Excellent content. I have been crocheting for 72 years. (I am 80.) My favorite yarns are natural fibers and mostly hand dyed. However, I remember my elderly aunt teaching me to crochet when I was eight. I was so excited and I still remember the joy of creating. We should always remember where we came from and bring the next generation into our craft. New crafters begin with entry level, affordable yarns.
Great to hear this. There is something for everyone but everyone doesn’t like everything. I think you always give your opinion based on the facts not just what you think. Very fair and keeps us watching. Win win.
That is what I love about you, Mikey, you're open-minded, fair and you look at the big picture. There's too many people nowadays that only think me me me. Its nice to see people who think of others too
I got some of the Red Heart Granny Square yarn. Instead of making granny squares with it and getting frustrated with it cuz my tension is too loose/too tight and having to constantly FROG it, I'm making a blanket and letting the colirs fall where they may. Im not crazy about the colors in the skein but I'll live. LOL!! I make blankets and donate them to a few different places around where i live. I figure that someone else may love the colors or won't care what the colors are as long as the blanket keeps them warm. I want to thank you for all you do for us, Mikey. You are awesome!!
Mikey, thank you for getting me into crocheting! I'm 81 and retired. AND BORED. I live in Alaska and love!!!!! hiking. But the knees are failing and now my joy is centered on crocheting and great-grandchildren. Thank you for your wonderful advice, tutoring, demonstration and humor. I am saved. 😊 All the best to you and yours. Mattie, Homer, Alaska.
Love your viewpoint! I feel same about the Woobles kits. $25 - 40 is a lot of other yarn. But they give great videos on every tiny learning step and the yarn is great for beginning to learn. So do your thing and join the yarn obsessed! Bought my daughter 2 (as requested ❤️) for her birthday
Last year, my sister asked me to teach some of her grandchildren to crochet. Little by little they all backed out except for one around 9 years old. She already knew how to knit and now she has gotten the hang of crocheting. It was so wonderful to teach her and to see her blossoming in her crocheting. Like you said, it is gratifying to see such a young one catching the joy of crocheting.
I taught my granddaughter to crochet when she was around 9. I love to see her crocheting and to see her get so excited about a new project. She is now 15 and just as excited as she was day 1.
You are right Mikey. I hadn’t even thought of this before but your analysis was very insightful. I like it how you care so much about all different kinds of people who like to create
This is an excellent video, the phrase “yarn snob” comes to mind. I hope many reviewers look at this and remember to not rain on a review based solely on their elevated level of crochet, or being a “yarn snob”. Mikey - this was brilliantly said.
Your approach is spot on. No reason to rain on someone's parade - it's selfish, IMO, to do so. If I don't like someone's color combination, I can still like and admire their stitchwork. ❤
I have distinct memory at age 7/8(?) of walking to a LYS with Mom and Gramma. They were starting a new project. All the yarn colors were amazing! This was in the early 1960’s when all the yarn was wool, and the skeins of Red Heart had a small metal red heart clamped onto the beginning end.
This is the first time I have commented on your channel - I just wanted to let you know that I'm 37 and since I was a child I have tried to crochet and I could never get my head around it but you tort me how to crochet and now I'm making 126 granny square blankets with all the "bells and whistles" , I just want to say a massive thankyou and I think your channel is great and I tell everyone to watch and subscribe ❤
I'm glad that you brought up this subject. I feel that it's offensive when an influencer says that a particular type of yarn is the only kind worth using. As a crocheter and knitter, I feel that I can use any "string" and make something that I would be proud of even if it's just to prove to myself that I could make something.
Agreed! I am a self-taught lefty, crocheting for 50+ years. Not every yarn is for everyone. I have my preferences, as we all do. However, you can bet that if I see some cool color ways in the Red Heart Super Saver (especially), I am buying a few skeins to play!! Red Heart will always have a well-deserved place in my stash.
What one person dislikes, another person loves! Its all a matter of personal preference. I trust your opinion, Michael, but I am also a rebel and want to see for myself if a yarn is "good" or not!😊
I am so glad I found you. I recently started crocheting again after several years. I love that you feel a responsibility in your ability to influence others. I really appreciate that integrity. I also love all your fun videos too.
I'm also a 70 year old who is now working with natural fibers and hand dyed yarns. However, I'm looking forward to Red heart's bitty stripes. I have always thought of Red heart as the work horse of yarns. Hundreds of thousands of afghans have been made with this yarn, washed hundreds of times and are now heirlooms. Personly i wish my Gram had used it instead of wool for my afghan. It died from dry rot after 60 years of love, but...
In one of my crochet Facebook groups, every day a beginner posts their first granny square, and every time it makes me happy. How wonderful it is that yarn has such a range from a beginner who can spend $10 to make their first project, to handmade yarn that is literally a work of art.
