Weaving with a chronic illness

[@lynnie57]

I just want to sincerely thank you for this video.

[@KellyCasanova]

You are so welcome!

[@karih9782]

I prefer watching the Real-Life KZbinrs. Especially when it concerns my choice of crafts. As it helps me feel better that I'm not alone in having Bad Days. Thank you Kelly. ❤

[@jackiecauthron-schafer9554]

I’m so happy to see this video. No one talks about weaving and disability, and a large number of people who do weave are facing some form of limitation. This is needed. I love the ideas, even if it’s just resting and thinking about creative ideas. My limitations are profound, but I’m inching towards being able to do something sometimes. I might have to hire someone to warp my loom., I may only weave for 10 minutes at a time, once every few days. I don’t know yet what my body will allow. By gum, I will figure it out!

[@KellyCasanova]

Keep doing what you're doing, where there's a will, there's a way! 🥰

[@cornwallcrafter8410]

This spoonie weaver highly appreciates your candour ❤

[@biancaw.0306]

Hi Kelly! I have lupus and love to weave. Due to a flare which affected my hands badly I haven´t been able to weave for a longer time but now I´m back at my rigid heddle looms and it helps a lot, it´s like therapy. It's great working with structured yarns, different patterns, different colors, getting inspiration from nature or so - weaving your feelings into a piece of cloth, saori style or so :) On bad days I´m searching through the internet, books, yarn stores or so to plan new projects. Your idea with a little loom for bad day projects is cool! You're absolutely right - all this perfection sucks, especially with bad days on chronic illness because it makes you feel even worse which isn´t very helpful. We need to support us, reinforce others to go on and keep a strong bond against these diseases. Thanks for your video today, I hope you feel better soon! Hugs from Bianca/Germany (schiffchenschieberin in former days...)

[@KellyCasanova]

Lovely to hear from you Bianca, it's been a while! I'm glad you're back at the RH looms, that is wonderful ❤️

[@denisehigby2554]

Sweetie, I would love to just enjoy your company and tips and advice in “slow “ easygoing “ ways you might call it a bad day, but those of us who struggle with chronic illness truly understand!!

[@JackyHeijmans]

I love seeing real people, thank you! 🤗 I'm often just about able to feed my cats, and things like taking out the garbage can exhaust me. I still have those days where I can be physically active, and make the best use of those. Though these days always hit me later, I still enjoy them. I bought a spinning wheel and a ridgid heddle loom, and want to learn how to do this. So far they are sitting there, I was not able to try them yet. I did comb some wool meanwhile, so I actually have something to spin with...lol And yes, when I am too tired or have too much pain to do much, I watch videos like yours, to learn as much as I can, for when that day comes that I can try my wheel and loom. I just do what I can, when I am done with what I have to do. I appreciate your video a lot, thank you very much for sharing that we are not alone, and that we should not feel bad about not being able to do all. ❤❤❤

[@KellyCasanova]

You will find the wheel and loom wonderful once you get going. The carding is a good start, just take one step at a time and before you know it they will all be adding up 😊

[@rainbowgal8047]

Thanks for sharing your real self, Kelly. Wishing you pleasant easy healthy comfortable times ahead. 💖

[@KellyCasanova]

Thank you, and to you too!

[@DreamingOfUnicorns]

I’m so glad you showed up as “all” of you! 💕

[@KellyCasanova]

Thank you! It's very hard for me to put myself out there in a more vulnerable way, but every time I do it I end up feeling glad that I did because so many people respond positively 🥰

[@AmazingJane137]

I use my weaving as a do it yourself EMDR treatment for cPTSD. I tell my story to the loom as I move my eyes and my shuttle from left to right and right to left.

[@AngelaDChildress]

That is a fabulous idea. My therapist wants me to try EmDR but the buzzers and clicking sound she uses is actually distracting

[@leonoregualano3095]

Dear Kelly - Thank you so much for this video. Whether mental or physical, we all have our bad days. I retired from teaching third grade last year (age 75). Yes, I taught for 34 years after raising my children at home. I loved my teaching so much and I have missed it this year. I bought my loom a year ago in anticipation of having time to weave and sew. I recently joined your classes on line and have started watching your videos and learning to be a better weaver. I have sjogrens which is an autoimmune disease, so I do have some depression, but not much physical pain yet. I love the real you. In fact I started watching your free you tube videos because you were more real, more gentle with a sweet spirit that has kept me interested in weaving. Thank you for being so honest and for your incredible patience during your video lessons and you tube presentations. You are a vey special person. I am in Florida in the USA and as you can imagine - no one weaves here - just too hot I guess. I started because my Mom had a friend that did weaving and I just loved it. After my Mom passed away, I wanted to stay in touch with her. Thanks again for being such an inspiration.

