Knitting Daily with Sandi » My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word

My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word

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Thank you for all your passion and for your devotion to these yarnly crafts that we all love so well. I take as a high praise the comments to Wednesday's Daring to Mention Crochet post that said, "Please leave our Knitting Daily as it is!" I also was thrilled to hear from multi-craftual folks who were happy to hear "the C-word" now and then, as way of enriching their craft vocabulary as well as their knitting.

I appreciate the suggestions that Interweave publish a "Crocheting Daily" newsletter, so that each craft could have its own community. We have considered it (trust me—I'm a crocheter, too, remember!), but right now we are going to put all our efforts into making Knitting Daily the best that it can be.

It may be worth mentioning that Sara F. and Jill D. both guessed correctly: I am Knitting Daily's only full-time employee, and its only editorial person. (Bertha is only part-time; I share her with the marketing folks. Besides, although I hate to discuss a fellow employee's limitations in public, Bertha lacks certain job qualifications as an editorial assistant...say...like...a head. I try to overlook this, in the interest of good manners, but...it is a problem sometimes.) Right now, I am very happy to be aaalllllll yours, and not to have to split my energies over two newsletters.

What can I say in response to all the heartfelt and thoughtful comments (which as I write this are still pouring in!)? I say: Thank you. As always, your passion inspires and delights me.

We did a quick tally of the sentiments voiced; those who wouldn't mind some limited crochet now and then on KD outnumbered the "no crochet ever" folks two to one. To the folks who love Knitting Daily so much that they do not want it to change, I say: I'm going to continue to bring you the best knitting info that I can, and to give you a peek inside the wonderful world of Interweave as I do it. Sometimes knitting patterns involve crochet—edgings, buttonholes, trim—and so sometimes we will talk about crochet as a way of adding to your knitter's toolbox. If that particular post is one that you don't enjoy, please skip it—but come back again, because next time, we might just be talking about the one thing in knitting that you love more than anything else!



Speaking of next time: Next week, we are going to talk about bags! Just for you Knitting Daily folks, I have a pattern for a knitted knitting bag that I think is pretty rockin' cute.

Sandi Wiseheart is the editor of Knitting Daily.

Sandi is not ashamed to admit that she almost fainted dead away when she found out one of her crochet designs had been selected for the cover of Interweave Crochet Spring 2006.


Posted Sep 21 2007, 12:00 AM by KD Sandi
Filed under:

