It all started with a ball of yarn and a curious little voice in my head saying, “What if we just gave it a go?” Fast forward to today, and crochet has become so much more than a hobby—it’s become a creative lifeline, a calming practice, and a fabulous new way for me to express myself.

 

Welcome to Handmade by Chris

Welcome to Handmade, the cosy corner of Chrisohanlon.com where creativity is stitched with care, humour, and the occasional knot of confusion. This is the official HQ for my crochet adventures—a place where you’ll find updates, behind-the-scenes videos, questionable beanie experiments, and ultimately, a showcase of custom crochet creations made with love (and a bit of sass).

Here on this page, I’ll be sharing all things crochet: stories from my journey, lessons learned from wonky scarves and beanies with attitude, behind-the-scenes videos, and updates as I begin creating custom pieces to order (yes, your wardrobe has been warned). Every piece tells a story, and I can’t wait to keep stitching mine.

Want to follow along? I’d love to have you as part of my yarn-loving crew. Join me on Instagram over at @chrisohanloncrochets or follow my socials below — where you’ll find stitches, sass, and a sprinkle of sparkle.

What started as a simple desire to quiet my mind and reconnect with creativity has unravelled (pun intended) into a joyful journey of loops, laughter, and luscious yarn. Crochet became more than just a hobby—it became my therapy, my art, and my sanctuary.

Whether you’re a fellow yarn wizard, a curious newbie, or just here for the giggles, you’re invited to follow along, join the ride, and maybe even order a handmade piece of your own.

So grab a cuppa, settle in, and explore what happens when you mix mental health, colour therapy, and a queer crocheter with a hook and a dream.

Let’s make some magic—one stitch at a time.

My Creative Project...

Hey, yarn friends (and yarn-curious cuties)!

So… I picked up a crochet hook recently and oops—I accidentally fell in love. What started as a “let’s-try-this” moment turned into a joyful, meditative (and slightly obsessive) daily habit. I’ve made hats, scarves, and some delightfully weird granny squares—and honestly? It’s been magic for my mental health and creativity.

There’s something deeply lovely about making things with your hands in a world that’s all about screens and scrolls. Crochet gives me space to breathe, giggle at my mistakes, and proudly say: “I made this wonky thing and it brings me joy!”

Whether you’re a crochet wizard or just Googled “what’s a magic ring,” I want to hear from you. Let’s build a colorful little community full of creativity, connection, and the occasional yarn disaster. Perfection not required—just good vibes and shared stitches.

Catch more of my crafty chaos over on Instagram and TikTok @chrisohanloncrochets. Wanna share your makes? Collaborate? Send love or yarn memes? Hit me up at handmade@chrisohanlon.com.

Loops, love, and a few tangled messes,
Chris 

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Date: Monday 20 Nov 2017 10:12 pm

‘I’m often asked on dating apps if I’m clean. I reply “yes I shower daily”’. 

Chris O’Hanlon can talk about his HIV status with good humour now – knowing that effective treatment means he can’t pass on the virus.  The main challenge he’s now facing is outdated attitudes from other people.

‘There is still so much stigma out there that needs confronting, especially in the gay community,’ he said.  I’ve been told to get lost and die when I’ve told people I am HIV positive, because they think I’m spreading HIV.  Some people also say they don’t date or sleep with people ‘like me’, to which my response is ‘that you know of’,’ the clinical hypnotherapist and personal trainer from Luton said.  The truth is they may have slept with people who have HIV and don’t know it or even guys who know their status but haven’t said for fear of rejection, because there are a lot of gay men who remain undiagnosed.  It’s common that you get blocked or people stop talking to you because you tell them you have HIV, Some of this is ignorance and fear.’