Archive for September 29, 2010
Crocheting & Knitting in a Bad Economy
I ran across this very interesting article today. It is about women who have had to quit knitting or crocheting in the economic downturn. Honestly, I can’t even imagine that sacrifice and I was one of the “lucky ones” to lose their job after the huge collapse in the fall of 2008. However, my practices have changed. For starters, I only buy yarn that I “must have” which is defined as a skein that I will probably never see again at a great price OR something I need to finish a design that I could potentially sell. Second of all, I try to limit the number of new projects that I start until I finish another.
I have noticed a recent uptick in the number of LYS’s closing in my state. This saddens me tremendously – partly because I have always dreamed of owning a LYS and also because I don’t want this pastime to end. There is something uniquely different in buying a skein or two from your neighbor than a nameless, faceless online store. A relationship is formed. Now, don’t get me wrong, I am a sucker for an online bargain – however, I do try to support my LYS’s. I also go out of my way to publicize them here.
It seems to me, though, that there are ways to continue crocheting and knitting on a budget. Many of us already have huge stashes that could keep us busy for several months, if not years. Also, yarn can easily be recycled from old sweaters found at thrift stores and in our closets. If you are crocheting and knitting for the sheer pleasure of it, than you can use any type of fiber at your disposal to get the same therapeutic benefit.
Lastly, I think that I have turned to my crochet more in these economic times. One, I need the stress relief. And, two, I can’t afford other “big ticket” items like fancy vacations etc. So, I splurge on yummy yarn and take a “mini vacation” each day. After all, I get so much enjoyment out of creating with beautiful yarn and a $20 skein of a silk or cashmere blend can bring me weeks of pleasure.