Comments

PamG wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 2:47 PM
Very diplomatic Sandi, thank you for promoting both knit and crochet. -Pam
NatashaH wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 3:56 PM
I have no problem having crochet from time to time; I generally prefer the end result of knitting than of crochet, but I know both well, and don't mind learning new tricks here and there. AND if you keep putting up awesome patterns like that white dress you may just complete my conversion!!
PatriciaA wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 3:57 PM
Well said, Sandi! I had to teach myself to crochet because I couldn't finish a knitted project without the edging. Hardest thing was trying to understand the abbreviations! Plus, when we in the US couldn't take knitting needles on planes after 9/11, I found out that I was *allowed* a crochet hook, and a baby blanket became the perfect project to take along on a l-o-n-g flight. While I can't ever imagine crocheting a dress (!) like the Lily Chin pattern, I still like to expand my skills with "how to's" from time to time. Thanks!
JudyF wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 4:03 PM
As a multi-crafter, I'd love to see more crochet and knit patterns!
FayeL wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 4:05 PM
I knit and crochet, my daughter prefers crochet. Now I can share. Keep up the good work!
PatriciaG wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 4:11 PM
I'd like to be added to the tally of those who dred the word... cr... I just can't even type it without cringing. I've never liked to crochet, and the more I learn about knitting, the more I dislike crochet. I personally don't like to see the two topics mixed. I save every KD newsletter except those that mention crochet. It was really disappointing for me to find that it was even mentioned at all. I know I am being selfish in the sentiment, but I just don't want to read about crochet, I want to read about knitting!
Sarah wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 4:20 PM
One of my dear friends is a crocheter. She tried knitting, but didn't care for it. While she was here visiting (I'm in RI, she's in Houston) we went to an LYS. She commented on how she felt like a "black sheep" because of the lack of crocheting stuff. I have to agree with her statement. From my experience, most lys' deal mostly with knitting and not crocheting. Can't we all just get along? I suggest that y'all have a Daily Crocheter newsletter. Now try being someone who's allergic to wool walking into a yarn shop...I also feel like a black-sheep 'cause I can't even touch most of the yarns! I shouldn't even be inhaling, but I gotta breathe. :)
ToniV wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 4:28 PM
I really enjoy Knitting Daily, and don't mind seeing some crochet content on occasion (I'm seeing more knitting that incorporates some crochet so I like to see those sort of relevant articles). I do have to say, however, that I am disappointed when Knitting Daily only consists of a promotion for a new issue of a magazine or book. I think those sort of things could just be "tacked on" in a side-bar, and keep Knitting Daily filled with more solid content.
MarianneY wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 4:33 PM
Hi Sandi, Thank you for your thoughtful update. I did not reply yesterday. I love both knitting and crocheting. I can understand why you can not do both on a daily basis. I am wondering if you could continue to do Knitting Daily as is, no changes, but add Crocheting Weekly, perhaps? Would that still be overload? Many thanks for your time and consideration. Marianne
KarinW wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 4:36 PM
I actually consider myself a crocheter. I know how to knit, but I find it not as exciting as crochet. Crochet has soooooo many stitches, so many different technics, tunisian, crotat, crochet on the double, etc.... I love crochet!!! I hope you have more patterns and references to it!!!! You could call the newsletter Knitting and Crochet Daily. That way the snobs will either stop getting your great newsletter or maybe consider learning something new, and all of us who enjoy both crafts will have a great newsletter that brings both crafts together!!! Most knitters and crocheters are smart people and they know your newsletter is worth getting even if they don't know both crafts, but they might find something in your newsletter that sparkes something in them that makes them want to learn the other technique. I love crochet and would love to see more of it!!!!!
CarrieS wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 4:38 PM
I'd enjoy seeing more crochet content. I both crochet and knit, but crochet is my first love. I think they complement each other well and they both have their strengths. It's upsetting that some knitters are still so prejudiced against crochet. I know many crocheters and I've never heard one of them say anything snobby about knitting.
LynR wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 4:42 PM
I'm a dedicated crocheter. I prefer it over knitting. I find the stitches to be more interesting than knit stitches, and it's mmore difficult to create a garment wtih crochet than knitting. I'm sorry that knitters feel they are being intruded upon by when someone tries to inspire interest in crochet, and I am frankly, insulted with some of the comments. Knitters and crocheters have a lot to learn from each other -- I frequently purchase knitting mags, books, and patterns because they teach me things that I can use in my crocheting. I suspect that knitters, if they will only try, can learn much from crocheters as well. Please, think of how it feels for a crcoheter to have no option but to subscribe to Knitting Daily to get the wonderful crcohet patterns that are offered, and then receive comments about how we aren't wanted. Well, knitters -- crocheters are here to stay! We aren't going anywhere. We have things we can teach you. So please, at least try to be more open and a bit more gracious. We all love yarn and what we can create with it.
Lyn R
BruceC wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 4:43 PM
If I had wanted information on crochet, there are any number of tacky web sites, and equally tacky publications that I could subscribed to. I believe the name of this site is "knittingdaily". If so, then why are we receiving information on crochet? Let those who want this informatioin go to their own site. If crochet information continues to clutter my inbox, I will suspend my subscription.

Charlotte Bruce
Grand Blanc, Mi
NaomiD wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 4:47 PM
For me, crocheting hurts. I love knitting and my wrists thank me regularly for sticking to the sticks! Knitting has gotten me through some really difficult times and I don't know who I'd be without it.
Gothrabbit wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 4:47 PM
The first fiber craft I learned was finger-crochet. Sadly, my crochet skills have not progressed much further, even though I am an advanced knitter. I look at the crochet content as little tempting tidbits that help fuel my desire to learn more crochet techniques. So I say, go ahead and mix it up a little!
Sewshort wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 4:47 PM
I do both, but I prefer knitting for garments. The crochet always seems to come out almost stiff, with very little drape for me. Since each method uses slightly different muscles in my hands and arms, I switch back and forth as I get tired. In fact, I got so excited about the "tomato", that I knitted two in a row and ended up with tennis elbow and have had to put all knitting and crocheting away for awhile. Bummer! I have been surprised recently to see more patterns combine knitting and crochet in one garment. I can turn out really pretty.
SharryB wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 4:50 PM
I enjoy both knitting and crochet---but do more knitting!! I agree that it would be great to include some crochet tips, suggestions and patterns once in a while in KD. Keep up the wonderful work. I look forward to each offering, and download most.

