Crafts and Hobbies #61: Deja Vu

I'm struggling a bit to get past these sorts of images in my mind when it comes to things like crochet. If you lived through the 1970's, you likely owned something crocheted, either a "cloche" (beanie hat) or a long vest in groovy colors...or something worse. My mom crocheted (with a vengeance) so I wore it all. I have vivid memories of a hot pink and lime green yarn mini dress too, that I wore with shiny white patent go-go boots. Never let it be said that I was not a slave to fashion even then. I'll spare you a photo of that lovely outfit... So now that crocheted items are back, I'm relieved to see that they are a long way from the maxi vests of my past. Most are made with great colors and beautifully textured kinds of gnarly yarn which make the hat or scarf fresh and new. A co-worker recently gave me a set which I absolutely love, partially because it's gorgeous and partially because she took the time to make it for me. That's the best part about crafting, the homemade aspect of it. I didn't always love the vests Mom made for me, but the love and time put into it was never lost on me. The sites listed in the assignment were very informative and, I imagine, eye-opening to the "craft impaired." I wouldn't call myself a "crafter," but as an artist (don't say artsy), I've dabbled in the homemade as a creative outlet. I've given as gifts painted birdhouses, wineglasses, children's stepstools and shelves, pillowcases...you name it, but always using a personal design. I try to stay away from (as my artist sister calls it) "arts and crap," referring to the acrylic painted sweatshirts, rose/vine decorated quick crafts you see on display at Hobby Lobby. Blecch. I'd put those in the same category as Christmas sweaters and above-the-couch "art," those horrid landscapes dabbed on with paint-glopped offset spatulas and done in 15 minutes. Gag. I thought the websites were great, especially Repurposeful, which was not so much crafty as offering new ways to use old stuff. Fantastic. The video instructions are terrific and I thought I'd be the one who insisted on a paper instruction sheet. It's amazing how clear it is when you see someone actually do it "live." And I've said before that I love Etsy, the artists' Ebay. I have noticed that the prices are going up, which is disturbing. This should be a site for newbie crafters and artists to let folks get an inexpensive taste of their wares before investing in the bigtime. Popularity always opens the door to the shysters, unfortunately. I love the jewelry on Etsy and have dabbled in some jewelry-making myself. It's a creative outlet for me and an inexpensive way to re-use some of those 70's earrings I've been reluctant to throw away. Feather earrings are back! Both Cher and I are thrilled. Now if only I can figure out what to do with those 1980's power shoulder pads.