For Tracy Culley, crochet has always been more than a pastime. But it was the desire to push beyond the basics that set her on a new creative path. With plenty of self-taught experience behind her, she reached a stage where she wanted to deepen her knowledge, refine her techniques and explore the creative process of designing her own pieces. That desire for growth led her to the School of Stitched Textiles, where she enrolled on our accredited Crochet Skill Stage 3 course.
For Tracy, the decision to study with us came about due to a lack of courses in Australia. However, it was about more than improving her crochet. It was about gaining the confidence to teach others, exploring advanced techniques like Tunisian crochet and embellishment, and learning how to design and write patterns from scratch. She also discovered the value of research, business planning and creative experimentation, which have all transformed the way she approaches her craft.
Her journey is proof of how powerful an accredited course can be in unlocking new skills and opening doors to fresh opportunities. Today, Tracy not only continues to design unique, individual pieces but also teaches and runs her own creative business, sharing her love of crochet with others.
Read on to discover Tracy’s inspiring story and enjoy a glimpse of her beautiful work.
“I found the modules about design very useful, such as designing a piece from scratch, structural form and pattern writing. The design process is something the course really encourages. It helped me to understand a lot about the process of design so I could create unique individual pieces.”
Tracy Culley
I enrolled onto Crochet Skills Level 3 with the hope of learning more about this wonderful craft and developing my skills.
I did have quite a bit of experience with crochet prior to enrolling on the course. I first started knitting when I was in my teens and progressed to crochet which I really enjoyed.
I am self-taught and came to a point where I wanted to learn more about techniques as well as the design process. I was very confident with the basics regarding stitches and construction, but I knew there was so much more to learn.
Motivation for Studying
I opted for an accredited course because of my intention to teach and for personal growth. I think it’s important to gain as much information and experience as you can for when teaching. Also, gaining an accreditation gave me confidence with my abilities and achievements as well as the motivation to continue learning after the course had finished.
I am in Australia. I chose the School of Stitched Textiles as there are no accredited courses in Australia, and I really liked the look of the content with the SOST. I think there are lots of short courses in crochet online, but nothing accredited, and most are aimed at the basics. The SOST course really went beyond the basics and encouraged me to learn a broad spectrum of crochet related crafts and design elements.
What I’ve Learnt
The most helpful thing I’ve learnt on the course has been the encouragement to do research on a variety of things related to crochet. Taking time to research and gather information was invaluable in helping me complete the modules as required. For example, learning everything about different types of yarn, different crochet techniques such as Tunisian crochet and embellishments. I found the modules about design very useful, such as designing a piece from scratch, structural form and pattern writing.
The design process is something the course really encourages. It helped me to understand a lot about the process of design so I could create unique individual pieces. The module on business planning was very useful too. In fact, the course has been super helpful all round and has given me a broader perspective in the world of crochet.
From Self Taught to Skilled
I plan to continue learning through research, there is always something new to learn! I am currently teaching which is very rewarding. I do have a social media presence and an online store. The SOST has encouraged and helped me to focus on these more with better structure and output regarding business ideas and content. I also plan to continue designing and creating my own unique pieces.
I would highly recommend the SOST courses to others. If you have an interest in learning and developing your craft this is a wonderful path to take.
My advice to new students would be to just go for it. Once you get started try and set time aside on a regular schedule to complete the modules. You will be surprised at how quickly the time goes once you enrol. Also to reach out for support if you need it, advice is always at hand.
