10-year-old Xavi Quairy builds crochet brand from self-taught craft

Ten-year-old Xavi Quairy is turning a childhood interest in crochet into a small creative business, Xavi Crochet Designs, with her mother, Tanya Evans, supporting her work and helping guide the venture.

Evans said Xavi first became curious about crochet at age six after seeing it on a tablet and asking what it was. After Evans bought the needle and hook she requested, Xavi began experimenting, first trying a small star before moving on to items such as hats and other pieces.

Xavi said she learned mainly by watching tutorials until she understood the technique. During the television interview, she continued crocheting while speaking, working on a scrunchie as she discussed her designs.

Her handmade items include scrunchies, hats, slippers and earrings. Xavi said some customers request specific colours or styles, while at other times she creates pieces from her own ideas. One design on display, she said, was freehanded from something she imagined and then made by hand.

Evans said Xavi’s classmates have encouraged her. After Xavi made a scrunchie as a birthday gift for a friend, other students began placing orders and showing interest in her work.

The young designer said a pair of slippers can take about two days when she works on it in short sessions, but she estimated that a full effort could complete a piece in roughly two to three hours. Evans said she currently sources bases for the slippers and is looking at stronger options, including leather bases, to improve the finished product.

Xavi said the money she earns from crochet is being saved for college.