June 13, 2025
MANILA – A dog’s fur is the counterpart of a person’s hair. It is their “crowning glory” that defines their general lovable appearance. Their coat could be as soft as a fluffy pillow, as lustrous as jewelry, or even as distinctive as a yarn.
Paula Danielle Dela Cruz, a 25-year-old crochet artist who is the creative mind behind Gantsilyo by Elle, has given our fur babies a fascinating and extraordinary look by transforming skeins of yarn into semi-realistic mini versions of them.
A pet lover herself, Dela Cruz told INQUIRER.net that she wanted to convey her adoration for furry companions with her skills in creating art. Her exceptional talent for grasping the irresistible cuteness of beloved pets has also hooked fellow fur parents with her craft.
Art is boundless
Ever since she was a kid, Dela Cruz has always been interested in the arts. Intrigued by the splashes of colors and inks, she delved into drawing, painting and calligraphy. However, her heart desired something else, leading her to try different hobbies instead.
When everything closed during the pandemic, a new path for the arts opened for Dela Cruz within the confines of her home. Seeing an amigurumi — the Japanese art form of knitting or crocheting stuffed yarn creatures — online sparked her interest in creating one as well.
Dela Cruz then ventured into the world of loops and stitches, but not boxing herself with the common crochet creations. The passionate artist crocheted various stunning items until she focused on a niche that fueled her passion and meaning in the art she created.
“The crochet scene here is vibrant, with many talented artists creating beautiful items. Rather than [competing] directly with the usual crochet offerings […] I wanted to carve out a niche that truly resonated with me,” Dela Cruz said.
“Custom-made pet keychains and mini amigurumi pets allow me to capture the unique personalities of people’s beloved companions, creating keepsakes that they’ll cherish,” she expressed.
Hobby turned business
Crocheting has become an integral part of Dela Cruz’s life. It was no longer just a hobby but an avenue to connect with people through her craft. In 2021, she took the next step by accepting commissions, and it eventually prospered into a full-fledged business.
Throughout her career, she has collaborated with various brands and had her craft recognized by prominent publications. Having achieved these milestones makes her feel on cloud nine, as she had not expected her hobby to become her full-time job.
For the most part, Dela Cruz is simply glad to see people value her art and become part of their story. Meeting a fur parent who requested a mini version of their pet and entrusting their fond memories to her was her motivation in continuing her craft.
“It’s an honor to be trusted with something so personal, and it becomes even more meaningful when the pet has already passed. Knowing that my work can help preserve a special memory is what keeps me going,” Dela Cruz said.
Communication is the key
As her business flourished, Dela Cruz never forgot to treat her clients with the highest regard. To her, they are not just clients who purchase products but individuals with a rich story to tell. She strives to learn more about them to translate their stories into art.
Establishing good communication with people is the crucial point in her doll-making process. She engages in detailed discussions with the clients to understand every aspect of their pet’s unique personality and features.
“I also keep clients involved throughout the process, welcoming their suggestions and feedback. My goal is to create something that not only looks like their pet, but also reflects who they were — making it a truly special and personal keepsake,” Dela Cruz explained.
The artist further noted that she is very particular in dealing with the intricate details of her amigurumi, as she allocates a significant amount of time to capture a realistic pet portrait. No matter how tedious it may be, she sees the process as enjoyable and valuable.
Her six-inch dog bestseller, for instance, takes around six to nine hours to fashion. The general process typically involves crocheting, sewing, brushing, trimming and sometimes even painting, depending on the complexity of the pet’s features.
Doing what the heart desires is also meant to be shared and felt. Just like how she lends her talent to fulfill people’s requests, Dela Cruz extends a heartwarming message to aspiring and fellow artists: Never stop learning and growing.
“Keep creating and doing what you love, even when it feels challenging. Along the way, you’ll discover new techniques, improve your skills, and even surprise yourself with what you’re capable of. Stay curious, stay passionate, and trust the process—every step adds to your journey as an artist,” she concluded.
To learn more about Gantsilyo by Elle and have your very own pet amigurumi, you may contact her on social media: Gantsilyo by Elle on Facebook and @gantsilyo.by.elle on TikTok and Instagram.