[@KellyCasanova]

I have to admit I have never heard of Sjogrens and had to look it up. I'm glad it's not impacting on you too much. There are weavers in Florida, I have students from there, perhaps you will come across them in the member's group.

[@TheFroggie66]

Real life is so much better. I actually stopped doing my knitting podcast (The Purled Nest) because I felt like maybe I looked too old (compared to the popular podcasts with young knitters), and that I could not keep up the volume of FOs and myriad of WIPs that they seemed to be able to maintain and complete. As well as all of the B-roll they took and the hours and hours spent editing to perfection. I have a regular day job and mix up my fiber arts with weaving and sewing, too. I prefer you to be real. I think you look lovely without makeup and with your hair natural. I don’t really care if the extra effort goes into makeup and hairstyling. Doing real life episodes are refreshing and highlights that we are just all people living our day to day lives and that real life is not perfect. Life is messy. Some days are lower energy, but you still feel a bit creative. I love real life podcasts and not highly curated ones. Keep being the real you. We like the real you!

[@KellyCasanova]

That is sad that you stopped your podcast, I hope you can get back to it at some stage if it feels like a positive thing to do. I just subbed and will be watching some past episodes 😉 Why is it that as we age (particularly women) we feel that our contributions are no longer valid, just because we look the age we are? If anything, our knowledge/life experience only increases in value. I made a conscious decision years ago not to colour my hair as it changes, not to buy the anti wrinkle creams etc. I don't judge anyone who wants to do that, but I do think it's sad to try to hide your age and feel that getting older is a negative thing or somehow not beautiful.

[@TheFroggie66]

@@KellyCasanova I feel the same. And clearly I don’t dye my hair. 😂 But I also feel like I have so much to share. 26 years of knitting knowledge. Life skills. I like authenticity, too. That resonates with me. Don’t change. Your authenticity is one of the things I love about your channel and your weaving school. It’s like sitting there with a friend, and also learning news skills!😊

[@pilatesme73]

We need older women on KZbin or everywhere, teaching others skills of life or craft.

[@amyhobbit1138]

100%!! ​@@pilatesme73

[@lauramartens5516]

Thank you, you have helped a lot of people.

[@KellyCasanova]

🥰

[@TiredwTwins]

Thank you for this Kelly. I struggle with feeling unproductive when I’m super tired. I’m glad you are talking about this.

[@mendyviola]

I have degenerative disc disease which makes sitting or standing for long periods painful at times. I simply switch up what I’m doing every hour or so to get moving in a different way. It doesn’t fix the problem, but it does make it more manageable.

[@marshashoemake1246]

You are such a kind sweet spirit. Thank you for your candor today. The message that it is okay to rest and adapt to your limitations was inspiring. Chronic illnesses can be crippling at times. I hope you feel better soon. I love the content of your videos, I am new new to weaving so I am learning a lot.

[@KellyCasanova]

Thanks so much 🥰

[@Afterhoursangel55]

