From Yoda ears to bunny ears and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle masks to Vikings horns, Erica Carlson-Burval’s crocheted creations have expanded the definition of a winter hat. The Eden Prairie mother of two gets inspiration from her 8-year-old daughter, Audia, and 5-year-old son, Callen. “They’ve requested some interesting things,” she says. “I basically improvise everything I make.”
Those improvisations caught on, and soon friends were requesting Carlson-Burval’s clever hats, prompting her to launch Snowangel Crochet, an online custom crochet hat store.
Carlson-Burval hasn’t always been into crochet. In college she loved to knit, finding that it helped her focus during long class lectures. It wasn’t until she took a fibers class that she was introduced to crocheting. Slowly, Carlson-Burval’s love for crocheting grew as she found it easier to make hats.
In starting her business, Carlson-Burval says she has learned the value of being fearless and putting herself out there. To anyone looking to start their own business, Carlson-Burval says to “do what you love,” as her love of crochet allows her to creatively engage with her children and the surrounding community.
Custom-order hats are available at the Snow Angel Crochet Facebook page. Prices range from $25-$40. A selection of pre-made hats can be found at Scout Vintage Collective, 8016 Medicine Lake Road, Golden Valley; 763.355.2135.
