Whimsical Stitches

Lauren Espy is the owner and designer behind A Menagerie of Stitches, a shop dedicated to creating crocheted amigurumi. Her love for amigurumi (and yarn!) all started after her grandma gifted her a set of crochet hooks and a book about amigurumi one Christmas. After teaching herself how to crochet back in 2008, Lauren quickly began designing her own patterns and has created a style that is uniquely her own. In 2015 she finally opened her Etsy shop and now sells finished items as well as crochet patterns. Lauren lives in Tennessee with her husband Carl and their two pups, Thunder and Storm.

"In Whimsical Stitches, Lauren Espy has created a truly adorable collection of unique and colorful designs that are perfect for any occasion! The step-by-step instructions and pictures that go along with each pattern ensure that you get picture perfect results each time. If you're new to amigurumi, the simplicity of the layout and illustrated explanations of each stitch and technique will have you creating adorable items in no time at all. If you're a seasoned crocheter, you will appreciate the perfection of each design and enjoy being able to make quick and adorable amigurumis for everyone you know!"-- Holly Salzman, Owner of Storyland Amis (@storyland_amis) "Whimsical Stitches is such a bright and colorful book chock-full of adorable and well-explained crochet designs! It is evident that Lauren Espy loves amigurumi, and her cheerful and sweet style will entice beginner and experienced crocheters to try making their own stuffed animals! The five fun themes in the book (In the Garden, At the Aquarium, Down on the Farm, At the Bakery, At the Market) allow you to crochet everything from a personified piece of pie with a cute cherry on the top to a trendy succulent planter! This beginner-friendly book is a fabulous collection of adorable designs that is sure to draw readers into the wonderful world of amigurumi!"-- Stephanie Lau, crochet designer and blogger of All About Ami "Whimsical Stitches is an absolute joy for amigurumi enthusiasts! Through her incredible patterns, Lauren was able to take us inside her own endless imagination and share her unique, wonderful perspective on amigurumi design. Whimsical Stitches is easy to follow for the beginner, and delightful for the master. A must-have for every crocheter's book collection."-- Lee Sartori (CoCo Crochet Lee), Assistant Editor of Happily Hooked Magazine