I love that you have taken this stand. So many times I have heard a reviewer totally destroy a yarn and it discontinued. Makes it hard if you like it and can't get to finish a project. Thank you
Mikey, I agree with your reasoning about fad type yarns. I am 71, been crocheting since my teens; I enjoy when a new interesting yarn is introduced and usually try it to decide for myself if I like it. Now we just get on the computer and start reading everyone else’s feelings about new yarns. I do not enjoy the negative rant type postings against yarns and certain brands, it gets crazy! Sashay is a perfect example of something different and it was fun to play with. I bought a lot of O’Go and started using it later on that year and loved it and then, oops; it’s gone, off the shelves, discontinued thanks to those negative Nellies. I guess they love yarn barfs and untangling skeins, right? -Barbara Olechnovich
i have a hard rule in my life that i don’t trust reviews from a strangers until i see for myself. critics all have biases and some have a point they’re trying to make that has more to do with their own issues than with what they’re reviewing. yarn, books, hooks/needles, movies. doesn’t matter. my review is the only one that matters in my own life
I didn't buy the O'go's for 2 reasons: 1. They basically weren't available to me. Yarnspirations "exclusives" mean that I am often not able to buy those yarns at all because they are exclusive to retailers that don't have a presence near (and don't ship to) me. So even if I wanted to buy it, I can't. 2. They were a higher price per yard than other yarns in other formats. The additional price per yard was not worth it for me to purchase it in the O'go format, so even if I could buy it, the extra cost was a difficult justification since I don't generally struggle that much with yarn barf or tangles.
@@FlareHeart It should have been a clue to me that it was being discontinued because when I bought all my O’Go, they were having a great discounted sale! Oh, well, live and learn……
Mikey, you are an inspiration. If only more people would think about how what they say or do affects other people. Not just in yarn, but in all aspects of their life. Be kind to others; be kind to nature; be kind to the earth.
new creative concepts are fantastic and brilliant in any artistic space. one person's trash is another person's treasure and we should all support whatever works to get more people interested in any creative space.
Excellent video!!! I was turned away from using Red Heat yarn for a long time when I first started crocheting by an influencer. Years later, I was given several skeins of Red Heart yarn and enjoyed working with it. Not all of us can afford natural fiber yarns, or maybe allergic to these type of yarns. Thanks Mikey for explaining what a review can do on all levels. 😊 We all have a starting point.🧡🧡🧡
I am allergic to wool, so I love synthetic yarns. I can use super wash wool blends, like sock yarn that’s a wool-silk blend. I am glad you mentioned allergies. I am not allergic to alpaca. Supposedly alpaca is hypoallergenic. Or perhaps it’s all in my head!
If Bernat Blanket is ever considered "just a fad", this is going to stay in my basket forever. I just LOVE the Bernat Blanket yarn. It's not just good for blankets!.
Mikey, your kindness and ability to see an issue from all sides makes you not just an excellent yarn arts inspiration, but also a truly excellent person.
Thank you for all you do! If not for you I swear I would not gotten into crochet. I tried before and never really liked it. You explained and showed me as a beginner in a way that I understood.
I really appreciate your point of view. It's so true - something that appeals to one of us may not appeal to another and yay to all the new crocheters joining this wonderful creative community!
Mikey you are an excellent teacher and such a considerate person! Over the years I learned to knit, crochet and embroider from veteran fiber artists who took the time to slow down and teach me how to hold, make stitches, tie off and weave in ends. I owe a debt of gratitude to each one that taught me. We follow you with thanks as you show us new stitches even if we are experienced now.
Totally agree. I’ve bought yarn for projects that I’m jazzed about in that moment or because it’s on sale and it may sit in my stash for several years. Well I recently went through it and it no longer appealed to me or I didn’t like the feel of it. I donated to the local elementary school and the staff loved it and created beautiful projects. Just because I may not have liked it doesn’t mean someone else doesn’t love it.
Well that was such a well overall thought out review of how different people look at different types of yarn. Your ethos/attitude to the whole situation is so honest and fair. Thank you for helping me look at it from all those different angles. I wish I could walk into a shop in Ireland and choose all the Red Heart Yarn I love and think I am in heaven 😊. Thank you Mikey👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
This makes so much sense! Just because "Jill" dislikes a particular yarn doesn’t mean that it's not a great yarn for Jack, Judy, John, Jane, Jimmy, or Jocelyn... Everyone has their preferences, no matter their skill level. Another factor could be cost as well. I know people who will NOT ever use RHSS, but I (and others) find it quite durable for kids afghans and plushies. It holds up well in the washer after being pulled, stretched, dragged in dust or dirt, etc. Kids are not exactly known for being careful! Lol But yes, every yarn type has its lovers and haters. And it really isn't fair for those with influence in the industry to help "kill off" a yarn that could be useful to many others simply because they don't like it themselves.
You are so spot on with your observations. I have crocheted for 60 years and have often had similar thoughts about yarns that you have observed. You are so correct about the isolation factor. It is a privilege to teach beginners! Your support of others in the community is very important, appreciated, and necessary! Thank you got all you do!
