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Crochet Interview: Michelle of MJ’s Off The Hook Designs

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Marly Bird blogger Kathryn Vercillo is also a Happily Hooked digital magazine columnist. There are four of us designers participating together in the Classic Cable Collection CAL, which launched last week. And guess what, over the years, Kathryn has done a crochet interview with each of us for that magazine. So, we wanted to share those with you.

Crochet Interview: Michelle of MJ’s Off The Hook Designs

Classic Cable Collection CAL Crochet Interviews

Each week, the Classic Cable Collection CAL features a design from one of the four of us:

  • See my crochet interview with Kathryn from 2020 here
  • This week we're featuring Briana K Designs and her Infinity crochet cable technique. See Kathryn's crochet interview with Briana about this technique here on Briana's blog
  • Last week the CAL featured MJ's Off the Hook Designs. Below is Kathryn's interview with her. This first appeared in the October 2021 issue of Happily Hooked Digital Magazine
  • Next week, the Classic Cable CAL features HanJan Crochet. On this blog, we will have Kathryn's crochet interview with Hannah.
Crochet cable collection

Crochet Interview: Meet Michelle of MJ's Off The Hook Designs

Michelle Moore was a long-time scarf knitter, but in 2012 her daughter joined a knit and crochet club in school, inspiring Michelle to start learning how to crochet. She used a how-to CD and taught herself the basics. Then she was off and running. She started MJ’s Off The Hook Designs.

Even as a relatively new designer, she quickly drew attention to her unique work. She created some very popular whimsical blanket designs—like the crochet mermaid tail blanket and shark crochet blanket—that actually landed her a spot on Tyra Banks's FabLife TV show.

Since then, she’s continued growing her design work, blog, and YouTube channel while founding a second business and co-founding a third. She’s here to tell us more about it in this crochet interview.

Cable collection CAL- Celtic weave baskets

What inspired you to learn to crochet when your daughter joined the yarn club?

I’ve always loved making things. My nan taught me to knit at a young age, but I didn’t really pick it up until much later, and even then, I mostly just made scarves. However, I was drawn to yarn and the idea that I could make something with it. I didn’t know if I would be good at crochet, but I was willing to try it.

What made crochet stick with you better than knitting?

My knitting skills are limited, so the only similarities between the two crafts are that they both use yarn. Crochet just came more naturally to me. 

I also think that I could crochet much faster than I could knit, making crochet far more attractive to me. Being a busy mom with young children, I loved how quickly I could make them a hat. It’s definitely what hooked me. Speed and the ease of growing my skill level made crochet stick for me.

Does your daughter still crochet?

Yes, she does.  She doesn’t have that much time for it, but when she does, she loves it. My daughter made simple crochet ornaments for our tree last year and really enjoyed it. She finds it so relaxing.

What is one of your favorite crochet memories?

Like most crocheters, I have many. Crochet has just brought me so much happiness over the years. However, I have to say that what comes to mind is the first hat I ever crocheted with a flower on it. It was actually one of my first projects. I made it for my youngest daughter Meghan. She was 18 months old at the time and received so many compliments on her hat.  People were always shocked to learn it was my first time making a crochet piece. It inspired me to make more things, ultimately leading me to where I am today.

What a special memory! How has crochet changed since you started?

It seems to have become more popular. Designs are becoming more available and more modern. There is a greater selection of blogs, YouTube videos, and various patterns to choose from. There are many more options to choose from than when I first learned from that How-To-Crochet CD.

Hooded owl blanket pattern by MJ

You’ve crocheted a lot of great designs over the years. What is one of your favorite things you’ve ever crocheted, and why?

My favorite design is my Hooded Owl Blanket. It’s my top-selling pattern and definitely one of my cutest. It went viral in 2017. But that’s not why it’s my favorite.

When my daughter struggled in school, we made the tough decision to pull her out of high school and enroll her in a private cognitive school. I was worried about the tuition cost, but I knew it was the best decision for my daughter.

Immediately following that decision, the owl pattern went viral. Because of that, I was able to pay for her tuition. It was such an exciting time and a memory I’ll never forget. It ended up receiving 39 million views on my FB post.  I still have a hard time believing it. 

That is so wonderful. I believe that when we do what we are meant to be doing in life, things work out the way they're supposed to, and this sounds like such a great example. So, you must have already been blogging by 2015. When and why did you decide to start your blog?

When I began pattern writing in 2015, I decided to create a website and blog. At that time, my focus was primarily on publishing patterns, so I rarely posted on the blog itself. Over the last few years, my blog has become a larger part of my business.

Qualifying with Mediavine for ads on my blog has allowed me to publish free content while earning an income. My blog compliments my YouTube channel well. My free patterns now include video tutorials I post on YouTube with a link to my blog. Then for paid patterns, I have video courses available on my website.

I think that’s a great explanation of why crochet bloggers/ designers often have a similar setup. You want to offer free content but still need to make money, so you have an ad-based blog and YouTube for that. Then you also offer paid patterns, courses, etc., where you can create higher-value content and offer stuff for those willing to buy to support crochet designers.

What are your hopes or plans for your crochet business in the next year or two?

My focus is to continue growing my blog and YouTube channel by offering more free content with tutorials. My YouTube channel hit 100K subscribers this year, and I hope to reach 200K next year. Help her out by subscribing right here.

crochet cable nesting baskets

So, you started designing patterns in 2015. Can you tell us about those early days?

I was very reluctant to start selling my patterns. But I began creating my own designs very quickly after learning to crochet. I was intimidated to share my work with others because I was self-taught and didn’t feel confident in my writing style. So, at first, I would sell my finished items. After selling products for a couple of years, though, I began to get so many requests for my patterns that I decided to take the leap and publish my work.  

And it’s paid off! What’s your crochet design process like?

I generally play with yarn first and see if my idea takes shape. That involves swatching, sketching, and just a little trial and error crocheting up my vision. For garments, I look at stitch patterns, and swatch, and then figure out the math for sizing before jumping in and working out the full design.

How would you describe your patterns?

My crochet patterns are unique and generally quick to make. I’m frequently told that my designs are classy and easy to follow.

Classy is a great word! In fact, a few years ago, Michelle really fell in love with luxury fibers. She launched a second business called Sentry Box Designs “with the goal of offering yarn-lovers a crochet pattern haven of fashionable garments best complimented by those luxury fibres; a way for makers to take a moment and splurge on themselves when they're so used to creating for others.” Make sure to check that site out as well!

If someone is just starting to come to your blog, what do you hope they might take away from it?

I hope that crocheters are inspired to create new and exciting pieces. The video tutorials I provide help beginners tackle projects they wouldn’t otherwise try.

