Today we’d like to introduce you to Carme Pena
Hi Carme, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Since I was a child, I’ve had a creative side. I love to write, and even got into webpage design in high school and college. Creativity has always been my way of expressing myself and exploring new ideas.
In 2021, I started knitting and crocheting as a hobby, mostly to pass the time while at home. What began as a casual pastime quickly turned into something more meaningful. I started with simple projects, like hats for my family, and eventually ventured into making amigurumi for my nieces and nephews.
I would post photos of my creations on Instagram, not thinking much of it, but soon my friends started reaching out, asking if I could make something for them. The encouragement and support I received inspired me to take things further.
That’s how Karmigurumi was born—a blend of my passion for crochet and my desire to share these handmade creations with others. Over time, it grew from a small hobby into a business and a way for me to give back to the community. It’s been a rewarding journey, and I’m excited to see what comes next!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It hasn’t always been smooth, but every challenge has taught me something valuable. When I first started Karmigurumi, I had no idea what it took to run a business.
One of the biggest struggles was balancing my time. Between creating custom orders, prepping for markets, experimenting with new designs, and keeping up with social media, it felt overwhelming at times. I also had to learn the business side of things—pricing my work fairly, finding the right markets, and figuring out how to promote myself without feeling too pushy.
Another challenge was managing self-doubt. I’d often question whether my creations were “good enough” or whether people would want to buy them. It took time to build confidence and trust in my skills.
Despite these struggles, every hurdle pushed me to grow. The support from my husband, family, friends, and customers kept me going. Hearing someone say that one of my creations brought them joy made all the hard work worth it.
The road hasn’t been smooth, but it’s been incredibly fulfilling. I’ve learned that embracing the challenges is just as important as celebrating the wins.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
At Karmigurumi, I specialize in creating handmade crochet pieces, with a particular focus on amigurumi—the art of crocheting small, stuffed creatures and characters. What started as a hobby has grown into a business where I get to combine my love for storytelling, creativity, and craftsmanship.
I’m known for crafting unique, whimsical designs that often have a personal touch. Whether it’s a custom character for a child or a meaningful gift for a special occasion, I love turning ideas into tangible creations that bring joy to others.
One of the things I’m most proud of is how Karmigurumi has become more than just a business—it’s a way to give back. Donating a portion of my proceeds to charity has been incredibly rewarding, and it aligns with my belief that creativity should uplift others.
What truly enriches my journey is being part of the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) and Filipino community. Participating in local events and markets has been such a fulfilling way to connect with others, share my craft, and celebrate our vibrant culture. I’m inspired by the sense of community and pride that these events bring, and I’m grateful to contribute my work as a reflection of our shared creativity and heritage.
What sets me apart is the heart and storytelling I weave into my work. Each piece I create feels like more than just a crochet project; it’s a little story, a piece of art, and a gift all rolled into one.
At the end of the day, seeing the joy my creations bring to others is what keeps me going. Whether it’s a quirky new design or a heartfelt custom order, I’m always excited to bring a little more creativity and happiness into the world.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
If you’re just starting, my biggest piece of advice is: to be patient with yourself. When I first began crocheting, there were plenty of moments when things didn’t turn out as planned. I had to remind myself that it’s okay to make mistakes because that’s how you learn and improve. Progress takes time, and every project is an opportunity to grow your skills.
Through this process, make sure to find your community. Don’t be afraid to connect with others who share your interests—whether it’s online or in person. For me, joining crochet groups or attending local markets was a great way to get to know people, get inspired, and feel supported. Being part of the AAPI and Filipino community events has been a huge source of encouragement and pride, and it reminds me that we all thrive when we lift each other.
It’s also important to find joy in the process, not just the finished product. Crochet (or any creative pursuit) is as much about expressing yourself as it is about creating something tangible. Embrace your unique style, and don’t feel pressured to compare yourself to others.
Lastly, if you’re considering turning your hobby into a business, start small and stay true to yourself. I wish I’d known how much of a learning curve there can be in pricing, marketing, and time management. But with each step, you’ll gain confidence, and your passion will guide you through.
Remember, it’s okay to take risks, make mistakes, and ask for help. Trust the journey, and don’t forget to celebrate your wins—big or small.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://karmigurumi-atx.com
- Instagram: http://instagram.com/karmigurumi.atx
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karmigurumi.atx/
Image Credits
Kelly Zhu – 2024 LNY Festival Photos
Kyle Andre (Eye of the Lens) – 2024 Filipino Day Market ATX
