Welcome to the Craft Yarn Council - Happy Place

Happy Place With Ashley Parker

Sarah G — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 15:48:35 +0000

Ashley Parker is the designer and blogger behind The Loopy Lamb crochet blog and strives to inspire others with her clear, modern and fun crochet patterns and online tutorials. Ashley is a Canadian mom of two who loves coffee, owls, and all things yarn. Ashley loves to design a variety of projects from home décor to accessories, amigurumi toys and more. Follow Ashley’s crochet adventures on Instagram (@theloopylamb) and find her free crochet patterns at https://www.theloopylamb.com.

What system do you use to organize your yarn?

By brand.

What furniture/storage systems do you use to organize your yarn?

Ikea billy bookshelves and baskets.

How do you like to de-stash?

I gift it to friends and family or make projects to donate.

More often than not, what colors are always in your office/yarn corner?

Jewel tones.

Do you like to work in the same space where your yarn is stored? Why or why not?

Yes, because I have access to all my materials in one place.

When you are working on a project, do you have a specific spot you put it when you aren't working on it, or does it follow you around beyond your space?

It follows me around.

Was the majority of your yarn bought with a project idea in mind?

Probably about half and half.

Do you or have you ever found it difficult to manage/organize your yarn?

Yes.

How did you find an organization system that works for you?

Trial and error mostly. I spent time trying to think about what runs through my head when I look for yarn to use and then built a system on that.

How important is a well-organized yarn corner/office to your mental wellbeing?

Definitely helps with keeping my stress levels down.

Where did you purchase everything shown in your photos?

Ikea and the Dollar Store.

Do you have any tips or advice you have for someone who is trying to reorganize their stash? I

Create a system that works for you. When you go looking for yarn for a project, think about what steps you go through mentally and what your first instincts are. Do you look for colours first? Do you look for yarn by weight or brand? For me, I tend to look for brand then yarn weight and then colour, so my shelves are mostly organized in this order.

Are there any current projects or promotions you'd like to share?

I share crochet patterns for free on my blog, theloopylamb.com.

Photos courtesy of Ashley Parker.

Categories:

Happy Place

Happy Place With Stacy Wiener

Sarah G — Tue, 05 Oct 2021 14:46:30 +0000

Stacy Wiener is the founder of S.A.C.K., Supporting A Community with Kindness, a nonprofit that inspires volunteers to crochet and/or knit, collect and donate bars of soap and soap sacks to their local food pantries, homeless shelters, relief efforts, mission trips, social service agencies and veterans clinics. Stacey discovered through volunteering at food pantries that there was a lack of essential toiletries available. One key reason is that people cannot use government subsidies, such as food stamps, to purchase them. When it comes to deciding on whether to eat vs. buy soap and shampoo, the choice becomes obvious, so S.A.C.K. was created to help fill this need. The number of volunteers in the S.A.C.K. community has grown exponentially through the years, with an estimated 150,000+ soap sacks having been distributed globally. The response has been overwhelmingly positive since there is a definite need for toiletries throughout the underserved population.

Before founding S.A.C.K. in 2017, Stacy was a Private College Counselor for thirty years, assisting high school and transfer students throughout the college process. She is the author of "The Other Route Into College: Alternative Admission." When Stacy isn’t crocheting and knitting, she enjoys reading, power walking and socializing with friends.

What system do you use to organize your yarn?

My yarn stash is organized by color.

What furniture/storage systems do you use to organize your yarn?

I have a large bookcase to store my yarn.

How do you like to de-stash?

The cotton/cotton blend yarn is used for making and donating soap sacks.

More often than not, what colors are always in your office/yarn corner?

Red, white and blue yarn for donating to veterans clinics as well as gender neutral yarn for soap sacks being distributed to men.

Do you like to work in the same space where your yarn is stored? Why or why not?

Yes, it is the perfect space to fill sacks with soap.

When you are working on a project, do you have a specific spot you put it when you aren't working on it, or does it follow you around beyond your space?

It remains in my happy place.

Was the majority of your yarn bought with a project idea in mind?

Absolutely....for giving out yarn to S.A.C.K. volunteers as well as making soap sacks.

Do you or have you ever found it difficult to manage/organize your yarn?

No.

How did you find an organization system that works for you?

Since all of the yarn is cotton/cotton blend yarn for soap sacks, it made sense to coordinate the skeins by color.

How important is a well-organized yarn corner/office to your mental wellbeing?

It is so important for the success of S.A.C.K. that the yarn office is well-organized.

Where did you purchase everything shown in your photos?

The large bookcase was purchased at a needlepoint store that was going out of business.

Do you have any tips or advice you have for someone who is trying to reorganize their stash? I

Don't try to do it all at once....take your time and enjoy the process.

Are there any current projects or promotions you'd like to share?

As founder of S.A.C.K., we are always looking for new soap sack patterns. You can learn more about S.A.C.K. and contact us with pattern ideas or any other inquiries on our website.

