How KNITTING saved my life 😯🧶 the untold story

[@toniprutch8956]

Knitting saved my life, too. My husband was really sick in 2012. He spent a year in the hospital. And I spent the year in the hospital with him. I needed something to do while I was sitting with him. He was sleeping a lot. So I learned to crochet. I made many different projects that year. Then the next year while he was recuperating we happened to be in the same neighborhood as a newly opened yarn shop. The owner of that shop became a best friend. She taught me to knit. I started helping her in her shop. After my husband was better we started coming as snowbirds to Tucson, AZ. Then in 2016 we moved to Tucson, Arizona. We lived in a RV resort i started teaching other people to crochet. And then in 2020 the pandemic happened and my husband died. I was isolated and grieving. I kept knitting and crocheting. I discovered other knitters on KZbin. It kept me sane. Four years later, I'm watching you on KZbin. I still host a crochet group in the winter when the snowbirds come to Tucson. Thank you for sharing your journey. Happy knitting!

[@LeoandTaurusCreations]

Oh WOW! Your story has moved me to tears.😢. You are so strong & brave! I cannot imagine going through the hardships you have gone though but so glad to hear that you were able to find some joy in your craft during such a hard time. Thank you for sharing your story, it humbled me. Thank you for sharing our crafting with so many others. I believe in karma and you will reap the rewards of your kindness & generosity. Sending you much love and a great big hug 🤗❤

[@Paula-tf3zv]

@toniprutch8956 And happy knitting to you and the snowbirds, from a fellow Tucson resident knitter!

[@karenlauricella4976]

So sorry for your loss 😢 so glad you are helping people to knit I’m 69 and have been knitting since I turned 8 years old. I’m still a average knitter but I love knitting sewing crocheting cross stitch and quilting and embroidery. Keeps me sane. Watching this in my home in Australia 🇦🇺

[@karenlauricella4976]

Watching this in Australia 🇦🇺

[@baileylonglanefc2125]

@@karenlauricella4976

[@margaret19631]

I have agoraphobia that got really severe when I moved (couldn’t even walk one block from my apartment). I started knitting last November, and a couple months in decided to start knitting at a library across the street and that spiraled into me now being able to walk miles, take the bus, and drive across town. Still not 100% where I want to be but it keeps getting better. I bring my knitting with me almost everywhere I go to calm me down if I get overstimulated

[@lydiakhai9977]

I strongly relate with your post as I have recently developed agoraphobia myself. I was crocheting before, but I continue with it as I find it incredibly therapeutic. I haven't tried knitting, but I've been considering it.

[@KathrynTanner-t8f]

In my working life, I was a high school English teacher. Started knitting one day while we were reading A Tale of Two Cities, because a character, Madame DeFarge, knits. I realized the students had never seen knitting and had no clear idea what she was doing. To show them what it was, as well as for nmy own entertainment, started knitting at the first appearance of Mme DeFarge. Led to an after schoool knitting club where I taught some students to knit. Great experience!

[@blackawana]

What a wonderful thing!

[@MABrody]

I love this story. I think you must have been a wonderful teacher.

[@deborahdavis8632]

It’s not just the yarn. It’s you and your love. Thank you.

[@mlaseter1]

Brother, I always read the comments and get teary thinking about how wonderful it is that so many people now know how amazing you are. I love to see your thoughtful and genuine spirit on display…I’m so fortunate to be a part of your circle and I’m so grateful that my kids have you and Ned as uncles and role models. Love you BIG.

[@KamalAli-n2s]

❤

[@MandyJudge]

💓

[@susanlaseter4653]

This was beautiful! Your dad and I just watched and I can't stop crying. To hear you say I am one of your best friends just reduced me to a puddle of tears! It is amazing how God places people in our lives and provides opportunities that lead us in unexpected directions. You bless so many. You have always been a blessing in my life. I love you more than salt! Sending the biggest hugs to you and to Ned. 🐑

[@lorifontaine]

Hi Susan. I met your son through this video today and it's an honour to be able to write to you. Thank you, from my heart, for the loving home you obviously have, for being the best friend of someone who is spreading the message of love and community in such a broken world. God put your son on my "suggested video" list and although I never EVER scroll to read other comments, I felt the need to today and have now found you. Every Blessing to your family. Sincerest gratitude and a hug from the Rockies in Canada.

[@susanlaseter4653]

@@lorifontainethank you for your kind message and for taking the time to share. Mark is a special young man. I was honored that he even asked me to share the camera with him in an earlier video while on our family beach vacation last May! Sending warmest thoughts and good wishes to you.

