Craft: transforming traditional crafts

Ninja Turtle Hat
http://www.etsy.com/view_item.php?listing_id=510709

By Arwen O'Reilly

My jaw dropped when I saw Jennifer's amazing Ninja turtle hat, made without a pattern for her Etsy shop. Fortunately she'll make it in any size, even for grown-ups. My favorite part is the way the mask becomes 3D in back so you can tie it. A self-taught crocheter, she excels at clever hats and backpacks. Now you don't have to decide what to be for Halloween--you just need the rest of the costume! Jennifer talks about her inspirations, her treat-testing facilities and her top tip:

Arwen: How did you get involved with crafting?

Jennifer: I was a high energy child. My family bought me craft stuff all the time to keep me busy.From coloring, drawing, sewing, crocheting, painting, beading and more. My Aunt Kay taught me how to crochet when I was 7 years old. I truly love to create and give gifts to my family and friends.

Arwen: How do you feel about Halloween?

Jennifer: My little Ashley was born on Oct. 14th of 2001. We love to have lots of fun on and around Halloween.

Arwen: What's your favorite Halloween story? Or crafting story?
Jennifer: Well, my best friend and I make homemade doggie treats for a craft fair in the winter but we don't own any dogs. So we compromise! My husband eats anything in the house and our family's pets get gifts to try for us too. This works out really great. We always let our customers know how we test our treats. HEEHEE!

Arwen: What inspires you?

Jennifer: My little Ashley is my great inspiration. She lets me know what's cool and will get a big WOW when we go out. Seeing the smiles and joy in peoples' eyes. Emails from my customers make my day too.

Arwen: What's one tip you'd give to other crafters?

Jennifer: Always have fun and enjoy your crafts.

Arwen: What are some of your most important influences?

Jennifer: I hope that this give you some insight on my thoughts and views in crafts. I am a stay at home mom since my surgery last year for cancer. My final and last surgery was about 3-1/2 weeks a go. I am doing great know and cherish my time with my family and creating memories for everyone. My favorite was donating a huge bag of handmade catnip toys for the little kitties who need a loving home at a local shelter. I am teaching my little one that we are to help others by being creative even if you don't have a lot.

Arwen: What are your favorite crafting books/magazines/websites?

Jennifer: I look at them sometimes just for fun but I can't understand a crochet pattern. If there is something new I want to learn I have a friend that crochets show me and I just put it in memory. I like that because I use my creativity to make my items.