Photos courtesy of Stacy Wiener.

Categories:

Happy Place

Happy Place With Tian Connaughton

Sarah G — Tue, 28 Sep 2021 13:56:06 +0000

Tian Connaughton is a sought-after designer, and a technical editor, course creator, business strategist, and coach. She has published 2 books, Unlock Your Inner Design: How to Start Designing and Pattern Launch Plan: Sell More Patterns Consistently Without Being Sleazy. Tian is passionate about empowering knitters, crocheters, and designers through courses, coaching, and accountability. She’s the creator behind the wildly popular courses Pattern Grading Made Easy and Get Published, as well as Pattern Partnership, a membership program providing training and community to help crochet and knit designers build successful pattern businesses, create profitable brands, and make consistent sales. Tian lives by the motto, “a rising tide lifts all boats” because she believes there is more than enough room for all of us. You can find her openly sharing her knowledge on Instagram @knitdesignsbytian and her website, tianconnaughton.com.

What system do you use to organize your yarn?

My yarn is organized by weight (handspun yarns are separate, of course). Sweater quantities and bulky yarns are stored in bins under the bed with light weight and smaller quality lots are stored in my office/studio close at hand.

What furniture/storage systems do you use to organize your yarn?

I recently turned the closet in my office/studio into a shelving unit. This unit is great for displaying pretty things on the shelves move visibly for inspiration and aesthetics. Then, extra books, stitch dictionaries, magazines, and yarns are on hidden shelves, in bins and drawers. I don't like a lot of clutter in my space so this appeals to my visual and practical sides.

How do you like to de-stash?

The top way I like to de-stash is through finishing project. A close second in giving yarn for gifts and donation. I don't do yarn swaps any more. I like giving away my yarn without the obligation of getting something back in return, especially if it's to someone that had their eye on a yarn I have that maybe is no longer available or maybe it's not in their budget.

More often than not, what colors are always in your office/yarn corner?

The orange yellow and rusty red colors of my office/studio walls. Everything else is white or muted because the walls are the show stopper of the whole space. The walls are just so vibrant and cheery. Who wouldn't be happy in that space?

Do you like to work in the same space where your yarn is stored? Why or why not?

No. I work wherever is most comfortable at the moment. During the warmer months, I'm outside A LOT so, I'm grab my project and sit out on the pergola or deck for hours. Also, I like to take my projects on the go so they too can get a bit of vacation and see the world too LOL. While I do have a cozy spot in my office for stitching, if the weather is fine, I'm outside or if my boys are watching a movie, I want to be where they are.

When you are working on a project, do you have a specific spot you put it when you aren't working on it, or does it follow you around beyond your space?

When I am not working on a project, they pretty much stay in my office/studio. If it's for a commission with definite timeline, it's near my cozy chair. If it's in timeout because I can't figure out something or there is a more pressing project where that work in process will not be worked on for a while, then it goes in a project bag with notes and into a a drawer on my bookcase. And it's important to include all the pertinent information about the project because sometimes I might not get back for months at a time.

Was the majority of your yarn bought with a project idea in mind?

The majority of my yarn was bought with absolutely no project in mind. That might be why my stash is so large... but I'm okay with that LOL.

Do you or have you ever found it difficult to manage/organize your yarn?

Yes, very much. When I am working on a big project, it seems like there is just yarn and books everywhere, spilling beyond the walls of my office/studio. It use to be frustrating because it felt like I should be more organized. But I've realized that that is just a part of my creative process - that messy unorganized state turning into to something amazing. Plus, it helps to have a designated place in my office to return everything to when I am done.

How did you find an organization system that works for you?

It took a lot of trial and error to find the system that currently works for me. It's buying a lot of different storage items, testing them for a while, not having it work, and then trying something else. Some days I feel like I am still search as my work and my stash evolves. Right now my built-in bookcase in my office and bins under my bed might work but I'm open to any change that might happen 6-months or a year from now. For me, it's all about being open to the evolution of what I need and not be too stuck on what's working now because things change.

How important is a well-organized yarn corner/office to your mental wellbeing?

A well-organized yarn corner/office is very important. And my definition of "well-organized" is likely different from others. My studio/office is open and airy without a lot of clutter - don't open drawers because that's where the mess gets stuffed. A lot of clutter feels overwhelming. So having the openness, it feels like there is infinite possibilities. So, if I am feeling down and cluttered, a good clearing up of my studio/office tends to help clear my head.

Where did you purchase everything shown in your photos?

The closet system was designed especially to fit that space and my needs (ever changing), created, and installed by Designer Closets (designerclosets.com) located in Southwick, MA.

Do you have any tips or advice you have for someone who is trying to reorganize their stash? I

My advice for anyone trying to organize their space is to think about what you need and what you value. Do you want to see things out in the open or have them hidden away? Think about a space you enjoy going to - what do you like about it? That's what I did. I tried to not capture or replicate the spaces I saw but rather to capture the feelings I got from that space. How do you want to feel in your space?