I have 18 diseases with no cure and 5 are autoimmune, I have JRA (juvenile rheumatoid arthritis) since age 15. Despite this I still became a nurse, but had to retire early at age 55 as I have 4 herniated back disc, 1 is completely torn and caused mobility issues. I have Fibromyalgia and Raynaud's since age 23. I now have cervical stenosis also from OA (osteoarthritis), I am 59 now. When I retired 4 yrs ago I could barely walk without losing my balance, so I rested a lot, sat in computer chair and played games or binge watch shows. Last year I decided to start knitting, but not with needles, instead using round looms, I bought a rotating table which connects to the round looms and knitted stuff. Then I wanted to weave so i bought a toy loom about 6 inch wide and was a counter balancing one, sat on a table, but with all those round looms and toy loom I bought some folding camping tables, so I could lay them on it to be lower, I have a torn left should since 2007, 3 tears in my left knee since 2016, so anything on a regular table is not good for me, so those folding table work great as they are adjustable, I even use them for my sewing machine now, as long as i work with my arms lower then my shoulder does not affect me as much. I then bought a rigid heddle loom a 16 in and made blankets with it, I raised my computer chair so again my arms are comfortable not being raised above my shoulder. In Jan 2024 I bought a 32 inch 8 shaft table loom. So I took out my adjustable 48 inch folding table and put it at the lowest setting, raised my computer chair so my knees are lower then my hips (it is easier to get out of chairs when this way when you have bad knees). So I just measured my table it is at 22 inch under it and has a 2 inch height to top of it, my knees do not touch the table and it is low enough for me to work the levers up and down without hurting my shoulder. I learned early in life that you can modify things to your comfort. My spouse raised my recliner chair with 2 hockey puck screwed to the under legs of the recliner, this way I can get in and out of it easily, my computer chair is always set higher also. I had to buy a shower stool as I do lose my balance in shower, but also I used to have a hard time getting off the toilet seat, so that stool is set higher to sit on and get up from, it sits next to our toilet and I can use it to push myself up from the toilet, the seat being set higher makes it easier to sit and rest while in shower and to get up from it. Sometimes you have to adapt things for yourself, be creative. Sometimes I can be days without weaving if my autoimmune diseases kick me down so to speak. Mornings are rough, but as the day goes by my arthritis is improved. The issue with arthritis and mornings is this : while we sleep we do not produce synovial fluid and as we age we produce even less, hence why we have stiffnmness in the morning, as you get about your day and start moving around your body produces that fluid hence being less stiff. So using your hands while crafting will actually help the stiffness gets less as your joints get better lubricated, so morning I go online, watch videos or play games, then once I feel better I can do stuff. I was told age 28 to go on disability and that by age 40 I would be in a wheelchair if I kept working standing up with many replaced joints, as only 10 % of kids went into remission or had mild arthritis. I told doctors when I am inactive it gets worse, so working was best for me, I retired age 55 and am still able to walk and make meals and so on, it turns out moving your joints helps more, but when it comes to muscular issues yes rest is best. I also still have all my original body parts (minus my gall bladder and 3 teeth). I am so glad I went ahead and am now weaving. It takes time to prep the loom, but I am in no hurry, evrytime i get better at it. Make mistakes is the best way to learn how to fix them also. @KellyCasanova your videos is what helped me decide which looms to buy, for me a floor loom was too big and my legs are not that great as I have chondromalacia patella and arthritis and herniated back disc (I did paralyse left leg in 2016 it is ok now, but my herniated disc was the issue. When you mentioned about the shoulder issues with table loom it made me think of the adjustable table and bringing my computer chair higher up, I put my warping board at chair height so I do that sitting down on computer chair. My motto all my life has always been, never give up, 1 day at a time (1 hr at a time if need be also) I have pain 365 days a year since age 15, but I never let it discourage me, I always find detours, modify if need be and be yourself. The most important is rest when your body tells you to do so. I also do not care what others think of me as to what I wear and so on, I never wear make up nor jewelry, I wear running shoes with dresses due to arthritis and if people do not like this too bad lol. It is my comfort which matters to me.

[@KellyCasanova]

Wow, what an inspiration you are! 🥰

[@fujierobesky5651]

I think we all forget the best ideas "Listen to your body" best lesson for everyone. Thanks for sharing and all the great solutions.

[@KellyCasanova]

@@fujierobesky5651 Absolutely!

[@AngelaDChildress]

Thanks so much for saying this. I have chronic migraines. I work full time and I have to work migraine or not to provide for the family. I used to teach knitting and crochet. But I stopped because I couldn't be reliable to teach on the weekends because my body was just so exhausted. I took a really long break from any Fiber Crafts and considered selling all my spinning wheels. But then I decided to try weaving and it's rekindled my love of fiber. It's nice to be able to do a little something on a rigid heddle loom and have something that's just for myself.

[@KellyCasanova]

Migraines are so debilitating. I'm glad you've rediscovered a love for the fibre arts. Weaving is such a slow, quiet activity, it sounds like that is just what you need 🥰

[@pamamand8348]

Hi Kelly! I absolutely love this video. It is so inspiring. I am older than you and struggling with fibromyalgia and lipedema. It causes me more depression lately because of having had to give up so much fiber art that i loved. You have given me hope that what i can do still is important and useful. Many hugs! BTW loved the presentation you did for our little guild. ❤️

[@KellyCasanova]

Thank you 🥰

[@jenniferbrighty5120]

Hi Kelly, I hope you're soon feeling better xx ❣️❣️❣️❣️❣️ Thankyou so much for sharing this video podcast. I much prefer people to be open and honest, I know it's not easy, especially on KZbin and I really appreciate it. I'm a good few years older than you, I suffered a serious back injury just after I'd turned 40, it lead me to have severe arthritis in my Spine and I developed fibromyalgia. Crafting of all sirts has been a life line and having a Wonderful Husband who basically does everything that I'm not allowed to do, I try to help on a good day, but know I'll suffer within a few minutes the only things he doesn't do is my perssonal stuff . I hope everyone has a Wonderful Weekend, has best as you can..🌞🌝🔆🌟 Take care and stay safe Fibre Friends 🌞🐑🐑🥰🥰 Lots of love, Blessings and Huge Hugs to everyone..Jen xxxx ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️🙏🙏🙏🫂🫂🫂🫂🫂🫂🫂⚘️⚘️⚘️

[@jenniferbrighty5120]

@Kelly Casanova, I hope you're feeling better xx ❣️❣️❣️ Thankyou so much for the Heart ♥ Sending Heart ♥ back to you ❤️💞 Happy Weaving Fibre Friend 🎉🎉🐑🥰 Take care, love, Blessings and Huge Hugs Jen xxxx 🌞🌞🙏🙏🙏🫂🫂🫂🫂🫂⚘️⚘️⚘️

[@sandywiniecki7803]

Kelly, I applaud you for doing this video. It spoke to me in many many ways. Thank you for all you do for all of us who follow you.