Mikey you hit it spot on. As an artist myself who also dyes yarn know that if I don’t like what I created doesn’t mean that others will not like it as well. Everyone is different in what colour combination and texture they like. I know that if I gave my thought on what I have created can influence the viewers opinion of the item. I love how you had looked at the yarn from when you were a beginner. Thank you so much for looking at it from a beginners point of view. I agree that it is an honor to teach a beginner and to watch their growth as they learn new stitches. Thank you again for your honesty and stepping into the place of a beginner. Hugs
I’ve been crocheting since I was 11 years old. I remember the Red Heart Sashay. I still have one skein. It was super cool to make scarves out of it. The Bernat Alize yarn I’m not a fan of but I’m glad you did this video because now I know the reason behind it.
This, this is why I always stop by whenever I see your videos on my feed. You always are a font of compassionate wisdom. I agree 100% with you. I've been with you since I was a new, new beginner. Now I'm an adventurous beginner thanks to you and for those like you. Be blessed, keep to you truth. Namaste.
Thanks. I think a review should be fair and the reviewer can say what their perspective is about the product but give an objective review of the product as well. Thanks Mikey for your insight ❤️
Great video, Mikey. I totally agree that as a reviewer - honesty is important, but not to the extent where negativity is the final word. I personally didn't want to try the granny square yarn - I'm comfortable with my process. But, I did think this was a nice concept yarn which demonstrated how granny squares are made and tension adjustment as well as other elements in crochet. Thanks for your thoughtful post!! 😉🙂
Exactly right, Michael. I feel the same about movie reviews, just because the reviewer doesn't like it doesn't mean I won't, it's just not for them. Crafting is so personal, we all have our likes and dislikes, doesn't mean they're bad products.
A very thoughtful piece, Mikey. You make excellent points about how not everyone likes a certain type of yarn, but others love it. I think some reviewers are not really reviewing the yarn but looking at it from their own perspective. I think there are a lot of yarn snobs out there. Not everyone can afford wool yarn at $20 a skein; not everyone wants that yarn anyway. There is room in the industry for all types of yarn art. People approach their craft from many perspectives and choose yarn based on many types of criteria. What you want/like may not be what I want/like. Your approach to reviewing yarn is very admirable.
I agree. My co worker got excited when i started talking about crochet ideas. I started a simple granny in the round. She said she would like to do that too. So i gave her a few tutorials ,and an xl box of yarn. I get really happy when i get to teach others. I have met a few people that i could teach and it is exciting when they also make things for them selves.
Hearing your thoughts on yarn and changes, I look at things differently! Thank you, I agree with you. I have so much to learn! Stay true,I love your channel 💗
I love this. I learned to crochet via Woobles and then moved on to more typical yarns and patterns that I planned out myself. So many reviewers crapped on Woobles and focused too much on price not realizing that a lot of beginners don't know how much to buy or what to buy.
The idea of granny squares was daunting, and I didn't even want to try before. It's helping me build confidence and learn tension control. I've been crocheting maybe a month and a half- I like seeing something I've done reaching completion. Thanks for this, and all you do!!! I have someone else who is now talking about learning with this granny all in one yarn.
Red Heart Sashay is what got me interested in crocheting again after many decades of it being put to the side. Now I am crocheting on a daily basis because of Sashay and other ruffle yarns. I was very disappointed when O’Gos went away. Thank you for this Mikey.
Thank you so much for being intentional about your reviews. Knowing for whom the yarn is targeted and stepping into their skills. I appreciate your honesty
Different yarns have different purposes.... Although it's "nice conversation" to hear positive things -- not negatives -- about what others think about their yarn, people have to try things themselves to discover their own tastes/opinions. And tastes/opinions change over time. (Grateful that we have such an amazing variety of yarns to choose from. Imagine how few yarns there were when the first crochet books were written... The choices now really are wonderful!)
My first reaction/review to the all in one granny square yarn was a negative... Looking back that's is for the most part that I find basic granny squares boring.... So my second video was very positive showing different shapes that can be made. I have just finished making a dress and my leftovers 26 hexagon are going into a lap blanket.... Some times it's worth giving the yarn another play and turning the intended idea on its head😁 especially if you're a more experienced crocheter or like a challenge 😘🤗
I'm glad you touched on this subject because the industry does not keep skeins of certain dye lots in production for very long any more and it's extremely frustrating.
While I only know you from the internet, your approach to yarn and content seems to align with your approach to life. I don’t review yarn, but after watching this video I am reminded to treat life and others this way also! Thank you for all that you do, and the way you do it.
You are right, what better then to teach crochet I've been crocheting since HS, when my left handed teacher taught me to crochet(and I'm Right handed) Taught myself to knit in the mid 90's. I go back to crochet often. Mike you rock!
