How I Published My First Crochet Pattern Book
My very first crochet pattern book is officially on sale, and I can hardly believe it’s real. Holding this finished book in my hands feels like the culmination of years of dreaming, designing, and taking risks I never thought I would be brave enough to take. Seeing my amigurumi patterns in print and knowing they’ll be available in stores across the country is surreal.
This is the story of how it happened—from listening to a podcast that sparked an idea, to sending a cold email, to receiving the green light on a full book deal. Along the way, I learned just how powerful persistence, courage, and confidence can be when you’re building a crochet business. If you’ve ever dreamed of getting your crochet patterns published in a magazine or book, or wondered how to go from hobbyist to published crochet designer, this story is for you.
The Podcast Episode That Sparked an Idea
Almost exactly a year ago, I was listening to a podcast featuring Susie Moore and Cathy Heller, two entrepreneurs who built their creative careers by boldly putting themselves out there. Their stories struck me because they weren’t about waiting for perfect timing—they were about action.
Susie began by submitting articles to online platforms. Those simple submissions gave her credibility, built her authority, and eventually helped her grow a thriving business. Cathy, on the other hand, made a bold move in the music industry. Instead of just sending out her songs blindly, she asked producers directly, “What kind of songs do you need?” That one question opened doors and landed her licensing deals.
As I listened, I thought: how can I apply this to my crochet business? I’d been creating amigurumi patterns and growing my audience online, but I hadn’t yet taken a step to pitch my work beyond my own platforms. That day, I realized I had nothing to lose. Why not pitch my patterns—or even an article—to a crochet magazine? With my writing background and growing collection of designs, I knew I had something valuable to offer.
That spark became the beginning of everything.
Taking the Leap: Sending That First Email
One Monday night in February 2024, I sat down with my laptop, determined to take the first step. I searched online for crochet magazine editors and found three email addresses. My heart was pounding as I drafted my message.
For the first time ever, I typed out these words:
“Hi, my name is Marcy, and I am a crochet designer from North Carolina.”
That sentence might sound simple, but for me, it was a turning point. Claiming that identity—crochet designer—was powerful. Up until then, I had often downplayed what I did, but writing it confidently helped me believe it myself.
In my email, I kept things short, direct, and focused on the value I could bring. I introduced myself, shared a link to my website, and asked questions designed to show that I wanted to contribute, not just self-promote.
● What do you need for your next issue?
● Are you looking for specific amigurumi patterns, tutorials, or articles?
● I’d love to help meet any needs you have.
Then, with one deep breath, I hit “send.”
The Response That Changed Everything
Of the three editors I reached out to, one never responded, one got back to me a week later, and one replied within 12 hours. That fast reply changed the entire trajectory of my crochet career.
The editor’s message blew me away. Not only did she send me their submission form for crochet magazine patterns, but she also added something I never expected.
“I looked at your website and love your designs. I’m also the editor of our pattern books, and if you’re interested, I’d love to see a book proposal from you.”
I was stunned. I had gone in hoping to maybe land one pattern in a crochet magazine. Instead, I was being invited to pitch an entire crochet pattern book that would be sold in craft stores like Michaels, Joann’s, and Hobby Lobby. I read the email three times just to make sure I hadn’t imagined it.
Of course, my answer was yes.
Writing the Proposal for My Crochet Pattern Book
The editor gave me three months to submit a proposal. I wanted it to be perfect, but more than that, I wanted it to capture my heart and creativity. One night, I sat by the fireplace with a blank sheet of paper. I sketched six animals—each with their own names and backstories. Many of the characters were inspired by family members, because I’m sentimental and wanted this book to be deeply personal.
Over the next two weeks, I refined the idea. I created a theme that tied the animals together, wrote sample pattern descriptions, and outlined the vision for the book. I asked a few close friends to review it before I submitted it, just to make sure it communicated clearly.
When I finally sent the proposal, I was nervous. But the very next day, the editor replied with enthusiasm:
“I love it! This is perfect. We’ll review it with our team and get back to you in a few weeks.”
The waiting felt long, but I knew I had already taken the biggest leap: I had put myself out there.
The Green Light: Becoming a Published Crochet Author
At the end of May, just one day before my birthday, the email I had been hoping for landed in my inbox.
“The team loved your proposal, and we’ve got the green light on your book!”
I’ll never forget that moment. My heart raced as I realized I was about to become a published crochet author. This was no longer a dream. It was happening.
The following months were filled with designing, writing, and photographing the patterns. I poured everything I had into each project, knowing these plushies would live forever in book form. By the end of July, the entire manuscript was complete and submitted.
Then, in January 2025, I received the final exciting update: the book would officially go on sale March 7, 2025.
What I Learned From Publishing My Crochet Pattern Book
Looking back, I can see how much I grew through this process. Beyond learning the logistics of writing a book, I learned lessons about creativity, courage, and entrepreneurship that I’ll carry with me forever.
● Putting yourself out there creates opportunities you can’t imagine.
● Confidence grows when you declare who you are. Calling myself a crochet designer was a pivotal shift.
● Persistence matters. One editor didn’t reply, but another opened a life-changing door.
● Publishing is hard work, but it’s deeply rewarding. Seeing my amigurumi patterns in print makes every long night worth it.
These lessons aren’t just for me—they’re for any crochet designer, artist, or maker who dreams of being published.
The Power of Cold Emails for Creative Entrepreneurs
One of the biggest takeaways from my journey is the underestimated power of a cold email. We often assume we need connections, luck, or a viral post to be noticed. But the truth is, reaching out directly—respectfully and with value—can work wonders.
If you’re hoping to publish a crochet pattern, get featured in a magazine, or even land a collaboration, don’t be afraid to send that message. Introduce yourself, share your work, and ask what the other person needs. It’s simple, but it’s effective.
My entire book deal began with three cold emails. That’s it.
Why Publishing Matters for Crochet Designers
Publishing a crochet pattern book is about more than just sales. It’s about credibility, visibility, and legacy. When you see your designs in print, displayed on bookshelves in major stores, it validates your work in a whole new way. It tells the world that your craft has value and deserves to be celebrated.
For me, it also gave my audience something tangible. Many crocheters love digital patterns, but holding a real book filled with projects is a special experience. It makes crochet feel even more timeless and personal.
Advice for Aspiring Crochet Authors
If you’re reading this and dreaming of your own book one day, here’s what I’d say:
● Believe that it’s possible. You don’t have to wait years or be “discovered.” You can take action now.
● Start building your portfolio. Share your crochet patterns online, grow your audience, and showcase your unique style.
● Be proactive. Editors and publishers are always looking for fresh designs. Don’t wait for them to come to you—reach out.
● Stay true to your voice. My book reflects who I am, from the sentimental names of the animals to the cozy photography. That authenticity matters.
Final Thoughts: The Power of Putting Yourself Out There
One year ago, I was just another crochet designer posting patterns online. Today, I’m a published author with a crochet pattern book in stores. None of it would have happened if I hadn’t taken the risk to introduce myself, pitch my work, and step into my identity with confidence.
So here’s my encouragement to you: send that email. Make that pitch. Share your creativity boldly. You never know which door will open.
This book is proof that one small step can change everything.
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.
