I think your last reason is very valid. Many people remember learning to crochet from grandmoms, they were the ones who had time to crochet (in retirement) and so often seen crocheting in public. I think that's how it came to be viewed as an old person's craft. I am so thankful (even as an old person now - 59) that I can find so so many young people crocheting and knitting. It is definitely not an old person's craft anymore! Your advice was spot on!
I have been crocheting since I was 7 , i am now in my early 60’s and have NEVER thought about quitting crocheting, if I loose my hands I will learn to crochet with my feet . To each his own but I will be crocheting till I leave this earth.
Same here…I started at age 5 with my mom’s Magic Crochet magazines, making intricate doilies from charts. I’m now 60. NEVER quitting! I’ll die, go to heaven, and be making sweaters and blankets for the angels! Lol 😆
Quit crochet?? That almost made me cry! Its the best therapy for me, I love crochet ever since I discovered it, which is just few years ago. Even watching others crochet is relaxing and encouraging. Crochet chases away depression and blues, helps you focus on life, takes you away from distraction by various gadgets. I wish I could find videos that would help my autistic daughter to crochet, she tried many times but its difficult for her to understand it, but when she tries she is very focused and loves it. Dont quit crochet, just try different things to crochet. :)
Do you follow Clare at Woodshed Theory? She is a late diagnosed autistic woman who loves crochet! I know she doesn’t have any crochet tutorials geared specifically to the autistic community but she could be both a great resource and also some encouragement too for your daughter!
On your first point, I was the opposite. I tried the mundane and boring repetitive things and honestly that about did me in. About 4 days into my crochet journey I learned I was a sink-or-swim gal. I needed to throw myself in there and force myself to learn and expand and I am so glad I did. I was the same with knitting. It is crazy how we all are motivated by different things, what will keep some of us from quitting, will make the rest of us quit. I want to add a 6th... In today's social media world, a reason someone would want to quit is someone telling them that they "are doing it wrong". That is something I see so often. "Oh you should be tensioning your yarn this way" or "You need to yarn over and not under".... Do you people... ignore the yarn police and craft your way to joy!
@@ShannonTalksYarn it is insane how mean people can be. I am a mod of a rather large knitting group on FB and we are constantly deleting comments and blocking people. It is sad, it is ok to support people, even if they are different in how they do things.
@@ShannonTalksYarn there are several mods/admins... we are not crazy strict but we do try to keep it civial. It just saddens me that people find joy in tearing down others and their journey.
Your 6th point is legit. My great aunt couldn’t teach me because when I finally got the hang of it she kept calling my technique wrong. It was 20 more years before I found an inclusive teacher.
Well, I’m a pretty old crocheter, but it seems to be really trending right now. I mean, granny squares on the runway!!❤️. I think it kind of connects us across the generations. Loved all your tips. I hope you made someone rethink wanting to throw in the towel.
I had a time in my life where l could not crochet for a while. I was getting shaky hands because I was getting off a medication. I could not crochet for a few months 😔. It made me sad because I have been crocheting for years, and now I couldn't for a while. I didn't want to give up on crochet so l kept everything. One day my hands didn't shake as bad and it was encouraging. I waited a little longer. Finally I was able to get back to my hobby. I had to start slow to get back the strength in my hands. Now l crochet with no problems. I always encourage people to enjoy their crochet. If it doesn't give you joy try something different, and come back to it if you want to give it another try 😊
100% on the fingering weight yarn. I used to avoid it when I was a beginner because I thought it would take 10 times longer to make things and that it would hurt my hands, but I enjoy working with it so much I dont mind it taking a little longer for the finished object.
Excellent video 😊 I'll say that getting frustrated or bored isn't always a difficulty issue - working within a pattern may be the problem. Play with your yarn and figure out how to make the item or garment you want. Especially with garments, once you know the basic shapes you'd be surprised how easy it is to create something that is totally unique. Crochet is ideal for off pattern experimentation - so don't fear failures, they're simply opportunities to learn more about the craft.
Yes! I’m working on a blanket with 465 4 inch squares and initially I was going to do color my color and then put it together but with some of the colors they make up the majority and I just knew I would get bored making over 100 of the same color in a row so now I’m doing rows and then seeing them on so I don’t get too bored lol.
I tried crochet, but it's not for me at all. I did try knitting and fell in love. It'd okay to try new things to find what you love. I still enjoy watching this channel for the yarn talk and I love seeing what you crochet.
My guess before watching: 1) losing one or both hands, 2) terrible arthritis, 3) being dead, 4) a serial killer in the neighbourhood targetting crocheters, 5) all of the above (being a one-handed arthritic victim of the anti-crochet serial killer).