What would you share if you could tell a beginner a few things about crochet?

I would say to go for it!

The most important part is learning how to hold the yarn. Once you get that down, the hard part is over. Next is just practice and patience to get consistent tension. I would highly suggest watching YouTube tutorials.

Next, I would explain the importance of a gauge swatch before starting a pattern. You must go up in hook size if you have more stitches than the gauge states. If you have fewer stitches, you must go down in hook size. Gauge does matter, especially when making garments.

Finally, when substituting yarns, instead of just comparing the yarn weight, it’s critical to check the yarn thickness because different yarns still have variances even if they are the same weight. I use a straightforward equation. I take the yards on a ball and divide it by the grams. That is the number I compare when looking at yarn substitutes.

Those are such great tips! You obviously love crochet. What are some of your favorite qualities about the craft?

I love how many things you can make. I particularly love making Home Decor items, but I also love crochet garments and accessories. There’s always something I’m inspired to create. If I get bored doing specific projects, I just take a break and spend time on something different. I often just get inspired out of the blue to make something completely random. Then, those often end up becoming my most popular designs.

What are some of your favorite crochet techniques/stitches/ patterns?

I love the magic ring and seamless join techniques. Some of my favorite stitches are the herringbone double crochet and extended single crochet. I immensely enjoy creating cable crochet design patterns.

And that makes perfect sense since she's one of the four designers in this crochet cable CAL!

Is there a technique or pattern in crochet that you have trouble with? How about one you don’t know yet that you would like to learn one day? 

The bullion stitch is challenging, and I’d love to learn how to try Solomon’s Knot stitch one day. 

What other crafts/hobbies do you enjoy besides knitting and crochet?

I love decorating and making any crafts for my home, including wreaths, centrepieces, front porch displays etc.

Besides crafts, I love outdoor activities, including biking, running, skating, and swimming. I’ll also hop on the toboggan with the kids anytime.

If you could invite five people to a craft party—living or dead, real or fictional—who would you invite and why?

My grandmas are the only people I would love to have craft with me. I didn’t even know how to crochet when they were alive. They would be so proud, and I would learn so much from them if they could be here. Three out of our four grandmas were proficient knitters and crocheters.  One of my grandmas didn’t do either, but I still want to show her everything I’ve learned!

I think that would be the most wonderful party! Paying it forward, who are some of your favorite crochet designers/bloggers?

Over the years, I’ve made many great friends in the industry. I highly admire Marly Bird, Sarah (Repeat Crafter Me), Toni (TL Yarn Crafts), and Brittany (BHooked).

Aw, shucks 🙂

I’ve recently gone into business with three talented designers: Briana (Briana K Designs), Pam (Sincerely Pam), and Lorene (Cre8tion Crochet). We started Crochet Foundry magazine, a quarterly digital magazine featuring size-inclusive garments. Through this venture, I’m excited to work with many talented designers.

You have so many amazing things going on. You’re an inspiring woman, crafter, and community member. Before we wrap up, what else would you like us to know about you in this crochet interview?

I’m a down-to-earth country girl. My husband and I own a farm in Douro, Ontario, and have four amazing kids: three girls and one boy. All four of my kids love to model and help how they can with the business. My husband also pitches in with shipping orders, social media, blogging, and pulling up the slack with house stuff. My father does my bookkeeping and will likely respond to all your download and tech support questions. I don’t know how I’d get it all done without their help and support.

Hopefully, this crochet interview has taught you a lot about Michelle. Connect with Michelle on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. And, of course, be sure to join her as part of the cable collection CAL! Look out for our other designers' crochet interviews, too!

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Michelle of MJ's Off The Hook Designs?

Michelle is an independent crochet designer featured in this interview post on Marly Bird's blog. MJ's Off The Hook Designs is her pattern brand… a shop featuring her original crochet designs. Interview features like this one are a wonderful part of the crafting community's ecosystem… they introduce established designers' audiences to each other, celebrate independent creative work, and give insight into the personal stories and perspectives of the people who create the patterns we love to make.

What kinds of crochet designs does MJ's Off The Hook create?

Check the full interview post and her shop for the most current information! Independent designers typically have a distinctive aesthetic and specialty that defines their work… whether that's wearable garments, amigurumi, home goods, accessories, or a particular technique focus. The interview likely discusses what drew Michelle to crochet, what she designs, and what she loves about the craft community. Following independent designers whose aesthetic resonates with you is one of the best ways to discover patterns you'll love making.

Why does Marly Bird feature other crochet designers?

Because the crochet community is richer when we lift each other up! Marly genuinely believes in collaborative community over competition. Featuring designers like Michelle introduces her audience to patterns and designers they might love but wouldn't find otherwise. It celebrates the incredible diversity of crochet design happening across the community. And it builds the kinds of connections that make the fiber arts world a warm, supportive place. When established names spotlight independent creators, it can meaningfully help those creators reach more people.

How can I find MJ's Off The Hook Designs patterns?

Search “MJ's Off The Hook Designs” on Ravelry and Etsy for her full pattern catalog. The interview post may include direct links to her shop and social media profiles. Following independent crochet designers on Instagram and Ravelry is the best way to hear about new pattern releases and sales. Many independent designers also have newsletters where they share news, freebies, and special offers with their most dedicated fans. Building a collection of favorite independent designers is one of the true joys of being part of the crafting community.

Are there other crochet designer interviews on the Marly Bird blog?

Yes! Over the years, Marly has featured many designers and industry figures on the blog. These interviews collectively create a record of the crochet and knitting community at various points in time… the people, the trends, the evolving conversation about the craft. Browsing the interview category on the blog gives a rich picture of the fiber arts world and the humans who populate it. Each interview is both a discovery opportunity for new-to-you designers and an insight into the community you're part of as a crafter.

Cables are not JUST for Knitters: (BiCrafty Bootcamp:…

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Whether you're a master cabler in knitting, or just a wannabe cabler, no one can deny the beauty of a cable. The dimension and texture a cable adds to any project, whether it be a hat, sweater, or scarf like we'll be making this week, the cable screams sophistication!

And you may think that cables are exclusive to knit projects, but you'd be wrong! Over there years there have been many different crochet techniques to achieve the same effect as the knitted cable, and we will chat about that this week!

BiCrafty-Bootcamp-Crochet-landing-copy

Refreshing Our Memories

Just another reminder that you can access the main BiCrafty Bootcamp Crochet page any time to see links to all of the lessons and videos. We’ve also shared the MATERIALS LIST for part two of bootcamp, so you should go order your yarn now if you haven’t done so already!

This Week’s Materials

Today we’re jumping in to our next project and for this we are using Swish Worsted and an H (5 mm) or I (5.5 mm) hook or size to obtain gauge.

