Maybe We're Born With It?
Nah, We're Not Born With It, Creativity is a Skill!
August Reflection: Recognize Your Creativity!
We often hear stitchers claim that they’re not creative. Even the most adventurous stitchers get in a creative funk every now and then, so we have thoughts on creativity for all y’all! Let’s start with the idea that creativity is not a magical, maybe-they're-born-with-it talent. Sure, some folks seem more creative than others, but everyone has a creative side. You just need to recognize it.
The Oxford English Dictionary defines creativity as “the use of the imagination or original ideas, especially in the production of an artistic work.” Hmmm, using our imagination to create something sounds a lot like fiber arts, doesn’t it? Every time we pick up tools and fiber, we’re making something a bit unique, right? The more modifications we make, the more creative we are. If you need a little convincing, see if these common creative skills seem familiar:
· Finding a fabulous yarn then imagining what you can make with it
· Choosing a pattern but using a different yarn than it specifies
· Purchasing a needlepoint kit, then substituting different threads
· Running out of yarn before you finish your project and either modifying the pattern or finding a complementary yarn to finish it
· Modifying a pattern because you’re either shorter or taller than the average bear
· Using color differently, such as striping two colors instead of using a single color
· Making something with scrap yarns
Each of these modifications is a creative choice. However, not every stitcher feels confident in their creativity. If this is you, ask us for help. We have lots of ideas to inspire you!
Next month, we’ll talk about how to intentionally strengthen your creative skills.
-Caryn and the Yarnivore Crew
P. S. Catch us on KABB’s Daytime this Wednesday, August 14, 9am! Caryn will be talking about crocheting & knitting!
Upcoming Classes
Click the title to learn more and to register.
Space is limited & sign-ups close a week before class begins, so sign up now! Class fees due at time of registration. You can find all available classes on our Calendar.
Knitting Workshop with Suzy Bring your projects and questions; Suzy will answer your questions and will break down the principles involved so that everyone can learn! Class is one 2-hour session.
Tuesday, August 13, 12 pm - 3 seats available
Come knit with Wendy! This is for knitters of any skill level with any kind of project! Learn with others in a friendly, supportive environment! Each class is one 2-hour session.
Beginning Knitting with Denise! Learn the basics, including about yarn & knitting needle sizes, how to cast on, knit, purl, & bind off. When you've mastered these stitches, you'll be ready to start your first project. Class is two 2-hour sessions.
Beginning Crochet with Moses
Get started crocheting with Moses! You'll learn the four basic crochet stitches (chain, single crochet, half double crochet, double crochet) and the skills to do them well. Class is two 2-hour sessions.
Saturday, September 7 & 14, 1pm - 4 seats available
Intermediate Crochet - Basic Hat with Moses - Masks Appreciated, but not requiredTake the next step in your crochet journey! Take the next step in your crochet journey! You'll learn to design a basic hat and then how toincrease and decrease (intentionally!) while you crochet it. Class is two 2-hour sessions.
Shop News - Featured Yarn: Baby Blossom Chunky
Sirdar's Baby Blossom Chunky is a pretty, self-patterning chunky yarn, available in a range of bright and pastel colors. Each of the gorgeous shades has a dainty flower print effect and stripe pattern that appears as you knit! This quick knit acrylic/nylon blend is as fun to knit with as it is to wear. We love it for its colors and because it’s durable and has a lovely texture!
Baby Blossom Chunky is, like the name says, a chunky (bulky - #5) yarn of 70% Acrylic, 30% Nylon fiber. There’s 170 yards in a 100g ball (no winding needed!) and its machine washable (but lay flat to dry).
11-7 Wednesday-Friday
11-5 Saturday & 12-5 Sunday
Zorn Junction Trunk Show, Saturday September 28, 11a-4p. This south Texas dyer specializes in boutique batches of unique colors! Come see her before she heads north again!
The Best Little Yarn Crawl in Texas, October 11 - 20, 2024. We'll announce when Passports are available for purchase. Early birds will get a Crawl bag!
Private Lessons
Learn 1x1 or in small groups with your choice of project or technique! One-on-one (one student, one teacher) Personal lessons are $25/hour & group private lessons are $15/person per hour. Visit us in-store or call 210-979-8255 to schedule.
As mentioned above, substituting yarn or thread is a common creative choice. The simplest yarn substitution is to use a yarn that has the same fiber content and weight as the yarn that the pattern specifies. For example, if the pattern uses a worsted (#4) weight 100% wool, use a worsted weight 100% wool from another brand. Many wool blends (e.g., wool/acrylic) or synthetics (e.g., acrylic) are often easily substituted for 100% wool, too. If you want to choose a yarn with a different fiber content, you may have unexpected results, so choose wisely!
Do you have a tip idea? We're happy to share it, just reply to this newsletter!
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If you have a question for one of our teachers, you can email us at yarnivoresa@gmail.com.