[@gabriellejacobs1192]

I lost my mum, then two of my sisters (far too young), then last year my son was diagnosed with leukaemia and died within four months. I couldn't touch my knitting for a few months but eventually went back to it, and I always say ' knitting is my therapy'. I knit all the Christmas presents for my family every year.

[@NicoleG227]

❤

[@the3milestitcher]

Dear sweet Mark, it's Kate from Shetland here. This video was perhaps the best video I have ever watched. How do you do this? You simply sit down and pour out your heart, empty your soul and share your spirit. You share joy as if it is a warm candle, held in a handmade terracotta bowl, being passed around cupped hand. Your emotion is so palpable it makes me cry with you, because a lot of what you share brings tears to my eyes too. Much love to you and Ned. I do hope that next time you're in Shetland we can all have lunch together. Peace to you and yours Mark. Kate x

[@MakerMarkKnits]

Dear Kate, thank you for such a beautiful and warm comment. When I sat down to film this video, I thought that I would just share my story of what projects I made over the last 6 years. Pretty quickly it turned into a tearful video and I just felt the emotion pouring out. It's hard to know when I'm going to be able to speak well and how to capture that in a video. So this just ended up happening by chance. I'm so grateful that people have received it as well as they have ❤️

[@nancystrand1920]

Hi mark and need I have cancer I was told my cancer is too small for biopsy I had my breast removed I have a friend he understands my cancer he's very supportive I also crochet alot im in Collingwood Ontario Canada

[@saraw8503]

I admire your gentle sensitivity. I am an introvert and being around others drains my social battery quickly. But I can knit with others and feel comfort and peace. I am now a subscriber and will return often.

[@beaulieuc8910]

Yes. I feel the same I like small groups

[@ReltubTheWiz]

You have a lovely speaking voice, it's warm and comforting and healing - thank you for sharing your thoughts.

[@HeatherConyers]

As many others have echoed, knitting saved my life too. I've been knitting since I was 14, I'm now 32. Knitting is the reason I was diagnosed with ADHD in 2019. I went to a psychiatrists office, sat down and asked "is it ok if I knit? I can't sit still". This was before the wave of information on what ADHD is, so I had no clue that was a symptom. Knitting also helped me realise and get diagnosed as autistic 5 years later as it is my 'special interest'. It's the reason I survived as an undiagnose neurodivergent for so long. I am not really a part of the knitting community as I have yet to find my place, but I do love talking with knitters and the knitting curious when I knit everywhere I go. I hope you had fun returning to Hereford. I am a Canadian in the UK and love seeing knitters travel around!

[@ZoeEvans-tm8jn]

I relate to this. Can't take knitting into big meetings though, helps my ADHD too

[@nightfall3605]

Dude, that was f*ing beautiful. Sometimes the algorithm just works.

[@MABrody]

I was so touched by the honesty and personal truth in this video. It takes courage to come forward and show yourself to the world, and you have done it beautifully. And the world is better for having you in it. Bravo, Mark! Your joy in life is beautiful to see.

[@kathysewon]

I love your heart and your willingness to share. I'm a 68 year old retired grandma. Since moving to Kentucky to live with my daughter, I spend a lot of time alone knitting. Being an introvert, that works for me. Just wanted to let you know that you are loved and you bring joy to me and many others. Keep being who you are, and I hope all your dreams come true. Love to you and Ned😊

[@ariverdreaming]

That’s so cute that you were kicked out of class for braiding hair and talking and now you braid fibers with needles and talk for work and passion 🧶

[@dianesigren8220]

Mark, I just found you today searching for videos on knitting. I went out and bought one acrylic yarn and one pair of needles immediately. I am hoping it helps me survive the grief of unexpectedly losing my son and my awful anxiety. I fell in love with you before this video was over! You are my first knitting friend and I'm hoping it does for me what it does for you. Many many thanks for putting yourself wholeheartedly into this video. It may have been my first, but it will not be my last. A very grateful new subscriber. ❤

[@katemitchell1613]

I just started watching you in the past week or so, and I appreciate you. When I started watching this, I thought, 'he really looks great in blue. The sweater looks fabulous.' And then I became really drawn to the sweater - how gorgeous - and your color work is impeccable! Knit on, Sir!

[@romanesque2954]

Thankful to the KZbin algo wizards who served me this video. Thank you for sharing your story - so soulful and powerful. Happy to have found you on my knitting journey.

