You found Surf City Crochet!

A darling and enthusiastic @ThugShells (Instagram) at Pride 2026. She bouht the apron – like it was made for her.

I love to crochet. I learned from a woman I cared for when I was 11. Gramma Watson was in her 90s and lived next door. I was hired to keep her company, but truly, she was the one who gave me a gift for life. She taught me to crochet, and we’d sit together, hooking, talking, and watching Mike Douglas. It turns out I’m not the only one with fond memories of loved ones when it comes to stitchcraft.

There is evidence that crochet makes people feel calm, and 82% of people say they feel happier after picking up the hook. (We are the OG Happy Hookers.)

I have patterns in my crochet blogs. All of them are free (which also means they may be imperfect). If I post it, I wrote it. That said, this is a bit like cooking: we all benefit from what’s been done, and then we add our own spices and tricks, and voilà, we have a new creation (kinda).

Starting or expanding your crochet network.

I recommend joining Crochet Crowd Stitch Social, RepeatCrafterMe, and the ADHD Craft Corner, which is endlessly relatable for anyone with a craft room that has oozed out of every edge. The coolest newer entry that inspires me is Dope People Crochet (these creators break all the rules with stunning results).

Beyond the hook, I want everyone who wants to, to do it!.

I’m always looking for ways to use crochet to build community, connect people, and bring a smile to someone’s face. You can also find me doing demos at the Santa Cruz County Fair in September. If you notice, crocheters are notorious for their generosity, humor, and endless need for dopamine (don’t talk to us, we’re counting).