Sharry B in New Mexico
HeatherC wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 4:51 PM
I think it's great that you are incorporating crochet into the newsletter. I've only been knitting for about a year and only learned because there seemed like there was such a lack of crocheted publications, patterns and merchandise out there. While I'm a totally obsessed knitter, I can't kick the HOOK crochet has on me! (hehe) I actually never realized there was a controversy over knit vs. crochet until I became a knitter. Maybe crocheters are more open minded?

A great man once said "All we are saying is give peace, and crochet, a chance." At least I think he meant to say crochet.

Sandi, Bertha seems like she's a righteous kinda gal. I bet she's loads of fun at office parties!
tine wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 4:53 PM
Firsts for me: I'm going off the subject because I am sooo excited about what I am doing. I have a terrible habit of starting multiple projects at the same time. So, to receive instant gratification I have begun a few small projects. I am finally KNITTING my FIRST sock and CROCHETING my FIRST granny square. I can't wait to finish!

Best to you Sandi. I wish I could have you over for tea. I enjoy your sense of humor!
Sewshort wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 4:55 PM
Oops, that's IT can turn out really pretty. Ever try typing with a parakeet running around on you keyboard? She likes to "help" with my knitting also, but finds the yarn a little fuzzy for her taste.
NancyK wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 4:56 PM
Although I MUCH prefer a strictly knitting newsletter, some information about adding crocheted edgings and trim would be helpful. I am finding many knitting patterns that call for crocheted trim and have no idea how to do it!
S.J.O wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 4:59 PM
Can't keep out of the fray (ravel?)now! Granny squares and the like don't do much for me (with some exceptions! :-O), but I would really appreciate more information on crocheting edgings and the like onto knitted items. In fact, I bought a book that I thought would have that information and it.....doesn't. WAAAH! (Learned to crochet as a kid, mostly have forgotten, but pick it up again with picture/instructions, no problem. Mostly I knit now.)
Lynn G. wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 5:02 PM
I am a crocheter and knitter, with the crochet skills having been mastered first and my current focus being more on knitting. Due to physical disabilities, I find it helpful to alternate between the two crafts. I'm shocked by the extreme negativity of some readers toward the inclusion of crochet in this newsletter because if you stop to look at the way the stitches are manipulated, they are very closely related crafts. Very often, knitters have to use special techniques to create a chained edge or to repair a dropped stitch, when these effects or needs can be accomplished more efficiently with a crochet hook. The relationship between lace knitting and open crochet work is very close as well. I would enjoy very very much seeing crochet content included on a regular basis in the Knitting Daily newsletter, and the fact that Sandi is an expert in both arts makes her perfectly qualified to find a balance that will satisfy the majority of readers. She's the perfect person to teach us when the craft with which we are less familiar might come in handy in a particular step of a project that is primarily done in the other craft. She is also a fabulous writer, one who knows how to target her column to a majority of her readers. Her colums are so well organized that it is easy and painless to skip over something that doesn't apply to all individuals. For those who would consider suspending their e-mail subscription if crochet topics are addressed, why can't you just delete the few messages that aren't useful to you? I can't imagine that every single knitting topic applies to your personal preferences either. Sandi is clearly addressing crochet to supplement the possibilties for knitted things that we can make, and this will greatly enhance the reading (and creative) experiences for those of us who do have basic vocabulary and skills in both crafts.
DebbyS wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 5:19 PM
Cool lace dress and it brought back such a memory. I learned to knit when I was five from my great aunt. I learned to crochet when I was about 14. I think I got a book and taught myself because nobody knew how to do it. My great aunt probably looked at it and said it looked "right". Anyway I made some small scarf and then told my mother I was going to make this really awesome lace dress I saw at the department store where we got yarn (no yarn shops in those days). So she bought the pattern and the yarn and I made it. My first really big project in either knit or crochet was that dress. Very short mini but long sleeves with shell lace designs in it. Of course Mom had to buy a perfect slip to cover me up. I wore it to some dance and for dates- too fancy for school and not appropriate for church of course. I had it for 8-9 years and no idea what happened to it after that. It was fast to make too, only taking me about 2 weeks to complete. I was so dedicated.
Esh wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 5:21 PM
Well said Lynn!! I would appreciate tips and conversations about crochet every now and then, it can only enhance my crafting knowledge :)
T.T wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 5:22 PM
If "Knitting Daily" is going to be inclusive, how about some occasional spinning content as well?
SharonH wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 5:32 PM
I wish you would have done the bust dart tutorial or something instead of crochet.