I really appreciate this video. We all have our personal favorites. I've been crocheting since I was 5. I LOVE yarn and realize not all types work for me. I come online to see how others work with certain products and to get helpful information. Fir instance the granny square yarn. There were so many negative videos I was beginning to feel nervous about all skeins I bought. I picked up some tips and now I'm flying through squares. It's a bit of a turn off with the negative comments. We don't all have the same experiences and some reviewers need to remember that. Your video is a 'must see' for all who love crochet and knitting. ❤
Well said! It's amazing how many people crush the spirit of others to tryout for themselves whatever works for them. New ones try a little bit of everything. 🤗
Fabulous theme - so glad you talked about this. So many people are unaware of why a product is introduced and what it is intended for. I hope you have given many a ‘critic’ food for thought ❤
Very judicious and well thought out commentary! You touched many aspects not always considered. There's a lot of yarn I wonder why it was discontinued and why can't previously popular yarns make a comeback? Yarn as a fad seems as weird as chain link for fencing is a fad. Many blessings ya'll. Joyful crocheting!😁🦓🌴
Mikey, you have taught me so much. I'm always excited when you post, review and things like today's video, which was absolutely amazing. You are a fantastic teacher of yarn. Big hugs and much love from Tennessee! ♥️♥️♥️
It’s sad when people review for “clicks”, calling it a gimmick or whatever negative buzzwords. It’s disheartening to see those words repeated in groups or on social media by people who won’t even give the new item a chance. Like O’Gos - the comments I see “I got some on clearance because it was cheap, I am sad I can’t get more”. So had they not heard the negative, had they given it a chance - it might still be available.
you hit the nail on the head Mikey. it made me reflect on some of my own opinions of different yarns. not every yarn is for everyone but hopefully no one listens to me. everyone has their own viewo though.
I always think its awesome how we 5ake a " string" and make something out of it. I love how you share your thoughts and creativity with everyone. You have taught me alt, watching you. THANKYOU
What I have always liked about you is you are honest. And in videos where you may not like the yarn or it maybe harder to work with (especially for beginners), you say that. But I have never heard say anything negative about it. More like a constructive criticism. Like the scrubby yarns for wash cloths, or some of the fuzzy yarns. That’s the way to do it. Give the heads up, but then highly encourage trying it. There were some yarns and other things i stayed away from trying for a while, but then I saw you and a few others using to make something and gave it a try and now I love it!!! Keep up the awesome work Mikey!!!!
I love the all in one yarn. I am the queen of granny squares. I love making them.I rarely connect them🤷♀️ This yarn is challenging you have to be creative to get it to work. Your stitches have to line up perfectly and there is no way the dye on the yarn is consistent for every section. To me it's a granny square puzzle. Can I make each row perfect? Even frogging is never more than a few stitches since it's a small project. It's fun, if you are into that kinda thing. Peace and coffee✌️
I started crocheting more than ten years ago watching. Now I can knit and spin and sew. I agree with you. Because the yarn I knit with and spin with our different but that doesn't make them inferior. Just for different uses and peoples.
Interesting! I love wool and have been biased against acrylic until very recently. Watching the various creators on youtube has inspired me to give acrylic yarns a try, and I actually bought some of the red heart all in one granny square yarn just to play with and delight in the colors! And you know what? Its fine! I have no problem working with it. I am kind of excited to have a whole new world of yarns open up for me now, as I am as passionate about color but pretty much on a tight budget. I know acrylic will never replace wool for certain wearables but for home dec I'm game. It's a very liberating feeling.
I have some Sashay and similar yarns in my stash. I had no idea how to use them. Thanks to an older video of yours, I learned what I could do with these yarns. Thank you so very much!
Great point. I think the granny yarn straddles the beginner/experienced crocheter line. Allowing for no weaving in ends but needing the variety of hooks and knowledge of how to match gauge to make it easy to use. So I have not really settled on who it is made for.
Excellent content. I have been crocheting for 72 years. (I am 80.) My favorite yarns are natural fibers and mostly hand dyed. However, I remember my elderly aunt teaching me to crochet when I was eight. I was so excited and I still remember the joy of creating. We should always remember where we came from and bring the next generation into our craft. New crafters begin with entry level, affordable yarns.
Great to hear this. There is something for everyone but everyone doesn’t like everything. I think you always give your opinion based on the facts not just what you think. Very fair and keeps us watching. Win win.
That is what I love about you, Mikey, you're open-minded, fair and you look at the big picture. There's too many people nowadays that only think me me me. Its nice to see people who think of others too
I got some of the Red Heart Granny Square yarn. Instead of making granny squares with it and getting frustrated with it cuz my tension is too loose/too tight and having to constantly FROG it, I'm making a blanket and letting the colirs fall where they may. Im not crazy about the colors in the skein but I'll live. LOL!! I make blankets and donate them to a few different places around where i live. I figure that someone else may love the colors or won't care what the colors are as long as the blanket keeps them warm. I want to thank you for all you do for us, Mikey. You are awesome!!
Mikey, thank you for getting me into crocheting! I'm 81 and retired. AND BORED. I live in Alaska and love!!!!! hiking. But the knees are failing and now my joy is centered on crocheting and great-grandchildren. Thank you for your wonderful advice, tutoring, demonstration and humor. I am saved. 😊 All the best to you and yours. Mattie, Homer, Alaska.
