One loop at a time

woman @ work

Crochet is a special craft with a long history that turns yarn into beautiful items with every stitch. Each loop in crochet tells a story of care and creativity, linking generations through the simple movement of hook and thread. From cosy blankets to colourful toys and stylish accessories, crochet combines patience and skill. Today, crochet is gaining popularity again as more people appreciate its handmade charm and the joy it brings. Maleeha Khan has her own brand ‘Orhni’, that deals in hand-crocheted accessories. Maleeha moved up from Faisalabad to get a Fine Arts degree and one fine day, turned her passion into profit.

Her journey began during the COVID-19 pandemic, sparked by a thought, “Doing something is better than sitting idly. Ab nahi tou kab?” It was a hobby that turned into a business. Inspired by YouTube DIY videos, she started producing very fine products with secured imported yarns. Soft toys, baby accessories, keychains, and tissue boxes are some of the products that she offers; all these products embrace different colours from the rainbow, something that brings happiness to customers. Let’s get to know more about her journey and the art of crocheting…

You! What does the name ‘Orhni’ signify, and why did you choose it for your brand?

Maleeha Khan: When I launched my crochet business four years ago, ‘Orhni’ instantly came into my mind. The term refers to a traditional scarf or wrap worn by women in South Asia, symbolising warmth, comfort, and cultural heritage. It reflects the essence of my brand, which aims to preserve the art of crochet and provide handcrafted items that bring a sense of belonging and nostalgia.

You! How do you select your materials, and why is this important to you?

MK: I never compromise on quality. I use only imported yarn to ensure durability and standard quality. I regularly survey the market and personally select yarn from specific shops rather than random vendors. High-quality yarn ensures that the items are not only beautiful but also long-lasting and safe, especially important for baby accessories and soft toys.

You! Can you explain the process of creating one of your crochet pieces?

MK: Sure! For a large doll, I start by making the different components separately: the hands, legs, face, and body. Each part is crocheted with precise measurements to ensure the proportions are perfect. After assembling these, I create and attach the dress, shoes, accessories, and hair, paying close attention to the details to bring the doll to life. Each doll takes about 10 days to complete. The process involves a lot of creativity, patience, and skill, but it’s worth it because very few people in Pakistan make handmade dolls like these.

You! How do you ensure the craftsmanship and quality of each piece?

MK: Product quality and client satisfaction are my top priorities. I never approve a product unless its proportions and knitting techniques are perfect. I have a dedicated team of talented craftswomen who share my passion for excellence. We follow strict quality control measures at each stage of production; from selecting the yarn to the final inspection of the finished product. This attention to detail ensures that every piece we create is of the highest standard.

You! Can you share a story behind one of your favourite pieces?

MK: When I first made crochet fridge magnets of vegetables and fruits, my Instagram followers loved the unique idea. I still receive many orders for these magnets. Each magnet is designed to resemble real vegetables and fruits, making them both fun and functional. One of my customers told me how these magnets became a conversation starter in her kitchen, sparking interest and admiration from her guests. Stories like these make my work rewarding and motivate me to keep creating.

You! How do you stay inspired and keep your product offerings fresh?

MK: Exhibitions, meeting new people, and asking about their interests have helped me from the start. I also research characters and trends before creating anything new. For instance, if I notice a growing interest in a particular movie franchise or pop culture phenomenon, I’ll create crochet pieces inspired by those themes. Additionally, I constantly seek feedback from my customers and followers on social media, which helps me understand their preferences and stay ahead of trends.

You! Do you have a favourite crochet technique or pattern?

MK: Different products require different techniques, like single crochet for dolls and animals, and double crochet for scarves. I enjoy all techniques, each offering unique challenges and opportunities for creativity.

For example, making a doll requires precise, small stitches to create detailed features, while a scarf allows for more variation and texture. Mastering a variety of techniques enables me to create a wide range of products, each with its own distinct look and feel.

You! What challenges have you faced in establishing and growing your brand, and how have you overcome them?

MK: Mass production of bigger pieces is challenging. It took time to form a dedicated and hardworking team of talented craftswomen. Finding the right balance between maintaining high standards and meeting production deadlines was difficult, but through perseverance and continuous improvement, we have managed to establish a smooth workflow. Investing in training and fostering a supportive team have been key to overcoming these challenges.

You! What has been your proudest moment or biggest achievement?

MK: Making my family proud and being considered by platforms like Khaadi and Maria B. These achievements mean a lot, and I look forward to more. Each milestone reminds me of how far I’ve come and motivates me to aim even higher.

You! What are your goals for the future?

MK: To go international! I want to represent Pakistani crafts in global exhibitions, knowing there’s a huge market for handicrafts abroad.

You! What advice would you give to other women looking to start their own business?

MK: Never give up! It’s okay to fail and feel lost initially, but hard work and dedication will bring you closer to your goals. Believe in yourself and don’t let anyone put you down. Surround yourself with supportive people, keep learning, and stay resilient. The journey of entrepreneurship is challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding.

You! How do you maintain a work-life balance while managing your business?

MK: My work is my life. Being an entrepreneur means sleepless nights and constant work, but the love and appreciation from customers make it all worthwhile. Finding moments of joy and fulfilment in what I do helps me maintain balance. I also try to set aside time for self-care and family.

You! What motivates you to continue innovating and creating new designs?

MK: Customer smiles and satisfaction drive me. Changing trends keep me on my toes, pushing me to create relevant and likable products. The feedback and encouragement I receive from my customers are a constant source of inspiration.