[@primrose4602]

Thanks for sharing your story and I feel blessed this morning to hear that knitting is important to others like myself. I am 88 years old with congestive heart failure so there is very little I can do except knit and watch youtube!! No one else in my family knits so when I start a project I feel I have a deadline to finish it so I keep going. I have finished many projects in my long happy, successful life. I am thankful for each day my Lord is here with me and must love knitting also because he keeps answering my prayers to let me finish this project. Then I start another. Ha!! I hope you have a happy life and your dreams and wishes come true and they will, just may not be on your timetable. Love to you and Ned.

[@beaulieuc8910]

My mother is 82 is housebound and loves crocheting and watching tv. She doesn't want internet but it gives her purpose. She likes making blankets, cushions. I get them for birthdays etc.

[@lesliefaris530]

You are lovely. Thanks for sharing yourself. Knitting is a big part of my life. My husband is a cancer patient, doing very well, but with 7 surgeries in 8 years, I spent many an hour in surgical waiting rooms and bedside vigils. I also live on a small island so knit lots in ferry lines! I just cannot imagine not knitting, it centers me, connects me with so many lovely, diverse people and cultures, and is something special! I love gifting sweaters to loved ones, love woolly wools, celebrate the environmental pluses of wool, the variety of yarns (especially Shetland Wool), the designing with color! So many positive aspects of the craft❤

[@janelange2368]

Mark, what a lovely chat. You have the biggest heart and kindest soul. 🥰

[@jackpickett2288]

You are such a wonderful, ‘gentle’ man! This community is better for having you in it. Thank you for your honesty and vulnerability. I look forward to many more hours spent knitting together.

[@jessicakent3100]

Love love your inspirations you are a credits too your self help good on you remember you are loved remembered and cherished by the nation thanks for sharing

[@prieschl1959]

My Dad has been so sick for 6months now and I keep thinking this might be his last Christmas. I have been unable to sleep, eat or even have clear thoughts. On top of all this I am taking care of a mother in law with Alzheimer’s and a husband recovering from being hit by a car going 35mph while he took his evening walk. God had a reason today to lead me to your Utube channel and I cried with you. Knitting , crocheting and listening to books is my saving grace. Some days I barely have energy to get up and I dread the day. I have Fibromyalgia and Lupus and one week ago I found a lump on my abdomen. God bless you for all you do.

[@sarahwilliams6488]

So sorry to hear all you are going through. Stopping to pray for you now.

[@maryruthshanks3742]

Prayers for you in your hectic life. Know your struggles, sometimes it’s the best you can do is one step at a time. Knitting podcasts kept me sane while I cared for my mother with Alzheimer’s. You will be in my prayers. Take care of yourself, too! Peaceful knitting. 💗💗🧶🧶

[@Pam-tx5zd]

I read a book called crochet saved my life. It was good. It's about a young woman who doesn't even realise she is depressed. One day she picks up her crochet hook long forgotten that her grandma gave her as she tries to remember how to crochet the stitches she taught her. Gradually it helps her and she gets medication from drs too. Thats the short version. Crafting keeps us sane. How others manage without it, I really don't know.

[@Foxy807]

I've found someone who happy cries as much as me!! awwww. Knitting saved my life too. I was addicted to alcohol for 15 years, before that drugs. I tried AA, adaction and NHS counselling nothing helped at all in fact made it worse as i felt completely alone. Then i strated knitting. Just squares to begin with but became so faacinated with the different techniques. You could say i became addicted to knitting instead! Longgggg story short I now have a knitting school called " Naomi & Noah Knit School" in Somerset uk. I have taught 260 classes in 2 years and now teach in drug and alcohol rehabs. Saved !! by knitting . I also returned to church which was the best decision of my life so i LOVED hearing about your singing and meeting the King and Pope! Thank you for sharing your story complete with tears X im now subscribed!

[@ilesmom1]

My querido Mark, I so enjoy your podcasts. You said something that resonated with me deeply. You mentioned grief. Two years ago, my husband died suddenly, and after 42 years of marriage, my life turned upside down. Since then, I have been prolific. I have churned out so many projects. Plus, the many more I have in project bags. You confirmed what I suspected. I can't & don't want to stop. I have translated my grief into knit & crochet. Thank you for being you. ❤

[@Patriciaby]

The fact that you have so many good experiences and memories from everywhere you land tells so much about you.

[@caroleboudevin-hamard506]

As a brand new subscriber I can say that I 'm deeply moved by your sharing your story. Don't apologize for crying you are sensitive and it's a gift. Sorry for my English, I am a French person living on a tiny french island in the Indian Ocean , Reunion Island, and proud to be part of your community now!! Looking forward to your next video!

[@ElizabethBuckley-fh1lt]

❤ that you do both.

