I moved out of home though, and my mental health was suffering so much at my job so i decided to quit & throw myself into my business. I thought it would be just for fun with the knowledge that if it didn’t keep me afloat I would have to get a new job in a few months when my savings ran out. Somehow (with a lot of work and prayer) my crocheting hustle has been kindly keeping me going & allowing me the time to take care of my mind and body. There’s still doubts but it’s cool to start feeling more confident every garment I make, and have some fun whilst paying for my rent.
How do you see handmade clothing making its mark in this hyper-consumer world?
Buying handmade, ethically made or products from local makers are all awesome ways to be more thoughtful in your fashion choices! I think people are starting to see what a privilege it is to support local makers. Supporting slow fashion means your product will be consciously crafted, potentially made to order specifically for your body, and ultimately should add value to your closet in both style, originality and in quality. Consuming at a slower pace is something this world sorely needs.
Any plans in the works for 'from Carly B’?
I’m eagerly working away designing summer pieces! I’m putting my crochet hook away and curating a fabric stock of second hand and reclaimed textiles to turn into sweet ruffled collars, dresses, bucket hats and maybe even some made to order jumpsuits/co-ords. Stay tuned!
Where can people find you online & how can they get their hands on one of your pieces?
Come say hey at my Instagram @fromcarlyb . That’s where I post my finished products, announce new Etsy listings and take custom order inquiries. You can also find my pieces up on my Etsy store ‘From Carly B’ which is accessible through Etsy or the link in my Insta bio!
