“She didn’t get it from me.”
I was with my mother and a lady we know complimented me on my hat and scarf set. She said I did a good job and then looked at my mother. My mother said as she often does: “she didn’t get that from me. I have never known how to do that, my mother either.”
My mother is a talented lady in many ways, and has never crocheted nor showed a desire to learn, BUT she is supportive and my champion. She bought me my first full set of hooks, which I still have, bought me the materials I needed when I said I wanted to learn and bought crochet books for me.
She and other family members tease me about crocheting, but they also tell other people about what I do or show off what I have made for them. It’s not just about having someone who acknowledges that you can do something or that you like to do something , but someone who will recognize your ability to make nice things.
Having someone who is supportive of your hobby or craft is also crucial to your well being. Studies talk about the calming effects of knitting and crocheting, but what about those who may have someone laughing at them or ridiculing them for being a non-traditional person practicing the craft or who is just starting out and is still developing their skills? The studies don’t talk about people who like to craft but are too self conscious or who are just starting out and had their loved ones laugh at what they make.
Surround yourself with supportive friends, whether they craft or not. I have friends who will unsolicitedly say she made that hat, scarf, skirt, or whatever I’m wearing that I’ve made or will show off what I have made for them. If your family isn’t supportive, then having friends who are helps. You can stand up for yourself and your craft, it is the confidence in yourself that helps with your peace of mind as a person and a crafter. Creative projects should give you peace and contribute to your well being. If someone in your life doesn’t create, but supports your work, it adds to your joy.
Keep crafting, friends!
