Josephine Weethee shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Josephine, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: Are you walking a path—or wandering?
I wouldn’t say I’m strictly walking a single path or aimlessly wandering. I see myself as creating multiple paths and allowing them to grow alongside one another. I just finished my bachelor’s degree in education this past May, and I’m preparing to pursue work in Japan as an ESOL teacher, which has been a long-time dream of mine. At the same time, I’m continuing to build my crochet business by designing new patterns and attending markets to grow my customer base. In November, I’ll also begin working toward my MBA to further expand my opportunities. For me, it’s not about choosing one road but about cultivating several paths that reflect my passions, values, and goals.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hello! My name is Josephine Weethee owner of OfftheHookCrochetbyJosie, and I’m both an aspiring educator and a crochet artist. I recently completed my bachelor’s degree in education and am preparing to pursue my dream of teaching English in Japan, while also continuing to grow my crochet business. My brand focuses heavily on unique, handmade creations, especially cryptid-inspired designs like Mothman, that allow me to combine creativity, storytelling, and a love for folklore. What makes my journey unique is that crochet started as a form of therapy after being diagnosed with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, and over time it blossomed into both a passion and a business. Today, I design original crochet patterns, attend local markets, and connect with a wonderful community of makers and collectors who share an appreciation for handmade art. I’m also preparing to begin my MBA in November, with hopes of expanding my business even further while balancing my career in education.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who taught you the most about work?
The people who taught me the most about work are definitely my parents. They both worked incredibly hard to provide for our family, and watching them shaped my understanding of what dedication really looks like. My father worked long hours as a steel worker, but he also followed his passion for cars by opening his own side business as a mechanic, doing body work and painting classic cars. My mother worked many different types of jobs but each of those jobs demanded a lot physically and mentally, but she always showed up and gave her best.
What stood out to me most, though, was that no matter how hard they worked, my parents always made time for us. They were present, involved, and supportive, making sure we knew we were loved and valued. Growing up, I saw firsthand the toll that kind of work can take, but I also saw the pride, resilience, and strength it builds. Their example taught me that hard work opens doors, but it’s equally important to carve out space for your passions and to never lose sight of the people who matter most.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
The fear that has held me back the most in life is the fear of failing. I’ve always set high goals for myself, and sometimes that fear made me second-guess my abilities or hesitate to take risks. But over time, I’ve learned that failure isn’t the opposite of success, it’s often part of the process that gets you there. Whether it’s pursuing my crochet business, stepping into new educational opportunities, or planning to teach abroad, I’ve had to remind myself that growth comes from trying, even if the outcome isn’t perfect. Facing that fear has taught me resilience and the importance of pushing forward despite uncertainty.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
This one really opens the door to talk about the realities behind the craft and business side of crochet. Here are a few “big lies” often told (or believed) in the crochet industry that you could use as a foundation for your answer:
“Crochet is just a hobby, not a business.”
Many people underestimate the skill, time, and creativity it takes to design, make, and sell crochet pieces. This mindset devalues the work of makers and perpetuates the idea that handmade items should be cheap.
“People won’t pay fair prices for handmade crochet.”
This belief keeps many makers from charging what their work is worth. While not everyone will understand the value of handmade, there are customers who appreciate the artistry and will pay fair prices.
“You have to follow trends to succeed.”
It’s easy to think you must constantly chase the latest popular item (like plushies, granny square tops, etc.), but in reality, unique designs, personal style, and storytelling often resonate more deeply with customers and build stronger brand identity.
“Success in crochet means going full-time.”
The idea that you’re not truly successful unless crochet is your full-time job can be discouraging. Many makers thrive by balancing crochet alongside other careers, family, or studies and that doesn’t make their success any less meaningful.
“Patterns and designs aren’t original, everything’s been done before.”
While crochet stitches are universal, the creativity in how designers use them is endless. Believing originality isn’t possible can hold designers back from sharing their unique voice and perspective.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I don’t know if any of us can say with certainty what we were “born” to do, but I do know that I’m not simply living out what I was told to do either. For me, life is less about following a single destined path and more about creating meaning in the paths we choose. My philosophy has always been to find the light in everything I do, whether it’s teaching, studying, or creating through crochet. Even if I can’t define my work as my one true calling, I know that pursuing it with joy, passion, and purpose makes it meaningful. I believe we discover who we are not through destiny alone, but through the way we embrace opportunities and turn them into something beautiful.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/offthehookcrochetbyjosie/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/josie.weethee/
