Crochet

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Whose crochet is it, anyway?

by

Sometimes a book comes along that really throws you.  This is such a book.  I didn’t even know that the author’s website existed!  All of a sudden, I’m cast into a collection of pretty awful works of ‘art’ complete with snarky commentary, all with a starting point of www.etsy.com.  Who knew?

But, I gotta admit it.  I think I’m hooked!

Let’s face it.  Art is clearly in the eye of the beholder – and the creator.  Often, the twain shall never meet.  You know what I mean.  Who decided that roadkill should be memorialized in oil on canvas?  Who decided that a crocheted, beaded, buttoned, and embroidered thong was worth mentioning?  Who would crochet an (ugly) unearthly creature giving birth?  Well….the point is – someone did.  And the author, April Winchell, decided to tell us about these artful endeavors.

Winchell is, to be kind here, irreverent.  Sometimes, she’s just downright crude in her wording.  But, somehow – if you can overlook the vulgar and crass – which Winchell does not – this book contains a pretty interesting take on the kitch that is offered for sale on etsy.  Hence the name, Regretsy.  Get it?

There’s not a whole lot of crochet in this book.  But, there is a whole lot of ‘what were they thinking?’  I’m not a fan of kitchy portrayals of human body parts, the aforementioned roadkill, or dressed up real animals.  But, someone, somewhere IS.  Enough to create ‘art’ of it and offer it for sale.  One wonders, again, who buys this stuff.  Not me, I can assure you.

In addition to pictures of the ‘art’ there are commentaries by the ‘artists’, many of whom consider it an honor (and a financial windfall) to be mentioned in the book and on the website.  Apparently, Winchell is the Oprah of kitch.  If Winchell mentions your work on her site or in her book, you get a boost in sales on etsy.  Only in America…

HER WEBSITE IS www.regretsy.com.

I leave further evaluations to my readers.  Check it out for yourself.   Let us know what you think…..if you think…..

BOOK STATS:

Regretsy, Where DIY Meets WTF

Villard Books (Random House), 2010

157 pages, lots of color photos, no patterns or schematics, but each item is credited to its creator

ISBN:9780345523181

$14.00 USD

Comments

  1. Hum … I may have to order this book. But, I gotta admit, I’m a bit scared! What will I find within these pages? Yikes!

Have you read?

Lightweight Lacy Crochet Tee Pattern That’s Perfect for Layering

Some crochet garments look beautiful on the hanger but feel awkward to wear. This Lacy Crochet Tee from Lana Grossa is not one of those pieces. It’s light, breathable, and very much designed to be worn — the kind of handmade top that slips easily into your everyday wardrobe without feeling “too precious.”

What immediately stands out is the openness of the stitch pattern. It has that airy, lacy feel that works so well for warmer weather or for layering over a tank or dress. This isn’t a heavy, structured garment; it’s soft and fluid, with just enough texture to make it interesting while still letting the yarn shine.

From a making point of view, this tee is a really enjoyable project if you like crochet that feels calm and rhythmic. The lace pattern keeps your hands engaged without constant counting or frustration, which makes it perfect for evening crochet or quiet weekend sessions. It’s also very satisfying watching the fabric grow — those lacy stitches really show progress quickly.

Skill-wise, this one is best suited to confident beginners moving into intermediate crochet. You don’t need advanced shaping skills, but being comfortable with stitch patterns and keeping even tension will make the process much more enjoyable. If you’ve been wanting to dip your toe into wearable crochet without tackling a full sweater, this is a great place to start.

What I really appreciate about this pattern is how versatile it is. Change the colour and fibre and it can feel casual and beachy or clean and modern. It’s the kind of tee you’ll reach for again and again, especially when you want something handmade that still feels light and effortless.

If you enjoy crochet garments that are wearable, practical, and quietly stylish, this lacy tee is a lovely pattern to have in your collection.