Debonita of Elegantly Fashionable Creations – A Crochet Designer Interview

Debonita, the designer behind Elegantly Fashionable Creations, has been monumental to my crochet business journey, as she runs a crocheter business group that I’ve been a part of for… over a year now! She’s organised our weekly calls (and kept those calls on topic), and has kept me and our fellow crochet business owners accountable. A solo business has many benefits, but many downsides as well, and I wonder if I would’ve kept going with mine if the group of lovely ladies hadn’t encouraged me whenever I felt dishearted ❤️

With a deep love for fashion and home decor, Debonita has always been inspired by the beauty and artistry found in everyday life. Before diving into the world of crochet, she was a dedicated travel influencer, exploring the globe and capturing the essence of each destination. Her journeys took her to the front rows of fashion week and the heart of countless fashion and lifestyle events, where she immersed myself in the latest trends and timeless styles.

Today, she brings that same spirit of adventure and elegance to her crochet designs and business Elegantly Fashionable Creations (efcreations for short!). Each pattern is thoughtfully crafted to not only be stylish but also carry a story.

Find Debonita on the Web:

@EFCreationsOfficial Instagram
Elegantly Fashionable Creations on Ravelry
Elegantly Fashionable Creations on Etsy
@EFCreationsOffical on Youtube

What inspired you to start crocheting? How has your style evolved over the years?

Debonita:
I started crocheting during the pandemic after taking a break from my previous career. I had always wanted to try knitting but never found the time. One day, using chopsticks and leftover yarn, I decided to give it a go. My husband mentioned a colleague who crochets, and after some quick research, I discovered the world of crochet. Watching tutorials, I was instantly hooked. My style is constantly evolving as I discover new techniques and find my unique voice in this craft.

Sage:
I love stories of folks starting knitting with chopsticks, pencils etc… it may not be perfect, but it shows how easy it can be to start these hobbies! I’m also grateful for the pandemic introducing so many folks to crochet and knitting, as well as producing so many wonderful new designers ❤️

Can you share a quick behind-the-scenes overview of your creative process when creating a new design?

Debonita:
My creative process starts with inspiration, which can come from anywhere—nature, fashion trends, or even a piece of fabric. I sketch my ideas and select the yarn and colors that best capture the concept. Then, I create a rough prototype to see how the design translates into crochet. I often make adjustments along the way, refining the pattern until it feels just right.

Sage:
It’s so good all the different things that can inspire creativity. I honestly hadn’t heard of fabric inspiring designs before, but I’ll be looking at the fabric around me differently from now on!

What’s your favourite piece that you’ve designed?

Debonita:
My favorite piece is definitely the granny square tote bag. It’s vibrant, practical, and a classic crochet staple that brings me so much joy.

Sage:
It’s such a pretty piece, the colours are perfect, and the flowers pop so well 😍 It would also make the perfect project bag!

What’s the most challenging project you’ve worked on? What made it difficult?

Debonita:
The most challenging project I’ve worked on was a cardigan. The complexity of the pattern, combined with ensuring the fit and drape were just right, made it a true test of my skills and patience.

Sage:
I’m in constant awe of folks who crochet clothes, let alone design them! There are so many different things to consider, so despite it being a true test of your skills, I think it’s a true show of your skills that you persevered through it.

How do you stay motivated and inspired, especially during creative blocks?

Debonita:
When I hit a creative block, I take a step back and immerse myself in other forms of art, such as visiting galleries or exploring nature. Sometimes, a break is all it takes to reignite my creativity. Connecting with the crochet community also provides a fresh perspective and inspiration.

Sage:
Visiting galleries and exploring nature are great suggestions for getting one’s creativity back!

What’s your go-to yarn and crochet hook?

Debonita:
I love using aran weight yarn in pink and a 5 mm Clover crochet hook. The yarn weight is perfect for a variety of projects, and the Clover hook is comfortable to use, making the crocheting process smoother and more enjoyable.

Sage:
Clovers are my favourite too! My hand and wrist pain dropped as soon as I started using them, and I can’t use any other hook now, haha! For anyone interested, this is the set I bought (pricey, but worth the investment).

Going from a travel influencer to a crochet designer is quite a big change. What made you want to make that shift? What parts of that have been able to help your crochet designs/business?

Debonita:
After experiencing burnout from constant travel, I took a break just as the pandemic started. Discovering crochet during this time was a game-changer, and I haven’t looked back since. My photography skills from my travel influencer days have been incredibly useful in showcasing my crochet designs beautifully and effectively.

Sage:
The pandemic was such a hard time for many people, especially those whose livelihoods depended on things like travel. If there’s ever such a thing, it sounds like your burnout came at a good time, and I’m glad you turned that situation into something you love.

What advice would you give to aspiring crocheters (makers or designers) who are just starting out?

Debonita:
Start with simple projects to build your confidence and skills. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make mistakes—that’s part of the learning process. Join a crochet community online or locally to share your progress, seek advice, and stay inspired. Most importantly, enjoy the journey and celebrate your unique creative voice.

Sage:
Wonderful! Thank you so much for sharing your insights with everyone and for your time, Debonita!

If you’d like to follow along with what Debonita is making head on over to her Instagram, Ravelry, Etsy, or Youtube. And thank you so much for taking the time out of your day to have a read 🥰 Sign up for my newsletter if you’d like to make sure you don’t miss any future posts (as well as to get a free pattern and access to my pattern colouring pages!), and feel free to send me a message if you have any ideas or maker/designer recommendations for future interviews!

Happy crafting ❤️