About Me

My name is Irene.
I’m 31 years old and I live in the suburbs of Piraeus, Greece.

My first memory with a crochet hook goes back to when I was just five years old, during summer holidays. I remember sitting next to my grandmother, also named Irene. A crochet hook, a small ball of thread, me making simple chains, and her “preparing my dowry”, as she liked to say.

I don’t remember her teaching me.
I don’t remember struggling, or asking questions.
Somehow, in my mind, I always knew how to crochet.

For many years I worked as a nursery teacher, in kindergartens and childcare. I love children deeply and I always will. But at some point, I decided to turn my hobby into my work.

Not only to crochet clothes, dolls and decorative pieces —
but to design them too.
To create my own patterns, puzzle over numbers and stitches, and slowly watch my ideas take shape, one stitch at a time.

By my side I have a wonderful husband who supports every one of my “crazy” decisions, and three tabby cats who weave around my feet and purr while I work. One day, I lifted my head from my crochet to stretch — and there they were: cats and yarn everywhere.

That’s how Gatia Kouvaria was born.

The goal of this space is for you to get to know me through my creations. To share what I know, and what I learn day by day, and to build — together — a warm, welcoming corner where everyone is welcome.

I’m really happy you’re here 🧶