Salah Al-Din craftswoman turns crochet passion into business success

SALAH AL-DIN – Maryam Hassan, a skilled artisan from Tikrit, Salah Al-Din governorate, has transformed her passion for crochet into a thriving business. Inspired by her aunt, who first taught her the basics of knitting, Hassan has developed her craft to create a range of handmade products, including baskets, hats, clothing, and dolls, tailored to her customers’ preferences.

Speaking to 964media, Hassan described her craft as more than a profession. “Crochet is not just a job for me. It’s a passion and a hobby. I create all kinds of baskets, dolls, and clothing with various designs,” she said.

Hassan began her journey with simple tools, such as a crochet needle and scissors. Over time, she invested in specialized knitting machines, each tailored for different types of garments. Despite her progress, she faces challenges in sourcing high-quality yarn, often traveling to Baghdad with her family or ordering materials online.

Her venture took off after she showcased her creations on social media, leading to increased orders and positive feedback. “Initially, I gave my handmade items to relatives, friends, and neighbors. Later, I started managing social media pages, and now I receive many requests and lovely comments from customers when they receive their orders,” she said.

Hassan noted that her work requires patience and calmness. “Crochet is a vast art that combines contemporary and traditional designs to meet diverse customer tastes,” she added.

Looking ahead, Hassan hopes to expand her business and open a workshop in Tikrit to teach other women the art of crochet. “I dream of establishing a space where women can learn and grow through this craft,” she said.