Introducing Mária Dóka, Founder of MAHANDA

Let us introduce Mária Dóka, the creative mind behind MAHANDA, crafting unique crocheted bags, accessories, furniture, storage solutions, and rugs exclusively from 100% recycled cotton yarn.
Boast Magazine’s store will soon enrich its offerings with a new partnership: MAHANDA products. Crafted from 100% recycled cotton, these hand-crocheted bespoke items rival the collections of major luxury fashion brands. In our interview, we present the visionary behind MAHANDA, Mária Dóka. Please give her a warm welcome!

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Mária Dóka Founder of MAHANDA

How did the idea to start crocheting come about? Who taught you to crochet and did you have similar hobbies as a child?

In my childhood, our neighbour used to have crocheted chair covers. I always admired them, considering it a marvel that such intricate creations could be made from a single thread. I enjoyed drawing and crafting but only seriously began crocheting when my son was born, and I stayed home with him. My mother-in-law enjoyed crocheting, so I asked her to teach me. She used thin yarn. Initially, I crocheted a headband and a butterfly, but I found working with thin yarn very slow. Later, I wanted to make a crocheted cushion because I was fascinated by what I saw online. First, I made a small basket. I ordered thick cotton yarn for it, the appropriate size crochet hook, and followed a pattern. Although I enjoyed working with thick yarn much more, it still didn’t quite resemble the original. Then I practised a lot to be able to create high-quality, beautiful crochets.

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Mária Dóka owner and founder of MAHANDA

What did you originally study?

Originally, I studied accounting, but I never worked in the field. I am a people-loving, sociable person, so I preferred being among people. First, I worked as a nanny, then I completed pedagogical assistant training, and currently, I work in a kindergarten. In addition, I create crocheted products for MAHANDA.

You create adult and children’s home decor items, as well as women’s accessories, bags, purses, and almost anything you find joy in making. What professional challenges have you encountered in making items like a children’s storage or a bag? How different is it to make these items compared to crocheting a sweater, for example?

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MAHANDA artisan crocheted children’s storages.

Sweaters are made from thinner yarn than bags, rugs, or furniture. Working with thick yarn can be physically demanding as we hold and move quite heavy weights with our wrists and arms. Additionally, it’s important for crocheting to be very even and uniform, not leaning, and every shape or pattern needs to be designed and experimented with. There were times when I had to unravel and re-crochet fox storage many times until it turned out exactly as I wanted. I continuously crochet my products, meaning I don’t sew individual pieces together. This results in a more uniform, beautiful product, with no protruding parts at the seams. Therefore, every product needs to be meticulously planned.

When and why did you decide to build a business around your skills and love for crocheting?

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MAHANDA crochet woman’s bag

In 2019, when I had learned to crochet very well, I made a sleigh-shaped small storage for Christmas. I posted it on Facebook to show it to my friends, who not only liked it very much but many asked me to make one for them too… Then came various bags, rugs, storage solutions, and ottomans, and when I saw there was a demand for them, I created my own business, MAHANDA.

Why did you choose Mahanda as your brand name?

My brand was created from the first syllables of the names of my children and myself. Ma = Marika, Ha = Hanna, and Da = Dániel.

Where do you draw inspiration for your new product ideas from? Do you have a role model who inspires you professionally?

I usually follow Russian, Ukrainian or Spanish artisans on YouTube who crochet beautifully. I also keep an eye on current trends, but I have my style.

Do you have a favourite fashion house, and if so, which one and why? How did you develop your unique style?

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Crocheted luxury artisan woman bag in dark blue by MAHANDA

I don’t have a favourite fashion brand. I like a certain cut or style, regardless of whether it’s branded or not. My characteristic style is understated, with pastel colours, and elegance. It’s important for me to work with quality materials. The aforementioned 100% recycled cotton cord yarn, genuine leather, or sophisticated metal accessories.

What are your professional goals for the future?

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MAHANDA artisan crocheted dress for women.

I would like to hold crochet workshops and teach others the art of crocheting. I’ve had the opportunity to try myself in this area: I’ve been invited to handicraft festivals several times, where I taught interested people how to crochet.
Additionally, I would like to participate in fashion shows with my products. My best friend designs wedding dresses, and I sometimes collaborate with her or even model for her.

You often make your products to order. Which piece of your work are you most proud of so far?

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MAHANDA mandala crocheted rug

Yes. Usually, rugs are requested in custom sizes by clients. I’m proud that I managed to make the originally circular lotus rug into an oval shape upon request. I’m also very proud of my fox storage, which is completely custom-designed. I worked a lot on it until its final form emerged. I’m also proud of my sleigh-shaped storage. It’s also gratifying that once a restaurant ordered 250 ecru-coloured chair cushions from me; these are washable, durable pieces.

Why do you recommend your products to buyers?

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MAHANDA crocheted train storage for boys

Children’s storage solutions and children’s rugs are practical and look very nice in a sophisticated, beautiful children’s room, and many of them are washable (not wood-based). I also make bags that are washable and ironable, so they can be kept clean and maintain their shape for a long time. The ottomans I make can also be kept clean easily. All my products are made from natural materials and handmade; I don’t use plastic. I recommend my products to those who like sophisticated, beautiful, fashionable crocheted items, bags, accessories, and furniture.

How do you balance your job and family duties with building your business?

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MAHANDA crochet artisan Christmas storage

I usually crochet for 1-2 hours a day. I have more time on Saturdays; that’s when my mother-in-law takes care of the kids.

What gives you the strength to lead a successful life and manage your daily life?

Primarily from my family. We’re always together on Sundays, we go out somewhere. Or from joint vacations and long weekends. I am a very dynamic personality, but my family provides the necessary peace and background for everyday life.

Don’t forget! You will find MAHANDA products in our shop shortly, and our Exclusive Club Members will receive a 10% discount on these items. If you also want to be our business partner, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at the following email address: editorial@boastmagazine.co.uk