Chasing Trends: “Jimothy”
A friend tagged me on Facebook over a week ago now- and in a post that immediately made me write back: BET!!!
Inspo photo from reel published by Repeat Crafter Me.
Please visit their page to access their original crochet pattern.
His exact words were “Make it! You’ll sell out!”
Well… as sweet as that sentiment is, I actually kind of doubted it. For one thing, I wouldn’t feel right profiting from another crocheter’s pattern - not when they clearly designed and edited it for their own brand and business.
For another thing, crocheting that many toys for a trend, though popular in the moment, can backfire on you if you’re not careful.
Even though I don’t think “Jimothy” is going anywhere soon as far as the internet is concerned - he is incredibly adorable - the time it would take to make even one out of crochet may not necessarily be worth it… not when so many people are already squeezed to the limits for their nickels and dimes.
But, as a personal fan of “Jimothy” the Raccoon, I just couldn’t help myself - in the end, I came up with my own version the cryptid-esque fluff-ball:
It helped me out a lot, too - I finally found a way to clear-out all of the extra safety-noses I bought on a lark many years ago!
I did choose to use cotton for this particular pattern, primarily because I’ve gotten used to working with the material after a few different projects this year. And because I think it would have the most longevity for a toy like this- for both display and for play.
It’s also the reason I opted to use a set of safety-eyes and -nose for this, and future, orders: in case the kiddos decide they want to take Jimothy off on an adventure with them.
Meet Jimothy the Raccoon—a hand-crocheted wonder that's both internet-famous and child-safe.
Crocheted with soft, high-quality cotton for a gentle feel.
Featuring a set of safety-eyes and nose, making it perfect for young children.
Each toy is meticulously made to order, ensuring a unique touch.
Bring the joy of the beloved internet sensation to your little one's playroom, knowing they're safe and snuggly.
At the moment I’m only planning on making the one design I came up with, since I don’t really know how long Jimothy is going to stick around in the public sphere. It’s possible he’ll be here for a long time - but it’s also possible that he’ll fade out of popularity soon. You just don’t really know with internet trends.
(But I do plan on doing a “Baby Jimothy” version with my extra cotton I’m de-stashing, because, OMG, his baby videos are so adorable! <3 )