Our favourite blogger: Martine Ellis

Tell us about yourself...
I’m Martine and I love making stuff . I have a creative lifestyle blog called iMake, which is also the home of the iMake podcast and magazine. I live on the beautiful island
of Guernsey with my hubby, Simon, and our two cats.

What inspired you to start blogging?
I enjoy writing and sharing snapshots of the creative parts of my life. This, combined with a geeky/techie streak got me started in blogging, then soon after that, podcasting. Over the years iMake has developed a loyal audience and it’s these people that keep me motivated and generating more content.

Have you made new friends through blogging?
Yes, definitely. The online craft community is incredibly generous and inclusive. It could be easy to feel a little isolated on a tiny island in the middle of the English Channel, but I can honestly say the community has welcomed me with open arms.

How did you learn to crochet?
YouTube taught me to crochet! I learned the basics a few years back, but it’s only recently that I’ve got really hooked (pardon the very obvious pun). Knitting has previously been my go-to craft but I think crochet might be taking over. That’s certainly what my “work in progress” pile suggests. Both crafts have their place and purpose – I don’t subscribe to the myth that you are either a crocheter or knitter. I am both.

Who are your favourite other bloggers, designers or authors?
One of my favourite creative lifestyle blogs is A Beautiful Mess (www.abeautifulmess.com). CraftyPod (www.craftypod.com) has really inspired me over the years too. I try to support indie knitting and crochet designers as much as possible. What are your plans for the future?
I’ve recently moved the iMake blog and podcast to a new online home so I am focusing on developing that space and responding to feedback. Hopefully this development will include some video tutorials and lots more podcasts.