How Thomas Gregory Hamilton is using Gregory Stitch and Stitch Factor to show the world that crochet is an important part of the fashion industry.
Hello Thomas, the Crochet Foundry Community is so excited to have you join us. Let’s jump in and learn all about you and Stitch Factor!
Please tell us a bit about who you are and what you do.
My name is Thomas Gregory Hamilton and I am the designer and owner of the crochet fashion brand Gregory Stitch.
How did you become Gregory Stitch?
I became Gregory Stitch after the passing of my mother in 2011. I needed an outlet and coping mechanism to deal with the trauma so I went to a craft store and picked up a hook and yarn and taught myself to crochet. It soon became an obsession. I’ve always had a love for fashion ever since I was a kid. I decided one day that I would combine two of my loves and combine them into one. That was the day that Gregory Stitch was born.
What is Stitch Factor?
Stitch Factor is a Fiber Fashion Competition for crocheters, knitters, weavers, and macrame designers to sharpen their skills, build relationships, and compete to win life changing opportunities.
What inspired Stitch Factor?
Stitch Factor was an Idea that came to me in 2018. I wanted to bring together some of the world’s best fiber designers to show the world what handmade fashion can really do. I was tired of people thinking that fiber fashion was a passing fad. I wanted to prove to the world that we are the future of fashion.
What sets Stitch Factor contestants apart from other crochet designers?
What sets Stitch Factor contestants apart is the fact they aren’t afraid to take risk. Often times crochet designers have amazing ideas for garments but are too afraid to make them. I have given our contestants the permission to create the things they wished existed. They are also passionate about what they do. They know what it takes to create beautiful couture pieces. Sometimes that means staying up until the early hours of the morning and barely getting sleep. This is what it takes to be a fashion designer.
What is your goal with Stitch Factor, where do you see it in 5 years?
Stitch Factor in 5 years will be a world wide competition and brand. It will also be the first televised Fiber Fashion Competition.
What advice do you have for other crocheter designers who want to be part of the fashion industry?
I would tell them to be as original as they possibly can. DON’T GO WITH THE TRENDS!!!! Find the thing that makes you different and sets you apart. Do your research. Study different fashion houses, time periods, and cultures.
What should aspiring Stitch Factor contestants do to have a chance at competing in 2025?
If you wish to compete in Season 2 of the Stitch Factor Fashion Competition in 2025 I suggest that you start preparing your fashion lookbook now. Be original. Don’t show us anything that’s trending. We want to see what’s in your head. This will take your far in the competition and in life
How can we get tickets to Stitch Factor?
Tickets are available at Stitchfactorcompetition.com.
Where can our readers find Gregory Stitch and Stitch Factor online?
Readers can find Gregory Stitch on Facebook, Instagram, and TitTok at Gregory Stitch.
You can find Stitch Factor on Instagram at Stitch Factor Official and at Stitchfactorcompetition.com.
