How to be a Fabulous Knitter / Crocheter–Introduction

Vera says:

Have you ever…

Come across  a stunning, yet astronomically priced crocheted skirt or a simply darling crocheted baby sweater and wished you could make it yourself?Been intrigued by someone knitting away in public and wanted them to teach you? Perhaps you learned to crochet as a child and would like to reconnect? Wanted to learn a technique new like sock knitting, granny squares, or working with colors.Desired to crochet even though you can knit or vice versa?Thought about having something to do that's relaxing, enjoyable, portable and productive? An endeavor that sharpens your reflexes, brain and is good for many social settings or going solo?

If you answered "Yes" to any of the above (or have other reasons), then knitting and crocheting may be in your future.

You'd also become a part of a large–and growing–family of crafters. Over 50 million people in the United States knit and crochet.

I came to knit and crochet via Reason #2.  As a child in New York City, I was fascinated by the women I would see on the city subways and buses working away; it looked like magic to my 9 year old brain.  I used my allowance to buy needles, hooks, and yarn. I didn't have anyone to teach me and any idea what to do, so I just made something up.

My first project was a  crocheted hat and scarf with a yarn in Halloween colors for my mother, and since I didn't understand hat shaping, the beret was more like a cone, but she wore it anyway; such is a mother's love.

In time, I purchased books and taught myself again. My school years were spent making mostly afghans, vests, and pillows–hey, it was the 70′s.  I pretty much put down my needles for some years while in college and the military, but connecting with others on line and in person encouraged me to pick them back up again and learn new techniques like sock knitting.

Today, I'm rarely without a project, and my crafting helps keeps me focused. I enjoy knitting while watching television, on my lunch breaks, or crocheting to smooth my frayed nerves in a  traffic jam.  Although I mostly work in private, I love knitting in public (There's a day for that), and I have made connections with people locally and all over the world.

I'd love to pass along my knowledge, tips, tricks, triumphs, and disasters gleaned over the years with you.

Some ideas I have are the following…

Tips, Tricks, and TechniquesReader Q &AInstructional videosKnit and Crochet Alongs–a virtual crafting circleThe Crafting Life–Commentary on the world of, needles, yarns, patterns, magazines, etiquette, etc.

Let me know your interests in the comments.

In any event, it's all about helping each other to become–and remain, no matter what the level–fabulous knitters and crocheters!

Vera Hannaford lives and crafts in Charleston, South Carolina and wishes she'd make more things for her husband, but can't seem to get around to it.  You can follow her adventures in needlework on Vera's Crafty Blog and on occasion, get some helpful hints at KnittingTips on Twitter

How to be a Fabulous Knitter / Crocheter–Introduction is a post from: Home Ec 101 ©Home Ec 101.com 2007 - 2011