Love your viewpoint! I feel same about the Woobles kits. $25 - 40 is a lot of other yarn. But they give great videos on every tiny learning step and the yarn is great for beginning to learn. So do your thing and join the yarn obsessed! Bought my daughter 2 (as requested ❤️) for her birthday
Last year, my sister asked me to teach some of her grandchildren to crochet. Little by little they all backed out except for one around 9 years old. She already knew how to knit and now she has gotten the hang of crocheting. It was so wonderful to teach her and to see her blossoming in her crocheting. Like you said, it is gratifying to see such a young one catching the joy of crocheting.
I taught my granddaughter to crochet when she was around 9. I love to see her crocheting and to see her get so excited about a new project. She is now 15 and just as excited as she was day 1.
You are right Mikey. I hadn’t even thought of this before but your analysis was very insightful. I like it how you care so much about all different kinds of people who like to create
I love your philosophy on yarn and on bringing new people into crochet. Some experienced people look down on newbies. You raise newbies up.
Totally agree ❤
This is an excellent video, the phrase “yarn snob” comes to mind. I hope many reviewers look at this and remember to not rain on a review based solely on their elevated level of crochet, or being a “yarn snob”. Mikey - this was brilliantly said.
Your approach is spot on. No reason to rain on someone's parade - it's selfish, IMO, to do so. If I don't like someone's color combination, I can still like and admire their stitchwork. ❤
I have distinct memory at age 7/8(?) of walking to a LYS with Mom and Gramma. They were starting a new project. All the yarn colors were amazing!
This was in the early 1960’s when all the yarn was wool, and the skeins of Red Heart had a small metal red heart clamped onto the beginning end.
This is the first time I have commented on your channel - I just wanted to let you know that I'm 37 and since I was a child I have tried to crochet and I could never get my head around it but you tort me how to crochet and now I'm making 126 granny square blankets with all the "bells and whistles" , I just want to say a massive thankyou and I think your channel is great and I tell everyone to watch and subscribe ❤
I'm glad that you brought up this subject. I feel that it's offensive when an influencer says that a particular type of yarn is the only kind worth using. As a crocheter and knitter, I feel that I can use any "string" and make something that I would be proud of even if it's just to prove to myself that I could make something.
well said!
Agreed! I am a self-taught lefty, crocheting for 50+ years. Not every yarn is for everyone. I have my preferences, as we all do. However, you can bet that if I see some cool color ways in the Red Heart Super Saver (especially), I am buying a few skeins to play!! Red Heart will always have a well-deserved place in my stash.
Excellent video. I too believe the 11th commandment “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything” Thank you.
What a wonderful perspective! I wish all of the yay-hoos on TH-cam thought about the impact they have beyond themselves. Thank you Michael!😊
What one person dislikes, another person loves! Its all a matter of personal preference. I trust your opinion, Michael, but I am also a rebel and want to see for myself if a yarn is "good" or not!😊
Exactly!!!
I am so glad I found you. I recently started crocheting again after several years. I love that you feel a responsibility in your ability to influence others. I really appreciate that integrity. I also love all your fun videos too.
I'm also a 70 year old who is now working with natural fibers and hand dyed yarns. However, I'm looking forward to Red heart's bitty stripes. I have always thought of Red heart as the work horse of yarns. Hundreds of thousands of afghans have been made with this yarn, washed hundreds of times and are now heirlooms. Personly i wish my Gram had used it instead of wool for my afghan. It died from dry rot after 60 years of love, but...
In one of my crochet Facebook groups, every day a beginner posts their first granny square, and every time it makes me happy. How wonderful it is that yarn has such a range from a beginner who can spend $10 to make their first project, to handmade yarn that is literally a work of art.
I love that you have taken this stand. So many times I have heard a reviewer totally destroy a yarn and it discontinued. Makes it hard if you like it and can't get to finish a project. Thank you
Mikey, I agree with your reasoning about fad type yarns. I am 71, been crocheting since my teens; I enjoy when a new interesting yarn is introduced and usually try it to decide for myself if I like it. Now we just get on the computer and start reading everyone else’s feelings about new yarns. I do not enjoy the negative rant type postings against yarns and certain brands, it gets crazy! Sashay is a perfect example of something different and it was fun to play with. I bought a lot of O’Go and started using it later on that year and loved it and then, oops; it’s gone, off the shelves, discontinued thanks to those negative Nellies. I guess they love yarn barfs and untangling skeins, right? -Barbara Olechnovich
i have a hard rule in my life that i don’t trust reviews from a strangers until i see for myself. critics all have biases and some have a point they’re trying to make that has more to do with their own issues than with what they’re reviewing. yarn, books, hooks/needles, movies. doesn’t matter. my review is the only one that matters in my own life
I didn't buy the O'go's for 2 reasons:
1. They basically weren't available to me. Yarnspirations "exclusives" mean that I am often not able to buy those yarns at all because they are exclusive to retailers that don't have a presence near (and don't ship to) me. So even if I wanted to buy it, I can't.
