Turning what some might consider a hobby into a full-time career, Rose Svane is living proof that when your heart is in your work, every day feels intentional. A crochet designer and author, Rose’s approach to the art of crocheting rewrites traditional norms, challenging what the craft is known for by introducing modern colors and expressive patterns in both wearable pieces and art forms. Inspired by film and theatre, she remains hands-on and endlessly curious, refining her ideas alongside a trusted test-knit group. Her home reflects her creative arc: bold, warm, and wonderfully personal, every color, texture, and all the fun little details tracing back to her, her cat Ulla, and whatever unexpected idea she’s chasing next (yes, that includes the flute)!
For those who don't know you, how would you like to introduce yourself?
My name is Rose Svane, and I’m a crochet designer and author. Normally, I wouldn’t introduce myself by my profession, but my work is such a big part of who I am that it really says a lot about me. I’ve been doing this for six years and have been working full-time for the past three.
What has the process been like in making your apartment truly feel like home? Or how would you describe its atmosphere?
Creating my home has been an exhilarating journey of self-expression. After living here alone for about a year - following a period of sharing the space with roommates - I finally had the freedom to bring the apartment entirely to life on my own terms. I threw myself into painting, adding color wherever I could, and filled the apartment with personal touches: little treasures I’ve collected over the years and stored in my attic. I wanted the space to feel vibrant, full of personality, and completely reflective of me, with colors, textures, and details that make it feel lived-in, joyful, and uniquely my own.
How is your personality reflected in your home and its overall design? And what are your favorite pieces that instantly make it feel like you?
There’s one piece that I feel really captures the spirit of my home. It’s a small mouth sculpture hanging on my kitchen wall. Technically, it’s a bottle opener, created by a French ceramic artist. To me, it’s the perfect combination of art and function. That balance - objects that are both beautiful and practical - is something I carry throughout my home. It’s often a kind of compromise I aim for when designing my space: every piece should feel personal, meaningful, and functional at the same time.
That approach is very much part of my personality. I can be a bit impractical at times, and things often move quickly - something you can see reflected in my home. Certain areas feel intentionally unfinished, and the painting isn’t always perfectly precise. But I’d rather get things done and embrace a little imperfection than wait for everything to be flawless.
Your crochet work is amazing! Can you share how your crochet journey began and what inspired you to start?
Inspiration for my work usually comes in one of two ways. Often, it starts when I’ve seen a really great film or been to the theater, something visually striking that sparks an idea. I might then want to recreate the mood or atmosphere from that film in a crochet piece. It’s not always obvious which film inspired me; sometimes it’s just a single image, a color combination, or an outfit that caught my eye.
Other times, it’s the opposite - I start from scratch, imagining something that could belong in a film. I think a lot in cinematic terms, and I’m currently working on a third book that explores how a crochet piece can tell a story and create its own narrative world.
Where do you find your creative energy? Are there people, places, or experiences that influence your work the most?
I’m definitely inspired by visual and cultural experiences - films, theater, and museums are all huge sources of inspiration for me. Beyond that, I find it motivating to do hands-on work with others. I have a small test-knit group that tries out my crochet patterns, and being part of that process is particularly inspiring. It fuels my creativity and keeps me motivated - almost like a creative engine driving me forward.
What’s your daily rhythm as a creative entrepreneur look like?
My days always start the same way. My friend calls me every morning on her way to work, and that’s usually what gets me up. Afterward, I make a cup of coffee and sit on the sofa with my cat, Ulla, while catching up on the news. It’s definitely the coziest part of my day.
Then I usually start crocheting, often still on the sofa. Some days, I have meetings or events to attend, and afterward, I turn my attention to my book.
Looking ahead, what’s the dream - whether it’s something huge or just a small personal goal?
I dream of once again turning a new hobby into a career. I’ve found it to be one of the most fulfilling experiences - starting out by doing something you love, and then suddenly being able to make it your profession. I’ve recently started playing the flute, so who knows. Maybe one day I’ll become a professional at that too!
My home must be …
full of colors and a few whimsical pieces that hold great sentimental value.
f I had to describe my wardrobe style in three words, they would be…
sparkling, French-inspired, and bold.
In Copenhagen, I often find myself crocheting at…
Lagoni, a café located between me and my friend and yarn colleague, Josefine.
The object that perfectly captures my taste is…
the large hand-crocheted piece hanging above my bed. I love using tactile elements as wall décor. It’s beautiful and also great for acoustics.
The TWIN sofa represents my life and style because…
it’s big and bold, takes up space, yet is super comfortable - a little safe haven in my home.
I’m at my happiest when…
I’m biking through the city after a night out with friends.
A city I’m excited to visit or return to…
is Lisbon!
It brings me joy to…
create. I feel truly happy when I finish a crochet piece.
If I weren’t doing what I do today, I’d probably be…
some kind of performer. I’d love to work on stage — ideally in something that started out as a hobby.
Someone who inspires me is…
Jane Birkin. She’s my forever style icon and has worn some incredible crochet outfits over the years.
Whenever I need inspiration, I…
dive into a good, visually captivating movie.
Sundays are for…
long strolls through the city, a yoga class, and coffee with a friend - and, of course, ending the day with cuddles with Ulla on the sofa!
Copenhagen isn’t Copenhagen without a stop at…
Circolo. They serve the best pasta I’ve ever tasted.
My go-to coffee spot is…
Friheden.
Catching up with friends usually happens at…
Lille Musling or with a beer by the lakes in Copenhagen.
Three favorite Copenhagen spots…
La Banchina for summertime, Assistens Kirkegård for long walks, and Bar la Una for dinner.