Crochet Cables

Similar to knitting, the basic foundation of a crochet cable is the same concept. Skipping stitches and coming back to them later. But unlike knitting, you're not having live stitches you need to account for, since – as we've chatted about before – you bind off every crochet stitch, essentially, at the time it is made. The key to basic crochet cables is really, a simple post stitch. Front post double crochet (FPDC) and Back post double crochet (BPDC) are the building blocks of a cable stitch.

Here are some helpful tutorials I've done in the past to help you master these stitches!

How to use cable crochet stitches to create fabric

Typically, it is done by skipping a certain amount of stitches, creating post stitches, and then working either in front or behind your post stitches back into the stitches you skipped! Don't worry, I'll show you exactly what to do in this week's Bootcamp video!

Things to keep in mind when working crochet cables

  • Generally creates thick fabric
  • Uses a LOT of yarn
  • Can appear to have holes behind the cable (due to skipped stitches)
  • A bigger hook than what a yarn calls for can help with a cable fabric getting too tight
  • Keep thes stitch tidy, don't allow the loops to stretch too much when creating the post stitches

BiCrafty Bootcamp Lesson 10 Crochet Video

Woven Crochet Cables
Woven Crochet Cables

Woven Basket Crochet Cables Stitch Pattern

Ch multiple of 4

Row 1: Dc in 4th ch from hk, dc in each ch to end, turn.

Row 2: Ch 3 (counts as dc throughout), *bpdc around next 2 sts, fpdc around next 2 sts; repeat from * across, dc in top of tch, turn.

Row 3: Ch 3, *fptr around next 2 sts, bptr around next 2 sts; repeat from * across, dc in top of tch, turn.

Repeat Rows 2-3 to desired length.

Woven basket stitch diagram with numbered rows and symbols, featuring turquoise and black lines on a white background.
Traditional Crochet Cable Stitch
Traditional Crochet Cable

Traditional Crochet Cables

Ch 22

Row 1: Dc in 4th ch from hk, dc in each ch to end, turn — 20 dc

Row 2: Ch 2 (counts as hdc throughout), hdc in next 2 sts, *BPdc around next 6 sts, hdc in next 2 sts; repeat from * across to tch, hdc in top of tch, turn.

Row 3: Ch 3 (counts as dc throughout), dc in next 2 hdc, *skip 3 dc, FPtr around next 3 dc, FPtr around previous 3 skipped dc (work in front of sts just made), dc in next 2 hdc; repeat from * across to tch, dc in top of tch, turn.

Rows 4: Repeat Row 2

Row 5: Ch 3, dc in next 2 hdc, *FPtr around next 6 dc, dc in next 2 hdc; repeat from * across to tch, dc in top of tch, turn.

Repeat Rows 2-5 to desired length.

Cable stitch diagram with symbols for various stitches, including treble crochet and half double crochet, in black and blue.

Homework is the Rylan Crochet Cable Cowl & Scarf Pattern.

Follow along with the instructions and make this stunning neck accessory!

Gray crochet cowl with cable stitches displayed on a mannequin, featuring a layered design and a decorative necklace.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can knitters really crochet cables?

Honestly… yes! Cables aren't just for knit projects, even though they look super sophisticated. There are lots of crochet techniques to get that same beautiful cable effect.

What stitches are the building blocks for crochet cables?

So here's the thing… the basic building blocks for crochet cables are post stitches. Specifically, front post double crochet (FPDC) and back post double crochet (BPDC) are what you'll use to create those gorgeous cables.

Do crochet cables use a lot of yarn?

Yes! You'll definitely want to keep in mind that cables tend to create a thick fabric and can use a LOT of yarn… so maybe grab an extra skein!

My cable fabric is getting too tight, what should I do?

Oh, that's a common thing! Honestly… using a bigger hook than what your yarn typically calls for can really help keep your cable fabric from getting too tight. You want to keep those stitches looking neat and tidy, not squished!

What project should I try after learning crochet cables?

Well, the homework for this lesson is the Rylan Crochet Cable Cowl & Scarf Pattern… it's a stunning neck accessory and a great way to practice!

13 Circle in Square Crochet and Knit Free Patterns

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Circles made into squares are a common choice for many afghans and pillows. Knit or crochet the circle in a colorful shade, then make the square part neutral so they really stand out. These circle in square crochet and knit patterns can be used to create all kinds of different things.

To make a circle, you increase several times evenly around the piece. To make a square, you increase just at four evenly-space points. You'll use both techniques in these patterns. Therefore, you'll get the chance to really explore how shapes are made.

You can take what you learn making these projects and make your own projects! Take a few of the squares from a throw and combine them into a matching pillow, or make the front and back of a pillow, line it, and turn it into a bag. Your only limit is your creativity! Need some ideas: Check out our roundup of crochet and knit squares patterns.

13 Circle in Square Crochet and Knit Free Patterns

Circle in Square Crochet and Knit Projects

Most of the circle in square projects that you'll find patterns for are blankets. After all, it's so easy to turn squares into blankets. Therefore, most of the patterns here are throws of different sizes and styles. You'll also find some circle in square pillows to go with them. Make a matching set for your guest room. Or to give as gifts. They are simple to make and yet they look really special.

Pin Point Crochet Blanket Free Crochet Pattern

Also on the Blog

Here are some of the other great blanket patterns that we think you might be interested in. These aren't circle in square blanket patterns. However, they're great knit and crochet patterns for blankets in different sizes. Blankets are just such great projects to make at any time of year. If you run out of room for them, gift them. If you run out of people to gift them to then donate them to charity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a “circle in a square” motif in crochet and knitting?

It's exactly what it sounds like… a circular motif centered within a square frame! Granny squares are the most iconic example… a circular center (worked in rounds starting from a ring) builds outward with corners added to create the square shape. The visual contrast between the organic circle and the geometric square creates beautiful tension that's very pleasing. It's a motif that appears across many craft traditions worldwide because it's both structurally elegant and visually satisfying.

What are the 13 circle-in-square patterns like?

The collection spans both crochet and knitting with varied applications! Classic granny squares in various stitch patterns. Square motifs with circular colorwork centers. Knitted medallion squares. Cathedral window-inspired designs. Each takes the “circle in square” concept in a different direction… from traditional granny squares to more modern, graphic interpretations. Both classic and contemporary aesthetics are represented. Check the full collection for the specific patterns and find the ones that speak to your style.

Are circle-in-square patterns good for beginners?

Many are! The classic granny square is one of the most beginner-friendly crochet projects… you start with a small center ring, work outward in rounds, and the structure is very logical. The corners naturally form as you work the square increases. More complex circle-in-square designs (intricate stitch patterns, complex colorwork, knitted medallion squares) are intermediate to advanced. This collection includes options across the skill range.