[@lisaromberg3113]

When you speak of good days and bad days, I think very many of us can relate. I have had fibromyalgia for almost 40 years. Pain and fatigue are things I have learned to live with and work through, but anxiety has been the most difficult to overcome. For me, weaving is my therapy. It stops my mind from spinning and calms me down so I can just immerse myself in the act of creating something. If I’m having a difficult day pain wise, I will look through my weaving books and watch videos of other crafters who inspire me, people like you Kelly, who always offer an uplifting message. Something that has worked for me when I am feeling unwell is to work for short periods of time. I tell myself I will work for 10 or 15 minutes only, and eventually, I complete my projects. A wise friend once told me, “Life is not a race”. I think of him and his encouraging words whenever I feel as if I am not getting as much done as I would like. I love your reframing of “rest” as an investment in myself. It’s so smart, and so true!

[@lynnewillette2654]

With fibromyalgia, advanced osteoporosis, atrial fibrillation, past G.I. and thoracic surgery and oh yes - advanced years in age I can so relate to the good days and bad days. On a bad day I will try to do something for even just 15 minutes and that makes me feel better. I do what I can according to my energy level. Acceptance and not beating myself up over things seems to work best for me. I’m a knitter and my knitting gets me through life. I believe being a ‘maker’ of any type gives a person something other than their troubles to focus on and provides a much needed distraction. Thanks for doing a video like this. You can see by the comments that many of us are in a similar place.

[@karinfoust7841]

Your “real” is very inspiring. I do not always feel great but feel guilty if I just sit and do nothing. You have great suggestions for being “productive” yet not pushing oneself. I do not know where being the “perfect” person came from, but it sure puts a lot of stress on us. Too many critics in the world and I am my worst one. I am learning to “let it go.” Thank you for sharing and inspiring me to do so. And it is okay.

[@KellyCasanova]

Yes, I think most of us are our own worst critics, why do we do that to ourselves?!! 😫

[@cerwelt]

I have chronic Hashimotos syndrome and I have similar days. I’m quite new to weaving, but I love it. I’ve got a project on my 12” Schacht rigid heddle, but I also have a “20 Schacht rigid heddle which I have yet to use. I’ve been hesitant to finish the project on my smaller loom because I’m not up to warping such a big loom. Instead I’ve been crocheting like I’m on fire. I can crochet from my chair, but weaving in my chair is too painful. (I also have a bulging disc in my neck due to a fall three years ago) looking down too long is too painful as well. I have to alternate projects, and at times lay flat. Too much looking down with any craft causes neck issues, dizziness and nausea. Likely more info than you wanted, but I can relate to your video. Folks on social media make me sad when they apologize for being human, having periods of illness or not making perfect content. I’m amazed at the peer pressure exerted on all platforms of social media? Thanks for your great ideas on the balance of illness and crafting. It was helpful.

[@TheTinkerCrow]

I always appreciate it when someone posts about their chronic illness and how they adapt. That means I can probably add the adaptations to my own bag to pull out as needed.

[@AmazingJane137]

I completely agree about the table loom being harder on your body. I love my Dobby loom.

[@dakotatwilight]

Oh this did me so much good to hear, such reminders keeps a person from slipping into old thought patterns when one is in pain of some sort. It took a long time to just not listen to others about my many wip projects spread across many crafts. You are so right this way ones creative mind and being feels happy when you can still use it in some form even if it is just daydreaming or looking at pictures. I am so happy you took the courage to make this video. It will help many. Hugs. A lot of food for thought..

[@jenniferfowler6713]

Thank you for saying it's okay to just not have a good day. Many of us have issues that cause good and bad days! Great job on keeping it real.