I don't mind crochet + knitting, but as I said before I find it horribly ugly and there's already so much you've said you're going to do that you haven't delivered on. Why are you adding yet another topic?
JennieP wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 5:49 PM
I'm a whiz knitter but very ignorant of crochet. Personally, crochet hasn't grabbed me as much as knitting. I guess it's a bit like being a dog or cat person - just different! Mind you, I love the look of the combined knitting and crochet garments that are coming out now and would like to learn more about crochet. So please, do put some crochet in. We all need exposure to different viewpoints from time to time!
MonicaB wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 5:57 PM
I guess I should have come in earlier on the crochet issue. I was very disappointed to see it take over the knitting daily page. I crocheted for many years before I learned to knit and I just can't bear it anymore. I know some people like to do it, as well as quilt and needlepoint but that's not what this newsletter is all about. Thanks, Monica Bittner
ArianneS wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 5:57 PM
I don't know if there's an official poll on this subject or not but I'd like to weigh in!

I, like so many knitters, don't generally like the "look" of crochet, I haven't "got the hang of it", and I do prefer knitting.

But I want to get better at crochet! How many more crafty doors will open, how many more design options will I have if I can crochet? It's totally fine by me to include a bit of crochet here and there. In fact, I downloaded my first crochet pattern after I read your recent issue of Knitting Daily. I've even downloaded a "Learn to Crochet" manual from Lion Brand.

Thanks! Keep the Fibrecraft Daily coming! :)
DM wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 6:03 PM
I can't wait to see the knitting bag pattern!

Thanks for all your work, Sandi. It's obvious that you work SUPER hard, and I appreciate it!
DawnJ wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 6:05 PM
It's got to be tough being all alone with only Bertha as a helper. (Maybe the guys on Myth Busters could lend you Buster once in a while!) I love both knitting and crochet and I am very happy to read any tips etc. on either topic. Love your daily posts and humour. Keep it coming.

Dawn
RoseC wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 6:08 PM
Ya know, when you mentioned your assistant Bertha, who sadly has no head, the strangest thing happened. I immediately got a visual of Michael Keaton in the movie Beetlejuice ! You remember, when he is sitting in Hell's waiting room with a head the size of a pea and a voice to match. Hysterical !! Now I pray that strange little picture in my brain will go away and let me sleep tonight !! LOL
JanetB wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 6:10 PM
Thank you for including both knitting and crocheting in the same publication. I have thus far been a crocheter, but have picked up knitting. I've found the two to enhance and complement one another, and would love to continue to see a venue that allows both to be addressed.

I, too, would love to see a Crochet Daily forum, but "Bertha" may be a bit taxed thinking up topics to cover with her nonexistent head, so I'm quite happy to have Knitting Daily with occasional crochet info.

Thanks for doing this,
Janet
SaraF wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 6:11 PM
Personally,I have always loved needlework of all types. I appreciate how diverse we are as humans, male or female, with our imaginations and creativity. I am a knitter with some basic crochet skills. I would like to see crochet from time to time on knitting daily. I think seeing beautiful things is inspiring.
SueM wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 6:21 PM
how about something combining knitting, crochet and weaving??? out of handspun??

