Kristi Simpson

Read more about this wonderful designer below.

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Company Name: RAKJpatterns
Designer Name:  Kristi Simpson
Home State:  Alabama
Design Specialty:  Children's Accessories

1 How did you first get introduced to your craft?

My youngest daughter received a "Learn to Crochet a Scarf" gift for Christmas from her aunt, and being the persistent little girl she is, she bugged me for a month and a half to learn to crochet. I learned to chain and single crochet, and I taught her how to do it as I went. As she was practicing, I was learning more stitches, and I was hooked!

2 What type of patterns do you enjoy designing the most?

I really enjoy creating hats, clothing and photography prop patterns. I try to make them unique and one of a kind so that it encourages the crocheter to try something new!

3 What are you most known for?

RAKJpatterns has creative crochet patterns with a modern and fresh touch. I love to use color and common stitches to create something irresistible! My favorite items to design are hats and children accessories.

4 How do you jump-start your creativity?

2 words ... yarn shopping! The colors, textures and variety stimulate my creativity.

5 What season inspires you the most?

My husband and I have 5 children who keep us on our toes! They inspire me to keep my designs fresh and kid-friendly. I understand what it means to be on a budget, yet still want all of the cute designs for my little ones ... and now I can just make them (and so can YOU!).

6 On average, how many new patterns do you design each year?

RAKJpatterns in the past has released 100+ a year. In 2011 we released 225 patterns! It was so much fun! But now, we release 15-20 patterns per year as I am also writing books.

7 Is there another craft you'd like to try your hand at?

I love all crafts, and I attended a painting class only once, but I truly loved it! I would love to do more painting.

8 What is your favorite way to spend a Sunday afternoon?

With my family! My husband is an avid sports fan so I snuggle up next to him and crochet while he watches sports and the kids run around playing. Nothing beats family time (mixed with crochet!).

9 What three items do you always have in your craft bag?

Crochet hook, yarn, pen/paper for patterns and ideas. That's a no-brainer.