When creativity meets community, magic happens—and that’s precisely the story behind swillybug. Founded by Sarah Wilson, swillybug is a delightful brand that offers the most adorable handmade crochet creations, each piece crafted with passion and care. From whimsical plushies to unique designs like her popular fruit turtles, swillybug embodies the joy of crafting and the beauty of connection. We recently collaborated with Sarah on some special coffee cup crochet pieces that she has handmade for each of you. It's always such an amazing experience to work with the small businesses that have been with us throughout our journey. Many of you have seen or met Sarah at our Bizarre Bash or outside of our Canton shop throughout pop up season. It's truly a joy to see her conceptualize our brand in her crochet goods.
We had the pleasure of talking with Sarah about her journey, inspirations, and of course, her favorite Bizarre Coffee drinks. Here's a glimpse into the world of swillybug and our chat with its incredible founder!
Seriously though, these are the cutest, softest plushies - make sure to grab one!
Meet Sarah - The Owner of swillybug
1. How did you get started in your industry?
I started crocheting in 2015 after graduating college. Having all this newfound free time on my hands after being in school my whole life made me anxious so I started channeling it into making hats after getting home from work. I didn't start taking it seriously as a business until after the pandemic, I felt like I needed to reconnect with other people and was yearning for community and quickly found one as a small business owner.
2. What inspired your passion for crocheting?
I love challenging my creativity, so I'm always trying new things. Crochet is so diverse in what you can do with it, so when I get tired of making plushies I can make a blanket, hat, or bag instead. When I get tired of those things I can always go back to plushies. There's inspiration all around and I've yet to get close to the end of my crochet wishlist. Being able to share my products with others is a happiness I've never taken for granted either.
3. What's your favorite product or offering from swillybug?
My favorite thing I make is hands-down my fruit turtles! I brainstormed that idea with a coworker and I've slowly continued offering more and more varieties. They're my patterns and unique to my business, so it's incredibly rewarding that they're also my most popular product I sell. I now offer 14 varieties with two more coming soon!
4. If you weren't creating crochet goodies what would you be doing instead?
I've always been a hobby collector, so if I wasn't crocheting I think I'd be investing more time in the other things that interest me. I love calligraphy, reading, and baking. I've also always wanted to try embroidery, cross stitch, and quilting so I'd probably pick one of those up!
5. What's your favorite Bizarre Coffee product or drink?
I THINK ABOUT PINK PONY CLUB ALL THE TIME!
One of my favorite things to do is grab some friends and order a flight of coffees when Bizarre releases new menus. Right now I'm absolutely obsessed with Lil Deb and Mint Mallow. I am looking forward to trying Gingerspice Chai and Simmerpot next!
6. And finally, in true Bizarre Coffee spirit, what makes you weird?
I'm devoted to making grandma hobbies cool again, and I think we all owe it to ourselves to take the time to slow down and enjoy this time while we have it! I will go out of my way to support a small business, and I crave community and being a part of something larger with great people who share the same goal. I think it's perfectly weird to have been able to find all of this goodness and share my passions with Bizarre Coffee!
Our collaboration with swillybug is a celebration of creativity, community, and the simple joys of handmade treasures. Sarah’s journey reminds us of the beauty in slowing down, embracing our passions, and connecting with others through shared love for unique and meaningful creations. Whether it’s her adorable fruit turtles or her love for sipping on a latte from Bizarre, Sarah’s passion shines in every detail. We’re thrilled to work together and bring you a crochet piece that’s as charming and special as swillybug itself. Be sure to explore Sarah’s work and discover the magic she creates—one stitch at a time.
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