What can I make with circle-in-square motifs?

These modular motifs are incredibly versatile! Blankets and throws from joined squares. Bags and totes from motif panels. Pillowcases. Garments (especially cardigans and vests built from square motifs). Wall hangings. Coasters and pot holders. The modular nature means you can combine motifs into any size or shape project you want. Mix different circle-in-square patterns in coordinating colors for a sampler-style blanket that showcases each design. The square format makes assembly very logical.

What's the most popular circle-in-square pattern of all time?

The traditional granny square is genuinely the most iconic crochet motif in the world. Variations on it have been worked by millions of crafters across generations and cultures. It's a design that transcends trends… when granny squares are “in fashion” they're celebrated everywhere, and when they're not trending, devoted crafters keep making them anyway. The basic granny square construction is so reliable, adaptable, and satisfying that it will never truly go out of style. It's the perfect circle-in-square expression.

New Year’s Resolutions: Knit/Crochet Habit Tracker Blanket!

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Kathryn here with a guest post for you today. This habit tracker blanket idea is a riff on the classic temperature blanket that many people start at the beginning of a new year. However, instead of tracking temperatures, you track something much more personal: your goals! This is a brand new exercise similar to some that you would find in my book, Hook To Heal: 100 Crochet Exercises For Health, Growth, Connection, Inspiration and Honoring Your Inner Artist.

Have you ever made a temperature blanket? The knit or crochet habit tracker blanket is a fresh variation on that classic New Year's Project. You create a very similar blanket (or scarf, or whatever your project is) with strategically assigned colors and daily/weekly crafting goals. However, it's a much more personal project.

how to knit or crochet a habit tracker blanket

What Is a Temperature Blanket?

In case you're not familiar with the idea of a temperature blanket, or you need a refresher, let's review. In fact, you can start by reading What Is a Temperature Blanket. But the gist is this:

  • You choose a blanket design, usually one that's either motif-based or striped.
  • Then you assign a color to each temperature range. For example, if that day's high temp is between 80 and 90, then you might work in red. If it's between 70 and 80 then you might work in purple. You assign the colors to the temperatures in advance.
  • Each day or week you track the temperature. You knit or crochet one motif or one round for that day or week. (It's designed as a daily project but some people find that a weekly temperature average works better for them.)
  • Then you keep it up until the end of the year. At that time, you have a finished blanket that chronicles the temperature throughout the year.

A temperature blanket gives you a daily or weekly craft goal. This inspires you to keep crafting even when you're otherwise losing momentum. It's fun to see those colors develop over time. It's a great record of the year.

What Is a Habit Tracker Knit or Crochet Blanket?

This year, make that temperature blanket more personal than just whatever temperature it happens to be where you live. Instead, tie it to a goal. The basic idea remains the same. Here's how to do it:

How to Knit or Crochet a Habit Tracker Blanket, Option 1 (Colorful)

  • Choose a New Year's resolution (or goal or intention.) In fact, you can start a habit tracker blanket anytime. It can be any measurable goal. Reading more, eating more vegetables, exercising, etc. Choose something you really want to do.
  • Choose a blanket design. Here are some good basic stitch patterns that work. And here are some good temperature blanket patterns.
  • Select a time frame. (One year, one quarter, one month.) Decide if you're making one row/round/motif per day or per week.
  • Divide your goal into measurable increments and assign a yarn color to each goal. For example, let's say that your goal is to walk more. If you walk 0-10 minutes that day, then use blue. If you walk 10-20 minutes that day, then knit or crochet with green. If you walk 20-30 minutes per day then work with yellow. Etc. (Of course, you might use different shades of the same color instead of totally different colors. This is up to you!)

How to Knit or Crochet a Habit Tracker Blanket, Option 2 (2 Colors)

The basic idea of this version of the habit tracker blanket is the same. However, instead of having a bunch of colors correlating to increments of your goal, you just choose two colors. One is for “I met my goal today.” The other is for “oops, I didn't meet my goal today.”

So, let's say that your goal is to write every day. You choose a granny square blanket, with blue squares for days you write and purple squares for days that you don't. At the end of each day you make your square. At the end of the year, you can visually see how often you met your goal. And even if you have an entirely purple blanket, well, you still made a new blanket!

Why A Habit Tracker Blanket Is Better Than a Temperature Blanket

A temperature blanket is a perfectly wonderful project. It provides you with a daily knit or crochet goal. When you achieve that goal, you feel good about yourself. That's a terrific thing. Moreover, it does give you an interesting record of the year. You see visually how the temperatures changed throughout the year.

However, a habit tracker blanket is even better because it's tied to something really personal to you. You not only set and achieve the goal of making the blanket but also another goal that you really care about. You might find that you push yourself to walk that extra ten minutes to use the color you want to use next.

At the end of the year, you can look back and see patterns. Sure, you see how much you did or didn't meet your goal, which is helpful information. More than that, though, you see useful patterns such as that you read less during the busy season at work or you were more likely to walk in the summer than the winter.

Helpful Information For Your Habit Tracker Blanket

The posts we have here about temperature blankets will also help you if you decide to knit or crochet a habit tracker blanket:

We want to encourage you along the way. Share your goals, chosen designs, and progress photos in the Marly's Minions Facebook Group and on Instagram with hashtags #marlybird and #habittrackerblanket

Frequently Asked Questions

What's a habit tracker blanket?

Honestly… it's like a temperature blanket but way more personal! Instead of tracking the weather, you track your own goals… like reading more or exercising. It's a super fun way to see your progress in a cozy, crafty way.

How is this different from a temperature blanket?

So here's the thing… a temperature blanket is awesome for tracking weather, but a habit tracker blanket is all about *you*. You're not just making a blanket… you're also working on a goal that really matters to you. It's like a double win!

Can I really use just two colors for a habit tracker blanket?

Yes! You totally can. One color can mean “I met my goal today,” and the other can be for “oops, I didn't.” It’s a really clear visual way to see how often you hit your target… and even if it's all one color, you still made a whole blanket!

What kind of goals can I track with this blanket?

Oh, anything measurable! You could track reading more books, eating more veggies, or getting in your daily steps. It's all about choosing something you really want to do and breaking it down into little craftable pieces.

What if I miss a day on my goal?

Don't worry about it! The page mentions that even if you have an entirely “didn't meet goal” blanket, you still ended up with a new blanket. Plus, seeing those patterns over time… like maybe you read less during busy work weeks… can be really helpful info!

