it is true. I cheated on my crochet habit with knitting. I still can't believe I did it. Just the other day I was going on on about how much I like crocheting and I really wanted to focus on improving and learning new skills with it. Then my friend Nicole goes and shows me one of her favorite blogs, Philigry. I spent at least 30 minutes looking at all her knitting projects and looking up the patterns. I was becoming obsessed with the idea of knitting a sweater. Slow down Jenni I thought to myself, you can make an equally fun sweater with crochet. So then I spent a good amount of time looking up sweater crochet patterns. Ummmm....not so much. I didn't really find much that were as trendy as the knitted sweaters. But did find some nice lighter sweaters to try (Crochet Crop Cardigan or Chevron Lace Cardigan), most crochet sweaters are crazy bulky with an early 90's vibe. I didn't look into patterns that cost money so maybe there are some out there. Do you know of any? There are some cute ones for kids, not sure I like the bulkiness to the arms on this one (short and sweet sweater) but still it is cute. So after several minutes of debating between crocheting or knitting a sweater, I just gave in and started knitting this pattern for my girl. I will keep you posted on my progress, it seems like it is taking forever to get anywhere though, maybe crochet is faster?
So this affair brings up a lot of internal debating. I have slowly been working my crochet hook and yarn stash up since last May. I have learned stitches and feel comfortable with trying new patterns and adding designs to existing patterns. Plus, the more practice I get with crochet the better my projects will turn out. Thus inching my way to my goal of making handmade items that don't look homemade. So if I start off shooting to other crafts like knitting then this will take time away from practicing crafts like crochet (or embroidery or sewing or photography). And I will be forever stuck making homemade items, none of which are handmade. Second, I have two sets of knitting needles. Two. I would now have to invest in more needles, long ones, small ones, big fat ones, circular ones.....). On the other hand what is the big deal with having a few different crafts that I can pick up and make. I see a lot of things I can make with crochet and knitting, what can be bad about that? Any crafting is a good time right? but back to that whole handmade vs homemade problem...and this is what I do to myself. does this make any sense at all?
PS. I just went on and on and on and really you should go to the NieNie dialouges because NieNie is BACK today! (if you haven't already done that of course.)
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7 comments:
Quite the dilemma. I have been tossing around the idea of learning to knit. I don't seem to be able to focus on just one thing. :o)
Have a blast what ever you choose to make. I think your very talented.
Sometimes with art it actually helps your primary artform if you try out something different for a bit. Don't fret! Just enjoy the process.
I know what you mean about the Philigry site...I love her creations, too! She makes me want to take up knitting! I keep telling myself what you are, that if I keep working to improve what I know I can accomplish greater projects, but other things are also so tempting to want to learn! If only we had more time in the day! I can't wait to see your finished sweater...it looks amazing even at this point!
i hear you! i think working on what you love is most important. no matter what it is. sometimes i go into mad sewing binges, then mad knitting, then i want to try something new, like soap making.
Thanks for your sweet words about my blog. i can't wait to see the sweater! if you check out knitty.com, there are lots of free patterns, that you would love. also, are you signed up for ravelry? it is free, and there are lots of great free patterns there too!
I am so excited that Nie is back, I am almost beside myself that she is back and actually finding the time to blog between all the meds she takes and therapy she does. that whole family is a true inspiration to me. They have been through so much this last year. It can only get better for all of them. I really want Cjane book, have you seen it????
Hi, I just wanted to said that I loved your picture. I wonder if I can use it for an organization's web page that we (some classmates and I) are developing. The organization is called "Tejedoras de Cambios" (changes weavers).
Good work with this blog, really amazing!
Damaris Cristina, yes your welcome to use my picture, let me know the web address when it is up!
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