Crochet

Patterns, projects and techniques

PROPERLY CONNECTED?

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We are all aware of the many published crochet artists/designers.  We buy their books and read articles about them in magazines.  We peruse their websites and buy their goods on etsy.  But, just HOW professional is professional?

I was researching some online media communications methods when I ran across this:

http://www.linkedin.com/pub/7/a0b/a9a

This crocheter truly thinks of herself as a Crochet Professional with a Capital ‘C’.  There may be a message here for the rest of us – especially those who seek to sell their designs, publish their patterns, and get themselves in the crochet spotlight.

Here’s a sample of Mr. Funky’s work:

While I like this scarf, I do not find it exceptional.  But, this artist is making a living (it appears) with crochet.  What’s the difference between Ogawa and the rest of us who love crochet?  I read often of people asking if and how one can ‘make a living’ with crochet.  Maybe we just need to get the proper connections.

Comments

  2. This crocheter truly thinks of herself as a Crochet Professional with a Capital ‘C’.

    Hey, hey! Herself or himself! Plenty of guys crochet too.

  3. While you make an interesting point regarding the importance of being connected, as well as the fact that it’s important for anyone who wants to sell their work to “just do it,”… I would hardly say that this woman is making a living, at least not on Etsy, given that she opened her store in May of 2008 and only has 8 sales listed, and absolutely zero inventory… I hardly call that a living. Linkedin is a great way to stay connected with people, but it certainly does not insure a steady stream of income! The right product, the right price, exceptional customer service as well as hard work and perseverance… that might, if you’re really good, earn you a living with your art/craft!

Have you read?

Whip It Up Crochet Blanket – Free Pattern

This Free Whip It Up Crochet Blanket Pattern from Mary Maxim looks like pure comfort crochet. It is a free download for a crochet afghan, and Mary Maxim describes it as a beautifully textured blanket with a plush, soft texture designed to be worked up quickly.

The yarn choice is what really sets the tone here. This pattern uses Bernat Blanket Extra Thick, with 5 skeins and a U.S. U/50 (25 mm) crochet hook. That puts it firmly in the jumbo-yarn category, which usually means fast progress, chunky stitches, and that lovely instant-gratification feeling where the blanket actually starts looking like a blanket very quickly. Mary Maxim lists the yarn as weight 7 jumbo.

The finished size is also generous at 52 x 60 inches, so this is more than a tiny lap throw. It sounds like a proper snuggle-on-the-sofa blanket, and one that would make a nice gift as well. Mary Maxim specifically suggests it as a throw for home décor or as a thoughtful handmade present.

Skill-wise, this one looks very approachable. The page lists it as Beginner / Easy, and the stitch requirements are simple: chain, double crochet, repeat, single crochet, and slip knot. That makes it a good option for newer crocheters who want a chunky blanket project without too much fuss, or for more experienced crocheters who just want something relaxing and cozy on the hook.

I also think this is the kind of pattern that has strong appeal for anyone who likes fast, useful projects. Jumbo yarn blankets are not subtle, but that is part of their charm. They feel squishy, dramatic, and very giftable. Sometimes you want a delicate heirloom project, and sometimes you want a big soft blanket that feels like crocheting with a cloud. This one definitely leans toward the second category. That last part is my take based on the listed materials, size, and description.