[@honeybadger8942]

Hi, neighbour ! 👋

[@donnah3910]

You are such a wonderful storyteller Mark. The way you put words together is comforting along with your soothing voice.

[@japrice355]

This video really touched me. It was so heartfelt and in that beautiful garden too (my first great love)! It took me three times to learn to knit, beginning when I was in high school, again after I retired, and finally during the pandemic, where I finally got it and now it has happily taken over my life. I’m almost 70 years old and I feel like I need to just knit everything to make up for my misspent youth when I wasn’t knitting. 😂. My worst day knitting is still far better than my best day doing any other activity. It has opened an entire new world of endless possibilities for me. And it makes me so happy! I just found you last week, but will keep watching.

[@KateColors]

Mark, Knitting saved my life, too. In 2013, I had devastating trauma and knew I needed to be with people. I found a local yarn shop that had a free knitting circle that met a couple times a week. I hadn't knit since my 20s; so, what better thing to get acquainted with and I joined the group (of women). I've been knitting ever since though, I've recently stopped to put my house back together so I can paint again. It's taken me that long to get back to being myself again. I recognize those tears of Joy pouring out of your heart. Something tells me you are deserving of your happiness now. So, enjoy and celebrate every day. Congratulations on your marriage to Ned. Wishing you both, and your families and friends, all the best! PS - Your knitting is beautiful! ❤

[@rebecca-72]

I love your talking videos, thank you so much, Mark. Knitting saves me too. It brings me joy, it allows me to grow, feel proud of myself, connect. It calms me in hard times. I love listening to your stories.

[@janprattley3312]

Hi I have just found you today, your story is awesome. My knitting and sewing has helped me heaps during tough times of my mental health and losing my mum and daughter withing 6 months. I now knit and sew for charity and it brings me great joy

[@susanh3342]

I used to do a lot of knitting, crochet, cross stitch, and quilting. I miss it so much. But I have depression, I start projects and never finish them. But the ones I have finished, I remember things that happened when I was making them. I completely agree with you about remembering people that I have knitted for them. A lot of them are gone now 😢 I do have pictures of them wearing the sweaters I made for them. I always wanted to spin, I never got to it though. Don't be ashamed to cry, I do it too. Just thinking about all the people that aren't here anymore. You are a wonderful person ❤️ Thank you for making this video.

[@soymireia]

❤❤❤thank you for opening up like this, I'm fighting a disease and crocheting is helping me with my hands and my soul. One day I will try knitting 🙌😊

[@lesbigreen]

Your voice is so calming. After a hectic work week my favorite thing to do is sit and knit with my “buddy” mark and just be calm for a little while. Thank you for being so open and honest and calming and friendly and welcoming and, and, and.

[@SusanRBruce6]

Purely by accident you came across my feed, I'm so thankful you did!❤ I'm a crocheter, but everything you said resonates worth my heart. You are a sweet soul with a gift for storytelling. Thank you for sharing yourself. ❤

[@scottm988]

Love your story Mark, thanks for sharing. I love your videos and as a male knitter it can be quite lonely with a lot of stigma attached. So listening to your story while I knit is like being a pseudo male knitting club. Safe travels & keep the videos coming.

[@pamelamckenzie2685]

Well I lost all my family I am 67 I give thanks and count my blessings I knit and sew draw and read i have two cats lilly and Vilot and my pug Blossom, Blossom has helped me meet up with many dog walkers people i live in East Sussex England Hastings in Rented i send love and hugs to people that live like me here in England and around the world. I love your knitting. Great video.

[@misslissa783]

Fiber has given me purpose beyond my high pressure job, my children, and all other responsibilities. I used to come home so drained and get on the couch and fall asleep watching TV. I wasn’t present for my husband. Picking up this craft has enlivened every aspect of my life… I come home looking forward to working on my project and I stay up and communicate with my family in a way I haven’t in years… even as I do something for my own soul. Most of what I have made in the past six months have been gifts for people I love, and I totally get wrapping memories into projects. I know that some day, when I am gone, they will have something that I made and those memories will serve them then. I love your channel and the spirit with which you do it. It is so amazing when you find something like crafting that sustains you. 💜

[@carolynmcmillan7083]

I posted my comment through the video but now crying at your vulnerability and know exactly how you feel. I’m a crocheter mainly but do some knitting very newbie really but crochet helps me more than most can imagine

[@prolaapyparijat6997]

Thank you for being such a warm person... Take Love... 🍀

[@Stumpybear7640]

Crafting can save your life. It saved mine when I was struggling during the lockdown, I knitted puffins. Many puffins. Until I made my way out of anxiety and depression. Much love to you and yours ❤❤❤

[@anioszek3356]

Thank you for this story 💜💜💜

[@margaretyates4937]

Hi Mark my son is called Mark just like you. You even look a bit like him I have always loved making things knitting sewing and gardening. Singing in choir gives me joy too I hope we will hear your singing at some time. In the meantime Thank you it is a pleasure hearing you speak about all the things you love xxx

[@lyndaholloway5469]

Thank you Mark for sharing yourself with all of us. What a beautiful soul you have. The best to you.

