Sample Projects
Meet the Author
Hey there, can you introduce yourself?
My name is Claire and I am the MD of Wool Couture Company. In 2015 I left my career in the NHS and later in 2016 launched Wool Couture. We specialise in manufacturing Great British Craft Kits in knitting, weaving, crochet and macrame. Last year we started working with Search Press on our new book Mabel Bunny and Co.
Tell us a bit about the book?
Our new book Mabel Bunny and Co has 15 characters and the crochet patterns for people to make at home. At Wool Couture we love our super chunky yarn and the characters have been made in this, so they look lovely and oversized, but the patterns will work just as well with smaller yarn and hooks if you prefer. In the book we have everything from a Walter the zebra, Trevor the artic fox and Clarence the pig plus many more. We also have a Dragon - this is dedicated to our 2 Dragons Den investors who help us to develop our business. The book also has a techniques section, so if you are new to crochet this will be really helpful and describes every stitch used in the book.
What was the inspiration behind it?
Well we designed Mabel the Bunny and she was such a hit with our customers that they just wanted more - so the book was born!
Which is your favourite project?
Personally I love Mabel the Bunny, she was our first born and then my second will be Oliver the Octopus - he is just wonderful for cuddles!
What is your craft space like?
Last year we converted an old pub into our studio and shop. This is where you will find men every day...its actually a beautiful place over looking fields!
Have you always been creative?
I picked up my first crochet hook when I was 8 years old and I have crafted ever since. I have anxiety and depression and over the years crafts have helped me manage this. Im so lucky that not only can I craft...I also do this as a business, I feel very lucky!
When did you first start crafting?
Yes I learnt how to make a granny square with a teeny tiny hook and very fine yarn.
Who are your crafty heroes?
Erika Knight is my all time favourite, her books and patterns have helped me through many a dark day and I just love her style.
Where do you find inspiration?
Every where...for example this year we had a field full of poppies near our house and every day I would walk past these with my dogs...this then turned into me creating a wall hanging of crochet poppies. Im always thinking of my next design...I find it really therapeutic.
What's next for you?
Well we have a knitting book planned for next year and we are launching 2 new crafts on our site. We are working with a small mill to launch a new aran weight yarn and a million and one other things are in the pipeline!
Publisher's Description
Crochet the most adorable animals in cosy, chunky yarn. Fun patterns and handy guides mean the only difficulty will be choosing which animal to crochet, as Mabel and her friends are equally delightful!Who could resist these loveable toys and their babies? De-stress by snuggling up with Mabel Bunny and her friends - oversized crocheted toys, perfect for giant cuddles and little hands. Not just for children, the soft, chunky yarn and floppy limbs will appeal to all, so make them for yourself or give as gifts (if you can bear to part with them). Mabel makes a great reading companion and at over 60cm tall from head to paws, the animals sit comfortably on a shelf or at the end of a bed.As well as fifteen different animals to crochet and love, including a dragon, a polar bear, an octopus and a pig, you can also make mini versions, which are 30-40cm tall. The projects are pitched at beginners to improvers and are suitable for someone who has mastered the basics of crochet. So be inspired, choose a pattern to start and be prepared to fall in love with this collection of adorable toys.
