Comradery is not something I had every experienced before when it came to my crochet habit. As a small girl, crocheting, or any fiber craft, was not exactly something people were lining up to do. I had a unique advantage in that my family participated in Civil War Re-enactments; however, while that would have been a prime opportunity to craft with others older, but crafters nonetheless, I spent my time running around riding horses, playing powder monkey to my dad's cannon crew, and gambling with my fake confederate dollars.
Fast forward to college.... mmm perhaps a little more.
As an adult I have crocheted but mostly at night and on my own. A few times I had looked for a group of fiber artists and never had any luck. I conceded that if I wanted to be in a group, I'd have to create one and most likely be in it by myself for a rather long time... and I was already doing that in my living room.
I have been a member of Ravelry for a while now; however, I must admit that I did not use the groups and forums as much as I could have/should have/do now. I happened upon a group that has weekly meet ups at a local store.
Needless to say, I am very excited to say that I went to my very first fiber artists meetup last night.
I was a little worried at first that it would be awkward considering I knew no one and that I had my children in tow. Granted, my daughter chose to take her loom knitting with her and my son was obligated to finish his homework quietly. While I felt a bit awkward as I approached the table, it only took a couple warm smiles and an offer to draw up a chair to break the ice.
It was a great night. I had a wonderful time and truly enjoyed meeting all the ladies and the gentleman. (and I got 4 rows done on the super-secret mother's day gift).
I do think this is going to be a healthy step forward with my crochet. One thing I have lost as an adult is having people to go to when I'm in a lurch or to learn about new stitches or patterns. I'm excited to be able to have people to bounce ideas off of and get direction from. As a child I had my mother and grandmother and other people in the family that crafted. As an adult, I don't have that anymore... I have become that person to my children and other people looking to learn.
While I was hoping to see more crocheters than there were, I definitely will be going back.
2 comments:
I've noticed a "group" of ladies at the local yarn store too and they've invited me to come but I'm hesitant.....hate not knowing anyone. Looked on Ravelry and that store has a group with 1100 members. Yowza! Who knew! Maybe when I get back to driving (if my pain ever lessens back down to managable levels), I will venture out and try it. Not too many crocheters, though. Mostly knitters. I'm also afraid to sit around all that fabulous yarn too long...hope I'm good! lol
Sounds like a lovely evening! I go to a "sit and stitch" group when I can, and I agree it is fun to share your crafting with others. Hope it's the start of some new friendships and fun for you!
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