[@KellyWaugh-qd1od]

Great video Mark. I learned to knit from my mom and grandma when I was about 14 years old. I have picked it up off and for over the years but not seriously. I'm now 64 and and have found the joy of knitting again and have even taught myself to crochet (using all of the amazing KZbin videos). I'm on a cruise with my wife in the Med and have been enjoying yarn shopping in Greece, Italy and Spain.

[@sparky4786]

What a lovely journey and way of explaining a craft that brings people together.

[@dorokrych8109]

Dear Mark, thank You for the video. Yes: I feel peace, meditation and joy too (every day when I'm knitting or crocheting). 😍

[@cbtringali6799]

Thank you for sharing your honesty and vulnerability. You make others feel less alone. I loved your church kneeler vignette and I think you would enjoy the book Scouting the Divine by Margaret Feinberg.

[@MarinaMandarinaWoolyWorld]

Thank you, Mark, for being so open with us. I don't remember when and how I found your channel, but since I found it, it always was a zen place for me, to watch before bed, unwind and calm down after a busy day. Your voice, not extensive amount of wip's, your cats, all of it makes me slow down the knitting race, that we all tend to join after watching other channels, and just enjoy the craft. Thank you, I really appreciate your style (and thank you for not drinking right into a microphone 😅)

[@jan8308]

Knitting is still saving my life 🌻 I can relate to you so much 😊 I'm very much a newbie to knitting, it calms and distracts my mind. I actually cried when I finished a small blanket for my first grandchild. I poured so much of myself into it. So now, I'm knitting a cot blanket with the colours of the rainbow 😁🌈

[@melissabisesi5195]

We love you Mark! I think most of us can connect with your experience first-hand... we are all kindred spirits as makers and understand the depth of meaning it has in our lives. It is grounding and brings peace to an otherwise stressful world. Pouring your thoughts and intentions into a single strand of yarn and watching a finished garment take shape purely from your own hands is incredible. It really is therapeutic. As always, thank YOU for being a part of all of our lives ❤️ ♥️

[@xXKimmyXx1202]

Thank you for being so open and honest! For me it was getting back into crochet in 2020. I had a big mental breakdown in lockdown and one thing that helped was immersing myself in crochet content on YT. Since then I have evolved into a little yarn hoarding goblin 😂😂

[@lorrainemarcketta3011]

Thank you for sharing a bit about your very creative life journey! Coming from a family of artists - makers of things - I can relate deeply to your story. How strongly I feel that a bit of my self becomes imbued in whatever project I’m working on - and the best feeling is to then give the project away since, each stitch (whether knitted, crocheted, or sewn) carries a little prayer from me to the recipient. What a glorious thing! Sending hugs to you, Ned and any and all dear sheep you encounter in the UK and elsewhere!! 🐑

[@debbiegargan847]

Hiya Mark, you are such a lovely person, I enjoy your videos, I'm a knitter too, I've never made anything like your fabulous jumpers with all the patterns and colours, you are an inspiration, I'm glad your enjoying our summer here in Britain, I definitely need to travel to the shetlands Isles after seeing your adventures,

[@aksez2u]

What a lovely group of people in these comments, at least every one that I read. Also a lot of love and loss. What a nice thing to be able to connect everyone here!

[@heatherchappell2517]

This is such a beautiful heartfelt story, made my eyes sweat a lil🥲❤ I'm 10 yrs into crochet and one month into knitting 🥹

[@jessicarodgers4981]

I started knitting just a few weeks ago, and I like listening to videos about knitting while I am working, because I am trying to absorb all the knowledge I can. My best friend and her mom are amazing knitters and I have them as resources, so the videos just add extra insight. I am very greatful for your long "rambling" videos. I really enjoy them. Thank you!

[@jillystewart8567]

I love you Mark ❤🎉😊..you make me smile..you make my cry..you make me appreciate ..All that I am..and All that there is 🙏😊

[@nicolev198]

As a crocheter who wants to learn to knit but is so afraid to get started, I loved this video so much. It brought me so much peace and made me so grateful for crafting. Honestly, bravo and thank you so much for posting it.

