✨ Listen to Episode 8 here
Have you ever dreamed of seeing your work in a published book or featured in a major magazine? I’m here to tell you—it’s possible. And I’m sharing exactly how I made it happen.
Today I’m celebrating a huge milestone: my very first crochet pattern book officially launches on March 7, 2025! What started with a bold step—a simple cold email—opened doors to opportunities I never imagined possible. Along the way, I not only secured a book deal but also saw my work featured in an international crochet magazine, with two of my designs landing right on the cover.
This is the story of how I went from an independent crochet designer to a published author—and the lessons I learned along the way.
✨ The Inspiration That Sparked My Journey
About a year ago, I was listening to a podcast featuring Susie Moore and Cathy Heller. Both women shared inspiring stories about how they got their work noticed.
● Susie Moore submitted a guest post to a wellness website that went viral, establishing her as an expert in her field.
● Cathy Heller landed music placements on major TV shows by directly asking music directors what songs they needed.
The common thread? They both focused on serving others’ needs rather than just promoting themselves. That got me thinking: How could I apply this to my crochet business?
I realized I had not only crochet design skills but also writing experience. Maybe I could pitch a crochet pattern or article to a publication. It felt like a long shot—but what did I have to lose?
📧 The Cold Emails That Changed Everything
In February 2024, I decided to take action. One night, I sat down and searched online for crochet magazines. I found three editor email addresses and drafted personalized emails to each of them.
For the first time, I typed the words: Hi, my name is Marcy, and I am a crochet designer.
That simple sentence shifted everything. Claiming that identity out loud—and in writing—made it real.
In the emails, I didn’t just say “Here’s my work.” Instead, I asked how I could help:
What do you need? Are there specific amigurumi patterns or tutorials you’re looking for? I’d love to contribute.
Here’s what happened:
● One editor never responded.
● One editor replied within twelve hours.
● The third replied a week later.
Those two responses changed the trajectory of my crochet career.
📚 How I Landed My First Crochet Book Deal
The first editor who responded was incredibly kind and encouraging. She invited me to submit patterns for their magazine. Then she added something I didn’t expect: she was also the editor for their pattern books—the ones sold online and in craft stores like Michaels, Joann, and Hobby Lobby.
Then came the life-changing question:
“If you’re interested in submitting a book proposal, I’d love to see what you come up with.”
My jaw dropped. I immediately said yes.
She explained the process: I would submit a proposal, and if it was accepted, I’d receive a book advance and royalties for seven years. The next review round was three months away, giving me time to prepare.
That night, I sat by the fireplace sketching six amigurumi animals—each with names and backstories inspired by my family. Within two weeks, I had refined my proposal and sent it off with feedback from friends.
The editor replied the very next day: “I love it! The team will review it soon.”
On May 2024, the day before my birthday, I got the email I had been hoping for: They accepted my proposal.
I spent the summer designing six patterns, writing tutorials, and photographing every step. By July, I submitted the entire manuscript. In January 2025, I got the official release date: March 7, 2025.
That moment made everything real.
Introducing Crochet Snuggle Buddies Pattern Book.
📰 The Magazine Cover Story
Remember the third editor—the one who responded a week later? She turned out to be the editor of an international crochet magazine based in the UK. She loved my work and asked if I could send over some Christmas and Easter amigurumi designs for upcoming issues.
I sent her several designs, and she approved them all. Not only did I get paid commissions for each pattern, but the magazine also shipped me all the yarn I needed for free.
I decided to set a bold personal goal: I wanted to see one of my designs on the cover. Every issue of this magazine featured an amigurumi design in the top right corner. I told myself, My design is going to be there.
And guess what? When the Christmas issue was released, there it was—my little elf pattern on the cover.
Two months later, another design of mine was also featured on the cover.
This experience reinforced one of the most important lessons of all: believe in your work, set big goals, and act like you belong.
💡 Lessons from My Journey
Looking back, here are the biggest takeaways that helped me go from independent designer to published author and magazine contributor:
● Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. That one email changed everything.
● Ask how you can serve. Editors and publishers are constantly looking for content—offer something valuable.
● Claim who you are. Saying “I am a crochet designer” made it real and gave me confidence.
● Build strong relationships. Meeting deadlines and being professional makes editors want to work with you again.
● Set bold goals. I told myself my work would be on a magazine cover, and it was—twice.
🧶 How You Can Get Published as a Crochet Designer
If you’ve ever dreamed of getting your work published, here’s the good news: it’s absolutely possible. The steps are simple but powerful.
● Identify the right publications. Crochet magazines, craft blogs, and publishers are always looking for new patterns.
● Reach out with a clear pitch. Instead of just sharing your portfolio, ask what they need.
● Show how you can add value. Editors want content their readers will love—position your designs that way.
● Be professional. Meet deadlines, provide high-quality photos, and make their job easier.
● Keep going. Not every pitch will get a yes, but every “no” gets you closer to the right opportunity.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
● How did you find editor email addresses? I searched each magazine’s website and masthead. Most list editors’ emails for submissions.
● Do crochet magazines pay for designs? Yes. You’ll typically receive a commission fee, free yarn, and exposure in an international publication.
● Do book publishers pay advances for crochet books? Many do. My deal included an advance and royalties for seven years.
● Do you need to be an experienced designer to pitch? No. I landed my book deal after only a few years of designing amigurumi patterns. What matters most is showing professionalism and a strong portfolio.
📥 Where to Find My Book and Published Patterns
● My crochet pattern book is available now—officially launching March 7, 2025. Check it out here.
● My amigurumi designs have been featured in Simply Crochet magazine issues 155, 157, and 160.
If you pick up the magazine or book, I’d love to see your makes. Share them with me on Instagram @SimplyHooked1 and tag your creations.
💡 Final Thoughts
This journey from independent crochet designer to published author and magazine contributor has completely reshaped the way I see my business. It started with a simple email—one bold step that opened doors I didn’t even know existed.
If you’ve ever dreamed of being published, don’t wait until you feel “ready.” Take the leap. Reach out. Pitch your work. Claim your title as a crochet designer and watch what happens when you step into that role with confidence.
Your next opportunity could be one email away.
🎙️ LISTEN TO EPISODE 8 HERE 🎙️
About the Author
Marcy Gardner is the crochet designer behind Simply Hooked, where she creates beginner-friendly amigurumi patterns that help makers of all skill levels create adorable, giftable plushies.
With over 13 years of crochet experience, Marcy has taught hundreds of crocheters through her patterns, kits, and online courses.