[@knitlegal]

Kelly, thank you for posting this video. I have been in a weaving funk for almost a year and listening to you has given me encouragement to try a bit of weaving again. I have CFS/Fibromyalgia for many years and recently was diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis, osteo arthritis and bursitis of my hips. Additionally I am the sole caregiver for my husband of 45 years who has moderate cognitive decline. Suffice it to say if I can get through my normal daily/weekly routine of cooking, shopping, laundry and general housekeeping I have failed myself in not scheduling “me” time for weaving, knitting and sewing that I truly love. However, after listening to you I am determined to do just that, even if it is for 10, 20 or 30 minutes a day! So thank you again and I am so excited that you have a new class on Theo Mormon technique. That is something I definitely want to try. Thank you again for being a great teacher and an inspiration to me and many others.💖💖💖😢

[@KellyCasanova]

You sure do have a lot on your plate. There are so many women in your situation, caregiving when they are unwell themselves. There is such a massive value in caring for a spouse, I hope you know that even if your husband can't or doesn't necessarily communicate that to you. I'm glad you feel determined to make some creative time for yourself. Doing so will fill your cup, which spills over to others around you ❤️ Hopefully the Theo Moorman class will be released next week, fingers crossed!

[@OriginalLacytoo]

Thank you Kelly. It always helps to know there are others who struggle at times.

[@annecabello2489]

Thank you for this wonderful video. It’s nice to know that someone else is going through the same thing. I use weaving as a coping mechanism for chronic mental illness. The repetition involved is wonderful for anxiety, amongst other symptoms. Thanks again.

[@mydogky]

I am unable to crawl under looms on the floor my life saver was the avl home loom no more on the floor to tie up the treadles I now tie up on the side of the loom ,this has been a life saver for me , it has allowed me to continue weaving.

[@KellyCasanova]

Yes, the AVL looms are allowing a lot of weavers to keep doing what they love, it's a wonderful thing ❤

[@sueheathcote8859]

Thank you for your honesty and courage speaking to us openly about your health issues and with such sensible advice . Kelly, I like you the way you are - (more like me, down to earth, wearing comfortable clothes, (bare foot), not made up) Weaving is not solely your life, you also have a lovely caring husband and family, and now a grandchild to care about, and other interests in life. Thank you for all you are able to do and to pass onto us. God bless you.

[@KellyCasanova]

Thank you Sue. First and foremost my desire is to be a servant of God, everything else stems from that. I don't like to have the focus on me and I hope I don't come across that way, I just want to be a help to others and make a difference in someone's day 🥰

[@moonbasket]

Thank you for sharing. I am a disabled knitter. ❤

[@patshipp9195]

Thank you for sharing what so many others are also going through. It's tough when things aren't right and it helps to know your not alone. 💖👍🙏🙏🙏👍💖

[@mar1nka.]

Kelly, I really truly appreciate you being open about this. I have a chronic illness and battle terrible fatigue as a result myself. Up and down days are so real. I got into knitting because I needed lap crafts. I want to get deeper into weaving so your input here is truly valued. We have to find joy and purpose in activities we love because living with autoimmune disease is just so mentally taxing. Thank you for being an honest, real voice in a heavily made-up Instagram world.

[@KellyCasanova]

It's great that the more I talk about it, the more I find others going through the same thing and we can all be a support to each other 🥰

[@mar1nka.]

@KellyCasanova I agree. There are so many of us out there with invisible illnesses. BTW, my mother has Hashimotos, too. (I was blessed with one of her other two autoimmune conditions.)

[@conniesimonich2327]

Great info. I have osteo-arthritis which affects my back and hands. I enjoy a variety of fiber crafts, especially weaving. I’ve felt the guilt of not being very productive when I have a flare up, so your video on chronic illness was very helpful. Thank you

[@moss1170]

This is such a beautiful and important video. It is filled with wisdom and kindness to all human beings, Weavers and non-Weavers. I especially liked the idea of the “downtime“ as regenerative and exploratory as much as possible. I, too, agree that the table loom took a whole lot more effort and stress on my hands. I am very happy with my new Louet Spring II.

[@KellyCasanova]

I'm glad to hear you have a loom that works well for you 🥰

[@robinheggeland1445]

Thank you for your courage and honesty. I have learned so much from you over the years, especially rigid heddle weaving. I jumped into the deep end right off the bat and purchased a Glimakra Standard countermarch loom when I was just starting out. I needed to go back to school when I bought my rigid heddle loom and your you tube videos were so incredibly helpful! I don't have a physical disability, (aside from old age), but I am a trauma survivor and there are days when I just have to shut out the world and hibernate while I get my mind back in order. I have had to put my spinning and weaving on hold during these times. Having this conversation is not only important, it's validating for those of us who have to step back from life for a while every now and then. Thanks again.

