Handmade Penguin-Themed Crocheted Key Chain from El Salvador - Chilly Love

Artisan Organization: Karla Hernandez

Country: Central America

"I'm Karla Patricia Hernández, and I hail from the vibrant land of El Salvador. Born in 1988 in the heart of San Salvador, I spent my early years with my loving parents and my maternal grandmother. Creativity runs deep in my family – from music, drawing, to crafting. The latter was a specialty of my grandmothers and great-aunts.

"My journey as an artisan began as a mere hobby, a source of joy and creativity, even before the pandemic gripped the world. During those trying times, crafting became my solace, a refuge from the stress and isolation. It all started with a keychain – a charming little octopus that I crafted and later sold. I still cherish pictures of that moment.

"Over the years, I have honed my craft in the world of amigurumis (the Japanese art of knitting or crocheting small, stuffed yarn creatures). I've been at it for approximately four years now, and I've cherished every moment of it. I consider myself a creative, responsible, and honest artisan. Crafting became more than just a pastime; it helped me navigate the loss of my father, a dedicated physician who passed away early in the pandemic.

"The world of amigurumi intrigued me, and with the guidance of online classes, I ventured into this enchanting art form. With every stitch, I fell in love with the uniqueness of amigurumis. Regardless of the pattern, each creation carries its charm – in the stitch, the size, and more. What captivates me the most is that these handmade dolls become treasured keepsakes, brimming with memories and love.

"As my craft evolved, I invested in specialized crochet hooks to ease the strain on my hands. Quality is paramount, and I prefer mercerized cotton threads for their finish and durability. Sadly, the cost of materials has surged in recent years, but the quality is unmatched. The real magic happens when the pattern transforms into a charming amigurumi.

"The challenge lies in pushing the boundaries, mastering more intricate patterns, and enhancing my amigurumi skills. The time invested in crafting a single doll can be extensive, sometimes up to 40 hours.

"My tools of the trade include ergonomic crochet hooks. Regrettably, there's a shortage of recycled threads in my homeland. What truly sets my amigurumis apart is the intricate detail and love I weave into each creation.

"Beyond crafting, I indulge in other art forms like jewelry making and scrapbooking. When I'm not crafting, you can find me at the cinema, engrossed in a good book, or exploring new places.

"I hope you find as much joy in my amigurumis as I do in crafting them. I invite you to explore my world of handmade creations, each one brimming with passion and creativity. Thank you for being a part of my journey.""