[@sandras2479]

You are such a sweet and tender-hearted man❤

[@shannonoliver5414]

I love your heart and i love your story. Fiber has been huge in my life as well. I got sober from drugs about 7 years ago and picked up crochet and knitting, learning from KZbin, and i haven’t stopped since. I started a knit/crochet group at my local library about 2 years ago. It brings me so much joy. 😊

[@karenshields395]

This is the first post of yours I have seen I am happy to like and subscribe. I am 82 years old. Born 11 days after Pearl Harbor and a week before Christmas. It seems like my life has been as high and as low as those two events. My mother taught me to knit, sew embroider. My grandmother taught me to crochet. They got me through life and of course they help me in my grief at losing them. I became a psychiatric nurse because of lifetime of seasonal affective disorder. Crafters have been my lifeline throughout my life. They are lovely people with the biggest hearts. So your sweet spirit is no surprise to me. As I sit in a rehab for my loss of physical mobility and in a deep fall depression, I am crocheting. I have my knitting needles and yarn. It will get me through this one, too!! You tube with it's plethora of crafters is so uplifting! I took on paper crafting later. There are few crafts I haven't dabbled in at least. I will keep waatching. You keep thriving. I'll keep healng,as I watch you. Love your sweaters. They are truly something to be proud of. Also love the pictures of people and places you use in this video.

[@klarapetelei702]

Thank you for being so genuine. There is so much falsity online, it is a breath offresh air to watch and listen to you. I am retired and I am part of a creative group, we are mainly crocheting, but I als love knitting. Now we are making baby blankets with granny squares as gifts for a psichology service. I am watching you from Transylvania. Just subscribed. 🤗

[@Cordelia-again]

Thank you Mark, for this moving video. For some wonderful reason it just popped up in my feed and I clicked on it. I cried along with you because, well of course I'm going to cry if you are! We crafters are an empathetic lot after all. I'm not a knitter because I thought I was rubbish at it so when I heard you say starting with the knit one pearl one method was hard it lifted me up because that was what I had tried to do and failed miserably. Now, I know to start somewhere else. I sew and draw and those two things have kept me sane over the past 2 years of chronic fatigue. X

[@Professor_Purl]

“Knit on with confidence and hope through all crises.” ― Elizabeth Zimmermann I love that quote, and also would add the words "through all crises and joys." I have been knitting since a child, and relate to your story completely. Yarn and needles (and YES too many project bags!) have been my constant companion for may decades. Never more appreciated than in 2018 when I was diagnosed with prostate cancer (I am in remission now.) There is no greater comfort while waiting in a doctors office, waiting to go in for a procedure, etc. than having a creative outlet to pour your fears into, to distract you, to create something beautiful out of worry! Anyway, lovely story, and as the great Stephen West says, "Keep on knittin' kitten!" Sage advice to us all. Congrats on your podcast! xx, @Professor Purl

[@beanixdorf6977]

Sharing your life with total strangers is very courageous. Listening to your videos makes me feel like you’re my friend and I appreciate that. So dear friend , keep it up. 😊

[@kimmyk3640]

Beautifully said Mark. ❤ I love your channel.

[@vickicoleman2474]

Strolling down memory lane brings me happy and sad tears, but it warms me (I’ll be 80 this year and much of my life is made up living with memories). You’re so young-so many more fabulous memories to be made.❤

[@bolasaurus]

Mark, i honestly can't thank you enough for being here and sharing everything that you do. I've only been knitting since january and discovered your channel relatively early on in the year. You've basically (albeit unkowingly) been with me for my entire knitting journey so far. I've learned so much from your videos and as i dont have a local knitting group, sitting down to listen to your videos while i work has given me a sense of belonging and community i wouldnt have had otherwise. Thank you so much for being here and doing what you do. You've made a huge difference to me, and I can't wait to see where your life and craft takes you next!

[@jantiley735]

Oh Mark, I have just found you and found myself knitting and listening to you and crying along with you too. I'm off upstairs to spend the afternoon spinning and catching up on all your podcasts. I think I'll take a box of tissues with me.....