[@KellyCasanova]

🥰

[@KorenaiAcorn]

Hi Kelly. It's always a pleasure to watch your videos! I myself never used makeup, except for a couple of times for weddings. I just like to keep it clean and tidy, and wear comfortable clothes. I also think makeup gets so expensive and I usually just do my nails (something I didn't do for a long time and am back to it). I used to be really fit, because I had a physically demanding job and I also did workout and yoga. Then my job after that started to get bad for many reasons, sadly not just for myself. Basically, I burned out, got a mental breakdown, had to be on medication, etc, and all that made me put on 20kg. My mental health was all over the place. While all of this was going on, I got interested in weaving. I already knew crochet and knitting, so weaving felt like a natural next step for me. I loved it! I could only do very little, but the little I did helped me through hard times. And Kelly, your videos were and still are the ones I watch the most. Your lessons helped me so much and not just for weaving. I am still weaving and am again on another break, literally. But I still weave, have ideas and now that I have a bit more energy in my life, I also decided I could try playing my acoustic guitar again. I do intend to make weaving my income maker, even though I am only learnign through watching others and not having any official training: and help with the bills in the household again. Has been 3 years of recovering, but I know I can do it. After all, I am still here, we are all still here, and everything will be ok. Slow and steady wins the race, does it not?

[@WedittsPlaythings]

ThankyouThankyouThankyou. Some of us struggle and it is nice to see others not so polished, though I would wish good health for everyone.

[@SweaterWeatherPodcast]

I wasn’t a subscriber. KZbin suggested your video and after watching a few minutes I immediately subscribed. As a creative person who suffers with chronic illness I so appreciated you showing up as you are and having a frank discussion about your challenges and how you have managed and overcome. ❤ I I really needed to hear this today.

[@KellyCasanova]

Hi, welcome, I'm glad you found my channel 🥰

[@jefferystube]

Thanks for posting this. I have me/cfs, fibromyalgia and ulcerative colitis. I don't work but I try to keep creative and be as active as I can in my weaving guild. I agree with you on the table loom difficulty. I find my floor loom easier. I have an older loom called a Burnham loom that was probably made in the 50s. The loom was designed for occupational therapy. It looks like the same jack system as the loom behind you, with the lamms up top. So much easier to treadle (and hold it down) than my leclerc.

[@jeanlee1911]

thank you. I have chronic illnesses (Fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis and chronic pain) and it is hard to watch some crafters that make it seam you have to be in perfect health to be able to do that craft. it may take me 2 to 3 days to warp my rigid heddle loom ( its a cricket table top rigid heddle loom) (im having to relearn now that i have my own loom), but i get it done. i also do paper crafting.

[@cynthiadolan6753]

Thank you for putting yourself out there. This is real life!! Hugs to you!

[@PamelaVipond]

Thank you for being real.

[@sheilaadams3260]

Thank you Kelly. I am watching this at a time in my life when I need it. I have had to come to realize that physical limitations are dictating that weaving with a string heddle is not something that I can do without pain. I was feeling sad about that and then did a mind shift and thought about all I can do with multiple fixed heddles and a pick up stick. I so wanted to do herringbone and other fancy patterns, but am going to focus on more complex pick ups and variations on plain weave. This video is so very timely and I totally appreciate it.

[@KellyCasanova]

It's never over, but sometimes it has to change 😊

[@midwifelife]

Thank you Kelly xxx I've followed you for years now and love how "real" you are xxx I have ME/CFS and having an awful flare after years of remission. I feel so utterly useless and like there's no point carrying on, but figured I might try weaving again after a year or so break from it, so came to find you for a refresher and found this video and it's helped me so much xxx I'm still very scared as I might lose my job, but you've soothed my mind xxx

[@KellyCasanova]

Sorry to hear that, do you know if there was a trigger that brought on the flare? I understand how discouraged you must feel after years of remission! I always find it important to remember, when you're feeling your worst "I have felt well before and I will feel well again, this is just a blip I have to get through".

[@itoshigoto]

Thank you for the good food for thoughts. I am young and healthy at this moment, but I worry sometimes if I will be able to continue doing what I love in a long run. This kind of talk gives me hope and also reminds me to take time, take good care of ourselves in order to continue what we love to do. You might know Japanese loom maker Saori makes all sorts of attachments and options for weavers with disabilities. For example, they can fit wheel chairs under the loom, or throw shuttle with one hand and the attachment catches it on the other side. Knowing these kind of possibilities gave me confidence that we can make it work if we desire to. ❤

[@KellyCasanova]

Yes, Saori looms are a great option 😊

[@vandoo9098]

Thank you for being real. I will watch you more often. x

[@glendasimmonds6538]

Thanks Kelly, great video. I learnt to do long draw spinning on weekend at QLD spinners and weavers open day. Can now sit back almost recline and use my espinner. Great for days when my CFS and FMS is bad. Thank you for all your work and support

[@1BigDoodle]

Thank you for sharing your authentic self today and giving me the confidence to do the same. I continue to appreciate your kindness and creativity while sharing your utube videos. ❤

[@sarahstephens268]

Thank you for this video Kelly. It is a good reminder to listen to our bodies and that is is perfectly okay to rest when necessary. I actually took up weaving because I was struggling to enjoy my crocheting and knitting. Crocheting and knitting was aggravating the joints in my hands. I watched a bunch of videos on YT (many of them yours) about weaving and decided to give it a try. It is much easier on my hands because with each pick I am fully opening and closing my hands as I pass the shuttle and beat. As opposed to crochet/knit where my hands tend to stay in a rather locked in position with very small movements.