@@ShannonTalksYarn I know. That is my goal for the future. I just have to figure out how to get people to buy my crochet products so I can make a living doing it.
I follow some channels that introduced stitch swatches. It helps me feel more confident about things i have forgotten and practices my tension and stitch definition. You always give us something to think about❤
This is all very wise advice indeed. I started learning crochet at age 50 and I’m still a newbie. I almost quit after my first project tho. When I got inspired to learn this hobby, I wandered into my local yarn shop to pick up supplies. They mostly stock gorgeous expensive yarns and seem to cater primarily to knitters. I felt intimidated and small. Nonetheless, I was advised to make dishcloths with adorable mini skeins of striped pure cotton. I learned from TH-cam and made a lopsided dishcloth right away. It was SO hard to pull and pull and pull the hook through. I was discouraged and unsure if this was the right hobby for me. Then I checked out the yarn section at Walmart and could not resist the Red Heart Deep Teal Ombré (your blanket is stunning BTW). I also picked up a package of hooks that were way more comfy than the basic one I already had. I was shocked at how much easier it was, and I haven’t stopped crocheting since! Wearables are my thing now, and I’m so grateful for your channel and all your inspiring advice and tips. Thank you! ❤
On your point about hand pain I’ve found that I tend to crochet way too tight sometimes when working with cotton yarn, I really need to watch what I’m doing with that otherwise my hand lock up the next morning.
I quit crochet for a while, and really invested more time in knitting, mainly because I didn't feel that I could do the more complicated stitches. I couldn't remember whether I had yarn-overed before or after I slip-stitched, and I have up pretty easily. I was sad and disappointed that my tries at amigurumi failed, also. But just a few weeks ago, I must have seen something on TH-cam about Tunisian crochet, and I am so happy with it. It's like the best of both the knitting and crochet worlds, in terms of knowing what I did, and when I did it. I am working now on a mesh crochet vest that I got the supplies for, last December, and had just been afraid to start. Thank you for your post, Shannon, and everyone who has commented. 🎉
Nice, Shannon. I get in those moods where I want to just quit. Mainly when I can’t seem to get a pattern right. Even if I’ve worked it before & did great. Oh well. I hate getting rid of my yarn although I did donate a huge boxful to a young, new crocheter a couple months ago. I think for now I’ll keep plugging along. Working on a Granny Square Christmas throw among so many other WIPS. Can’t stop now. Thanks, Shannon. Love, from too hot, but Beautiful Oklahoma🤍
Hi Patricia! I’ve had that before too, when I’ve previously made a project but then mess up a new one! That’s frustrating! Good for you for getting a good start on your Christmas projects!
Great advice! One reason I've thought of giving up, is that yarn is expensive. I look at thrift stores and occasionally find some nice yarn, but usually I have to buy it retail and it adds up!
I’ll never quit crocheting but my only frustration is when making garments so I keep trying new patterns and I always learn something. Thanks for your video❣️
Sound advice. I mostly knit but your advice applies to knitters as well. I knit almost exclusively with fingering weight yarn and small needles-less cramping.
Great video! I wanted to add when it comes to pain make sure you’re stretching and taking substantial breaks! Crocheting for 8 hours straight, or even just 1 hour every day can take a toll on you. It’s okay if you don’t finish that project right away. Another reason why I “quit” crochet is because I got so bored of my yarn stash. I’ve started making things for other people with it and I have a scrap blanket going that helps and once I get to a good point I’ll feel better about buying new yarn that fits the projects I want to make for myself. A third thing is I get too into it. I sometimes neglect my responsibilities to focus on crochet. I’ve found that taking a pause, or at most working on one small project at a time while I’m in school helps. Or otherwise putting some kind of limit on how much/how often I allow myself to crochet.
I’m a knitter who has recently stumbled across your channel and love the content. I am slowly dipping into crocheting my very first crochet project (single crochet fingerless gloves 🧤) and I am enjoying the process. I have thought about quitting knitting altogether in 2019 due to having complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). The pain and swelling affects my right hand, fingers, and forearm up to the elbow such that I had to take a knitting hiatus for two years…. Maybe longer. I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to knit 🧶again. I’ve been able to start up knitting again recently, but I find that I don’t knit as quickly as I would like or as fast as I use to knit, which I find frustrating as I don't finish making very many projects due to having CRPS.. Plus, I am unable to knit for any more than a few rows at a time before I need to stop and start up again another day, which has also added to my frustration at times. Additionally, all of my knit/crochet projects are easier ones to make/complete to prevent flaring up/exacerbating my CRPS symptoms... Or at the very least, reducing the risk of fatigue/strain to the region. I've had to completely change my outlook and come to terms that I now have to participating differently with my hobbies and daily tasks/chores. I am making the best of the situation as I can and keep on doing what I am able to accomplish however that looks like with the ups and downs of a disability.
