This week, we at The Sunday Morning Happinez had a chat with the 18-year-old entrepreneur behind Off The Hook, Nikita Jayawardena. Jayawardena founded and singlehandedly runs a handmade crochet business that can create just about anything with just a hook and an insane amount of yarn.
- What inspired you to start the crochet clothing line, Off the Hook, at such a young age?
I have always had a huge passion for fashion. I started crocheting during the pandemic as a hobby to keep myself occupied. After learning a few designs, I knew I loved crocheting and three weeks later, I started my own crochet clothing line.
- How did you learn the skill of crocheting, and when did you realise you could turn it into a business?
I was taught the basic steps of crochet by a friend, and then I learned more designs through videos and written patterns on several other websites by other amazing crocheters.
- What challenges did you face while setting up your crochet clothing line? How did you overcome them?
Managing time was the biggest challenge I faced as I crochet everything by hand. It is a bit hard to know how long a certain project could take to finish. I overcame this challenge by learning to time myself constantly and take only a certain amount of orders to avoid work overload.
- Can you share some insights into your creative process? How do you come up with unique designs for your crochet garments?
I look up to all the amazing crocheters out there as they are my biggest inspiration and I get the opportunity to improve my skills through tester patterns offered by other crochet entrepreneurs around the world. However, in terms of my own designs, I am currently still working on my own unique design which I’m very excited to share with you all very soon.
- How do you decide on the materials to use for your crocheting? Do you consider sustainability and ethical sourcing?
The yarn I use for crocheted items is made up of old materials like jeans or used cotton, which makes them highly sustainable and biodegradable. When it comes to our packaging, all the materials used are eco-friendly.
- How do you balance your entrepreneurial responsibilities with other aspects of your life, such as education or personal relationships?
I plan ahead and work in a way that all parts of my life are balanced according to a schedule. I take the weekends off for a break and to do other activities
- What’s the one piece of advice you’d give to other aspiring entrepreneurs out there?
I would like to convey that if you have a deep passion for anything and would love to showcase your talent to the world, go for it. Don’t be afraid to accomplish your dreams. Take the risks. Overcome all the challenges and obstacles and you will get to where you want to go.