Janet L. Akins

Janet L. Akins is a longtime crochet pattern tester for Leisure Arts. She learned to crochet at the age of 13. “I remember my Grandma teaching me this skill one summer on her front porch,” she says. “I’ve enjoyed crocheting leisurely and professionally in my later years.” She especially enjoys making afghans but occasionally has branched out into crocheting shawls, dolls, rugs, hats, and other projects.“ I tend to gravitate toward beginner patterns mostly because I enjoy creating something that many others can make,” she says. “I definitely like to test patterns out to see if they are cute yet can be completed easily.” Her special interest in geometric patterns was her inspiration for the graphic afghans in this book. “The patterns are applicable for all ages. They can be used in a nursery, kids’ room, college room, or family room to match any decor.” Janet has two grown children and two grandsons. She enjoys biking, playing tennis, bowling, and doing DIY home projects with her children.