Hi Shannon, I am a new subscriber and I sure enjoy your videos. I am 61 years old and have been crocheting for 50 years, having learned from a sweet old friend of mine when I was 11. May I make a couple of suggestions before someone decides to quit? Today people often look at crochet as a way to curb their anxiety or to be part of a community and they crochet almost obsessively to the point they injure their hands and wrists. You have to respect your pain and pace yourself, because you want those hands to last through the decades. If someone finds that happening, remember that your hands and wrist are important tools. It doesn't have to be black and white, it doesn't have to be quit forever, get rid of my yarn or hurt myself and endure daily pain. It is as simple as learning to rest and heal and rethink how and how long you crochet at a time. Consider learning to knit.That whole crocheting vs. knitting war is really absolutely ridiculous. They are both valuable fiber arts that produce different kinds of needful objects. Also switching to knitting for awhile can be a big help for crocheters as it uses different muscles and can be a little more soothing to the wrist. Knitting can seem very complex when you have learned to crochet first, but its still totally possible. Also if boredom is the issue and not pain try learning new techniques like crocheting lace and learning to use small steel hooks. All broom lace, or Tunisian crochet, or tatting. If you always make blankets try making baby clothes or sweaters, something that requires new skills. It always helps me to have two projects going at the same time. A simple one that I can pick up when I am t tired and a more challenging one when I am in the mood to try something more difficult. What makes crocheting a little different now than it was in years past, is that with the advent of social media there have been real communities formed around the craft. And some people take on the personal "identity" of being a crocheter and think that is what they are and they don't want to try other things. The old ladies that were crocheting when I was a young woman, took pride in what they made but they didn't define their identity by what they made . Remember that deep down no matter how much you love crochet, it is a hobby and as a creative artist type person, you are talented and can find joy in learning to do many things. You are worthy and wonderful for who you are not just because of what you make or produce. You are going to really love being a fiber artist as the years go by as each generation comes in and breathes new life and energy into the craft! I urge you don't give up just learn to be flexible. So take the idea of quitting off the table and decided to rest and express yourself in other ways until you feel crochet's creative spark once again or until your injuries heal.
I love one particular content provider. Brunaticality, she is about 45 years my junior but so enthusiastic and does lovely patterns that i can change up for me.
Great advice! I like your point about stitches - learning the granny stitch made crocheting much more fun for me… easy to do while watching tv or resting, and fewer frustrating dropped-stitch trapezoids… haha 😅 The Boyd interchangeable hook also taught me to stop gripping the hook too hard which has made it a much more comfortable activity ☺️
I use to feel like I was strangling my crochet hook, I was holding it so tight! I’ll have to check out the one you mentioned. And I’m also a boye instead of Susan bates!
I'm having to take an extended break after finishing a top with cotton yarn and a complex stitch (and tight tension). I tried to be careful, but I hurt my wrist, elbow and shoulder. I'm going to pick up a long abandoned quilting project and looking forward to getting back into crochet as soon as I can.
I was totally into crochet many years ago; made a bazillion scarves that I didn't know what to do with, a cardigan sweater, and a baby blanket for a friend of mine whose wife was expecting, complete with tiny crocheted appliques of butterflies, lady bugs, etc. Maybe it was the baby blanket that burned me out, or life just got in the way, but I ended up putting the hobby aside, and got on with other things. Now, 25 years later or so in my early 50's, I'm picking it back up again, and loving it even more this time around. So to anyone who is thinking of quitting for whatever reason, nah...just take a break. Keep your materials, they'll be there for you when you return. I kept a large tub of yarn around for all this time, and now I'm having fun playing with the "vintage" yarn textures. There's no need to throw the baby out with the bathwater as they say, or in my case, with the baby blanket. Just take a break, however long, and keep lugging that huge tub of yarn with you wherever you go. Eventually you'll come back to it; if not, there are lots of folks who would enjoy your donation. Don't stress, just have the funs; otherwise, why are you doing it in the first place? Cheers!
Crocheting with cotton like Lily sugar and cream…..I think that’s what it is called…..is. VERY HARD on your hands. I can hardly use it. BUT Hobby lobby I LOVE COTTON is GREAT to use!
i have carpal tunnel and arthritis and i do feel like i take forever to finish a project and my hands hurt in just few mins. also, i feel like i can never understand written pattern i watch videos because its easy , im still trying to understand how many yards or grams i need per project and that push me off. after working with new skeins i have no idea what to do with the rest :(
That would be frustrating and I can see how you would be tempted to quit..... If it no longer brings you joy, it may be time but if you enjoy it, no matter how long it takes than I'd stick with it! When I have weird amounts of leftover yarn, I make newborn beanies to donate to the hospital. (as long as the yarn is appropriate!)
