I have mentioned many times that I love knitting baby items. I don't know what it is that draws me to these pieces. My friend, Stacy, asked why I like little things so much and I didn't really have an answer for her. But as I begin to contemplate some of the things I have recently made, it might be the immediate gratifications as small items knit up more quickly or it could be the the sheer tininess of the item that causes me to smile.

Something else I learned about myself recently is that I'm not really fond of pop culture cartoon characters. Mostly, I prefer ideas or concepts that are more enduring rather than trendy items that are simply a passing fad and quickly fade from our cultural minds. I tend to be drawn to classics like Teddy Bears, flowers, hearts, farm animals and such. Maybe you think that's weird but have you ever thought about what causes some of our likes and dislikes? I'm sure our upbringing has a lot to do with the choices we make, along with our likes and dislikes, but there has to be outside influences that help us make these determinations.

Perhaps this is just too much contemplation. I've been knitting a lot lately and the themes seem to be Teddy Bears and Flowers. I like them :)

Something Special

I love sharing my crafting with people of like minds. I don't want to have to convince others that knitting has value or that quilting is not a lost art. In many ways our current economy is helping to revitalize the crafting industry and consumers are recognizing the value in handmade and homegrown items.

Another way I have noticed the trend toward handmade items is through social media. Have you been on Pinterest? There are so many people pinning items to make - or have others make for them (Jocelyn). Looking at other people's boards is a great way to find ideas or get the creative juices flowing and I don't have enough time for everything scurrying around in my brain.

However, sometimes you just want to make dishcloths. I have 10 out of the 12 for my 12 for 12 in 2012 resolution! Thank you, Stacy, for reminding me of the simple things.