Are there any current projects or promotions you'd like to share?

As a designer, I am working on a lot of projects I can't share. But I do want to share my Creativebug courses coming soon and my other trainings for designers and tech editors. You can find details to all of that on my website.

Photos courtesy of Tian Connaughton.

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Happy Place

Apply to be featured in our Happy Place or Wing It Series!

Sarah G — Tue, 07 Sep 2021 14:43:46 +0000

Do you enjoy our Happy Place series and ever thought you'd be the perfect candidate to show off your own Happy Place? Do you remember our Wing It series on Instagram? Well, now's your chance to take over the CYC Instagram! We're looking for makers who want to share their Happy Place or wing a project on the fly!

Keep reading for information on how to create and submit content for your Happy Place or Wing It and see the application link to apply to be considered. In the application, you will select which series you are applying for - Happy Place or Wing It. You may apply for both series - you can just fill out the application twice, once for each series! We will reach out to you if we are interested in working with you to schedule a date for your Happy Place or Wing It. Happy Places are posted on Tuesdays and Wing Its are posted on Wednesdays!

Happy Place

The CYC Happy Place series exists to give our audience insight into how makers organize their yarn, tools, and projects in their home studios and yarn spaces. In each post, we interview different makers about how they store and manage their yarn.

With this segment, we hope to help people struggling with managing their yarn. We hope that sharing different makers’ experiences and current setups can serve to help others looking to make a change!

Content for your Happy Place:

Please fill out the Happy Place survey no later than one week before you schedule your Happy Place to be posted. Keep this deadline in mind when you pick the day for your Happy Place!
Create five 5-10 second videos following the outline below. Please use the stories feature on IG to make these videos and save them to your phone. This is important to make sure your videos are the correct length and file format! You are not required to show your face in any of these videos!
1. A quick intro saying “Hi I’m [Your name and Handle] and welcome to my happy place!”
2. A video of your favorite item in your space
3. A video of your favorite yarn in your space
4. One to two videos of your organization system for your yarn
5. A video panning your space

Happy Place Content Submission:

Please submit the photos you'd like included in your blog post and the videos for your reel to this Google drive folder no later than one week before you schedule your Happy Place to be posted. Keep this deadline in mind when you pick the day for your Happy Place! When submitting your assets, please create a folder with your name as the title and upload the photos and reel videos in your folder.

Happy Place Application

Wing It

Wing It is a segment where CYC collaborates with fiber artists to take over our Instagram and “Wing It” by working on a spontaneous small knit or crochet project that can be done in a day with little to no prep.

This project can be:

Your take on a project that you show how to work out in our Insta stories (i.e., today I am going to show you how to crochet my version of a hair scrunchie)
A spontaneous small project that you figure out and share your progress in our Insta stories (i.e., today I’m going to figure out how to crochet a banana bunch appliqué)
A swatch project using different stitches or color combos
Anything you can dream up

Wing It Stories:
While winging it, you can create as many stories as you need to share your process! Please be sure to include at least the following 3 videos without talking in your stories as they will be turned into reels at the end of your WING IT!

One story featuring a video of your supplies
One story featuring a video of your wip or you working on your wip
One story featuring a video of the final project

Wing It Content Submission:

Please submit the story videos for your Wing It to this Google drive folder no later than one week before you schedule your Wing It to be posted. Keep this deadline in mind when you pick the day for your Wing It! When submitting your assets, please create a folder with your name as the title and upload the photos and reel videos in your folder.

Feel free to get creative with these three elements of your stories! If you want to create your reel separately using the three subjects above, you are welcome to!

Wing It Application

Have any questions? Reach out to our PR Coordinator Sarah at sarahg@craftyarncouncil.com!

Categories:

Happy Place

Happy Place With Tommy Schafer

Sarah G — Tue, 27 Jul 2021 15:34:21 +0000

Tommy Schafer is a fiber artist who dabbles in knitting, dyeing, sewing, spinning, and cooking. They grew up encouraged to participate in process-based hobbies and throughout their life, they've been blessed to be surrounded by family and strangers who have helped them cultivate their interests. They pursued a quantitative biology degree at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, OH, followed by graduate school in Chicago, IL for public health and epidemiology and during that time, found a renewed love for fiber crafts and a community that inspires them to push their limits in the realm of fiber arts. You can find Tommy's work, designs, writing and inspiration on their blog, Tommy Plays With Fiber.

What system do you use to organize your yarn?

I keep my projects separate from the yarn I haven't used yet, either in bags or on my shelf so I can keep account of everything I'm working on. My full skeins are separated by weight and partially used skeins I organize by color. I sometimes keep multiple colors of the same fiber type or base yarn together for use in later scrappy projects, for example I keep all of my 4-ply DK indie-dyeds together so I don't have to track them down later. I also reserve a special section for yarn pairings I'm thinking about a new design with or a project for but I just know that I want to use those yarns together. Likewise, all the natural dyed yarns I've made have their own shelf and a smaller box where I keep samples of each.