@@ShannonTalksYarn thank you! im making a vest right now and i noticed something like u said. its a thinner yarn and i have less pain than working with worstedm i do have a weird tension on my finger so it gets marked and i get indept that burns and hurts a lot for days so far thats a big issue and the carpal tunnel but im working faster than worsted :D. i do like the idea of donating tho!
When I get a yarn that isn't working for crochet, I know it's time to try a different craft - try knitting with it or weaving because there are yarns that just don't work for crochet. I will never quit crochet, but other yarn hobbies are valid.
I sometimes feel like i want to quit because I make stuff and don't know what to do with it; I know I can donate hats and blankets but....what else? I'm not adventurous enough to get a business license and do craft fairs. I've joined etsy, but there's so much on there. Anyone - need advice. Thanks :)
Hi Lisa! I have been where you are! You are not alone. I was doing a wide variety of projects as I was learning crochet. Then I started my channel and felt I had to make all different stuff. But I was running out of friends and family members to give stuff to and I felt they were all getting a little burned out from receiving so many gifts. I basically started crocheting solely for myself. Thats not to say I won’t make something for my daughter or husband if they ask and I made some beanies for gifts last year. But primarily it’s just for me and I’m actually enjoying the crochet process even more. Finding yarns and patterns I love, using nicer yarn on myself sometimes too. I’m a giving person by nature and want to share my joy but after refocusing my efforts and realizing it wasn’t bad in any way, I’ve been able to really dive in and I’m feeling way more content and satisfied with my work. That might not be the answer that works best for you but I hope it helps! 🫶🏻
*Me watching this whilst making a large halloween sparkly Afghan having anxiety that i shouldnt be crocheting even though iv been here for 7+ years* 😂😂😂😂😂😂
btw im not hating on the video, i just always anxious abt crocheting and having yarn. Its an expensive hobby and as a brokie i spend wayyy too much money on this hobby. So it makes me anxious. BUT I CANT STOP I LOVE IT 😂😂😂😂 So no im not hating the vid but remember to listen to your body, if your hand hurt, take a break. Drink water, have a snack. ❤
I think your last reason is very valid. Many people remember learning to crochet from grandmoms, they were the ones who had time to crochet (in retirement) and so often seen crocheting in public. I think that's how it came to be viewed as an old person's craft. I am so thankful (even as an old person now - 59) that I can find so so many young people crocheting and knitting. It is definitely not an old person's craft anymore! Your advice was spot on!
It's not! And you're not old either!!!
I have been crocheting since I was 7 , i am now in my early 60’s and have NEVER thought about quitting crocheting, if I loose my hands I will learn to crochet with my feet . To each his own but I will be crocheting till I leave this earth.
I started when I was 40, but I'm with you, I'll find a way to keep going!
Same here…I started at age 5 with my mom’s Magic Crochet magazines, making intricate doilies from charts. I’m now 60. NEVER quitting! I’ll die, go to heaven, and be making sweaters and blankets for the angels! Lol 😆
Quit crochet?? That almost made me cry! Its the best therapy for me, I love crochet ever since I discovered it, which is just few years ago. Even watching others crochet is relaxing and encouraging. Crochet chases away depression and blues, helps you focus on life, takes you away from distraction by various gadgets. I wish I could find videos that would help my autistic daughter to crochet, she tried many times but its difficult for her to understand it, but when she tries she is very focused and loves it. Dont quit crochet, just try different things to crochet. :)
Do you follow Clare at Woodshed Theory? She is a late diagnosed autistic woman who loves crochet! I know she doesn’t have any crochet tutorials geared specifically to the autistic community but she could be both a great resource and also some encouragement too for your daughter!
TF? QUIT? Thats crazy. I haven't started watching yet, but I will never quit crochet. I love crochet
I don’t see my self quoting anytime soon either, I absolutely love it! Glad you do too! 😃
@@ShannonTalksYarn Your cooky!!!
Me neither🖤🤗 Its not smart to quit something that one like.there is plenty of creative ideas to crochet something new.
@MagdalenaTheremin 💯
On your first point, I was the opposite. I tried the mundane and boring repetitive things and honestly that about did me in. About 4 days into my crochet journey I learned I was a sink-or-swim gal. I needed to throw myself in there and force myself to learn and expand and I am so glad I did. I was the same with knitting. It is crazy how we all are motivated by different things, what will keep some of us from quitting, will make the rest of us quit.
I want to add a 6th... In today's social media world, a reason someone would want to quit is someone telling them that they "are doing it wrong". That is something I see so often. "Oh you should be tensioning your yarn this way" or "You need to yarn over and not under".... Do you people... ignore the yarn police and craft your way to joy!
