My New Obsession

A few months ago I decided it was time for me to find a new hobby. I still enjoy stamping, but I really don't have the time or energy to devote to it right now. On top of that, it's a lot of "equipment" to haul out and put away before the kids get into it. I was looking for something basic and easy to pull out while I watched tv and relaxed. I was inspired by a few posts from my friend, Betsy, to try crocheting.

I bought myself a book, some hooks and some yarn. I tried my best to use the book, but it was pretty confusing. An "ah ha" moment hit me and I turned to YouTube to get me started. It worked like a charm and I was on my way. Only one hitch - my stitches were crazy tight! It was so physically hard to make my stitches, but I somehow managed to work through a hat pattern.

On our vacation a couple of weeks ago we were fortunate enough to stay with Betsy and her family. She looked over my work and gave me a few pointers so I kept at it. I tried to make a clutch purse, but it was just too frustrating after a while. After a little break, I tried the slipper pattern in my book and it came out much better. I decided to try some baby booties for a friend and they came out great! I was able to keep my stitches loose and since they were small, I didn't get overwhelmed. I also noticed that I did better with stitches like the double and half double crochet. The single crochet was my enemy! Another "ah ha" moment hit me, I turned to YouTube again and looked up the single crochet. I had been doing a slip stitch for a single crochet - no wonder it was so tight!

Now I feel I'm on my way and I'm trully manic about crocheting. I keep my hooks and yarn on the table next to my spot in the living room and I literally pick it up any chance I get. I've been working baby gifts and have some other things planned. Here's what I've done so far :)