What furniture/storage systems do you use to organize your yarn?

I have a special place in my heart for cube storage and how you can make attractive storage also function as room dividers or simply save floor real-estate by stacking them high. Because I have the problem that most knitters do of having far more yarn than we could ever use, I have a couple suit cases and under-bed containers that also store yarn like larger sweater quantities.

How do you like to de-stash?

My favorite way to de-stash is to complete projects. It's not often that I get rid of yarn unless it's bringing me pain or sadness to see it. When I do truly de-stash, I prefer to either give the yarn as gifts or donate it to a local craft-thrift shop that supports art teachers. Most of my yarn has been purchased on a whim because I had a cool idea or I just thought it was beautiful. If a friend sees something in my stash that will work for them, I often just give it to them or let them have it and with the understanding that they would do the same for me. Fiber is a gift always and I want to keep it that way.

More often than not, what colors are always in your office/yarn corner?

As many as possible!

Do you like to work in the same space where your yarn is stored? Why or why not?

Yes. Well, currently my home office is also my craft room, so I like to have my materials around me still throughout the day in case I get a quick little design idea or am stressed about work and need some wool to smoosh. It can be a little distracting sometimes, but in a moment of distraction is sometimes when I get my best ideas, so I think it ultimately helps my professional work and my artistic work

When you are working on a project, do you have a specific spot you put it when you aren't working on it, or does it follow you around beyond your space?

I never leave the house without a yarn project, unless It's a short grocery store trip. I like zippered fabric bags because I can keep everything I need for a project together in the bag, and then move them in and out of my usual knitting bag, in which I keep my notions and needle sets. Yarn is almost always within arms reach!

Was the majority of your yarn bought with a project idea in mind?

Nope! I'm super materially inspired, so to me buying yarn is like supplying a paintbox, only the options cascade nearly endlessly from fiber type to color, to yarn structure to weight... I don't have to know for sure what a skein is going to become, but if I believe that I will someday use it, its necessity usually becomes apparent.

Do you or have you ever found it difficult to manage/organize your yarn?

Most definitely! It's always been hard for me to store yarn and other craft supplies in drawers or in places I can't see them. I'm so inspired by the materials themselves that not having them out and about to ponder or touch or daydream about means I don't enjoy the process as much. It's taken quite some time for me to understand this and also figure out how to be surrounded by my supplies but not feel the weight of being surrounded by "stuff".

How did you find an organization system that works for you?

I think just telling myself that I had to organize it somehow was the first step, then lots of trial and error. I'm very out of sight out of mind, which was the first understanding I had that whatever system I used would have to include having most everything on display. I tried all my WIPS in bags to start, but then I forgot about one for almost two years and couldn't being myself to restart it. Every cast-on is setting an intention and it always breaks my heart a little to not finish something. Now I keep a couple couch projects, an on-the go one and a "mindless" project going and anything else lives on the shelf I see every day.

How important is a well-organized yarn corner/office to your mental wellbeing?

While I do like a certain amount of chaos around me, everything having a designated place to be and being in that place is a way for me to feel calmer. I'm not always quick to clean up after a project and I definitely leave random balls of yarn and knitting needles and stitch markers around the house, but if I ever need to "clean up," I still know where everything belongs.

Where did you purchase everything shown in your photos?

IKEA Kallax Shelving, IKEA Table, IKEA Glass Shelf, Old H&M Scarf cut open and stapled to the door for fabric design wall, Wool Fleece, Felted into swatch wall, Target Cube Drawers.

Do you have any tips or advice you have for someone who is trying to reorganize their stash? I

Think about how you tend to get ideas. If you're super color oriented, perhaps keep all your yarns in order by color; if you're big into sweaters, keep your sweater quantities together and your single skeins separate. I highly recommend organizing in a way that makes you happy to see your yarn and think about what you're going to do with it.

Are there any current projects or promotions you'd like to share?

I am hosting a Knit-a-long for my most recent sweater and hat designs, the #ThreeequencyKAL. The link to sign up is in my bio and more information can be found in my blog (which is also in the link in my bio). It starts August 1st and goes until October 31st!

Photos courtesy of Tommy Schafer.

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Happy Place

Happy Place With Monica Garcia

Sarah G — Tue, 22 Jun 2021 14:43:38 +0000

Monica Garcia is a macrame artist and is the founder of Monica's Porch, based out of Austin, Texas. She first started selling her peices in 2019 to raise money for a trip to Hawaii. While she was in paradise, she kept getting messages for orders and found herself more engaged with dreaming about this potential new business than with her trip. She enjoyed the rest of her vacation and returned home refreshed and with a new perspective on what she wanted to do; she wanted to create pieces inspired by peace to emulate what she experienced in Hawaii. Now, her designs include intricate and finely woven plant holders and wall hangings. Each product is made by hand, ensuring that each design is made with quality and care in mind.