[@JamesPater-i8x]

Mark, thank you so much for this moving, and honest account of your knitting journey. Your willingness to share your emotions without reservation is wonderful to witness. I have had the same reaction to memories and experiences in my own life. Your title "How KNITTING" saved my life" resonates in my own life as I didn't really start my "knitting life" until my husband passed 5 years ago. I would sit and knit while at the same time weeping, remembering, and grieving the loss of him. Honestly, I don't know how I was able to not turn that first sweater vest into a complete disaster as I couldn't see a thing through my tears while knitting at the same time. Since then, I have developed many extremely close friendships at my LYS. We gather at least once every week and knit and chat. There is no reservation to the topics that we discuss and I can tell that the openness that we share means we are true friends. Without those friends, I can't imagine how miserable my life would be to live. Just the process of picking up the needles and starting those first few stitches for the day brings me such happiness and a sense of fulfillment. I have thanked God while praying so many times for giving me this ability and joy. As for your videos, all I can say is that you are a gift and inspiration to so many of your followers of your podcast. Thank you so much for sharing your gifts. For you and Ned, I pray that you will have the longest, happiest, and most love-filled marriage that is possible.

[@monicamonroy3755]

I identify so strongly with your story. I completely understand the feelings you described about knitting, changing careers, moving out, etc. I also love music myself and learning languages. This is the first time I have watched one of your videos, but let me tell you that I am so grateful that I did. Now, I'm trying to learn new stitches for my knitting and crochet projects, and I'm sure your videos will help me with that. Thank you for sharing and for being so open. Greetings from México.😃

[@rachelkarcher2565]

Appreciate the vulnerability and sharing of your personal struggles. I’m so glad you’ve been able to find connection within the crafting community.

[@kimcrawford4752]

Omg…for me there is nothing better than watching someone knit. Glad you popped up on my feed. K

[@bettyhickey9717]

🥰 I am tearing up with you. You are loved. We all seek community and I have found similar support and love when sharing a craft, whether it is knitting or quilting. Your video today touched me deeply. I am a caretaker for my husband who has dementia and is also bed bound. He has times that I can not leave his side. Knitting and community keep me grounded and supported. You are loved. You and Ned are beautiful together. Share your heart when so moved. Your online community is here to love and support you.

[@lindas5964]

Loved hearing your story! Yes I picked up knitting after many years away from it when I was also going through a major transition. Whew! I think it enabled me to just “be” in the present moment while I figured out what was happening. I had been crazy busy, stressed out and overwhelmed and just stopping the train and stepping out of the rat race left me feeling rather shell shocked and lost. But I had my ball of yarn, needles and a sweet pattern and Al of a sudden I wasn’t lost anymore. Here I am 3 years later (4?) and I also own a loom and spinning wheel, a bunch of sashiko thread and a sewing machine! Lol Anyway, thank you for making these kind videos from your heart. ❤

[@carolynlambert6989]

G’day Mark, this is me going back through previous episodes since finding you today 🇦🇺🍀 OMG your conversation brought tears, your openness, kindness, stories of hope & determination, serendipitous pathways life has taken you. We all need to look back, look at the present and look forward with these qualities. As I approach my 68th year and currently transitioning to retirement from work I am excited to spend more time knitting, learning from this community, from you (no pressure) 😀 Take best care Mark 🍀 It’s a Sunday morning here in Oz 🇦🇺 I’m going to knit along watching your other episodes, what a gift you are 👍🏻❣️

[@MarilynElston]

Mark, you are so special to me as a viewer. I connect with your videos and they touch my heart. Please know I am always going to watch your videos as I know so many do. Dear man in this varied crochet community, you a bright light.

[@juliewillard1367]

I started knitting during Covid. I find it so relaxing. I am currently knitting pumpkins.

[@joannefletcher7085]

Oh bless you, you are a lovely man. Sending you a big hug.🙂❤️

[@rickbrummer3628]

Very moving story, thank you for sharing. I find crocheting so relaxing and therapeutic

[@debwaterman4918]

Mark, the way you make great, lifelong friends speaks to your character and personality. I enjoy getting to know you.

[@shaynaformity1384]

Hi Mark, nice to meet you. I'm Shayna. This is your first video of yours that I've seen. It was lovely to spend an hour with you this morning. Hearing you got me motivated to pick up my needles and make a swatch with an idea that's been playing around in my head for a while. You seem like such a sweet person, I'm looking forward to watching more of your videos.

