Etsy Feature – Trying To Turn Passion Into A Business

Meet Candy from BlueEyedStyle . This is her story, THIS is the reason why we should be support small handmade businesses during this time, actually anytime. You never know someones back story. Please read her story and take at look at ther Etsy store. Maybe you need a gift for a loved one or you need to treat yourself. Maybe you are planning for Christmas and Aunt Mae needs a new shawl?

As a busy wife and mother of 3, I was never, ever at loose ends. In fact as any mother knows, when you have a husband and children, you rarely have a moment to yourself. So when my world imploded after finding out about my husband’s infidelity, and then our subsequent divorce I was left completely shattered.

Perhaps not a very uncommon story. Going from having a family of 5 down to only having my children every second week was hard enough, but then, unfortunately, things got so much worse. Even though we had a mediated childcare agreement, my ex husband decided to keep the children. And even worse, I became a victim of what is called Parental Alienation ‘. This is where one parent works to undermine the relationship between the other parent and the children.

Now, after many years I am still struggling to rebuild my relationships with my children. It is slow and difficult and painful and confusing for them as well. This is something that is so painful to experience that even now after a decade it can reduce me to a pile on the floor.

I’ve always been crafty, but after my world imploded, I was unable to do many of the things I used to. But finally, I picked up my crochet hook- and I have seriously never put it down. It is what comforts me day after day, and it enables me to have the creative outlet that I need. I have many other passions and things I love to do- but because of circumstances can’t always do them. But crochet keeps me sane. I decided to really focus my efforts on my Etsy store, hoping to turn my passion into a business.

It is SO wonderful and heartening when someone receives something I’ve made and sends me a glowing review. It buoys my heart a little more each time. It is a slow go though sometimes, but I’m working at not being discouraged and pushing through my fears and worries. Hopefully one day everything will all come back together again. Just one stitch at a time I guess…

https://BlueEyedStyle.etsy.com

This is one of those shawl patterns that feels instantly calming, even before you pick up a hook. The Forest Valley Shawl (After Party Pattern 23) by Scheepjes, available through Jimmy Beans Wool, has a very gentle, nature-inspired feel that really lives up to its name.

What I love about this design is how wearable it is. Some shawls are beautiful but awkward to style; this one feels practical in the best way. It drapes naturally, sits nicely on the shoulders, and works just as well for everyday wear as it does for something a little dressier. It’s the sort of piece you grab when the air cools in the evening and you don’t want anything heavy.

From a crochet perspective, this is a lovely “slow and steady” project. The stitch pattern has enough variation to keep your interest, but it’s not overly complicated. It’s very much the kind of crochet you can sink into — the sort that lets your mind wander while your hands keep moving. Perfect for quiet afternoons or evening crochet sessions.

Skill-wise, this one is best suited to confident beginners moving into intermediate territory. If you’re comfortable following a pattern and keeping your stitch count in check, you’ll enjoy this a lot. It’s also a great pattern for appreciating beautiful yarn — especially colourways that shift and flow, as the shawl really lets them shine.

Overall, the Forest Valley Shawl is one of those free crochet patterns that feels thoughtful and soothing. It’s wearable, relaxing to make, and finished with a look that feels timeless rather than trendy. If you enjoy shawls that are as comforting to crochet as they are to wear, this one is definitely worth bookmarking.

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