2. They were a higher price per yard than other yarns in other formats. The additional price per yard was not worth it for me to purchase it in the O'go format, so even if I could buy it, the extra cost was a difficult justification since I don't generally struggle that much with yarn barf or tangles.
@@FlareHeart It should have been a clue to me that it was being discontinued because when I bought all my O’Go, they were having a great discounted sale! Oh, well, live and learn……
You’ve hit the nail on the head! Yarns are different and so are people it’s what makes the world go round!
Big picture thinking! Thank you Mikey! I really appreciate your honesty while still being open minded and kind! 🎉❤
Excellent explanation about the yarn.
I love and appreciate your honesty about yarns and products ❤
Mikey, you are an inspiration. If only more people would think about how what they say or do affects other people. Not just in yarn, but in all aspects of their life. Be kind to others; be kind to nature; be kind to the earth.
new creative concepts are fantastic and brilliant in any artistic space. one person's trash is another person's treasure and we should all support whatever works to get more people interested in any creative space.
Excellent video!!! I was turned away from using Red Heat yarn for a long time when I first started crocheting by an influencer. Years later, I was given several skeins of Red Heart yarn and enjoyed working with it. Not all of us can afford natural fiber yarns, or maybe allergic to these type of yarns. Thanks Mikey for explaining what a review can do on all levels. 😊 We all have a starting point.🧡🧡🧡
I am allergic to wool, so I love synthetic yarns. I can use super wash wool blends, like sock yarn that’s a wool-silk blend. I am glad you mentioned allergies.
I am not allergic to alpaca. Supposedly alpaca is hypoallergenic. Or perhaps it’s all in my head!
Thanks for being truthful Mikey ❤
Well stated. Different yarns for different tastes and wallets.
If Bernat Blanket is ever considered "just a fad", this is going to stay in my basket forever. I just LOVE the Bernat Blanket yarn. It's not just good for blankets!.
Mikey, your kindness and ability to see an issue from all sides makes you not just an excellent yarn arts inspiration, but also a truly excellent person.
Thank you for all you do! If not for you I swear I would not gotten into crochet. I tried before and never really liked it. You explained and showed me as a beginner in a way that I understood.
I really appreciate your point of view. It's so true - something that appeals to one of us may not appeal to another and yay to all the new crocheters joining this wonderful creative community!
Mikey you are an excellent teacher and such a considerate person! Over the years I learned to knit, crochet and embroider from veteran fiber artists who took the time to slow down and teach me how to hold, make stitches, tie off and weave in ends. I owe a debt of gratitude to each one that taught me. We follow you with thanks as you show us new stitches even if we are experienced now.
Totally agree. I’ve bought yarn for projects that I’m jazzed about in that moment or because it’s on sale and it may sit in my stash for several years. Well I recently went through it and it no longer appealed to me or I didn’t like the feel of it. I donated to the local elementary school and the staff loved it and created beautiful projects. Just because I may not have liked it doesn’t mean someone else doesn’t love it.
Well that was such a well overall thought out review of how different people look at different types of yarn. Your ethos/attitude to the whole situation is so honest and fair. Thank you for helping me look at it from all those different angles. I wish I could walk into a shop in Ireland and choose all the Red Heart Yarn I love and think I am in heaven 😊. Thank you Mikey👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
This makes so much sense! Just because "Jill" dislikes a particular yarn doesn’t mean that it's not a great yarn for Jack, Judy, John, Jane, Jimmy, or Jocelyn... Everyone has their preferences, no matter their skill level. Another factor could be cost as well. I know people who will NOT ever use RHSS, but I (and others) find it quite durable for kids afghans and plushies. It holds up well in the washer after being pulled, stretched, dragged in dust or dirt, etc. Kids are not exactly known for being careful! Lol
But yes, every yarn type has its lovers and haters. And it really isn't fair for those with influence in the industry to help "kill off" a yarn that could be useful to many others simply because they don't like it themselves.
You are so spot on with your observations. I have crocheted for 60 years and have often had similar thoughts about yarns that you have observed. You are so correct about the isolation factor. It is a privilege to teach beginners! Your support of others in the community is very important, appreciated, and necessary! Thank you got all you do!
Mikey you hit it spot on. As an artist myself who also dyes yarn know that if I don’t like what I created doesn’t mean that others will not like it as well. Everyone is different in what colour combination and texture they like. I know that if I gave my thought on what I have created can influence the viewers opinion of the item. I love how you had looked at the yarn from when you were a beginner. Thank you so much for looking at it from a beginners point of view. I agree that it is an honor to teach a beginner and to watch their growth as they learn new stitches. Thank you again for your honesty and stepping into the place of a beginner. Hugs
Love your SO positive attitude and accepting we all are different with our yarn play. Your SUPPER DUPPER🎉❤
I’ve been crocheting since I was 11 years old. I remember the Red Heart Sashay. I still have one skein. It was super cool to make scarves out of it. The Bernat Alize yarn I’m not a fan of but I’m glad you did this video because now I know the reason behind it.
