The Making of the Crochet Alphabets by Bella Javid.
At Neococo Collective, stories of resilience and creativity are carried in every handmade product. One of the most inspiring stories this season is reflected in the making of the crochet alphabets created by Bella Javid, an artisan in our program. Through her hands, yarn has been transformed into vibrant letters that are not only delightful to see but deeply meaningful to own.
Bella’s Journey
Bella’s path to this work has been shaped by both challenges and determination. Life in a wheelchair has often meant that traditional work environments were not easily accessible to her. A lack of inclusive employment opportunities had limited her ability to pursue financial independence. But through the Neococo Empowerment Program, a new way forward was offered.
By being able to work from home, Bella was able to create a rhythm of work that suited her life while still being connected to a supportive community of artisans. Her artistic skills were recognized as valuable assets. Through every stitch, Bella has been able to express both her creativity and her strength, while sustainable income was generated through her craft.
The Crochet Alphabets
The crochet alphabets themselves have been crafted with remarkable care. Each stitch has been patiently shaped, resulting in letters that are in warm seasonal shades: earthy golds, rich browns, and calming blues. Far more than decorative objects, these alphabets have been designed to bring both joy and purpose into homes. When placed in children’s bedrooms, they can spell out names or favorite words, giving a personal and playful touch. On Christmas trees, they can serve as ornaments; whether initials, festive words like JOY, or entire family names, becoming keepsakes that can be treasured for years.
As stocking stuffers, the alphabet can surprise with their charm. As baby showers or birthday gifts, they can act as heirloom pieces passed down with meaning. Even as everyday home décor, words such as PEACE, HOME, or LOVE can be formed and displayed to add warmth to living spaces. They can even be used as tactile teaching tools for children learning letters, making them both playful and educational.
Why It Matters
The making of these crochet alphabets has represented more than artistic practice. For Bella, it has been a pathway to self-sufficiency and recognition. For Neococo Collective, it has been an example of how art can be harnessed as a tool for empowerment, especially for women facing barriers to employment.
The wraparound services offered by the program—supportive mentorship, flexible work models, and skill-building—have ensured that artisans like Bella are not excluded from opportunities. Instead, they are positioned to thrive. Through this approach, employment has been made accessible, culture has been celebrated, and dignity has been restored.
Every crochet alphabet carries these values in its making. They are not mass-produced or anonymous products, but rather small testaments to human resilience and artistry. With each one, Bella’s story is carried forward, reminding us of the strength that emerges when opportunities are made inclusive.
A Gift of Purpose This Season
The holiday season has always been a time for giving, and the most meaningful gifts are those that carry stories. Bella’s crochet alphabets do exactly that. They are gifts with heart, infused with love and resilience, created not just to decorate but to inspire.
By choosing these alphabets, supporters are not only giving unique presents to loved ones but also contributing to the livelihoods of women artisans. Work that once seemed out of reach for Bella has now been made possible, and every purchase ensures that her artistry continues to flourish.
This season, it is hoped that homes will be filled with Bella’s alphabets; whether hung on trees, arranged on shelves, tucked into stockings, or cherished by children. In every place they are displayed, they will remind families of the beauty of craft, the importance of inclusion, and the power of purposeful giving.