Handmade Craftivism: Dressember Fights Human Trafficking

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Kathryn here, Marly's blog content director. Every once in a while I pop in with a post about a topic that's close to my own heart. And at this time of year, that topic is Dressember. Last year, I joined the Namaste and Crochet Dressember team. Through our online craftivism, we raised $11,000 to fight human trafficking. We also raised awareness about the issue. Moreover, we shared a lot about how slow fashion (including knitting and crochet your own clothes), is an antidote to the fast fashion industry, which is a huge culprit of human slavery in the modern world. Namaste and Crochet is participating in Dressember again, so I'm back to tell you about it and encourage you to check it out.

What is Dressember?

Dressember is an event that challenges people to wear a dress and/or tie every single day of the month of December. Moreover, they ask that you post about it online. In other words, this is a style challenge. But it’s so much more than that. And thanks to Namaste and Crochet, there's even a craftivism aspect to it. She has participated in this event for years. On her team, instead of a dress or tie, you can also opt to wear something handmade. As aforementioned, handmade clothing is one way that each of us can fight human slavery. So, that's why I support her team, although all Dressember teams are doing great work. I love the craftivism aspect of her efforts. And as you'll read in her story below, there are deep personal reasons why she came to care about this topic.

Dressember is an Anti Human Trafficking Campaign

Every year, Dressember raises millions of dollars to fight human trafficking. Not only do you get to enjoy dressing up every day, but you get to do so for a good cause. As you share your posts, you help raise money to combat this egregious violation against human rights. Moreover, you raise awareness about this critical issue that many people don't know about. Even if you opt not to participate, following the cause on social media and sharing the information that others post can help raise funds and awareness.

What is Human Trafficking?

The United States Department of Justice explains that “Human Trafficking is a crime that involves exploiting a person for labor, services, or commercial sex.” The exploiters might use force, fraud, or coercion. While sex trafficking has gained a lot of attention in the news in recent years, it’s important to understand that slave labor is a big part of human trafficking. Yes, it happens. Today. In 2021. In America (and elsewhere).

The Dressember website reports that 40+ million people are impacted by human trafficking around the world today. Approximately 25% of those people are children. It’s a $150 billion a year industry.

What Does Dressember Do?

Dressember raises awareness so that people come to know that this is a major issue. The more awareness, the more chance of fighting the problem at every level. Moreover, the organization raises money and contributes it to well-researched organizations that fight human trafficking. Since launching in 2013, they’ve raised over $10 million for the cause. Check out their 2019/2020 impact report to learn more. I honestly learned so much about the issue through participating last year. It left a deep impression upon me and impacts the choices I make in purchases to this day.

Reasons to Participate in Dressember Craftivism

Fight human trafficking with Dressember Craftivism

You can participate in Dressember easily by joining the Namaste and Crochet fundraising team. Learn all about it here. There are also more details at the end of this post about how you can participate. If you're new to craftivism, it's just all about using crochet/ knitting/ crafting to raise awareness in the community. It can be as big or small, as political or apolitical as you want.

Dressember is a great cause. That’s the main reason that people want to participate, of course. In addition to that primary reason, here are some bonus reasons that you might want to participate in Dressember:

  • It’ll give you an opportunity to wear your own handmade items all month long. (See below about that aspect!) Get those things out of storage. Get the WIPs finished. Make something brand new.
  • You’ll be able to share your knit and crochet wearables with others in a meaningful way. Whether you highlight your own knit and crochet patterns or just showcase what you can do with hooks / needles, it’s fun to share this work with your online community. Craftivism celebrates the craft as much as the cause.
  • If you do the “wear a dress or tie” part in addition to the handmade part then you might have fun getting a little glammed up. Dressing up can feel good. It can brighten your own day.
  • You’ll get to be part of a great community. Several actually – the handmade community, the craftivism community, and the Dressember community. Maybe you’ll make some new online friends that inspire you.
  • It’s a chance to be a craftivist. You’re truly doing something meaningful by participating in Dressember. It’s powerful to use your skills for craftivism.
  • You’ll be supporting slow fashion and sustainability. This is a crucial aspect of fighting human trafficking, because the fast fashion industry is one of the sources of victimization. Craftivism makes sense if you care about sustainability, the environment, and/or slave labor in the fashion industry.

Namaste and Crochet Brings Craft to Dressember

Namaste and Crochet Dress for Dressember

Dominique Calvillo brings the handmade knit and crochet twist to Dressember by encouraging that component of the challenge on her team. She is asking as many people as possible in the knit and crochet community to join in with Dressember. Join her team here.

To participate, you can wear a dress, a tie, and/or a handmade item. If you can wear something you’ve made yourself every day of the month, then you can spread the word not only about this big issue of human trafficking but also about the power of the craft community. Wear something handmade every day, post about it, spread the word.

Again, in addition to spreading the word about – and raising funds for – fighting human trafficking, you’ll spread awareness about the value of craft, the Slow Yarn movement, and sustainable fashion. Fast fashion contributes waste to the world and exploits workers. Slow, sustainable, handmade fashion is the antidote. When you showcase your handmade garments, you let others know that they, too, can make this change.

Craft as Therapy: Who is Namaste and Crochet? 

I got to know more about Dominique and her brand Namaste and Crochet when I interviewed her for the February 2018 issue of Happily Hooked digital magazine. The magazine has allowed me to have a column, Crochet Heals, for over seven years now, through which I interview people about how crochet helps and heals them. Dominique’s story was so incredibly powerful, and I was thrilled to be able to share it with others. 

Namaste and Crochet Dresses for Dressember Craftivism

And I’d like to share a little bit with you, so here’s an excerpt from that article:

Dominique Calvillo learned to crochet from her grandmother at the age of 6, and she has been crocheting ever since. She took crochet with her as a helpful skill when she was invited to India with International Princess Project, an organization that helps female victims of human trafficking reintegrate into their lives and transition back to traditional work. She had sold her own crochet work to help fund her trip, and once she was there she found that many women knew the craft. Later, in Thailand, she taught crochet to women in similar situations.

After several years of doing this work, Dominique found herself suffering from the trauma of all that she had witnessed. It manifested in severe anxiety, and one of the only places where she found solace was in her own crochet work. She began selling some of her work and now has a Los Angeles based crochet clothing and home décor collection called Namaste and Crochet. She shares on her website:

“As I share Namaste and Crochet, more than people seeing the products, I hope that they see the power of meditation and art therapy. Amidst the daily hustles of life along with constant stimulus and distraction. It’s easy to forget to take a moment to center the mind and spirit. It’s no wonder that depression and anxiety run so rampant in our society.”

Dominique hopes that as the business grows it will be able to benefit the lives of women affected by human trafficking.