I happen to be a fiberholic addicted to all the above. I learned to crochet as a young girl. Between my grandmothers I got tatting lessons from one and crochet lessons from the other. I learned knitting on my own (from a book), spinning later and not much after my first wheel, I got a floor loom. The love of my life right now is weaving!! Crochet edgings work well on baby blankets!!
BethR wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 6:22 PM
Sandi - Although I learned to crochet before I learned to knit, knitting owns my heart, head and hands. Crochet is great for edging, but please keep Knitting Daily for knitting. There is so much to explore about knitting, and so many different facets to it, we'll never reach all of it. And don't forget its wonderful history. Knitting rules! Keep up the good work.
AudreyD wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 6:28 PM
I learned to crochet years before I learned how to knit, and I became a knit 'convert' because for a long time, let's be honest, so many crochet patterns were just so horrible. You say the word crochet to some people and they think of those tacky powder-room sets or orange and brown fringed ponchos. I became the master of thread crochet, but let's face it, there are only so many table runners and doilies that a person needs in his or her lifetime. The problem with crochet garments is that most of them are either a) inspired by retro-70s fashion, which if you lived through the 70s is not that fun, or b) really kind of thick and unwieldy. It makes a much sturdier fabric than knitting, so when I see crocheted vests, I just think, jeez, those things probably stand up on their own. I think they might make good substitute body armor for SWAT teams.

What does excite me is the combo of knitting *and* crochet, which has done a lot to detackify crochet. Crochet is at its best either for sturdy items (like bags or stuffed toys) or at its laciest (shawls and trims); knitting is best for drape and I find it easier to shape knit garments. So my $.02 (hey, when did they take the cent sign off keyboards?!) is that I like crochet items that work with knitting in nifty ways. That's what I want to see more of--not just on this site, but in the crochet world.
DonnaF wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 6:30 PM
First of all I am totally addicted to this newsletter and anxiously hunt it down in my e-mail in-box daily before, and after, taking needles in hand. I love all forms of fiber art, and have since my mother taught me to knit when I was ten years old, more than 40 years ago. My first and most passionate love is knitting. I don't mind an occasional mention of crochet, if it will enhance my knitting, but I don't really want to see this newsletter diluted daily with crochet news and tips, thank-you very much. Keep up the GREAT work and deep that knitting coming, daily.
Carolyn wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 6:44 PM
When I learned to knit with wooden needles and red yarn, it was not long before I quite because knitting hurt - - I made the stitches too tight to prevent them from being able to slip off the needle. My mom was very good at knitting, but I never told her why I didn't like it.

After I left home I picked up crochet -- it involved a hook and only one loop that could fall off and unravel - - and it was something my mom did not do. I made pretty useless things and a few lacy shawls and it always went fast! 1/2 inch a row! I tried knitting every so often, but it semed to grow soooo slowly. A few years ago, I crocheted 70+ hats for students working in our office -in about 6 weeks- since then crochet hurts if I do very much.

Trying knitting again, I finally caught the wonder of it, but I also see its limitations. Knitting uses less yarn and an more easuly make a drappy fabrix. With Crochet you can change directions or add a "do-dad" any where any time. Knitting is not as flexible as fast - -it can be done but not as intuitively as crochet ( for me). There is room in the world for both. Each has it's place and reason for existing -- just like us humans. Inclusive is good.

