The art of crocheting has come a long ways in terms of mainstream fashion and with crochet accessory designers emerging such as the talented Tara Johnson of Spontaneity, we have another eclectic, stylish, and super affordable collection of crocheted pieces to adorn ourselves with! Tara gives us some insight into her creative collection!

ymib: How did you get started in crocheting earrings...what was the inspiration?

Tara: In 2006, I decided to take up crocheting as a new hobby because, at the time, I didn't know anyone my age who knew the craft. I wanted a skill set that I considered to be unique.  Last summer, I was on a mad hunt for crochet earrings and only found one pair online.  Since I had already mastered making caps and scarves, I decided to end my unsuccessful hunt and make the perfect pair of earrings myself ... which I did!  Spontaneity, a name that reflects how I started crocheting as well as describes the creative process when developing new products, was launched in April 2008. It was through that experience that I saw an opportunity to introduce products to the fashion community that were creative and unique.

ymib: What's your favorite type of yarn to use when crocheting your pieces?

Tara: It's hard to choose just one!  Variegated (multicolored) yarn is great because it can yield the most beautiful designs from the most simple patterns - the yarn truly takes on a life of its own!   In terms of texture and feel, I love mercerized cotton because it has a wonderful sheen, is very soft, and doesn't fray easily. Lastly, I LOVE LOVE LOVE crochet thread for dressier looks.

ymib: Out of the designs on your website, which is your favorite piece?

Tara: Decisions, decisions... I'd have to say that the autumn-inspired multicolored triangles are my favorite because of the bold colors, larger-than-life size, and because they are just plain funky!

ymib: Other than earrings, do you enjoy crocheting other accessories, and can we expect to see any available on your site any time soon?

Tara: In addition to earrings, I enjoy crocheting hats - beanies, pageboy caps... you name it.  By mid-2009, I definitely plan to expand the line to include such accessories.  Stay tuned!

ymib: What are some of your goals/aspirations with the designs of Spontaneity?

Tara: In general, I seek to design products that are eye-catching and stand out.  Each time I set out to produce a new design, I challenge myself to create something that is more creative, intricate, and funkier than the last! As a lover of fashion, I personally understand the desire to have your own distinct style and not worrying about walking into a room and seeing that someone else is wearing the same pieces as you.

People like one-of-a-kind pieces, particularly when they can design them themselves.  With this in mind, I provide Spontaneity customers with a unique opportunity to use an interactive customize feature on my site (http://www.spon-taneity.com/cust.html) to create and order items that fit their personalities and distinct sense of style.  It's all about you!

Ok ladies, so, head on over and check out the Spontaneity collection & grab yourself a pair or two! Select designs can be purchased at the following Chicago boutiques:

The Silver Room

1442 N. Milwaukee Ave.

Chicago, IL

House of Sole

1237 S. Michigan Ave.

Chicago, IL