Designer we love

Tell us a bit about yourself…
I live in Buenos Aires, Argentina. I am married and I have two sons, aged 14 and 11. We also have a dog, Peppa, who oversees the house from her spot on the couch.

Could you tell us about what you do?
I design crochet patterns to make dolls, mostly human dolls, which are my favourite thing to make. I love creating them from scratch. But I always say that being a “crochet doll designer” is my secret identity. I studied Social Communication and I currently also work as a TV producer for a weekly talk show on national politics.

How did you first learn to crochet?
I learned around 11 years ago when I took a two-month workshop during my maternity leave. I have never stopped crocheting since. I love it.

How did you get into designing?
At first, I crocheted dolls using patterns by other designers. But slowly I began introducing some tweaks and simple modifications to make those designs my own. One day I drew a doll I wanted to make and crocheted her from scratch. It was a super proud moment for me to design my very first doll.

What inspires your designs?
I like to believe that everything can turn on the lightbulb of an idea: a good book, a play, a movie, seeing my children play, a joke, an art exhibition, a fruit. I think we must always have an open mind and a pencil and piece of paper to hand, because an idea can strike in the most unlikely moment.

What are your most popular designs?
My Crochet Iconic Women series is very popular. My flying fairies too. And Baby Hoki is a favourite among many of my followers. As for my own preference, I always say that the doll I finish last is my favourite and I love her the most. Until I make a new one. So, all of my dolls get to be favourite at least once!

What are you most proud of?
Definitely having my books published. It’s something I still can’t believe. It feels like a dream… and to have them translated in different languages? Don’t pinch me – I don’t want to wake up!

Tell us about your colour palette…
Except for times when I’m doing a particular person with a palette of their own, I tend to use pastels. I love powdered pinks and greys and how well they work together.

What is your favourite part of the design process?
I love it when an idea strikes like lightning. Then I love making the first drawings, choosing the colours and crocheting it. I tend to get a bit anxious and want to finish quickly to have the finished doll in my hands, so I hate it when something doesn’t work out and I have to frog and start over. I also love taking photos and seeing how my followers react to a new design.

Any advice for an aspiring crochet designer?
I always give the same advice: stay true to yourself and crochet or design what you like. Do not think of what others like, just what makes you happy. Others will feel the love you poured into it and love it too.

What’s next for you?
Volume 2 of Crochet Iconic Women will be published in 2023 and I can’t wait to show everyone my new lineup of extraordinary ladies! These designs have given me so much satisfaction and to know that they are used to spark conversations on the achievements and lives of these women makes me truly happy!

You can buy Carla’s patterns at www.amourfoucrochet.etsy.com and find free patterns on her blog www.amourfou-crochet.com