Meet the Designer: Elendipity
- canoemtndesigns
- Mar 31
- 4 min read
Designers who can create patterns for Amigurumi are amazing! I had so much fun looking through Eleonora's website, Ravelry & Etsy stores. So many adorable patterns :) I was happy to find out while reading the interview that a lot of her patterns are "no sew" or "little sew".
Please show her some support by having a look at her patterns. While you are there add a few to your library! I'm sure you will find some that you NEED to have!
As usual, the photos link to the pattern. Please follow Eleonara where you can and give her patterns some love by adding them to your favorites :)
All of her links are at the bottom of the feature.
What is your name, business name & where do you live?
My name is Eleonora Cugini, and my business is Elendipity — a blend of my name and 'serendipity,' which I think perfectly captures the magic of finding joy in unexpected creations. I’ve been living in London (UK) since 2019, but I was born and raised in Milan, Italy.
When/How did you learn to crochet?
I learned to crochet when I was just eight years old (I’m 41 now), thanks to my mom. Here’s a funny story: I’m left-handed, but she’s right-handed, and back then there weren't YouTube tutorials or left-handed crochet books readily available. So, I learned with my right hand! It’s funny because now I can crochet and even teach with both hands, but my right hand is still my go-to.
What made you decide to start designing patterns?
It initially started out of necessity—I simply couldn't find patterns for the specific things I wanted to create. But then I discovered how much I loved the creative process of bringing an idea to life in yarn. It's incredibly rewarding.
How would you say that your crochet designing has changed from when you started?
In the beginning, my designs were much simpler, focusing on basic shapes for both amigurumi and garments. But as I’ve learned more about shaping, grading, and construction, I’ve been able to develop more unique patterns that truly reflect my own style. Facebook groups, YouTube, and, of course, a lot of trial and error have been invaluable in this process.
What’s your go-to yarn and crochet hook? Any particular reason why you prefer them?
I don't have one specific hook brand; I prefer ergonomic hooks that are comfortable for my hands during longer projects. When it comes to yarn, it really depends on what I’m making, but I often turn to Hobbii. They have an amazing variety, and their website descriptions are so helpful (plus, I’m a freelance designer for them, so I might be a little biased!).
What are some of your favorite crochet techniques/stitches/ patterns?
Amigurumi definitely holds a special place in my heart! My other top favorites are C2C and tapestry crochet. But I also love playing with granny squares and experimenting with different stitch combinations. There’s just so much to explore in crochet!
Are you a one-project-at-a-time person, or do you have a lot of WIPs on the go?
Oh, this made me laugh! Who doesn’t have a few WIPs lying around? It really depends on the time of year and whether I have any deadlines, like when I’m designing for Hobbii. Generally, though, I tend to have multiple projects on the go. In 2024, I even set a goal to have more than three WIPs at a time, and I actually stuck to it! I'm quite proud of that.
What’s the process like when you design a crochet pattern?
My design process usually starts with a spark of inspiration—something I see while out and about, a conversation with a friend, or even something on TV. I then do a rough sketch (my drawing skills are…let’s just say they’re not my forte! Thankfully, programs like Procreate and Canva help a lot with visualizing my ideas). Then comes the hands-on part: writing a first draft of the pattern and crocheting a prototype. There’s definitely a lot of trial and error involved until I achieve the shape and the look I’m after, and I’m updating the pattern as I go.
What are some words you would use to describe your patterns?
Cute, modern and simple (most of my patterns are no-sewing or low-sewing)
Tell us about your favorite make or biggest crochet triumph?
I’ve made quite a few pieces I’m proud of, like my Pumpkats patterns — no-sew cats with removable clothes (see in the pictures). But I think my biggest achievements have been becoming a freelance designer for Hobbii and having the opportunity to showcase my Granny Square Cardigan on the runway at the Stitch Festival in London last year! (I have a picture of that too—it was such an incredible experience.)
Paying it forward, who are some of your favorite crochet designers/ bloggers?
I’ve always been a fan of Bella Coco. If I ever need a refresher on a stitch, her tutorials are my go-to. I also find @tuulamaaria on Instagram and YouTube incredibly inspiring. And I really love @garnknuten; she has such a simple yet engaging energy.
Where can we find you online?
These are my social media links:
Patterns here:
Thank you Eleonora for the interview and insight into your crochet business!
** Please follow Eleonora where you can :)
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