Privacy Policy

Privacy Policy for Yarn Over with Natasha

Effective Date: [2019-04-21]

upated: [2025-05-20]
Owner: Natasha Smuts
Location: Upington, South Africa
Website: www.yarnoverwithnatasha.co.za


1. Introduction

Welcome to Yarn Over with Natasha (the “Blog”, “Site”, or “Website”), a blog run by me, Natasha Smuts, based in Upington, South Africa. This Privacy Policy explains how I collect, use, and protect your information when you visit my website, access my free crochet patterns, or read my blog posts about crochet and small business tips.

By using this site, you agree to the collection and use of information in accordance with this policy.


2. What Information I Collect

I collect both personal and non-personal data:

A. Personal Data (only when provided voluntarily):

  • Name

  • Email address (e.g., through contact forms, comments, or newsletter signup via SendGrid)

B. Non-Personal Data:

  • Browser type

  • Device information

  • IP address

  • Pages visited

  • Time spent on the site

This data is collected via:

  • Cookies

  • Google AdSense

  • Google Analytics (if installed)

  • Affiliate links (via The Wool Shoppe)


3. Email Subscriptions via SendGrid

I use SendGrid as my email marketing provider. When you subscribe to receive emails from me, you’ll be asked to provide your name and email address.

Your details are used only to send you blog updates, crochet pattern announcements, and related content. You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking the “unsubscribe” link in any email or contacting me directly at admin@yarnoverwithnatasha.co.za

Your data is stored securely by SendGrid and is not shared, sold, or used for any other purpose.


4. How I Use Your Information

I use your data to:

  • Respond to your messages and comments

  • Send email updates (if subscribed)

  • Improve the website and content

  • Track ad performance and website stats

  • Comply with legal requirements

  • Monitor and protect against spam and abuse


5. Third-Party Services I Use

A. Google AdSense

I use Google AdSense to display ads. Google may collect and use information about your visits to this site and others to serve relevant ads. You can opt out of personalized ads through your Google account.

More info: https://policies.google.com/technologies/ads

B. The Wool Shoppe Affiliate Link

I use a custom coupon code for The Wool Shoppe. If you click a link and use my code, I may receive a small commission. This does not cost you anything extra.

C. SendGrid (Email Marketing)

Your email and name are collected through SendGrid only if you voluntarily subscribe. You can unsubscribe at any time.


6. Cookies Policy

This website uses cookies to:

  • Improve your browsing experience

  • Serve relevant ads

  • Track website traffic and analytics

You can disable cookies through your browser settings, but this may affect how certain features function.


7. Data Protection & Security

Your privacy matters. This website is protected with SSL encryption, ensuring that any data you provide is securely transmitted.

I do not sell, rent, or trade your personal information.


8. Your Rights Under POPIA & GDPR

Whether you’re visiting from South Africa (under POPIA) or internationally (including the EU under GDPR), you have the right to:

  • Access the personal data I hold about you

  • Request corrections or deletion of your information

  • Withdraw consent at any time

  • Lodge a complaint with your local data authority

Contact: yarnoverwithnatasha@gmail.com


9. Children’s Privacy

This blog is not aimed at children under the age of 13. I do not knowingly collect personal data from children.


10. Affiliate Disclosure

Some links on this blog are affiliate links (currently only with The Wool Shoppe). If you click through and make a purchase using my coupon code, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. These earnings help support the blog and keep content free.


11. General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR)

This website only provides digital crochet patterns and free blog content. I do not sell any physical products. As such, this blog is not subject to the General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR).

However, I do encourage makers to ensure that any handmade items, especially toys or baby items made from my patterns, are created using safe materials and construction methods suitable for their intended use. The responsibility for the safety of the final handmade product lies with the maker.


12. Changes to This Privacy Policy

This policy may be updated from time to time. Any changes will be posted on this page, with the updated date reflected at the top.


13. Contact Me

Have questions or concerns? You can reach out to me here:

Natasha Smuts
📧admin@yarnoverwithnatasha.co.za
📍 Upington, South Africa