We all make New Year’s resolutions related to our health, breaking bad habits, exercising more, and other such matters. As fiber artists, we make resolutions, too.
Whether you want to learn something new, finally use up some old yarn or finish and old project, there are many great resolutions for fiber artists.
1. Use up your yarn stash
As fiber artists, we love to buy yarn; it’s sort of a guilty pleasure. This year, make a goal for yourself to use up your old yarn before you purchase new yarn. Go through your yarn stash and evaluate each thing you have purchased. Obviously, you only want to use yarn that is still in good condition.
2. Complete a project before you begin a new one
Every fiber artist has a pile of unfinished projects. It is human nature to lose interest in something as new opportunities are presented.
This year, go through each unfinished project and figure out why you abandoned it in the first place. Was it the yarn you didn’t like? The pattern? We feel a sense of accomplishment when we complete old projects.
3. Teach yourself new patterns
Every fiber artist, no matter what level, has something he or she has not tried before. We tend to get in a rut with what we create if we do not challenge ourselves.
Take the initiative to learn new patterns that challenge you. Purchase a book full of interesting patterns or take a new knitting or crochet class.
4. Create more time for yourself to knit or crochet
Most knitters and crocheters would like to knit or crochet more but just simply lack the time. Take an hour out of your day to sit down and work on your current project. If this is difficult for you to do, join a knitting or crochet group! Besides, knitting and crochet offer many health benefits.
5. Knit and crochet something for yourself
Remember every once in a while, between projects for family, friends or charities, to make something for yourself; it’s ok to flaunt your talent every once in a while!
Lacey Jane Roberts is not one to color within the lines. Her studio practice of large scale, site-specific knitted instillations pushes the boundaries of traditional art.
The weather is turning cooler, the holidays are approaching, and the month of September will soon be behind us. This only signals one thing-Fall is approaching!
Local yarn shops are owned and staffed by people who live and breathe yarn. These are the people who understand the needs, wants, and desires of crocheters, knitters, and fiber artists of all kind.
I felt a strong sense of nostalgia as I scoured my neighborhood grocery store looking for the sugary, powdered substance that my parents only let me have in moderation when growing up.
Sock Summit 2009 is celebrating the diversity of sock knitting in Portland, Oregon from Aug. 6 – 9. 