[@dawnsabo5664]

Hello Mark! 💙 You are loved, you are blessed. And I feel blessed just in discovering your channel & knowing you. 💙 Thank you for sharing your story, your life & your love of all that is fiber. 🧶 Til next time… happy blessed stitching “my fiber friend” 😘

[@joyinterwoven]

Randomly came across your video, I’ve been crocheting on & off for two years but just found a real passion for knitting within the past 2 weeks. I’m a 21 year old girl living in canada and yet somehow, I feel very connected to you through this video. I agree that us crafters have an unspoken connection, even if it seems like we wouldn’t otherwise have much in common. Grateful to be finding this new community❤

[@dower12345]

Love the channel, I started knitting 4 or 5 months ago. It completely changed me. I was not expecting to find peace in the fiber arts. But it went from not knowing gauge, circular needles, etc. But now I built a spinning wheel, my mother in law bought me a really nice ashford. It completely changed my life

[@mabelgoddard5813]

Hello Mark. I just find you and love your channel! Now, you’re making cry 😢. Don’t ever stop been you! Wish you so much happiness! ❤❤🌸🌸

[@marie_anne]

Thank you for this video

[@Hanna_Vogelgesang]

You are a blessing ❤ Knitting saved my life, too… Cheers to wool and needles 🎉

[@HMTL1973]

Mark, I’ve recently discovered your channel and this video could not have been better timed. I’m going through some major life changes of my own at the moment and knitting is one of the constants that will stay with me. Thank you for being so open and vulnerable, and sharing your story with such honesty. I will go back to watch all of your videos and follow your journey. Thank you for sharing, and I wish you all the best x

[@roxirossetti6250]

Oh dear sweet man! Mark, your story was so heartfelt, I am still teary-eyed as I think back on it. You love talking, I love listening, isn't that a lovely coincidence! I do not knit but seeing how far you came in your relatively short knitting journey - your pieces look to me as though you began knitting before you could walk - i think maybe i could give it another try. I need to find a technique that does not hurt my fingertips so much. I have been crocheting for 53 years, and am as monomaniacal about it as you are about knitting. Not a granny square person, I prefer doing finer work in more complex and challenging designs. So happy I found your channel!

[@krautkopf65]

Knitting and crochet is my space of comfort, peace it calms my soul. Right now I’m going through a rough time. Lost my fur baby a few weeks ago and the rest of my life is not helping any. Like so many times this hobby is what calms my mind.

[@Ebkorhonen]

Thank you so much for sharing your journey!❤ Im so happy for you. Im also a keen knitter. Living In Finland. I'm a swedishspeaking Finn. Married to a finnish speaking man. Knitting is the world to me😊 as are my tre adult children and my five grandchildren. I hope to see more of you. Your video somehow just popped up today and I am so happy that it did. Take care.🧶🙏

[@elenabeyers2088]

Loved your vulnerability. That is what all my friends have in common. I enjoy your company while I knit. Thank you. I will have to watch some of your tutorials.

[@paiviliilun5785]

I was deeply moved by this video. Thank you so much for sharing your life story because I can relate to so much you've been through. There are many things in my life I guess I'm pretty good at but I've never really rooted to any of those. Only with knitting I've ever felt that I'm worthy, that it's enough to be just me. When I knit, nobody judges me. My overly critical inner voice is silent and I have peace. So, here I am crying too because knitting is so much more than needles and yarn. Thank you for being there. My best to you and your family. ❤

[@bevier8100]

Knitting & crafting has enriched my life so much! It has brought me the best friends ever and connected me to strangers wherever I go. I've only watched a couple of your videos but I'll definitely be back!I I may even go back to color work after watching your method! See you next week!

[@eenleukleven]

Hi Mark, I teared up while watching this video. First video I ever saw of you, was the one where you were telling about the study that didn't suite you, and how you were feeling about that. I think it is brave to tell about such experiences in life. Knitting has saved my life too, and it still does. I will have back surgery, I have been waiting for that over 3 months now, and I can't do much, not even sit up straight, but I realized I can knit while laying on my bed (in a slow pace 😀), and it really helps me through the days. Thank you for the kind man you are in these videos, for sharing parts of your life with us, and organizing the Sea Glass MAL. I intend to knit along, if possible. Best wishes for both you and Ned!

[@patriciagrenner8033]

I love your stories. I cried with you at times. It reminds me of memories, the good ones, that I want to cherish. Mark as you may recall, I’m the one who lost my entire family in a two year’s time (nephew, sister, mom, dad). So having that loss really changed me-a part of my soul was lost. So I found knitting and I found a community through KZbin and the likes of wonderful people like you. I changed somehow when I lost my family so I was just a wandering, sad human. Then covid hit and well that was two more years of having thoughts in my brain that i didn’t want to remember. But this video you shot, really reminded me that I DO have good memories. Though my life is forever changed, I am making new memories with my craft and I am finding good memories of my family too. I dont have a knitting community where I live, so I live vicariously through these videos and yours’ are so heartfelt at times that it just makes me feel good inside. And that I can make a garment and the more I do it, the better they come out. So thank you for all your time and sharing. It’s good for the soul and you MAKE a HUGE difference in our lives. It’s truly amazing how knitting changed so many lives for the better. Patricia