Intro – Today we’re talking to crochet designer Johanna Meriläinen, who contributed the Pride Earrings & Brooch crochet pattern featured in our June 2024 issue.
Can you tell us a little bit about what inspired your design for this month?
My inspiration came from the people who you see take part in the pride parade. All the bright colors and joy that fills the air. It’s explosive and unapologetic and extremely beautiful.
What’s your favorite aspect of this piece?
My favorite aspect of these earrings is the way they radiate joy and the fact that everyone can make it their own.
What is your crochet origin story? How did you learn to crochet?
I couldn’t have been older than seven when I found a magazine with different crochet tutorials and taught myself how to crochet. It was one of my mom’s craft magazines and it included pictures with instructions. It was one of those things that I took interest in as a kid and then it just never stopped.
What is the most important thing you would want someone who’s just starting out to know?
I think the most important part of creating anything is not to get discouraged by small mistakes. You shouldn’t unravel the whole project just because one stitch is amiss. It’s all part of the process and nothing tops the feeling of finishing what you started. The end result will be perfect just as it is.
What is the weirdest thing you’ve ever made?
One summer I had picked fresh rhubarb from my backyard and thought “I could probably crochet with that” and so I did. I peeled some strips from the stem and crocheted them into a square. I find it fascinating to test how far I can push the limits of crochet and what bizarre things I can make with just my hook and imagination.
What project are you most proud of?
I am definitely most proud of the crochet books I’ve published. They were one of my long-time dreams and the feeling of seeing something so lovely with my name on it out in stores and libraries was incredible.
How can our readers find you on social media?
You can find me on the following sites:
Instagram: @jonsku_mermer
Are you a crochet designer who wants to contribute to Crochet Foundry Magazine? We work with independent crochet designers to produce the gorgeous designs featured in our magazine. To find out more, visit our Submit a Design page and be sure to sign up for our Designer Calls be notified of design opportunities.