Carolyn
Marian wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 6:46 PM
I need some help. I have huge upper arms -- 24" -- see I meant huge. It is from years of good ole steriods, which does not do anything for your body. Even if one has a hole in their lung and likes breathing.
What I would like to know is: what type of sleeve is best to not make them so noticiable? Either things are so tight I can't move or so loose that they stand out. Thanks for your help.
I love your magaizes, books and now you web magazine. I wish you continued success with everything you do.
Marian
MaryN wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 6:47 PM
Thanks for adding posts on crochet. I love knitting and find that knowing how to crochet has helped immensely with making my knitting even more wonderful. so please keep the info. coming on both of these wonderful arts!
MaryH wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 6:53 PM
I am so glad you are including crochet in your newsleter. I like to include both crochet and knitting in my projects. There are advantages to both. Maybe it will encourage some people to try something new. Crochet is very fashionable on the runways and in the stores now.
Jacqueshank wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 6:54 PM
I too loved seeing the c word every once in awhile. I also loved previewing the next Interweave Crochet Magazine and will definately be buying it once it hits the newstand. Jacque Shank
Francoise Yvonne Beauchamp wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 6:59 PM
Hi, I am a knitter and a crocheter.Kniting Daily is perfect and I think thaT including some crochet information will be a plus +
Thank you in advance.
Francoise (Mafyb)
KellyN wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 7:20 PM
Just wanted to let you know that I like to see some crochet as well. I'm a crocheter first, but for some reason find knitting more relaxing. Keep up the great work.
DianeK wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 7:25 PM
I too enjoy both crochet and knitting. I have mostly been doing small crochet kitchen items (dishcloths and pot holders)because they were quick and easy. Now I am re-learning how to knit and am practicing on a simple sweater all in garter stitch. I enjoy the newsletter very much and don't mind at all having some crochet info and patters from time to time.
EvelynM wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 7:29 PM
When I first read today's commentary, I was not aware of who Bertha was. Thinking she was a lovely lady like all of us knitters, I couldn't believe you would say such things on the internet about a co-worker. How rude can you be, I thought. When I just couldn't get me head around it, I decided to investigate to see who this Bertha was anyway. I should have know. I agree she wouldn't be much of an assett working full time....not too bright is she???
LoisP wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 7:30 PM
I learned to knit at age 15 and love it! My sister crocheted and knit, but did beautiful filet crochet. She did her best to teach me crochet, but I guess I just couldn't learn the language. She finally gave up on me due to the fact that I was unable to understand what the directions meant sometimes, and thought they meant something else. Knitting is very concrete. There are two kinds of stitches; knit and purl and what you do with those stitches that make a garment what it is.
Frances wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 7:54 PM
Gosh! It's like brokering lasting peace in the Gaza Strip. Knitting and crocheting can peacefully coexist. You just gotta love the fibers, people!
JanetB wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 8:02 PM
I love them both. I almost didn't learn to knit because of a bad experience. I went into a LYS and asked for a Paton's crochet pattern I had been looking for, and the employees there looked at me like I had 3 heads. Needless to say, I won't be darkening their door ever again! I am glad I persisted and learned to knit, because both knitting and crocheting are very satisfying.
RoseU wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 8:04 PM
I am interested in crochet, in fact I just bought myself a c.d. so I can learn how to do it. My main problem seems to be in turning the row, I am never sure if you turn first and then chain or the other way around, or if the chain is counted as a stitch, such as a double crochet.
Deb H - Scarlet Zebra wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 8:16 PM
Knitting Daily is, well, daily. That is a lot of knitting nuggets of wisdom you produce for us. I think I can learn to share and even enjoy a few crochet posts. I'm not a crocheter, but will learn if something strikes my fancy. Besides, you never know what technique might be the perfect (and uber magnificent) touch that completes a knitted creation!
MaryR wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 8:35 PM
Thank you for your article and patterns on crochet. I had a chance to meet and talk with Lily Chin last June at a retreat. She is just a bundle of energy and loves to knit and crochet. Seeing her dress pattern in your article was wonderful and it really shows this woman's vast talents. She spoke on the topic of how learning to crochet can benefit knitters. Thank you, Mary
Rschrager wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 8:35 PM
I love both knitting and crocheting, and I really like the combination patterns. I think if more crochet patterns were fashionable, more people would come around. My biggest problems regarding crochet are the boring patterns, and the amount of yarn it takes to complete a sweater; they can become darned expensive!
RosemaryP wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 8:46 PM
Thank you for making me laugh, Sandi! I'm having a nasty day at work today & your comment about Bertha's qualifications made me laugh out loud. Bertha & I have a lot in common: I too am only part-time & am about to lose my head!

Your posts brighten my day. You could write about juggling for all I care. I do love knitting but people, can't we share the love?
DianeT wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 8:48 PM
i have to chime in here. I knit at an intermediate-advanced level, spin, and weave. I want to have knitting in daily knitting not crochet. I cannot relate to crochet patterns because I am crochet-impaired. Fiber arts are my life but crochet ugh. I cannot crochet for the life of me. I try and I just cannot figure where the hook is suppose to go.If you have patterns with crochet can they have a knit counterpart or can you give some crochet lessons.
SharonC wrote re: My Response to Your Comments on the C-Word
on Fri, Sep 21 2007 8:54 PM
I agree with Lynn G. If anyone can present both crafts, it's someone proficient in both...and someone who is so easy to read. If nothing else, though, the comments on today's post are a lot less snarky! I was beginning to wonder if I wanted to be associated with the (strictly) knitting snobs out there