Oh my gosh yes!!! Yes, I totally should have added criticism to the list! It’s crazy how mean and rude people can be to strangers on the internet!
@@ShannonTalksYarn it is insane how mean people can be. I am a mod of a rather large knitting group on FB and we are constantly deleting comments and blocking people. It is sad, it is ok to support people, even if they are different in how they do things.
Wow, that actually sounds like a big job to monitor all that!
@@ShannonTalksYarn there are several mods/admins... we are not crazy strict but we do try to keep it civial. It just saddens me that people find joy in tearing down others and their journey.
Your 6th point is legit. My great aunt couldn’t teach me because when I finally got the hang of it she kept calling my technique wrong. It was 20 more years before I found an inclusive teacher.
"Maybe try a thinner yarn" looks down at the cobweb shawl I'm working on 😂
lol 😂
before I even watch this... I'll just say... NEVER!! :)
Me either!!!
Me either
Well, I’m a pretty old crocheter, but it seems to be really trending right now. I mean, granny squares on the runway!!❤️. I think it kind of connects us across the generations.
Loved all your tips. I hope you made someone rethink wanting to throw in the towel.
Hi Vicki! I agree, I think is awesome crochet is popular with all ages right now!!!
I had a time in my life where l could not crochet for a while. I was getting shaky hands because I was getting off a medication. I could not crochet for a few months 😔. It made me sad because I have been crocheting for years, and now I couldn't for a while. I didn't want to give up on crochet so l kept everything. One day my hands didn't shake as bad and it was encouraging. I waited a little longer. Finally I was able to get back to my hobby. I had to start slow to get back the strength in my hands. Now l crochet with no problems. I always encourage people to enjoy their crochet. If it doesn't give you joy try something different, and come back to it if you want to give it another try 😊
I’m so glad you stuck it out and didn’t give up on it! That would be so frustrating to go through. ❤️
100% on the fingering weight yarn. I used to avoid it when I was a beginner because I thought it would take 10 times longer to make things and that it would hurt my hands, but I enjoy working with it so much I dont mind it taking a little longer for the finished object.
Right!?!? I used to think the bigger the better, not anymore!! 😂
Excellent video 😊
I'll say that getting frustrated or bored isn't always a difficulty issue - working within a pattern may be the problem. Play with your yarn and figure out how to make the item or garment you want. Especially with garments, once you know the basic shapes you'd be surprised how easy it is to create something that is totally unique. Crochet is ideal for off pattern experimentation - so don't fear failures, they're simply opportunities to learn more about the craft.
I couldn’t agree more! I’ve definitely had a few “happy accidents” before!
Yes! I’m working on a blanket with 465 4 inch squares and initially I was going to do color my color and then put it together but with some of the colors they make up the majority and I just knew I would get bored making over 100 of the same color in a row so now I’m doing rows and then seeing them on so I don’t get too bored lol.
That’s a great idea! I would get crazy bored doing a hundred of the same too!!!
I tried crochet, but it's not for me at all. I did try knitting and fell in love. It'd okay to try new things to find what you love. I still enjoy watching this channel for the yarn talk and I love seeing what you crochet.
I appreciate you watching! Thank you ❤
I'm so glad you did find something that you love, that's the important part!!!
Watching this while crocheting rn
Awesome!
I love having a simple project to work on standing by .
Me too! I always have something that doesn’t take much thought going!
Great topic for a video which also can pertain to other subjects in life !!!
So very true my dear friend ❤️🫶🏻
My guess before watching: 1) losing one or both hands, 2) terrible arthritis, 3) being dead, 4) a serial killer in the neighbourhood targetting crocheters, 5) all of the above (being a one-handed arthritic victim of the anti-crochet serial killer).
That’s about all that could make me quit lol!! 😂
Love this video. I love doing small projects and new projects. I have never been bored. I will never quit crocheting, I would rather quit my job.
Oh my gosh, how relatable is that!?!?! It would be awesome to quit working and get to crochet instead!!! 💯
@@ShannonTalksYarn I know. That is my goal for the future. I just have to figure out how to get people to buy my crochet products so I can make a living doing it.
I follow some channels that introduced stitch swatches. It helps me feel more confident about things i have forgotten and practices my tension and stitch definition.
You always give us something to think about❤
Glad it was helpful!