This, this is why I always stop by whenever I see your videos on my feed. You always are a font of compassionate wisdom. I agree 100% with you. I've been with you since I was a new, new beginner. Now I'm an adventurous beginner thanks to you and for those like you. Be blessed, keep to you truth. Namaste.
Good for you to take the 10,000 foot view on this. I never thought about the jobs attached to a particular yarn! 👏👏👏
I NEVER thought about this subject that way! Bravo Mikey! I love your view on this!!! 💚💚💚
Thanks. I think a review should be fair and the reviewer can say what their perspective is about the product but give an objective review of the product as well. Thanks Mikey for your insight ❤️
Great video, Mikey. I totally agree that as a reviewer - honesty is important, but not to the extent where negativity is the final word. I personally didn't want to try the granny square yarn - I'm comfortable with my process. But, I did think this was a nice concept yarn which demonstrated how granny squares are made and tension adjustment as well as other elements in crochet. Thanks for your thoughtful post!! 😉🙂
Exactly right, Michael. I feel the same about movie reviews, just because the reviewer doesn't like it doesn't mean I won't, it's just not for them. Crafting is so personal, we all have our likes and dislikes, doesn't mean they're bad products.
A very thoughtful piece, Mikey. You make excellent points about how not everyone likes a certain type of yarn, but others love it. I think some reviewers are not really reviewing the yarn but looking at it from their own perspective. I think there are a lot of yarn snobs out there. Not everyone can afford wool yarn at $20 a skein; not everyone wants that yarn anyway. There is room in the industry for all types of yarn art. People approach their craft from many perspectives and choose yarn based on many types of criteria. What you want/like may not be what I want/like. Your approach to reviewing yarn is very admirable.
Well said Mikey!
I agree. My co worker got excited when i started talking about crochet ideas. I started a simple granny in the round. She said she would like to do that too. So i gave her a few tutorials ,and an xl box of yarn. I get really happy when i get to teach others. I have met a few people that i could teach and it is exciting when they also make things for them selves.
Hearing your thoughts on yarn and changes, I look at things differently! Thank you, I agree with you. I have so much to learn! Stay true,I love your channel 💗
Your honesty is inspiring and I love following your instructional videos on this channel. Thank you
Spot on Mikey! Everyone is an individual, each with our own preferences and dislikes. Choices are available for us to choose or not to choose
I love this. I learned to crochet via Woobles and then moved on to more typical yarns and patterns that I planned out myself. So many reviewers crapped on Woobles and focused too much on price not realizing that a lot of beginners don't know how much to buy or what to buy.
The idea of granny squares was daunting, and I didn't even want to try before. It's helping me build confidence and learn tension control. I've been crocheting maybe a month and a half- I like seeing something I've done reaching completion. Thanks for this, and all you do!!! I have someone else who is now talking about learning with this granny all in one yarn.
You're so fair and kind.
You are spot on. Thank you for sharing your philosophy on this subject.
Red Heart Sashay is what got me interested in crocheting again after many decades of it being put to the side. Now I am crocheting on a daily basis because of Sashay and other ruffle yarns. I was very disappointed when O’Gos went away. Thank you for this Mikey.
I love your logic behind this and it make total sense. Thanks for being so open about this touchy subject❤
Thank you so much for being intentional about your reviews. Knowing for whom the yarn is targeted and stepping into their skills.
I appreciate your honesty
Different yarns have different purposes.... Although it's "nice conversation" to hear positive things -- not negatives -- about what others think about their yarn, people have to try things themselves to discover their own tastes/opinions. And tastes/opinions change over time.
(Grateful that we have such an amazing variety of yarns to choose from. Imagine how few yarns there were when the first crochet books were written... The choices now really are wonderful!)
My first reaction/review to the all in one granny square yarn was a negative... Looking back that's is for the most part that I find basic granny squares boring.... So my second video was very positive showing different shapes that can be made. I have just finished making a dress and my leftovers 26 hexagon are going into a lap blanket.... Some times it's worth giving the yarn another play and turning the intended idea on its head😁 especially if you're a more experienced crocheter or like a challenge 😘🤗
I'm glad you touched on this subject because the industry does not keep skeins of certain dye lots in production for very long any more and it's extremely frustrating.
While I only know you from the internet, your approach to yarn and content seems to align with your approach to life. I don’t review yarn, but after watching this video I am reminded to treat life and others this way also! Thank you for all that you do, and the way you do it.
You are right, what better then to teach crochet I've been crocheting since HS, when my left handed teacher taught me to crochet(and I'm Right handed) Taught myself to knit in the mid 90's. I go back to crochet often. Mike you rock!
What a fantastic video! Thank you for your positivity and wisdom!
