by Noella Noelophile®
Say the word “crochet” and what comes to mind? Grandma making an afghan or mom creating something lacy for a new baby–right?
Well, that’s not what Paula Bennett does.
Instead, she designs slinky, sparkly crocheted dresses perfect for a night on the town. Her small business, Paula Crochet Fashion, features halter tops, sweaters and even wedding gowns that are feminine, sexy, and romantic.
Best of all, she doesn’t keep her knowledge a secret. Not only does she offer her patterns for sale on her website and Etsy store–Paula also uses crochet as a means of inspiring and empowering others. Through her program, Crochet Warm Hearts, she teaches free crochet classes to all ages. All she asks, in return, is that people share what she has taught them with others and keep the art of crochet alive. And she’s published a magazine which includes a number of her patterns!
Paula, who came to the U.S. from Belize in 1999, has been at CRAFTED since May of this year. She talked about her background, her experiences with crochet and some exciting future plans involving her art and her students.
Like to check in with Paula about her free classes, see the latest cool design she’s created or even support her soon-to-be nonprofit by donating yarn and/or crochet hooks? You can find her at Booth 108 of CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles, 112 East 22nd Street, Warehouse 10 (at Miner).