Talking Textile: Bright Red Cherries
Just tell me about yourself briefly and your business. What name do you want to be referred by?
Happy to be referred to as Cherry
I started Bright Red Cherries 10 years ago, the same time that I started maternity leave with my eldest son. I've always loved craft and it was a chance for me to crochet, sew, design and create. Over the years, crochet has overtaken all other crafts. For me, crochet is the perfect hobby. It gives me time to be still in a world that just keeps getting busier as it allows me to be both mindful and mindless at the same time.
How do you work with wool?
Crochet is my thing. I love how portable it is. There are no stitches to drop and all you need is a hook and yarn, both of which I always have with me for all the times I find myself waiting (school, sports, appointments, etc…)
If you could choose one pivotal moment in your career, what would it be?
Starting my Etsy shop in 2017 was a pivotal moment. A friend encouraged me to write up some of my patterns and helped me open the shop. Since then Bright Red Cherries has grown a lot. I've connected with fellow crocheters all over the world and it has been wonderful to share my passion for crochet and colour.
What are the professional achievements you are most proud of?
Launching a kit with KPC is certainly a highlight and something I never would have thought would happen. I'm so grateful for the opportunity. I'm also very proud of my Stabby Granny Star blanket. I wanted to create a pattern that could be made from an existing yarn stash. I like that the pattern focuses on using what you have rather than buying more. The pattern was launched just before Covid19 meaning that many of us were stuck at home and using your yarn stash seemed like the perfect way to pass the time.
If there is one thing you wish you’d know when you were starting out in wool, what would it be?
Most definitely the' magic no ends' knot. If you don't know about it, I have a video on my IG feed. It means there is no weaving in ends when you have to join yarn - it's a game-changer!
Why do you think wool and handmade textiles are so fashionable right now?
There are a lot of love that goes in to handmade items. Whether you have made them yourself or ordered from a maker, a personalized item is a gift from the heart and comes with a lot of love. In a world where you can buy almost anything, and something made just for you is special.
What is your dream wool project?
I love making blankets. I like to think of them as canvases as I work on colours and texture and build up the layers to make the final piece.
Who are the artists who have most greatly inspired you?
Kezz Brett's paintings are divine! I love her use of colour. One day I've promised myself I'll treat myself to one of her prints.
What is your favourite woolen item in your wardrobe or home?
My most favourite blankets are the ones I've made my two boys. My heart melts when I see them snuggled asleep under a blanket I've made them. Plus, they are so sweet when they are asleep!
Where do you work?
I wear a few hats. I'm a mum to two boys (aged 10 and 6), I'm a software consultant 4 days a week and am also in my 4th year of a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education. In between all that comes crochet.
What is your ideal of a good beginner’s task?
Certainly a giant granny square blanket. When I teach people how to make a granny square and then tell them they have all the skills they need to make a blanket they look at me in wonder. A giant granny square blanket is a great project as it builds confidence and increases muscle memory. Once that's mastered you can move on to other more complicated stitches and patterns.
Which is the KPC Yarn hue that really speaks to you?
Gosh, picking one is hard.... I love the marled nature of Honeysuckle but for a single colour - Peacock is probably my favourite as it complements so many other colours in the KPC collection.