What system do you use to organize your yarn?

By baskets.

What furniture/storage systems do you use to organize your yarn?

Baskets, drawers, macrame racks.

How do you like to de-stash?

I collect it or try to make smaller items like keychains and ornaments.

More often than not, what colors are always in your office/yarn corner?

Gold, yellows, whites, dark greens.

Do you like to work in the same space where your yarn is stored? Why or why not?

Yes. It makes everything easy to access.

When you are working on a project, do you have a specific spot you put it when you aren't working on it, or does it follow you around beyond your space?

Yes, it follows me and I can’t get it to stop!

Was the majority of your yarn bought with a project idea in mind?

Yes,I buy in bulk for inventory I know will sell and then smaller amounts for new projects.

Do you or have you ever found it difficult to manage/organize your yarn?

Yes, mainly the scraps because I don’t throw them away and they take up a lot of room.

How did you find an organization system that works for you?

I realized that I can only manage it so much and as long as it’s off the floor and I kind of know where the colors are, the baskets would do the trick!

How important is a well-organized yarn corner/office to your mental wellbeing?

Very important!! I go crazy when there is clutter and it’s hard for me to focus and create new ideas.

Where did you purchase everything shown in your photos?

Drawers from IKEA, baskets from Target/Ross, rack from Amazon.

Do you have any tips or advice you have for someone who is trying to reorganize their stash? I

Invest in organization. It is worth your peace of mind!

Are there any current projects or promotions you'd like to share?

Plant hangers are available now in multiple colors. I also have fruit hammocks some cute rainbow keychains! You can purchase on my website here.

Photos courtesy of Monica Garcia.

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Happy Place

Happy Place With Krissy Mahendran

Sarah G — Tue, 01 Jun 2021 17:01:30 +0000

Krissy Mahendran is a fiber artist who specializes in macrame. Near the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, she discovered her love for macrame and all of the amazing things that can be made with knots and yarn. Since then, she's been crafting macrame decor and accessories through both comissions and original pieces as the maker behind A Knot Story. She sells her work but also hosts workshops for those wanting to learn the skill of macrame and find joy in creating their own orignial pieces. Krissy finds in her work a celebration of four things: creativity, functionality, sustainability, and inspiration!

What system do you use to organize your yarn?

By available space and project needs.

What furniture/storage systems do you use to organize your yarn?

Rolling garment rack and rolling 3-tier cart.

How do you like to de-stash?

This isn't actually something I've done yet! I tend to save all my scraps for future projects and haven't had a chance to do any swaps with other makers yet.

More often than not, what colors are always in your office/yarn corner?

I tend towards neutrals, so I have a lot of those, but I'm building my colour palette so I now have two racks of warm tones and cool tones in my cart and they give me so much joy with their beautiful shades!

Do you like to work in the same space where your yarn is stored? Why or why not?

Yes. I love being around all my cord because the colours inspire me as I'm working on a new piece. It also makes me feel very professional, like I'm a full-time artist!

When you are working on a project, do you have a specific spot you put it when you aren't working on it, or does it follow you around beyond your space?

Everything I'm working on can be found on my garment rack. That rack is my saviour and favourite piece of equipment! I love being able to hang my projects and see them as I walk by because it gives me inspiration on how to finish or changes to make.

Was the majority of your yarn bought with a project idea in mind?

I'd say it's a solid 50/50 split of being bought for a specific project and everything else being bought just because I fell in love with the shade!

Do you or have you ever found it difficult to manage/organize your yarn?

Yes! I'd love to organize them by colour but because of my limited space, I usually have to make do with the space I have.

How did you find an organization system that works for you?

Being in a small apartment and moving frequently, I knew having an immovable setup wouldn't work for me so I started with the garment rack and found that a great way to keep my cord and projects organized. As my cord collection increased though, my garment rack was being heavily weighed down so I found a 3-tier rolling cart that allows me to store my cord there when not needed and keep only what I need on my garment rack. Both being portable also means I can work anywhere in my apartment as needed!

How important is a well-organized yarn corner/office to your mental wellbeing?

So important! When I'm working, things can devolve into a disaster zone but I always clean up afterwards, giving me back that clean state of mind. And it helps me be more efficient because I always know where everything is versus spending time searching for something.

Where did you purchase everything shown in your photos?

Double Rod Rolling Garment Rack
3-Tier Rolling Cart

Do you have any tips or advice you have for someone who is trying to reorganize their stash? I

When figuring out how to store my stash, I usually try to answer these questions:
1) How do I like to work with this item? (Can determine what kind of storage situation you need)
2) What do I need in order to use this item? (Can help you determine what features your storage system needs to have)
3) How often will I need to access this item? (Can help you figure out where to put this item)

Are there any current projects or promotions you'd like to share?

