We had the good fortune of connecting with Michelle Blakely and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Michelle, what do you attribute your success to?
Thinking outside the box. As a fiber artist (knit and crochet mostly), I like think of non traditional ways of making my projects and the usage if them. It helps me stand out a bit from other knitters and crocheters.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I consider myself a fiber artist, as I knit, crochet and sew. I am always thinking of different themes for my projects and it usually comes when I am working on another project. It can be challenging at times as I try not to replicate what others have done, knitting/crocheting is just more than hats, scarves, blankets, and sweaters. I am making a lot of plush toys. I make custom crochet dolls, and each doll is as different as we all are. I am planning on making dolls that represent each branch of the military. I want to be able to represent the different aspects of life through my art.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I definitely would see a show at the Civic Theatre, just looking at the architecture inside is such a show in itself. I would stop for snacks at the Peanut shop downtown, it was a popular stop for me as a kid and for my own children as well. I would stop for lunch at the Diamond Grill. My grandfather used to be a chef there so it would bring back fond memories for me.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My husband Jason, has always been supportive in whatever adventure I set my mind to.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fashioknits

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Fashioknits.Michelle

Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/FashioKnits

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