Getting To Know Gen Duffy : Founder of Palm & Pine Crochet
When we came across Gen’s instagram last year, we knew instantly that we wanted to carry her pieces at Post Surf. Gen’s adventurous spirit, love of travel, and connection with nature is so evident within her work. We are in love with how these pieces make us feel. From the attention to detail and the fit, to the luxe cotton yarn , each top exudes femininity and the feeling of a forever summer. Palm & Pine is a true reflection of the ideation behind our artisan collection which is to celebrate women makers and the return to slow fashion. We caught up with Gen on all things traveling, surf, and crochet.
*Tell us a little bit about yourself, where you're from and when you began crocheting?
My name is Gen :) I am from Montreal, Canada. I have been traveling for the past 15 years and living in different countries.
*What was your main inspiration for Palm and Pine and what inspired the name?
My grandma taught me how to knit when I was a kid which was really helpful to make scarves and sweaters... but I like the beach and I love beachwear so I started doing crochet about 7 years ago. Crochet allows you to be so creative and make really cool stuff. My inspiration for the name comes from exotic beaches around the world, that feeling you have when your feet are sandy and your hair is salty. I also never want to forget that summers in Canada are magic, So Palm, is for palm trees on beautiful beaches and Pine is for the beauty of the nature of here.
*It seems that you have a very strong connection to travel and nature, how does this influence your work?
Everywhere I go, I take the time to sit still and crochet. It’s a form of meditation and being in the present moment. Noticing all that nature has to offer, the view, the sounds, the smell. Nature's stunning textures and colors really inspire me.
"Everywhere I go, I take the time to sit still and crochet. It’s a form of meditation and being in the present moment. Noticing all that nature has to offer, the view, the sounds, the smell. Nature's stunning textures and colors really inspire me."
*We also (obviously) love that you’re a surfer! When did you start surfing and where is your favorite place to surf?
I’ve been surfing for 15 years... its what started all my traveling. I love the ocean - My favorite place is Costa Rica, I lived there for a year and I am always going back. I feel connected to the vibe there.
*Do you have any post-surf rituals? ( i.e stretching, coffee or beers, etc)
Like you say, that post surf feeling just puts you in such a good mood! I like to stay on the beach and watch others surf for a bit. After, definitely going for something to eat and coffee is always a good idea :)