This is all very wise advice indeed. I started learning crochet at age 50 and I’m still a newbie. I almost quit after my first project tho. When I got inspired to learn this hobby, I wandered into my local yarn shop to pick up supplies. They mostly stock gorgeous expensive yarns and seem to cater primarily to knitters. I felt intimidated and small. Nonetheless, I was advised to make dishcloths with adorable mini skeins of striped pure cotton. I learned from TH-cam and made a lopsided dishcloth right away. It was SO hard to pull and pull and pull the hook through. I was discouraged and unsure if this was the right hobby for me. Then I checked out the yarn section at Walmart and could not resist the Red Heart Deep Teal Ombré (your blanket is stunning BTW). I also picked up a package of hooks that were way more comfy than the basic one I already had. I was shocked at how much easier it was, and I haven’t stopped crocheting since! Wearables are my thing now, and I’m so grateful for your channel and all your inspiring advice and tips. Thank you! ❤
You’re welcome!
On your point about hand pain I’ve found that I tend to crochet way too tight sometimes when working with cotton yarn, I really need to watch what I’m doing with that otherwise my hand lock up the next morning.
Yes!!! Cotton does that to me too!
I quit crochet for a while, and really invested more time in knitting, mainly because I didn't feel that I could do the more complicated stitches. I couldn't remember whether I had yarn-overed before or after I slip-stitched, and I have up pretty easily. I was sad and disappointed that my tries at amigurumi failed, also. But just a few weeks ago, I must have seen something on TH-cam about Tunisian crochet, and I am so happy with it. It's like the best of both the knitting and crochet worlds, in terms of knowing what I did, and when I did it. I am working now on a mesh crochet vest that I got the supplies for, last December, and had just been afraid to start. Thank you for your post, Shannon, and everyone who has commented. 🎉
Thanks for watching and for commenting!
Nice, Shannon. I get in those moods where I want to just quit. Mainly when I can’t seem to get a pattern right. Even if I’ve worked it before & did great. Oh well. I hate getting rid of my yarn although I did donate a huge boxful to a young, new crocheter a couple months ago. I think for now I’ll keep plugging along. Working on a Granny Square Christmas throw among so many other WIPS. Can’t stop now. Thanks, Shannon. Love, from too hot, but Beautiful Oklahoma🤍
Hi Patricia! I’ve had that before too, when I’ve previously made a project but then mess up a new one! That’s frustrating! Good for you for getting a good start on your Christmas projects!
Great advice! One reason I've thought of giving up, is that yarn is expensive. I look at thrift stores and occasionally find some nice yarn, but usually I have to buy it retail and it adds up!
That is totally understandable! I love to thrift for yarn, but it’s pretty few and far between for me unfortunately. Yarn can be expensive!
I’ll never quit crocheting but my only frustration is when making garments so I keep trying new patterns and I always learn something. Thanks for your video❣️
You're welcome!
Sound advice. I mostly knit but your advice applies to knitters as well. I knit almost exclusively with fingering weight yarn and small needles-less cramping.
It’s really made a difference for me too!
Great video! I wanted to add when it comes to pain make sure you’re stretching and taking substantial breaks! Crocheting for 8 hours straight, or even just 1 hour every day can take a toll on you. It’s okay if you don’t finish that project right away.
Another reason why I “quit” crochet is because I got so bored of my yarn stash. I’ve started making things for other people with it and I have a scrap blanket going that helps and once I get to a good point I’ll feel better about buying new yarn that fits the projects I want to make for myself.
A third thing is I get too into it. I sometimes neglect my responsibilities to focus on crochet. I’ve found that taking a pause, or at most working on one small project at a time while I’m in school helps. Or otherwise putting some kind of limit on how much/how often I allow myself to crochet.
I’m definitely guilty of getting to into it too and then it leads to your first point about not stretching! That sounds all too familiar!!!
I’m a knitter who has recently stumbled across your channel and love the content.
I am slowly dipping into crocheting my very first crochet project (single crochet fingerless gloves 🧤) and I am enjoying the process.
I have thought about quitting knitting altogether in 2019 due to having complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). The pain and swelling affects my right hand, fingers, and forearm up to the elbow such that I had to take a knitting hiatus for two years…. Maybe longer. I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to knit 🧶again.
I’ve been able to start up knitting again recently, but I find that I don’t knit as quickly as I would like or as fast as I use to knit, which I find frustrating as I don't finish making very many projects due to having CRPS.. Plus, I am unable to knit for any more than a few rows at a time before I need to stop and start up again another day, which has also added to my frustration at times.
Additionally, all of my knit/crochet projects are easier ones to make/complete to prevent flaring up/exacerbating my CRPS symptoms... Or at the very least, reducing the risk of fatigue/strain to the region.
I've had to completely change my outlook and come to terms that I now have to participating differently with my hobbies and daily tasks/chores. I am making the best of the situation as I can and keep on doing what I am able to accomplish however that looks like with the ups and downs of a disability.
It sounds like you've adapted well and have a great perspective!