Use the code "CYC06" when you place an order and get a free wristlet with your purchase!

Photos courtesy of Krissy of A Knot Story.

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Happy Place

Happy Place With Anna Hall

Sarah G — Tue, 20 Apr 2021 14:20:09 +0000

Anna Hall is a fiber artist specializing in crochet Amigurumi, hats, scarves, and more. Anna is inspired by her tiny curio cabinet, which is the centerpiece of her art and what she uses to display her Amigurumi creatures. Anna is also a crochet pattern tester and recently started writing her own patterns, which can be found on her website.

What system do you use to organize your yarn?

I organize my yarn by color.

What furniture/storage systems do you use to organize your yarn?

I use a vintage 1930's era Mahogany vanity cabinet to store my yarn. It also serves as my computer desk and workspace for my website.

How do you like to de-stash?

I love to de-stash by gifting small bags of tiny remnant balls to my good friend who also crochets and makes granny square quilts. She uses it up quickly and has now made a lot of squares from what I have given her. I would also love to start making mismatched granny squares to one day make my own quilt.

More often than not, what colors are always in your office/yarn corner?

I am an amigurumist, which means I need to have a rainbow of colors depending on what type of creature I am making. If I run out of a specific color, then I take inventory and buy small amounts at my local Joann's store. I have all colors including various skin tones and a lot of shades that could be used for various projects.

Do you like to work in the same space where your yarn is stored? Why or why not?

No. I do my best work on the couch with a good audio book or podcast in my headphones. My yarn is about 10 feet away from me at all times so grabbing colors isn't too much trouble. I use my cabinet full of yarn as my computer desk where I manage my website, edit my pictures, and manage my Instagram page. I find my cabinet inspiring but I really have to get cozy and relaxed to do my best work.

When you are working on a project, do you have a specific spot you put it when you aren't working on it, or does it follow you around beyond your space?

When I am working on a project, I carry it with me in an old Powell's books bag, which is stored in my giant Ita purse. I call it my happy bag, because it has my current crochet project, my entire collection of enamel pins, my giant noise cancelling headphones, and my Nintendo Switch. No matter where I go I take that bag with me, which is essentially like bringing a little slice of home wherever I am at.

Was the majority of your yarn bought with a project idea in mind?

Yes, most of my yarn was bought with a project in mind. I do stock up on staple colors when I am running low in case of quick commissions or when impromptu gifts come up.

Do you or have you ever found it difficult to manage/organize your yarn?

Yes, in the past it was difficult until I inherited this desk and made more room in my apartment for my art space. You have to want to create a happy space for yourself and your art. It can be inspiring to have things organized and neat, so that when you find you want to start an Amigurumi project or a new scarf or hat, you have your materials ready for you to grab and go. This is especially important for me since I am a busy working mom of two kids with a husband in school. The amount of time that I get to pursue my craft is very regimented, therefore organization is key to efficiency of the craft.

How did you find an organization system that works for you?

I really like vintage and quirky furniture. My mom had this piece in her storage that used to be my grandmother's vanity. Although it is slightly beat up, its really beautiful and exactly what I needed to get organized. I also store a lot of my creatures that I make on top of my sewing cabinet, which contains my Pfaff Creative 1300 series sewing machine, and in various curios around my art space.

How important is a well-organized yarn corner/office to your mental wellbeing?

I think being organized in general is important to my wellbeing. I operate on efficiency, and when things aren't efficient, then I get bogged down and stressed out. I like to just be able to flow from one project to the next and usually can when I am organized. I keep a tight to-do list on my phone and keep progressing on the upcoming projects one at a time to keep from getting overwhelmed. I try to keep the correct yarn on hand for upcoming projects and if there is something that I need ahead of time, I order it for curbside pickup. I try not to overbuy or shop too much and I limit myself to the space that my cabinet contains. I live in an apartment with my kids, husband and three cats, and although it's a good sized apartment, I could easily be taken over by too much yarn.

Where did you purchase everything shown in your photos?

All of my furniture and curios were hand-me-downs from my mom and my friends.

Do you have any tips or advice you have for someone who is trying to reorganize their stash? I

Depending on how big or small your stash is, take it slow. Go color by color if you need to or just skein by skein. Don't let yourself get too overwhelmed and take baby steps. Get creative and use what you already have. I picked old furniture pieces and went rainbow, but you should do what makes you happy. Being happy when you are pursuing your art is going to help you stay motivated to make the best things you can. It's all about inspiration and having fun.

Are there any current projects or promotions you'd like to share?

If you like my creatures, be sure to follow me on Instagram at: www.instagram.com/annascreaturecabinet. Also be sure to check my website for free patterns and my latest pattern tests and designs: https://annaphylaxsis.wixsite.com/annascreaturecabinet.

Photos courtesy of Anna Hall.

