Baltic Sea flair and maritime crochet art: Collaboration with Heike from @kuestenmasche

My account is a colorful mix of my own designs and projects that I crocheted from other people’s patterns. I use Instagram to look for test crocheters and let my followers know when a new pattern is online. From time to time, I also publish a small free pattern, such as the lighthouse keychain.

My name is Heike and I am 47 years old. I live with my husband, my two children, and my dog in a small community in Schleswig-Holstein, close to the Baltic Sea. I love the coast and the sea, and that is how I came up with the idea of designing maritime crochet figures. Crocheting and writing my own patterns are my creative balance to my office job.

I have always loved creating new things through crafting or handicrafts. When my children were small, I started crocheting. At first, I made useful things such as a baby blanket or a hat. Later, I crocheted small amigurumi that were given to the birthday children at kindergarten.

When I have an idea for a figure in my head, I first create a “pattern framework.” I write down which colors I want to use and which individual parts need to be crocheted. Then I start crocheting and write down every step. Often I have to crochet the figure several times until I am completely happy with the shape. Once I am satisfied with the result, I crochet the figure again and take the detail photos.
I get inspiration on all kinds of occasions. For example, I had the idea for Pirate Piet during a walk at the harbor, and Strawberry Girl Emma came to me while picking strawberries in a strawberry field.

That is hard to say, but I estimate over 100.

Not a day goes by without a crochet hook in my hand. I usually crochet in the evening, about 3 hours a day, and more on weekends.

I am better at crocheting... ;-)

“Just one more round...”

Use high-quality yarn and always place the stitch marker.

A hat for my son. My first amigurumi was a little sheep.

Cotton Quick uni yarn, because it is made from 100% cotton, is very easy to work with, and has a beautiful shine. It also comes in a large selection of colors.

You can find my patterns on Etsy or on Crazypatterns.

I would like to thank everyone from the bottom of my heart who crochets my figures and supports me with test crocheting when a new pattern is released. I hope you like ladybug girl Marieke and feel inspired to crochet her yourself.
Many thanks, dear Heike. We are delighted by your lovingly designed ladybug girl and grateful for your dedication. Thank you also for bringing a little bit of the Baltic Sea into our everyday lives with your maritime crochet figures - for a slow, mindful crochet moment.