Hats off to Sophies Hats

Sophies Hats is a very busy and productive shop. The owner works tirelessly to make her items and promote them. I've watched as hats flew out the store due to her efforts in designing, crocheting and promoting her hats. Let her tell you the story.


Cozy Corner Crochets: What are the names and addresses of your Pages, Blogs, and/or  Shops

Sophies Hats:            

• FaceBook Page at SophiesHats
  
• Etsy Shop at SophiesHats
• Blog at SophiesHats
• Twitter: @SophiesHats

CCC: What is your primary craft

SH: I hand crochet hats which have a vintage style to them. Each hat is created out of pure inspiration, no patterns are ever used.

CCC: What materials do you work with

SH: I prefer natural materials such as cotton, silk, bamboo, wool, alpaca, llama, I have used mink, and other variations of the listed fibers. I have also used cotton grass which is similar to straw.

CCC: How did you get started and where do you see yourself headed

SH: I actually was a law professor before I started my shop. I worked days and evenings. It occurred that I had to have major neck surgery, and my knee was not cooperating either. After surgery while healing, I needed something to do. So I went back to crocheting which I had not done since my teen years. I made a basic beanie and the rest is history. I enjoy making hats, it seems to come naturally to me. I would like to eventually own a yarn boutique with a lounge in which other crocheters and knitters can  “hang out” during the day---a communal place offering classes, supplies and such. Otherwise, growing my online business is just fine with me.

CCC: Where do you get your ideas

SH: I have various picture/coffee table books with pictures of vintage hats. I get my inspiration from those styles in the picture. I look at the hat and think, can this be crocheted?

CCC: What fuels your passion

SH: The feedback I receive from my customers keeps me going. Statements like, “Your hat makes me feel pretty,” or “ I get stopped all the time because of my hat.” Just the joy I am giving people and knowing I have a little piece of me all around the world.

CCC: How much time each day do you spend on your craft

SH: I spend the same amount of hours a full-time job requires. I figure if this is going to be my work, then I must invest the time in it like a job. I am fortunate that I can do so. 

These items can be found at Sophies Hats on Etsy.

CCC: What would you tell someone just starting out

SH: Follow your gut. If you feel you have something worthwhile to share with the world, do it. But make sure you are ready to invest the time and energy required.

CCC: What gets in the way of you pursuing your dream

SH: Negativity.

CCC: Who is someone you would like to have dinner with

SH: Sean Connery or Harrison Ford

CCC: What do you do to relax and have fun

SH: I like word games, so crosswords or scrabble with my sons and husband are fun. I also enjoy paranormal shows.

CCC: Do you have a favorite crafter that inspires you

SH: I think all the designers who take the leap and risk all for what they enjoy doing

CCC: What did you do “in your other life”

SH: I was a paralegal for many years in Chicago, became a mommy, went to law school and graduated the top of my class, was a law professor and now I am a hat maker/milliner

CCC: Is there anything else you would like to share about yourself

SH: I have a supportive husband and two wonderful sons.



 Please visit me at my shop or my FB page.