The Garden Of Iris

Hey guys! My name is Steph, also known as Knotty Girl Stiff, the hands behind the crochet.

I was born and raised in Sydney, and I’ve been crocheting since I was about 7 or 8 years old. It’s an art form that’s been passed down through generations in my family, and for me, it’s more than just a skill. Crochet is my connection to my ancestors, a way I express myself, and a powerful tool for healing.

I’m also the founder of Third Eye Knots, where I specialise in natural dreadlocking and hair braiding. My chosen technique is crochet method. It came naturally to me, and I’ve been able to excel in it thanks to my lifelong connection with crochet.

What I do isn't everyone's taste, and I’m sure if my Teta (Grandmother in Arabic) saw my pieces, she would raise an eyebrow. My pieces are an extension of me, loud, Bold, furry, bright and everything in between.

I have been attending Subsonic music festival consecutively since 2015, and this festival really has left an imprint on my heart, mind and soul. It’s more than just a party! It’s a space that’s helped shape me as a person and artist. Subsonic is where I had the epiphany to start Third Eye Knots in 2017 and turn my passion into a business. Now its 2025 and I’m pushing myself again, this time into the world of a large scale art installation with my vision “The Garden of Iris” and my main girl “All seeing Iris”

I used to only crochet for myself because it takes a lot of time and energy to create pieces. I want to open this up and share what I do with the world. It can be terrifying putting yourself out there, especially when it’s your art but here I am and this is me. It’s a leap, its vulnerable and its so exciting!

Peace

Steph