Conversations with Lae Hobbs

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lae Hobbs

Hi Lae, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My name is Lae Hobbs, and I founded Laecrochet in 2022, a journey that began as a simple hobby during the pandemic. With a lifelong passion for crafting, I discovered crocheting as a comforting and creative outlet during those challenging times. What started as a personal escape quickly evolved into a deep fascination with the craft. As I refined my skills, I saw an opportunity to transform this passion into something more meaningful. LaeCrochet was born from my desire to share my unique creations with a wider audience. Today, my brand reflects my commitment to handcrafted artistry and my mission to bring a personal touch to others through my work.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Starting LaeCrochet came with its share of challenges. I can certainly attest that crocheting is far from easy; it involves a lot of trial and error. However, this process is what deepened my love for creating handmade pieces. One major challenge I encountered was pricing. Given that each piece is crafted with just a hook and yarn, I struggled to set a price that both reflects the value of my work and remains accessible to customers. Balancing these considerations was crucial to ensure I was fairly compensated while also being considerate of my customers’ budgets. Additionally, being my own harshest critic added another layer of difficulty. I aimed to produce high-quality, durable pieces that my customers would be proud to own, which sometimes put a lot of pressure on me. As crocheting is a hands-on craft, I’ve also had to be mindful of the physical demands on my hands, investing in the right tools and techniques to maintain their health and ensure the longevity of my work. These challenges, though tough, have been instrumental in shaping LaeCrochet and refining my approach to crafting and business.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a crochet artist and designer specializing in crochet wearables, and I’m known in Cincinnati for my brand, LaeCrochet. Since launching in 2022, I’ve had the privilege of participating in five fashion shows and four vending events, including TrapXArt and TME Los Angeles fashion week. The highlight for me has been the chance to showcase and share my work with a broader audience. What distinguishes me in the fashion scene is the uniqueness of my handmade pieces. Each item is crafted with care and tells its own story, reflecting my dedication to artistry and individuality. I’m truly honored to be part of the crochet community in Cincinnati and to collaborate with other talented designers in this space.

Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
Currently, I’m obsessed with the podcast ITGIRLRADIO by Rikki Lee. It’s incredibly positive and motivating, and I find it really inspiring. I’m also an avid Pinterest user, which I love for inspiration and planning. Additionally, I rely on Milanote for organizing my ideas to the finest detail. Whether it’s planning YouTube videos or designing crochet pieces, Milanote is my go-to tool for keeping everything on track.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://laecr0chet.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laecr0chet/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@laelanice