Fresh Hooks in Crochet

Details

Design

Sunday, 21 March 2010 06:55

By KAM

Using hooks to pull loops of threads into fabric started way before the 1800's, and more than two centuries later, crochet remains alive and well with Tamair Creations.

At age eight, Sauntair Spencer watched her grandmother pull slip-knot loops into chains to create beautifully coloured, unique pieces for the family. But this was more than just a pastime, as she would see the craft, handed down over generations, become the brainwave of her business.

The talented young designer - though she toyed with the idea for many years - did not pursue a business in handmade crochet until 2004.

Her rebaptism into the craft came after a friend asked Spencer to make a hat and scarf set she could wear to an event. Spencer did not disappoint. Her friend was extremely impressed with the stitch work, as well as Spencer’s creative sense. This sealed the deal.

Soon after, others were taken aback by the exclusive cutting-edge accessories, and in no time orders began to pour in.

“I have always loved using my hands to create pieces, and the positive responses to my work motivated me to make others aware of my talent," she said.

"They are unique and can bring out the individuality of the person wearing it. It stands out and is one-of-a-kind because no two pieces are identical. The colours might be the same, but stitches are unique to that garment."

Six years later, her portfolio continues to grow and includes pieces that include swimsuits, earrings, bags, belts, hats, scarves, and other unique accessories.

As the season transitions into spring, Spencer said she no longer makes items such as hats and scarves, which were in demand over the winter season.

She is now making sundresses, skirts, and later on beach wear for summer.

At present she takes photos of every item she makes and has posted a collection of her designs on her Facebook group – Tamair Creations.  Through social networking, Spencer said friends have given her ideas for pieces and made orders. She said although Tamair Creations she relocated to New York, her items are shipped through the mail all over the world. Spencer said she also hires persons who are travelling to her native Antigua to deliver orders for her.  She added that she is now building a website tamaircreations.yolasite.com so that customers can make online orders which will be shipped to them directly.

The hardworking entrepreneur, who considers her business to be lucrative, said she is thankful for the support she has gotten from friends and well wishers. She also encourages more young people to pursue their own business.

“Tamair Creations is dedicated to providing quality garments. The company is a way for me as a young Antiguan to use my talent and share it with others. I welcome any ideas because the business is growing daily. Each day, there are new designs that are developed and made into amazing pieces. I am happy to say that I have started a business where I sell the items I produce myself and that the business is moving forward smoothly,” the ever cheerful artist said as she brought her customers up to speed.

The sole designer of Tamair Creations said she is aware is that unlike herself some people do not have the patience to crochet or even complete a piece or clothing for someone else to wear. But that’s why she is here. She is not afraid to make what the customer orders, any style, any size, any colour.

She also noted that many fashionable wears of the past are becoming the latest trends which can easily be refashioned into crochet sensations.

Spencer never for a minute budged on remarks that crocheting is old fashion and boring, but was always quick to educate that the craft has experienced a wave of modern twists and weaves - making for more versatile and fashion-forward designs.

“Crochet might seem old fashion, but just like any other trend, this craft continues to revolve. If you look around, you will see some item that is crocheted or knitted, even if it is machine made. Crochet has never died and more and more young people, even young men are taking up the crochet pin and making beautiful pieces. For you, it might be old fashion, but for someone else it is something to be cherished and admired,” Spencer said without apologies.

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