How did anxiety impact you when you came back from Cambodia / Thailand?

From an interview on Dressember: “A heaviness and deep depression overtook my heart as I continued my month working and being confronted with the ugliest parts of humanity. During that trip, I witnessed slavery within the coffee industry, the brutal child begging system, and was a part of the rescue of a three-year-old Thai girl who was being sold for sexual acts by her mother. I came home with crippling anxiety about war.”

Anxiety and depression had gripped my mind so tightly after that month in southeast Asia that I was living in an alternate reality. My anxiety was specifically about war and I was convinced that humanity was about to blow itself up. I couldn't talk about politics (worst timing as the election was in full swing), I couldn't watch movies with violence, and some days I couldn't handle daily tasks like driving in traffic or being in crowded public places. I don't think anyone quite understood the depth at which I was struggling, so I felt quite alone in the process and tried to act like my usual carefree self.

What inspired you to use crochet to help you through this time? How did you do so? In what ways was it helpful?

From Dominique’s website: “Most days I spent 2-8 hours meditating with my crochet, lost in the beauty of the stitches instead of dwelling on fearful thoughts.”

Crochet absolutely helped me out of those terrible thought processes. I can be a little obsessive, so to have a new positive obsession was so helpful. I began to focus on patterns and new shapes for my dresses. It gave me hope. There were days I didn't want to be alive anymore, but those turned into days when I needed to finish a project. I still turn to crochet for therapy and even if my struggle is not with crippling anxiety, I still learn patience and truths about humanity as I sit and meditate with my art.

Benefits of Knitting and Crochet for Individuals and Communities

handmade craftivism

Both knitting and crochet have many different health benefits. They help decrease the symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma and other mental health conditions. People use crochet to practice mindfulness, stop ruminations of the mind, reduce stress, and meditate or pray. 

Moreover, whether or not they physically craft with other people, knitting and crochet bring people together in community. People share their makes and patterns online, connecting across many aspects of diversity. And thanks to craftivism, people also use knitting and crochet to raise awareness about the causes that they care about.

Participate in Dressember

All of these benefits for both individuals and communities mean that it makes perfect sense that Dominique is asking the knit and crochet community to come together to participate in Dressember. By participating, you reap the benefits of individual crafting, coming together with others as a community, and raising awareness about an important cause. 

The Namaste and Crochet Dressember craftivism team

You can join the Namaste and Crochet Dressember team right here. Joining is free, then you can use the platform to quickly create a Dressember page for yourself right alongside the other knit and crochet team members. Together, you’ll raise money for the cause just by sharing your Dressember posts on your own social media. As a team, Namaste and Crochet hopes to raise $11000 for the cause again this year, but you can set your own personal goal as low or high as you want to contribute to that. Every dollar helps.

Or you can donate to her team or any other Dressember team. If you're wondering where the money goes, Dressember raises funds to support things like therapy for trauma survivors, awareness training for services providers in the system to learn how to spot human trafficking, and long-term economic empowerment for survivors.

You can also help when you just simply follow along and spread the word through social media likes, shares, comments, and so forth. Craftivism can be at any level of participation that feels right for you. Namaste and Crochet can be found on Facebook and Instagram. I'll be sharing occasional posts on the Marly Bird Instagram page but you'll find them more regularly on my own account @createmefree. Look for hashtags #namasteinadress #youcandoanythinginadress and #dressember / #dressember2021.

You might also like:

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is Dressember?

So here's the thing… Dressember is a challenge where folks wear a dress and/or tie every day in December and share it online. It's a style challenge with a super important cause behind it… fighting human trafficking!

How does crafting tie into Dressember?

Honestly… you can totally join the Namaste and Crochet team and wear something handmade instead of a dress or tie! It's called craftivism, using your awesome skills to raise awareness and fight against human trafficking… plus, it's a great excuse to wear your handmade goodies all month long!

What is human trafficking, and why does Dressember fight it?

Yes! Human trafficking is a crime where people are exploited for labor or sex, and it's a huge issue… over 40 million people are affected worldwide. Dressember raises millions to support organizations that fight this by providing therapy, training, and empowerment for survivors.

Besides supporting a good cause, are there other perks to joining Dressember?

Oh, absolutely! You get to wear your handmade creations, share your amazing craft skills with your community in a meaningful way, and maybe even get a little dressed up! Plus, you join a whole bunch of wonderful communities – handmade, craftivism, and Dressember!

How can I get involved with the Namaste and Crochet Dressember team?

It's super easy! You can join their team for free on their fundraising page, which lets you set up your own Dressember page to share on social media. Every bit you raise helps, and even just following and sharing their posts makes a difference!

20+ Reasons I Am Thankful For Crochet (and Knitting Too!)

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Hi, Kathryn here. As you might know, I'm Marly's blog content manager. I used to run the now-defunct crochet blog, Crochet Concupiscence. When I did, I published a Thanksgiving post every year, sharing exactly why I'm so thankful for crochet. I shared this post last year. And I am sharing it again this year, with an update because several of you on Instagram shared why you're thankful for knitting and crochet:

Why Are You Grateful for Knitting, Crochet and Yarn?

why are you thankful for crochet

We asked, you answered:

thanksgiving knitting
thanksgiving crochet
benefits of crochet

Marly Makes Thanksgiving Special

Before I share the rest of the post, I wanted to say that Thanksgiving is really special here at Marly Bird.

turkey trot 2021

First of all, it's Turkey Trot season. This annual stitch-along event is such a cool way for the knitting and crochet community to come together. You get to create something fun, connect with other crafters, and spend the whole weekend in crafty solidarity. It's fabulous. If you haven't checked it out, go do that right now.

Give Thanks Back to Marly by Signing Up Free for Creativebug

free online craft classes with creativebug

Marly has both knit and crochet classes on Creativebug. There are also so many other craft classes and other forms of craft inspiration there. If you sign up in November, you get two months entirely free. Cancel before that if you don't want to pay anything. Otherwise, you get half off a membership (so it's less than $5 per month) for as long as you stay signed up. How does this help Marly? She's a Creativebug affiliate, so she gets earnings even if you don't pay anything. Marly gives so much to the craft community for free. She works really hard. So sign up and send others to sign up as a thanks for all that she does.

20 Reasons I Am Thankful for Crochet

Now, on to my guest post. Portions of this appeared in various posts on my old blog over the years. The article in full appeared in the November 2020 issue of Happily Hooked Crochet Magazine. I have a monthly column there about how crochet heals people. And Marly was featured in the magazine recently as well. I am endlessly thankful for crochet, and I hope that the reasons below make you feel that gratitude today as well.

