We had a chat with Lauren Lewis, who is the magician behind Lauren Lewis Designs. We’ve spotted her work all over our WIP Wednesday post, and couldn’t wait to get to know her better!

Hey Lauren, thanks for having a chat with us! Let’s get started….

Tell us a little bit about yourself – your background, general day-to-day life, hobbies (other than crafting).

I know this is a common answer, but I genuinely love reading. It’s become a huge part of my life, even though I didn’t start until I was 30. Now, it feels like books have taken over in the best way possible. Horror is my favourite genre, and I notice it creeping into my work sometimes. For example, I recently made a crochet chainsaw designed by Twisted Hatter, and a quirky chicken hat by Stephanie Pokorny. I’m planning to film a fun little trailer with both and do a photoshoot soon. The chainsaw is drying at the moment, but I have some photos, and a work-in-progress shot of the chicken hat and chainsaw I’d love to show you! 

When it comes to crafting, crochet is my focus. Like most crafters, I dabble in other things, but crochet is where my heart is. I honestly never thought I’d be able to make a living doing something I love, and I’m grateful for it every day. Outside of crafting, my day-to-day life involves taking care of my four sphynx cats, my chickens, and a flock of quails—all while crocheting, of course! 

When and why did you start crafting?  

It’s funny—I’ve tried so many different crafts, but nothing really stuck until I found crochet. I spent a lot of time trying to get into painting, but I didn’t see progress as quickly as I’d hoped, so I eventually gave up. I think that’s why crochet stuck with me—it gave me a sense of improvement right away. 

I believe my interest in fibre arts started with my nan. She was always knitting when I was a little girl and made me lots of things. One of my favourites was a knitted monkey doll (like the one from the PG Tips adverts). 

Do you have specific inspiration behind any of your projects?  

My inspiration tends to shift depending on whatever I’m currently obsessed with. I went through (and honestly, I’m probably still in) a phase of loving the cyberpunk style. During that time, I made a bunch of hoods designed by ‘The Creatrix in the Matrixx,’ which gave me the chance to do a whole series of photos in that aesthetic. I’m also heavily inspired by horror culture, as I mentioned earlier. 

What is your favourite piece you’ve done so far?  

Honestly, it’s tough to choose because every time I finish something, I think, “Yay, this is my new favourite!” But if I had to pick, one of my favorite projects has to be the collection of monsters I made for the cover of the Crochet Monsters book by Crafty Intentions. Seeing my work on the front of a book still blows my mind, and I’m so grateful to Megan for trusting not only my crochet skills but also my photography. It’s an experience I’ll always cherish. 

What does your creative process look like?  

Usually, a pattern calls to me because I can already envision how I want the photo to look. The hoods I make by Sylvie Damey and The Creatrix in the Matrixx always inspire me to take photos. I love setting the scene, working with lighting, and really getting into character. I went to stage school in my 20s, so I guess some of that theatrical flair is still with me. 

Does your home reflect your crafting passion?  

I like to keep my home feeling like an oddities shop—full of unique, quirky items that spark my imagination. Plus, having so many things around makes it easy to sneak in a bit of yarn here and there without my husband noticing! 

What crafty designers are you loving at the moment?  

I do a lot of work for Crafty Intentions, including shooting images for her upcoming fourth book. I also had the pleasure of photographing the covers for her Crochet Monsters and Crochet Impkins books. I find Crafty Intentions’ work ethic truly inspiring. I’m also a big fan of Sylvie Damey,  The Creatrix in the Matrixx and find inspiration in The Twisted Hatter’s larger-than-life creations. Sylvie Damey sometimes even send me her makes to photograph like the photo of me in the mushroom hood.  

When I’m designing my own patterns, I receive great support from Tamigurumi and More, who always pre tests my work. I’m also supported by Darkside Crochet, known for their beautiful eyes, and Tangled Pixie, who creates stunning hand-dyed yarn. 

Between garments, blankets and toys, what would you say you love making the most?  

I’d say it depends on the time of year. When it starts getting cooler, I get really into making hoods—honestly, it can get a little out of hand! But I also love creating soft sculptures. Recently, I made the large alien design by Crafty Intentions. 

What is your favourite yarn brand to use for your creations?  

If I’m looking for a variegated yarn, my favorite is King Cole Riot Chunky—I’ve been using it for years. It’s the perfect thickness for toys, blankets, and hoods! For something sturdier, especially for sculpture work, I go with Stylecraft Chunky. 

Three things you would love to learn/master/execute… (Can be crafting related or not)  

Lately, I’ve developed a strong interest in bookbinding and have been watching a lot of videos on the subject. However, I don’t think the timing is right for me to dive in just yet. I’d also love to enhance my gardening skills; while I’m fairly good at it, there’s always room for improvement. Additionally, I want to get better and more confident in pattern writing. My goal is to challenge myself with more complex designs and possibly even venture into creating clothing patterns. 

Thank you for your interview it’s always nice being asked about your passions.  

You can follow Lauren here on Instagram, or head over to her Facebook page to find more of her wonderful creations!