Hi Shannon, I am a new subscriber and I sure enjoy your videos. I am 61 years old and have been crocheting for 50 years, having learned from a sweet old friend of mine when I was 11. May I make a couple of suggestions before someone decides to quit? Today people often look at crochet as a way to curb their anxiety or to be part of a community and they crochet almost obsessively to the point they injure their hands and wrists. You have to respect your pain and pace yourself, because you want those hands to last through the decades. If someone finds that happening, remember that your hands and wrist are important tools. It doesn't have to be black and white, it doesn't have to be quit forever, get rid of my yarn or hurt myself and endure daily pain. It is as simple as learning to rest and heal and rethink how and how long you crochet at a time.
Consider learning to knit.That whole crocheting vs. knitting war is really absolutely ridiculous. They are both valuable fiber arts that produce different kinds of needful objects. Also switching to knitting for awhile can be a big help for crocheters as it uses different muscles and can be a little more soothing to the wrist. Knitting can seem very complex when you have learned to crochet first, but its still totally possible.
Also if boredom is the issue and not pain try learning new techniques like crocheting lace and learning to use small steel hooks. All broom lace, or Tunisian crochet, or tatting. If you always make blankets try making baby clothes or sweaters, something that requires new skills. It always helps me to have two projects going at the same time. A simple one that I can pick up when I am t tired and a more challenging one when I am in the mood to try something more difficult.
What makes crocheting a little different now than it was in years past, is that with the advent of social media there have been real communities formed around the craft. And some people take on the personal "identity" of being a crocheter and think that is what they are and they don't want to try other things. The old ladies that were crocheting when I was a young woman, took pride in what they made but they didn't define their identity by what they made . Remember that deep down no matter how much you love crochet, it is a hobby and as a creative artist type person, you are talented and can find joy in learning to do many things. You are worthy and wonderful for who you are not just because of what you make or produce. You are going to really love being a fiber artist as the years go by as each generation comes in and breathes new life and energy into the craft! I urge you don't give up just learn to be flexible. So take the idea of quitting off the table and decided to rest and express yourself in other ways until you feel crochet's creative spark once again or until your injuries heal.
Thank you so much for the support , encouragement and excellent advice! I appreciate it!
Hi Shannon 🤗 you’re right…sometimes it good to just have a break…and if you miss it…pick up your hook & yarn! 🥰🧶🤩
Hi Litsa! Thank you for watching and commenting! I see you’re busy with Christmas in July on your channel, super cool!
I love one particular content provider. Brunaticality, she is about 45 years my junior but so enthusiastic and does lovely patterns that i can change up for me.
I know exactly who you are talking about! She has some really great projects! And it’s fun to see her fresh perspective too!
Never!!!
Good!! 😃
Great advice - I enjoy the lovely You Tube yarny channels I'm subcribed to .. thanks for your video Shannon 🌼🧶🤗
You’re very welcome and thank you for watching and commenting! ❤️
I will take anyone's stash if they have decided to stop 😁
same, as a brokie i will take your yarn. I thrift yarn idgaf if its scraps, GIVE 😂😂😂😂
I have a friend who did quit crochet. She simply didn't like it. That's okay. I enjoyed this video. 😊❤
Thanks! And you’re right, it is totally ok to quit if you’re just not that into it! Hopefully she has found a hobby she really enjoys!
@@ShannonTalksYarn she now works with a quilting group.
That’s great!
Great advice 🧶
Thank you! 😊
Great advice! I like your point about stitches - learning the granny stitch made crocheting much more fun for me… easy to do while watching tv or resting, and fewer frustrating dropped-stitch trapezoids… haha 😅 The Boyd interchangeable hook also taught me to stop gripping the hook too hard which has made it a much more comfortable activity ☺️
I use to feel like I was strangling my crochet hook, I was holding it so tight! I’ll have to check out the one you mentioned. And I’m also a boye instead of Susan bates!
@@ShannonTalksYarn hehe yup I was seriously squeezing my hook into submission too, then wondering “why does this hurt my hand and arm so much?” 😜
I was grinding my teeth too 🤷🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️😂
@@ShannonTalksYarn haha oh yes and scrunching up those shoulders! 😅
Me too! 😂🤦🏻♀️
You come up with such terrific and thought-provoking topics for your content. Thank you! ☺️🧡🧶
Thank you Lisa!!! 🫶🏻
I'm having to take an extended break after finishing a top with cotton yarn and a complex stitch (and tight tension). I tried to be careful, but I hurt my wrist, elbow and shoulder. I'm going to pick up a long abandoned quilting project and looking forward to getting back into crochet as soon as I can.
That actually sounds like a great opportunity to work on another wip! And use different muscles and tendons!
@@ShannonTalksYarn Yes, I can add shoulder tension and back pain to my list of ailments 😆
Oh noooo! But so relatable!
