StitchShare is an app designed to connect crocheters and inspire collaboration among the crochet community.
The Problem
There is no dedicated, modern space for crocheters to connect and engage with crochet-focused content.
Current digital spaces for crocheters mostly consist of tools like pattern libraries or stitch counters that don't facilitate connection or communication between crocheters. The two best option for crocheters to communicate is through online forums, which are cluttered and have inflexible UIs, or through non-crochet focused social media platforms, like Instagram or TikTok, where users have to work to curate an algorithm that will show them crochet content.
Our Wishlist
Essentially, we wanted to combine these things:
1. Extensive pattern libraries with filters (ie. handedness, difficulty level) 2. Ways to connect in person with crocheters nearby 3. Crochet-focused short form content 4. A streamlined process for community pattern testing
To ultimately achieve a result that would create a space that combines all of the best features from social media for finding engaging content with an experience tailored to crocheters and their needs for connecting with other members of their community.
The Research
Surveys
We sent online surveys to gauge crocheters' needs for a digital community, sourcing responders from crochet-focused groups on Reddit and Discord.
Community Feedback
Groups like UCSD Muir Stitch gave us direct access to engaged and passionate creators.
Literature Review
We reviewed academic literature online to confirm the need for an experience like StitchShare. This included literature on the mental health benefits of crochet and community-based hobbies.
Platform Comparisons
We analyzed existing platforms such as Ravelry, YouTube, and Reddit to identify gaps and opportunities for a more centralized and inclusive experience.
The Prototyping Process
Piggyback Prototyping
We used Padlet for a "piggyback prototype" - a way to interactively test out our app's user flow and our audience's engagement levels before creating a hi-fi prototype. Rather than have our users create crochet patterns, we had them make quick sketches of popular cartoons for efficiency.
User Tasks
1. Join a pattern testing event 2. If assigned role of pattern creator, draw assigned cartoon. If assigned role of pattern tester, offer suggestions or feedback 3. Upload final pattern to pattern library 4. Interact with other users' patterns and posts
The Final Product
Home page.
Highlighting creators, patterns, and events.
Pattern library.
A diverse database of patterns.
Saved patterns.
A place to safekeep patterns and projects.
Reels.
Engaging crochet-centered short-form content.
Testing hub.
A space for crocheters to submit patterns for testing or test others' work.
Profiles.
A customizable profile to display projects and achievement badges.
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