LIMPOPO – Merlyn Singo didn’t have a business plan when she picked up a crochet hook – just a family to support and a hobby she loved.

Years later, that decision has grown into Da’Merlfiit, a brand covering clothing, knitting, crochet designs, bags, accessories and fitness.

A tangled beginning

“Firstly, it was not easy at all. I had to advertise a new brand and lower my prices to attract customers in a competitive market. I deal with competition by creating unique designs that set my brand apart,” she said.

Singo said her passion for developing new skills and mentoring others motivated her to start her own business.

“Crocheting is special because it allows people to express their creativity and produce unique items. It is also easy to learn and has low start-up costs, making it a good business opportunity,” she said.

Stitching together a brand

She explained that the name Da’Merlfiit combines her name with her love for fitness.

“I do fitness with both young and old, so I decided to combine art and fitness.

“The way I knit my stitches makes my brand unique. I keep moving no matter how hard it gets, and one day I want to see my brand on a billboard,” she said.

Threads reaching further

Singo hopes to see her products stocked by major clothing retailers.

“After attending an expo, I realised my brand was known in many places. I can create different designs without formal training, and I have taught my daughters, my mother and a friend how to crochet. Customers have responded very well, and that keeps me motivated,” she said.

Weaving into the community

She believes crocheting is therapeutic, improves concentration and creates employment opportunities. Her products are already being sold in different provinces.

Outside her business, Singo serves as an SGB chairperson, is active in community development and leads fitness sessions for young and old.

“I want to be one of the most successful women and to see other women lifting themselves up,” she said.