Name: Mia Kelava
Age: 17 years old
Country: United States
Instagram: @strawberryknots
Twitter: @strawbeeknots
About the series
The Healing Craft Series features creators sharing their thoughts and feelings on crafting and healing through crafting.
“Creating something with your own two hands is always very therapeutic, as it lets you slow your mind down and just be creative.”
Mia Kelava, @strawberryknots
What kind of craft do you do and how long have you been doing it for?
I do crochet and I have been doing it since I was 8 years old.
What is your favourite place/time of day to craft and why?
I think the best time and place to craft is surrounded by friends. I love to sit and crochet while the people I love are around me having a conversation.
What inspires you (in life & in crafting)?
In crafting, I’m very inspired by mundane objects. I’ll see something like a street sign or a patterned bath towel and I’ll want to create something based on it. In life, I’m inspired by the kindness that people show each other.
How has/is crafting helping you and your mental health?
It gives me something positive to focus on instead of my negative thoughts. It’s also very helpful for my autism and virtual school. I stimulate my brain with crochet, which allows me to focus on my online lessons. Creating something with your own two hands is always very therapeutic, as it lets you slow your mind down and just be creative.
What is your advice to other creators (or newly started creators)?
My advice is to make sure you have a team of friends who will support you no matter what. Even if they don’t buy anything, you’ll want to have their emotional support.