Categories:

Happy Place

Happy Place With Margaret Stauffacher

Sarah G — Tue, 13 Apr 2021 16:19:52 +0000

Margaret Stauffacher is the knitter and designer behind Whimsy North. She was born and raised in Minnesota and now lives in Wisconsin with her husband and children. She learned to knit when she was six years old from her mom and since then, she has been on a mission to create knitting patterns that are fashion-forward and something you want to wear or display in your home. You'll find free knitting patterns on her blog and helpful knitting videos on her YouTube channel!

What system do you use to organize your yarn?

I organize my yarn by weight.

What furniture/storage systems do you use to organize your yarn?

My main storage system is a built-in cabinet/bookcase in my attic. Originally I stored all of my yarn in plastic bins and baskets in my master bedroom closet. Then when I started my knitwear design business I took over half of my kid's playroom in the attic for my yarn storage. This is where I showcase the majority of the yarns that I use in my designs. I still have some yarn in bins and baskets in my closet that don't fit in this space.

How do you like to de-stash?

Currently my only way to de-stash is to use the yarn in a project. Once a year I do a sample sale where I sell finished knits and that helps to thin out my stash.

More often than not, what colors are always in your office/yarn corner?

Pink is my favorite color and so you will see all shades of pink in every type of fiber and weight. I also love white and other neutrals, as well as fun pops of color and speckles. Bright colors are one of my favorite things to knit with.

Do you like to work in the same space where your yarn is stored? Why or why not?

No. While I love my attic space, I'm a busy mom of 3 and typically can only squeeze in knitting time while sitting in the car at one of their activities or while they are playing. I don't have a lot of time to sit by myself and knit so having my Jimmy Bean's Wool Mini Makers Backpack packed with my current project and ready to go allows me to knit wherever I am. My favorite places to knit are outside by the lake or in a cozy chair in my living room. That way I can still see my kids while I'm knitting.

When you are working on a project, do you have a specific spot you put it when you aren't working on it, or does it follow you around beyond your space?

I have many WIPs (work in progress) in spaces throughout my house, however, my main project is always kept in my Jimmy Beans Wool Mini Makers Backpack. This backpack stays on a bench near my kitchen so I can grab it anytime I'm going out the door and take my knitting with me. I also have projects in a drawer in my attic and some near my nightstand in my room. Sometimes they take over the house!

Was the majority of your yarn bought with a project idea in mind?

I typically try to buy yarn with a project in mind. However, I often find that once I get time to work on that project it many times changes into something else. Having many colors, weights, and fibers of yarn available in my stash is nice when a design idea comes I can head upstairs to my stash and play with ideas on how a particular yarn may work for it.

Do you or have you ever found it difficult to manage/organize your yarn?

I'm always trying to find new ways to keep up with my yarn stash. Sometimes it ends up just staying in the box that it was shipped in until I can find room for it somewhere. There are always open boxes of yarn all over my attic!

How did you find an organization system that works for you?

For me, being able to see my yarn out in the open helps with the inspiration process of designing. When I housed all my yarn in bins and baskets I was constantly sorting through them trying to decide what to create. Now I can see it all at once and that really helps to come up with new ideas.

How important is a well-organized yarn corner/office to your mental wellbeing?

Having my yarn organized brings me happiness every time I step into my attic space. It also helps to inspire the design process.

Where did you purchase everything shown in your photos?

The bookcase/cabinet I use for the majority of my yarn was custom built by an Amish family in Wisconsin. My rolling cart that I keep my finished knits on in my closet is from Michaels. The brown baskets that I use to store yarn on top of my cabinet and within is from Hobby Lobby, and the white drawer/bins that I keep my business materials and unfinished designs in came from Target.

Do you have any tips or advice you have for someone who is trying to reorganize their stash? I

My main tip for organizing yarn is to put some out in the open that you can see everyday. If you can find a way to have some of your pretty yarn showcased where you can see it can be very inspiring and bring you joy. This could be in a bookcase, on a shelf, or in a basket turned on its side. For knitters and crocheters, I think organizing your yarn by weight makes selecting yarn for a projects easier. Then you can go one extra step and organize those sections by color to give your stash more of a visual appeal.

Are there any current projects or promotions you'd like to share?

My new Desert Weather Shawl knitting pattern is being released this week, as well as a new sock design. Both use fingering weight yarns.

Photos courtesy of Margaret Stauffacher.

Categories:

Happy Place

Happy Place With Cassie Arnold

Sarah G — Tue, 30 Mar 2021 15:19:16 +0000

Cassie Arnold is a fiber artist who received her BFA in Visual Art Studies from the University of North Texas. She has spent the last decade teaching in both private and public secondary schools and has showcased her work in numerous Fine Art Shows and exhibitions around the United States and Europe. Her current body of work explores the unspoken and taboo topics connected to life as a woman. Whether it be inspired by miscarriage, breastfeeding or the transformative female form, her art encourages all people to engage in an open and unashamed dialogue. By using traditional fiber techniques like knitting, her hope is to change the cultural narrative of “women’s work.” Stitch by stitch, her goal is to challenge the stereotypes surrounding females, their bodies, their work, their capabilities, and their lives.

