Today we’d like to introduce you to Amy Ting.
Hi Amy, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I first picked up a crochet hook in 2018—hard to believe it’s been seven years! What started as a relaxing hobby quickly grew into my lifelong passion and full-time business.
I tried many crafts before discovering crochet. The idea of making my own plushies completely captivated me—and once I started, I couldn’t stop.There’s something so satisfying about the feel of yarn, the creative freedom, and the challenge of bringing a vision to life. As I learned to sculpt with yarn, designing my own patterns became second nature.
“curiouspapaya” began as a simple hobby page. The name combines “curious,” reflecting my childlike wonder, and “papaya,” inspired by the first time I tried the unfamiliar fruit and ended up loving it. That sense of discovery and joy is exactly what I hope my creations spark in others.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My love for designing grew from my love for the craft—it’s what’s kept me going, even when things weren’t all rainbows and butterflies.
Running curiouspapaya has come with its share of challenges—pattern theft, collaborations that didn’t pan out, and those tough moments when growth feels stagnant. It’s definitely not always smooth sailing, but every hurdle has taught me something valuable. Building a small business takes resilience and grit—but it’s so worth it!
I never imagined I’d one day turn my passion into a full-time career, creating digital patterns and leaving my 9-to-5 behind. It’s truly a dream come true, made possible by the amazing community that’s supported me along the way.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m Amy, the creator behind curiouspapaya! I design crochet patterns and specialize in amigurumi—the Japanese art of crocheted plushies. If I had to describe my creations in three words, they’d be warm, nostalgic, and entertaining. I love giving each piece personality with playful expressions—like button eyes, angry eyebrows, and pom pom noses—which have become a signature touch of my work.
Crocheting has also become a way for me to celebrate my Asian American heritage. Through pieces like kimbap, boba, and baozi, I’ve seen how my art can bring people together. My hope is that my creations inspire a sense of belonging and representation for everyone who sees them.
While I adore designing playful food patterns, I also love experimenting with different yarn weights and creating animal designs. The joy is in the challenge—whether I’m working with soft cotton or chunky yarn. I’m especially excited about my first crochet book, Amigurumi Critters, which debuted earlier this year and features 25 patterns for all experience levels!
I’ve had the pleasure of working together with several notable brands in the fiber arts community including Michael’s Arts and Crafts, Simply Crochet, Clover Needlecraft, and Premier Yarns. I’ve also published patterns with Insight Editions and Cider Mill Publishing (a subgroup of Harper Collins). It’s only the beginning of my book writing journey and I’m excited for what’s to come!
What makes you happy?
God, creating with my hands, and being in the ocean—these are what ground me. There’s nothing quite like being surrounded by endless water, feeling small in the best way. It reminds me to slow down and appreciate how beautiful and fleeting our time on this earth truly is.
Oh, and puppies and hot cheetos. 😉
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.curiouspapaya.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/curiouspapaya
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/curiouspapaya
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@curiouspapaya