20 reasons I am Thankful for Yarn

Every Thanksgiving I pause to give thanks for so many things. Most of my things are like anyone else's – health, family, etc. Especially this year, I think, we are all grateful for the little things. But my list has always included something that isn't on everyone's list: the ways I am thankful for crochet. I hope you'll feel inspired to appreciate, celebrate, and enjoy the craft with us this holiday weekend. Happy Thanksgiving!

I Am Grateful for How Crochet Connects Me to Others

I am particularly grateful for the ways in which crochet has connected me to other people, both online and in real life. Here are five examples:

1. There is a rich social media following for crochet lovers.

Some days I don’t have the energy to do much besides just scroll through beautiful, colorful online images of what other people are making. Even that brightens my day and gives me a sense of connection to a world bigger than my own thoughts. On better days, I am lucky to exchange thoughts, comments, ideas, feedback, inspiration, and more with the other people out there who are part of the #crochet community on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and other channels. I love feeling linked with others in this way.

2. Crochet lets me meet people who are different from me.

All kinds of people crochet. Sometimes I connect with activists who are using crochet in innovative ways to spread socio-political messages. Other times I connect with people who have views that are very different from mine on so many levels. We come from different walks of life. And while it’s certainly important to have hard discussions about issues on which we may not all agree, it’s also important for us to find our common ground. Crochet gives me common ground with so many people who are different from me. That’s a starting point, and for that, I am so thankful for crochet.

3. Crochet connects me to the generations before and after me.

Crochet is a handcraft whose history consists of thousands of individual stories. Until relatively recently, it was passed on from one family member to the next. Many people will share that they learned from a mother, an aunt, a grandmother. My grandmother crocheted. My mom was the one that taught me. Crochet connects me to this visceral thing that they did by hand, that I do by hand. I have crochet items that my mother made. I hope that crochet items I made will be passed down to other generations after me. Plus, I have taught a few people to crochet and maybe they will teach others. In this rich, deep, nearly inexplicable way, crochet connects me to other generations. Just the mere act of crocheting invisibly links my stitches with theirs. I am so thankful for this.

4. Crochet has allowed me to participate in community activities.

I have contributed pieces to a variety of yarnbombing and crochet art installations. Other people put these things together, and I just sent in my piece, but in doing so I became part of a whole. Each year on Granny Square Day, I post a few squares to my digital community, and I watch eagerly as a virtual blanket unfolds from so many crafters participating in this event. I have joined I Love Yarn Day activities online and in person. I have donated crochet to a variety of different charities over the years.

And when crochet designer Marinke Slump passed away, I started the Mandalas for Marinke project, through which more than three hundred people collaborated to contribute crochet mandalas to raise awareness about depression and suicide. I then collaborated further with the artists from Threadwinners and two Southern California galleries to bring that mandala project to the public in art spaces. Participating in community events and activities through crochet can be big or small, but it is always meaningful. I am grateful for this.

5. Crochet allows me to interview people about crafting.

I started a crochet blog back in 2011 (which I sold in 2017). In the years since, I have had the chance to write about crochet for numerous online and print publications, including the monthly Crochet Heals column at Happily Hooked. Crochet is a seemingly neutral topic that people are open to discussing, and yet as we dig deeper together, we learn meaningful, authentic truths about how crochet has impacted our lives. In doing the interviews to write about crochet, I have had the chance to connect in amazing ways with hundreds of creative yarn crafters. I am so thankful for crochet and the role it's played.

benefits of knitting and crochet

I Am Thankful for the Ways Crochet Heals Me

My mom taught me to crochet as a child but, like many people, I didn’t stick with it. I rediscovered the craft in my late twenties, during a debilitating battle with depression. It healed me then and it heals me today. This is probably the thing for which I am most grateful.

6. Crochet Saved My Life

When I wrote my book, Crochet Saved My Life, I worried that people would think that the title was a ridiculous exaggeration. But it wasn’t. It literally saved me from life-threatening depression. Of course, it didn’t do that alone – therapy, meds, a support system were all critical to my survival at that time. But crochet played a key role. It was one of the few productive, creative, sanity-saving things that I was capable of doing at the time. And once that book was published, I learned that so many other people actually feel the exact same way. This craft can save people.

7. Crochet eases my troubles with insomnia.

I have struggled with sleepless nights for as long as I can remember. I have tried most things that you have heard people suggest. Some work better than others. As I’ve gotten mentally and physically healthier, I can sometimes go months without terrible struggles. But the insomnia always comes back. If you’re not careful, it can make you feel like you’re losing your mind. Crochet helps. Instead of tossing and turning, ruminating and stressing, wondering when I’ll fall back to sleep, I can just grab the project by my bed and relax into making loop after loop until I’m ready to sleep again.

8. I practice self-care through crochet.

There are many different ways that we can take care of ourselves through crochet. In fact, I devoted an entire chapter of crochet exercises to the topic of self-care and self-esteem building in my book Hook to Heal. It can be as simple as taking ten minutes for your own relaxation every day or as detailed as making a spiritual practice out of crafting. Sometimes I crochet a luxurious item just for myself. Sometimes I give myself permission to do nothing else in the day except crochet. In all of these ways, crochet heals me. Because of that, I’m thankful for crochet.

9. Crochet is a tool to practice mindfulness.

By now, I think that we all know that there are many physical and mental health benefits of mindfulness practice. But for many of us, it’s hard to just sit still and meditate. Crochet offers concrete, tangible ways to bring mindfulness into daily life. Before I could engage mindfully in any other way, I could focus and connect to the moment through crochet. In both of my aforementioned books, I discuss using crochet as a mindfulness tool. That’s not because I think mindfulness is trendy. It’s because it’s truly helped heal me day upon day, year upon year. For that, I am thankful.

10. Crochet reminds me that it’s okay to be imperfect.

Crochet is probably one of the most forgiving crafts out there. Don’t like how something is turning out? Frog it and start over. Or try a different stitch or a different pattern. Even when you make a mistake in a crochet project, you can often leave that mistake in without impacting the entire project. For example, dropped stitches in a knit blanket can lead the whole thing to unravel but miss a stitch in a crochet blanket and it’s not really a big deal. I love this about the craft, and I love that it reminds me that life is imperfect and so are we and that’s totally okay. And even the knitters can be grateful – a mistake in knitting is not a big deal in the scheme of things. It's fixable.

gratitude for yarn

I Am Thankful for How Crochet Has Been a Part of My Career

I am a full-time freelance writer. Over more than a decade of doing this work, I’ve written about a huge array of different topics. But of course, I mostly want to write about the topics I’m passionate about, and I’m so lucky that there has been a market for writing about crochet. I am so very grateful to have joined the Marly Bird team this year!