[@heidibenn]

Thanks for sharing and encouraging people. I like playing with weaving software on my ipad when I’m tired and not up to doing a lot. Take care.

[@KellyCasanova]

Thanks Heidi, you too!

[@gadgetgirlish]

🥰. Hello Kelly, thank you very much for this video that you have shared with us all. it actually truly means a lot as I suffer with a chronic illness and find it difficult to find people that will understand that you just not always able to do the things that you would like to do. I’m sorry that you are suffering in your own way, And I wish nothing but the best for you🙏🏼🙏🏼🌺🌸🌼 I will keep trying as best as I can, but now I know that there are people that I can go to now and ask for help like you said with our Weaving with no severe judgement. Please take the greatest Care always, and thank you again.🙏🏼🙏🏼💞

[@MaryG-hy4qo]

So glad you're real. I love to hear how we all cope. I began 40 years ago but haven't done much til 2 years ago. I'm 76, living in Seattle, just trying to use treddles! on my 2nd project, this one 22 'stitch' to pattern. So I'm really slow, but I'm learning and doing all I can as I can. I do love every minute I allow myself to weave. You're 47, that's young, but not feeling well, not being strong limits you. Not being happy limits you. Life, limits you!!! Best Wishes

[@moonbasket]

I have chronic fatigue and knitting is really what keeps me going. Because it is so low energy, for the most part, I can knit nearly every day. My problem at the moment is managing my hands. Its hard to do the exercises that keep my hands in good health, but if I hurt them, then I can not knit and knitting is how I spend the majority of my time.

[@KellyCasanova]

Yes, it's a difficult balance. I mostly do not hand knit anymore due to repetitive pain in my shoulder, weaving has been great in that regard because it's not so focused on using particular parts of your body.

[@moonbasket]

@@KellyCasanova I would love to weave, but I haven't found a loom that works for me. I have muscle weakness and a tiny apartment. ❤️

[@beckyshook3526]

I have fibromyalgia so lots of pain and bad days and less bad days are with me constantly some bad days are so bad can't even read a book when I have those I still can think and dream of what I want to do. I am like you mentioned in a video I enjoy the process I use to be go go go get it done go go go.....now I just take my time I make it a goal to not put pressure on me to get something done....i love to learn. My sister gave me the floor loom she restored and knowing I have fibro made sure to put those texsolv heddles so they would be easier to treadle.....i do a wide variety of things so if I am not up for a thing today I might be able to do another. I have to rest each day so I plan on watching podcasts while I rest. When I tell someone who just gets diagnosed I say to them you get ten marbles a day you cannot have more you have to stay with the ten if getting up and ready for the day takes two marbles you only have eight left when you use all ten you are done for that day like out of batteries done. We have to be kind to ourselves....try to have easy meal preps on hand for the bad days try to double the ingredients for a casserole and freeze one for a bad day. If you can only weave a few rows that is ok touch it admire it each time you go by it. We are still creative we are still of great worth try to be understanding of those who can't see your illness until you have it you can't understand and that is ok our life is now at a different pace now we can smell the roses.

[@KellyCasanova]

I like the marbles analogy, it's a positive way of looking at it. You can get things done but you have to prioritise what those things are going to be 🥰

[@rainicornsparklecake2755]

Thanks so much for talking about this, it makes me feel really seen and understood. I took up weaving only a month ago because my rheumatoid arthritis has gotten to the point where I can’t crochet anymore. I got on for years adapting my tools and pacing myself, but sometimes it’s time to move on to something else that better suits our abilities. I’m only 26, so I hopefully have a lot years of fibre art left in me. I really took the time to research what type of loom would be easiest on my body because I realised that truly the main thing that was important was choosing something that would be sustainable for me. I ended up getting an Ashford sample it loom because of being able to sit up in bed and weave. Do I need help to warp it? Absolutely. Does it take me a week to make a scarf because I need to work around my illness? Yep, sure does. But I am totally happy with it because it suits MY needs. I know a lot of people wouldn’t be satisfied with such a small and basic loom though. Being creative is good for the soul but we have to find ways to express it that is good for the body to, and that’s going to vary from person to person and from day to day

[@KellyCasanova]

I'm so glad you're finding your Sampleit manageable, it's a great little loom and you can do a lot with it 🥰

[@hersheyroden1302]

not ever watched u b4. U AWSOME. Few people want to be honest.. from the southwest part of Missouri usa

[@KellyCasanova]

Welcome!