I really appreciate this video. We all have our personal favorites. I've been crocheting since I was 5. I LOVE yarn and realize not all types work for me. I come online to see how others work with certain products and to get helpful information. Fir instance the granny square yarn. There were so many negative videos I was beginning to feel nervous about all skeins I bought. I picked up some tips and now I'm flying through squares. It's a bit of a turn off with the negative comments. We don't all have the same experiences and some reviewers need to remember that. Your video is a 'must see' for all who love crochet and knitting. ❤
Wise (and fair) words, Michael.
Well said! It's amazing how many people crush the spirit of others to tryout for themselves whatever works for them. New ones try a little bit of everything. 🤗
You help me to look at things from a different perspective! Thank you for broadening my thinking, especially about beginners and jobs created!
Well said Mikey. I believe you hit it on the head. Thank you!
I respect your honesty and straightforward comments, Mikey!
Fabulous theme - so glad you talked about this. So many people are unaware of why a product is introduced and what it is intended for. I hope you have given many a ‘critic’ food for thought ❤
A thought provoking video. You are absolutely right.
Very judicious and well thought out commentary! You touched many aspects not always considered. There's a lot of yarn I wonder why it was discontinued and why can't previously popular yarns make a comeback? Yarn as a fad seems as weird as chain link for fencing is a fad. Many blessings ya'll. Joyful crocheting!😁🦓🌴
Well said! Wonderful attitude, appreciate your care and concern for continuing our craft and sharing knowledge.
Well said! A true teacher. Thank you! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
I think the bigger issue here is that people let "influencers" and reviews drive what they buy or don't. Or worse, their opinion of something.
Thank you Mikey, I enjoyed this very much. Your honesty is why we love you so much. 💜🤗
Mikey, you have taught me so much. I'm always excited when you post, review and things like today's video, which was absolutely amazing. You are a fantastic teacher of yarn. Big hugs and much love from Tennessee! ♥️♥️♥️
It’s sad when people review for “clicks”, calling it a gimmick or whatever negative buzzwords. It’s disheartening to see those words repeated in groups or on social media by people who won’t even give the new item a chance.
Like O’Gos - the comments I see “I got some on clearance because it was cheap, I am sad I can’t get more”. So had they not heard the negative, had they given it a chance - it might still be available.
I love when it seems to be a one trick pony type item - creative people who can see something else. They give it life outside of the original purpose.
You're making too much sense this morning! I feel the same way though.
you hit the nail on the head Mikey. it made me reflect on some of my own opinions of different yarns. not every yarn is for everyone but hopefully no one listens to me. everyone has their own viewo though.
Enjoyed listening to you on this talk. I do learn alot from you! Thanks for being a Great teacher of yarn. ❤
I always think its awesome how we 5ake a " string" and make something out of it. I love how you share your thoughts and creativity with everyone. You have taught me alt, watching you. THANKYOU
Hope your kitty is ok and didn’t BREAK anything!!
What I have always liked about you is you are honest. And in videos where you may not like the yarn or it maybe harder to work with (especially for beginners), you say that. But I have never heard say anything negative about it. More like a constructive criticism. Like the scrubby yarns for wash cloths, or some of the fuzzy yarns. That’s the way to do it. Give the heads up, but then highly encourage trying it.
There were some yarns and other things i stayed away from trying for a while, but then I saw you and a few others using to make something and gave it a try and now I love it!!! Keep up the awesome work Mikey!!!!
I love the all in one yarn. I am the queen of granny squares. I love making them.I rarely connect them🤷♀️ This yarn is challenging you have to be creative to get it to work. Your stitches have to line up perfectly and there is no way the dye on the yarn is consistent for every section. To me it's a granny square puzzle. Can I make each row perfect? Even frogging is never more than a few stitches since it's a small project. It's fun, if you are into that kinda thing. Peace and coffee✌️
Thank you! I love introducing brand new folks to crochet 😊
Excellent content! Thanks for speaking up!
Thanks as always for your honest opinion
I love that thee are different yarns for different budgets, creative minds, abilities and uses.
I started crocheting more than ten years ago watching. Now I can knit and spin and sew. I agree with you. Because the yarn I knit with and spin with our different but that doesn't make them inferior. Just for different uses and peoples.
Love your attitude!! That is exactly how I would handle it! Great video!
Well said. Thank you.
Interesting! I love wool and have been biased against acrylic until very recently. Watching the various creators on youtube has inspired me to give acrylic yarns a try, and I actually bought some of the red heart all in one granny square yarn just to play with and delight in the colors! And you know what? Its fine! I have no problem working with it. I am kind of excited to have a whole new world of yarns open up for me now, as I am as passionate about color but pretty much on a tight budget. I know acrylic will never replace wool for certain wearables but for home dec I'm game. It's a very liberating feeling.
I have some Sashay and similar yarns in my stash. I had no idea how to use them. Thanks to an older video of yours, I learned what I could do with these yarns. Thank you so very much!
Well said!! Love your honesty ❤️
Great point. I think the granny yarn straddles the beginner/experienced crocheter line. Allowing for no weaving in ends but needing the variety of hooks and knowledge of how to match gauge to make it easy to use. So I have not really settled on who it is made for.