San Francisco resident Erin Cowan learned to crochet soon after moving to Austin, Texas from Calistoga, California. At the age of nineteen, he started selling hats in a local arts market across the street from the University of Texas.

In 1996 Erin founded Topi, his handmade crafts business, making hats crocheted chenille hats, scarves, and boas made with a classic, timeless style, as well as a few funky styled hats.

Topi's success is due to Erin’s use of high quality yarns and craftsmanship, as well as his creative approach to business.

Erin moved to San Francisco in May of 2003 where he’s a licensed street artist. He sells his handmade crafts at Justin Herman Plaza near San Francisco’s Ferry Plaza, and these unique items can be seen and purchased on his web site, topionline.com.