we’re on a run of rainy spring weather in southern california. today’s maker is just in time— meet cassie of oh leander. she knows her way around a set of crochet hooks- and you’ll be thanking your lucky stars for her cowls and scarves when the sun is otherwise occupied. for those not scarf-inclined, she also makes cold-weather accoutrements like mugs for warm drinks and (any weather) wine cozies. and, if you’re poking around for other sorts of rainy day entertainment– feel free to drool over the photographic loveliness that is her blog…

introductions please.

hello sunshine mug cassandra marie oh leander

my name is cassandra marie, and i was born and raised in santa barbara. several years ago, i moved to los angeles where i thought up and created my online shop oh leander…and i have been keeping my little hands busy ever since!

scarf cassandra marie oh leander

what do you make or do?

i have always been so inspired by people who have the ability to create beautiful things with their hands. i wanted to be one of them. so i taught myself how to crochet, and now make crocheted and other handmade goods.

where can we find your creations?

my products are available in my online shop. and also, in my etsy shop.

wine cozies cassandra marie oh leander

how long have you been creating and is it your full-time job?
i officially opened oh leander in march of 2011, but had been trying to perfect my technique and accumulate inventory for months before that point. i would love to eventually have it be my full time job and am currently trying to build up to that.

when you’re not making things- what do you do?

when i’m not making, i’m either eating, taking photos, spending time with the hubby or traveling (i prefer if all of the above are happening simultaneously, though!).

favor bags cassandra marie oh leander

did someone in your family, a friend or teacher introduce you to your creative side or have they helped you along the way?

both of my parents are artistic people, a trait i think they passed down to me. i developed a great love for all forms of art at a very young age, and from that, grew up with a deep desire to create.

what’s on the horizon for you and what you do?

the future looks bright! i hope to continue to expand my shop, successfully market my brand, increase my fan base, and possibly gain more stockists who supply my products in their stores around the world.

what inspiring advice would you give to other creatives?

“little bow” brooches cassandra marie oh leander

the best advice i can give fellow creatives is actually one of my favorite quotes by anthony burrill: “work hard and be nice to people.” …it’s an adopted personal mantra that i try to live by each day.

-varci h.