11. I made decent money off of my crochet blog.

At one point, my now-defunct crochet blog Crochet Concupiscence had more than 600,000 monthly page views. I built that blog from nothing all by myself, and although I made a ton of mistakes along the way, I’m so proud of where I was able to take it. I never made a fortune off of it, and considering how much time I spent working on it, I really didn’t make much at all. But thanks to advertising, sponsored posts, collaborations, and promotion of my other stuff I was able to at least make the blog sustain itself financially. And then in 2017 I sold the blog. There were pros and cons to that but to be able to create something on a topic that you love and have other people want to read it is a fulfilling thing.

12. I have loved writing for other websites and magazines.

I am so thankful for the platform that people have given me to share my love of this craft. Honestly, I am humbled every time that crochet authors, designers, and makers share their thoughts with me. I am appreciative of every small and large publication that has paid me to share my writing on crochet. Especially, I love that there are people who get paid for other parts of crochet – creating patterns, doing technical editing, putting it all together for a business … the fact that any of us can make any money doing this thing we love is wonderful. Again, huge gratitude to Marly for letting me join her team to share crochet here. It makes me thankful for crochet in new ways!

13. Crochet taught me about self-publishing.

I wasn’t sure that there would be a market for Crochet Saved My Life. For that reason and many others, I self-published that and several other crochet-related books. It was a learning process. It wasn’t easy. I made mistakes. But it has always been an exciting journey. I’m grateful for the tools available to allow me to self-publish. And I am hugely grateful for the people who have helped me every step of the way. Crochet designers and authors who publish themselves or with small or large publishers are putting great things out into the world. Of course, Marly has published lots of books; get them at Leisure Arts.

14. Writing about crochet has allowed me to reach others.

After I published Crochet Saved My Life, so many people reached out to me with their stories. Since then, I’ve gotten a master’s degree in counseling psychology, but at the time, I didn’t know much about helping others. And yet, through writing about this craft, I was able to reach a few people. My heart touched theirs and in turn they touched mine back. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a writer or not. If you have ever crocheted something for someone else or taught them the craft, you’ve probably touched someone’s life. And if you share your crochet on social media, you may be inspiring people without even knowing it. People don’t always share how you’ve touched them, but through crochet, there’s a chance that you have.

15. I’ve bartered my crochet skills.

Crochet is a skill. Not everyone can do this craft or wants to learn. But I can, and so I’ve been able to trade on that skill. I don’t sell my own crochet work, but I’ve definitely bartered it. Someone wants a handmade something and I’m able to make it and in return they can give me something. I love bartering. It’s about saving money but it’s also about trading resources within community. I believe in that. And I am grateful for crochet because of it. 

reasons to be grateful for knitting and crochet

And Here Are Other Reasons I’m Grateful for Crochet

16. Crochet offers a way to support other people financially.

I believe in buying local when I can. I believe in supporting independent entrepreneurs and small business owners. Crochet gives me a practical way of doing that. I need supplies for crochet, and whenever possible, I try to get those supplies directly from other people. When I buy yarn, I try to support fiber farms, indie yarn dyers, and small yarn stores. When I want a crochet pattern, I try to buy individual patterns or books from independent designers or small publishers. And even when I can’t buy something, I try to promote the good stuff from the great people – through reviews or sharing on social media or otherwise spreading the word.

17. Crochet taught me to embrace being an artist.

I was always creative, but I never felt comfortable calling myself an artist. And I generally felt uncomfortable with “art” since I felt like I couldn’t paint or draw. Crochet was this great entry into an artistic world. When I first started, of course, I followed other people’s patterns closely. But over time I started changing up yarn choices, playing with stitches, making my own things without a pattern. Over time, I began to see that this was an art form, that I was making art. Sure, it might be humble art. But did you know that there was an entire movement of crochet artists in the 1970s (particularly those who attended the Platt Institute in New York) who turned the art world on its head by celebrating fiber art and other domestic arts? This is no small thing. And I am proud to be a part of that legacy, in even the smallest of ways. Side note: If you’re interested in crochet as art one of the best resources out there is The Fine Art of Crochet by Gwen Blakley Kinsler. And my book Hook to Heal shares 100 exercises for creativity in crochet.

18. There is always something new to learn in crochet.

One of my very favorite things about crochet is that you don’t need to know much to make something useful and yet there is always more to learn. In other words, you can learn just a few basic stitches and with that can make blankets, scarves, and other things. However, if you want to learn more, you can … and you can keep going and going. There are so many different stitches and techniques and ways to put different skills together that I’m not sure I could ever learn it all. I love that when I want to just relax, I can rely on old favorite stitches, but when I’m ready to stretch myself, it’s easy to find something new to learn in crochet. And, of course, Marly is a stellar teacher. Visit her YouTube for terrific knitting and crochet tutorials.

19. Crochet literally warms me.

Is there anything cozier than settling in under a crochet blanket in front of a fireplace? When I think about the things for which I’m thankful, it’s not just the big things that matter but also the everyday small little things. When I focus on little joys, my day is better, and each good day adds up to a good life. There are so many little ways in which crochet brightens my day and one way is that it literally warms me up. 

20. Crochet gives me joy.

Crochet is fun. It’s creative. We can play with yarn. I like doing it. Crochet gives me pure joy each and every time I engage with the craft. Joy is certainly something I am thankful for.

Happy Thanksgiving!!! Feel free to share why you're thankful for crochet and/or knitting in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions

How does crochet connect you to others?

So here's the thing… crochet is amazing for connecting with people! You can find a whole community on social media, meet folks from different walks of life, and even connect with people across different generations. It's all about finding that common ground through our love of yarn!

Can crochet really help with mental health?

Honestly… yes! The post mentions how crochet can literally save your life by helping with depression. It's also a fantastic tool for easing insomnia, practicing mindfulness, and reminding us that it's okay to be imperfect. So much healing in those stitches!

Has crochet been a part of your career?

Yes! It's so cool how crochet can be a career path. The author talks about making money from a crochet blog, writing for publications, and even self-publishing books about crochet. Plus, it's a great way to connect with other crafters and share your passion.

What if I make a mistake in my crochet project?

Oh, don't you worry about that! Crochet is super forgiving. If you don't like how something is turning out, you can always frog it and start over. Even if you make a mistake, it usually doesn't mess up the whole project, which is a great reminder that it's okay to be imperfect, both in crafting and in life.

What are some of the less obvious benefits of crochet?

Well, besides the obvious joy and warmth crochet brings, it can also help you support other crafters financially by buying supplies from indie dyers or small shops. It even helps you embrace being an artist, realizing that what you create with yarn is a form of art. Plus, there's always something new to learn, keeping your crafting journey exciting!