What system do you use to organize your yarn?

I like to organize my yarn in three methods: by color for long-term use (this is extra yarn that I receive as a gift or leftovers from past projects), by project for upcoming use (art series that I have specific yarn for that I can grab quickly in a pinch), and current project (yarn that Im currently working with).

What furniture/storage systems do you use to organize your yarn?

I have multiple storage units, but my two favorite pieces are a wooden vintage yarn holder that was given to me by one of my closest friends (thanks Katie!) that was a family heirloom that she passed on to me for my birthday, and an old metal locker that my father-in-law gave me. I also use a lot of bins and canvas bags for projects on the go.

How do you like to de-stash?

I used to donate to a special recycle craft store that we had in our town called SCRAP. Unfortunately it shut down during the pandemic, so I'm hoping to find another similar store to donate scraps too.

More often than not, what colors are always in your office/yarn corner?

Neutrals. I looooove color but I'm always stocked on creams and neutrals because it's what I work with the most in my artwork. I also have a lot of primary colors since my oldest loves blue and my middle loves red/pinks.

Do you like to work in the same space where your yarn is stored? Why or why not?

Yes. I'm so inspired by yarn and textiles! By working in the same space as my yarn/materials, I usually get a spark of inspiration from seeing it on display! Besides...who doesn't love seeing a beautiful pile of yarn all balled up and on display. ;)

When you are working on a project, do you have a specific spot you put it when you aren't working on it, or does it follow you around beyond your space?

I'm fortunate that my studio space is in my backyard, but since I have three small children, sometimes the only time I have to work is in the middle of the night after they've gone to sleep. I usually always keep a project in my nightstand to keep my hands busy while Im laying in bed, and then I throw it in a bag if I'm ever on the go or happen to get studio time during the day.

Was the majority of your yarn bought with a project idea in mind?

Yes! A few years ago I made the conscious decision to start buying nicer quality yarn for exhibition pieces. This was an excellent decision, but because we are a single income family, I also decided to never buy yarn unless it's for a current art piece since it tends to be expensive. The only exception is when my husband and I travel (pre-pandemic) and it's a tradition for me to purchase yarn from places we visit overseas as a souvenir. :)

Do you or have you ever found it difficult to manage/organize your yarn?

YES! Maybe it's just me, but as an artist and a knitter, I am constantly trying to figure out the best way to store my yarn that best fits my needs.

How did you find an organization system that works for you?

Trial and error! Some methods of storing yarn have been really efficient during certain seasons of my life, but as my family grows and as my artwork changes and matures, I find that so does my method of how I organize my yarn. I actually love change, so if I feel that a system isn't working for me any more, I quickly change it to accommodate my needs.

How important is a well-organized yarn corner/office to your mental wellbeing?

Very. I am weird and have to tidy my yarn before I can get started working.

Where did you purchase everything shown in your photos?

Vintage locker - (similar here): https://www.etsy.com/listing/855095468/antique-metal-green-school-gym-locker?ref=sold_out-1&pro=1
Vintage wooden yarn display - (similar here): https://www.etsy.com/listing/162890280/vintage-wooden-storage-barrel-on-legs?epik=dj0yJnU9Q1dWbWJDRWZoSHI2alNTWGJISmxUQmZRSktRUmNVcFEmcD0wJm49R2ZxQnFlaW5JU3M4S1IyY05RQm1ydyZ0PUFBQUFBR0JZRVVr
Ikea bookshelves with glass doors - (similar here): https://www.ikea.com/us/en/p/syvde-cabinet-with-glass-doors-white-30439565/?gclid=Cj0KCQjw3duCBhCAARIsAJeFyPXm5spntSxwd5GRMo_d0zXcM-lrJ30VpdjMHVmhSrbE3yGYWO_I_PQaApusEALw_wcB
Felt baskets - https://www.target.com/p/5-x11-small-felt-basket-with-stitching-project-62/-/A-81455786

Do you have any tips or advice you have for someone who is trying to reorganize their stash? I

Don't be afraid of change. If it's not working to fit your needs, then change it! I used to never want to rearrange things, even if the system was not working, because I was frustrated that I had *just* organized it. Now that I have three little ones, I have found that work time is too precious to be stumbling around trying to gather my yarn. Also, work with what you have! In my experience, you dont need fancy products to find a system that works for you and your style/project!

Are there any current projects or promotions you'd like to share?

I'm currently working on a performance piece with my three daughters that entails them unraviling a cardigan off of my body, and then I will reknit a new/more improved sweater for a second performance piece. The art piece, entitled "She came unraveled," is a statement on my identity and experience as a mother and how that journey has reshaped me and who I really am as a woman.

Photos courtesy of Cassie Arnold.

Categories:

Happy Place