For the last instalment in our independent designer interviews, we’re talking to Virginie, the creator of Nina-and-Lou, and an amigurumi lover! We spoke to Virginie about being a pattern designer, her studio space and her favourite pattern! Check out her shop here.
1. What made you want to become a pattern designer?
Since I was a kid, I have always loved crafting and creating with wool, fabric, paper, cardboard…I used to knit and crochet since I was a little girl: I learned it with my grandmother Carmen when I was in elementary school. I began to create my own amigurumi and toys patterns in my late twenties when all my friends around me became mamas! I loved the idea of preparing hand-crafted unique toys for their kiddos. Later on, encouraged by my friends and my family, I designed my website and online shop to share my patterns.
2. Why is pattern design so important to you?
It’s a way to express my imagination and share my universe with other crochet enthusiasts! It allows me to dive again into childhood and memories, and also to please my own children. I am always amazed to see a ball of yarn turn into a little colorful amigurumi. I love to share my universe and I love the idea that some of my amigurumi critters bring joy to little kids.
3. Do you have your own studio? Tell us about your workspace.
I have a corner in the living room with a space dedicated to sewing and crocheting. But I enjoy crocheting everywhere: in transportation, in cafés, at the beach.
4. When you’re experiencing a creative block, how do you get back into the spirit?
My kids ask me to crochet a lot of toys for them. I find a lot of inspiration on blogs, in books, DIY magazines, on Makerist websites or specialized books.
5. What is your favourite pattern you’ve created?
My favorite pattern is the sheep that thinks it’s a shepherd. This pattern belongs to the ‘Tales and Stories” collection from my universe “Imaginarium”. The sheep hangs out with its friend the wolf in sheep’s clothing! This collection was imagined to enhance parents’ and kids’ imagination at storytime. I’ve just created a new member of this collection to celebrate my baby boy’s birth: an adventurer silver fox with an aviator cap and mailman bag… (pattern to be released soon).
Thank you so much to Virginie for taking the time to speak with us! Check out her amazing patterns here. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more about our designers and pattern inspiration!