I was totally into crochet many years ago; made a bazillion scarves that I didn't know what to do with, a cardigan sweater, and a baby blanket for a friend of mine whose wife was expecting, complete with tiny crocheted appliques of butterflies, lady bugs, etc. Maybe it was the baby blanket that burned me out, or life just got in the way, but I ended up putting the hobby aside, and got on with other things. Now, 25 years later or so in my early 50's, I'm picking it back up again, and loving it even more this time around.
So to anyone who is thinking of quitting for whatever reason, nah...just take a break. Keep your materials, they'll be there for you when you return. I kept a large tub of yarn around for all this time, and now I'm having fun playing with the "vintage" yarn textures. There's no need to throw the baby out with the bathwater as they say, or in my case, with the baby blanket. Just take a break, however long, and keep lugging that huge tub of yarn with you wherever you go. Eventually you'll come back to it; if not, there are lots of folks who would enjoy your donation. Don't stress, just have the funs; otherwise, why are you doing it in the first place? Cheers!
Very well said, thanks for sharing your experience and insight!
Great advice, Shannon! 🙂
Thank you Jessie!
@@ShannonTalksYarn you’re welcome! 😊
cute video, BTW how do you know if you are old?
Thanks Monica! I'm not sure, I think it's more how you feel right?!?!
I'm almost 50, so I know I'm not young.......but I don't feel old yet.... 😀
Crocheting with cotton like Lily sugar and cream…..I think that’s what it is called…..is. VERY HARD on your hands. I can hardly use it. BUT Hobby lobby I LOVE COTTON is GREAT to use!
I agree, it’s sooooo much softer and makes the process so much easier!
Never be a quitter!!
Me either!! 😃
i have carpal tunnel and arthritis and i do feel like i take forever to finish a project and my hands hurt in just few mins. also, i feel like i can never understand written pattern i watch videos because its easy , im still trying to understand how many yards or grams i need per project and that push me off. after working with new skeins i have no idea what to do with the rest :(
That would be frustrating and I can see how you would be tempted to quit..... If it no longer brings you joy, it may be time but if you enjoy it, no matter how long it takes than I'd stick with it! When I have weird amounts of leftover yarn, I make newborn beanies to donate to the hospital. (as long as the yarn is appropriate!)
@@ShannonTalksYarn thank you! im making a vest right now and i noticed something like u said. its a thinner yarn and i have less pain than working with worstedm i do have a weird tension on my finger so it gets marked and i get indept that burns and hurts a lot for days so far thats a big issue and the carpal tunnel but im working faster than worsted :D. i do like the idea of donating tho!
Not me watching this while fighting for my life to finish a blanket 🤣🤣
When I get a yarn that isn't working for crochet, I know it's time to try a different craft - try knitting with it or weaving because there are yarns that just don't work for crochet. I will never quit crochet, but other yarn hobbies are valid.
Great point of view!
I sometimes feel like i want to quit because I make stuff and don't know what to do with it; I know I can donate hats and blankets but....what else? I'm not adventurous enough to get a business license and do craft fairs. I've joined etsy, but there's so much on there. Anyone - need advice. Thanks :)
Hi Lisa! I have been where you are! You are not alone. I was doing a wide variety of projects as I was learning crochet. Then I started my channel and felt I had to make all different stuff. But I was running out of friends and family members to give stuff to and I felt they were all getting a little burned out from receiving so many gifts.
I basically started crocheting solely for myself. Thats not to say I won’t make something for my daughter or husband if they ask and I made some beanies for gifts last year. But primarily it’s just for me and I’m actually enjoying the crochet process even more. Finding yarns and patterns I love, using nicer yarn on myself sometimes too. I’m a giving person by nature and want to share my joy but after refocusing my efforts and realizing it wasn’t bad in any way, I’ve been able to really dive in and I’m feeling way more content and satisfied with my work.
That might not be the answer that works best for you but I hope it helps! 🫶🏻
I started cr
*Me watching this whilst making a large halloween sparkly Afghan having anxiety that i shouldnt be crocheting even though iv been here for 7+ years* 😂😂😂😂😂😂
btw im not hating on the video, i just always anxious abt crocheting and having yarn. Its an expensive hobby and as a brokie i spend wayyy too much money on this hobby. So it makes me anxious. BUT I CANT STOP I LOVE IT 😂😂😂😂 So no im not hating the vid but remember to listen to your body, if your hand hurt, take a break. Drink water, have a snack. ❤
Yes 100% I get you! 😀
Ummmm No. I’ll never stop. I’ve been crocheting for 55 years.
Me either! 😃
If I were to get dementia (God forbid) so that I can no longer follow a pattern, or if I suddenly go blind, then maybe. Otherwise, nope.
me too!