
Meet The Team

Founder & Staff Crochet Guru
Darren Trautman
Originally from Erie, Darren moved away for 16 years, returning in 2021 for love, after meeting his now husband, Rob. With a background in retail development and management, as well as 24 years of crochet experience, Darren is so excited bring something new to his hometown!

Staff Knitting Guru
Amy Montagna
Amy might just be Erie's most famous "yarnie"...the founder of Three Tulips Yarn Company, and not coincidentally a mother of three, Amy is excited to bring her passion for community and knitting to Hanks! When not hand dying yarn or working at the shop, Amy is spending time with her husband Lou, her three children, and her adorable brood of dogs!

Crochet Guru in Residence
Judy Zurinski
An avid crocheter and staunch supporter from day one, Judy is an essential part of the Hanks team! Her joyous personality and easy-going spirit are perfect for our crochet community! When Judy isn't at Hanks she's loving life with her lovely wife Shari and their three cats, Roadie, Hermoine, and Tongaricki. She is also on the board at Compton's Table, a local non-profit dedicated to curating safe spaces for queer and gender nonconforming people.