What began as a simple skill learned from her grandmother has grown into a creative project with real-world outcomes for Hannah (Year 12).
Hannah first learned to crochet when she was 12 years old while on holiday. “My grandma taught me how to do it,” she says. “When I joined TSS, I started doing it during Project time and remembered how much I loved it.”
That love for crochet has since evolved into a student-led enterprise, with Hannah designing and creating handmade crochet bags during her Project time at school. She describes the process as calming and rewarding.
Each bag now takes her just 45 minutes to make, and Hannah has spent the majority of her Project time refining her designs, sourcing materials, and producing stock. With the flexibility to focus deeply on her interest, she has been able to treat the project as more than a hobby.
At The Studio School’s most recent Open Showcase, Hannah experienced a major milestone, selling three bags and making $160 from her work. “It was exciting and very unexpected,” she says. “I didn’t think I’d sell any."
The experience proved to be a significant confidence boost. Reflecting on the process, Hannah says one of her biggest lessons has been learning “to be patient — it takes time, but you have to trust the process.”
Beyond crochet itself, Hannah has developed a range of transferable skills through her project, including independence, time management, and sourcing products. She has also taken the initiative to create an Instagram account to promote her bags and connect with potential customers.
“I wanted a way to sell and promote my work,” she explains. “Some people have already bought bags through the platform — I’ve been selling them for $65 each.”
Next week, Hannah will take another step forward, selling her bags at the All Saints' College annual Pasar Malam Twilight Markets. It will be her first time selling at a market and her first experience presenting her work in person to the wider public.
Looking ahead, Hannah hopes to continue growing her project into a successful small business and expand her range beyond bags. She’s already looking into creating other handmade items, including computer cases and keychains.
For other students considering turning a hobby into a project, Hannah’s advice is simple and encouraging:
“It’s a great idea. It’s worth a shot — like trial and error. If it doesn’t work, you can try something else.”
With dedicated Project time at school to focus on her work, Hannah’s journey is a strong example of how students at The Studio School are supported to pursue their interests, learn through real-world experience, and begin creating pathways for their future.
Check out Hannah's bags here: Hannah&Co. Instagram