[@wevrldy]

Thank you so much for talking about this very important topic. I have an autoimmune disease that affects my day to day functioning. Some days not so much, other days very much. I have given up my floor loom, which was a very difficult decision. I now use a table loom and am doing more spinning.some days I do none of my fiber arts activities. I’m also in the process of working on a tapestry loom. Take good care.

[@KellyCasanova]

I'm sorry you had to give up your floor loom but glad to hear you have found other ways to continue in the fibre arts 🥰

[@suzisaintjames]

My hesitation in getting an expensive loom is that I think you have to sit up/forward over the weaving. On bad days I prefer to be more reclining. 💖🌞🌵😷

[@KellyCasanova]

True, that is definitely something to consider.

[@debbieeberle4568]

Thank you for sharing 😊

[@Wildmoonweaver]

Hello Kelly Thank you for sharing this. I was a nurse and loved my job but last year it all got too much for me. I have started my own channel now as weaving has always been my thing but I never had the time to do lots. Now I have time but my chronic illnesses still Limit me. At first I did nothing but cry and feel a failure. I do Saori weaving mostly as this is forgiving in so many ways… it helps me de stress, it helps me accepts accidents as beautiful parts of my weaving. The looms are light and can be adapted. Chronic illness robbed me of my career but now I hope to make weaving my career and adapt to my illness better. Thank you for showing yourself and being a voice for others x

[@KellyCasanova]

Nursing is such a demanding job. It's great that you've started your own channel, it's looking great (and you have a new subscriber 😉)

[@Wildmoonweaver]

@@KellyCasanova thank you so much. I love your channel .. x

[@midwifelife]

I'm a midwife and facing maybe having to leave - I'm so distressed by it, I'd been in remission so long, but where there's life there's hope I guess xxx I hope your channel does really well

[@IssahFatima-si7ve]

Thank you 🙏

[@kimdegener3854]

I'm so grateful that you make videos like this. I was diagnosed with MS a few years ago, and I'm fortunate that it's a mild case and not much of a problem, but when I had my first flare, my first thoughts were, what will I do if I can't knit and spin and weave. It's good to see the community talking about this and helping one another succeed.

[@scott5456]

Glad to have found you again. I'm sorry to see you slowed down. I have Multiple Myeloma. It has definitely taken the wind out of my sails. Going to give my Rigid Heddle loom & yarn to my friend. There is no room for my hobbies where I'm going I'll tell her about you. I've appreciated you and your teachings and will continue to watch and learn. Living vicariously as long as possible. ❤

[@KellyCasanova]

I'm very sorry. If you need to talk at anytime my email is [e-mail]. I'm a good listener 😊

[@treetop2437]

Would not mind a once a month off day video to reinforce I don’t need to push myself through chronic illness.

[@BeaNauheimer]

Dear Kelly, thank you so much for that video and your kind words. I" do not really struggle with physical illness , but I 'm struggeling with sentences from my childhood like : you are not good enough - what do you want to do with that - and this is sometimes hard to fight against. I love to weave but to start with a new project costs sometimes a lot of energy. And then I feel very bad that I did not weave for days or weeks. Wish you all the best and more good days then bad days.

[@KellyCasanova]

Something that has helped me to get past childhood negativity and put it in perspective is the realisation that someone making a negative/hurtful statement is all about that person and nothing to do with me. I know how hurtful words can be but most of the time they come from someone who is perpetuating their own hurts. They are often being reactive rather than thinking through the implications of their words. What you have to try to do is forgive those who have hurt you (hard to do, but it's powerful!) and rise above the words that were directed at you but ARE NOT YOU! 🥰

[@gaibutler3254]

Thank you for keeping it real Kelly. My bad days are frequent with chronic conditions of lupus, fibromyalgia, asthma, arthritis & COPD so I frequently use work-arounds for weaving. I have rigid heddle looms, so if a warp is very short I can sit and use the direct warping method, but for a longer warp I need to use a warping board. My husband made my warping board and a fold-away easel to rest it on, all at the perfect height and reach for me to sit to wind a warp. I thread the heddles by sitting them in a stand on a table so they are close to me, and then the warp and heddle can then be transferred to the loom while remaining seated. Last year I couldn’t weave or do anything for 6 months due to a bad chest infection, then it still took a further 6 months to slowly get better. Though I finally feel back to where I was before that illness, I’m finding it very hard to get back into weaving…. I really want to weave but it just isn’t happening. I did pick up a pin loom in January and have been making 4” x 4” squares like a crazy person, but the projects on my RH looms are crying out to be finished. I think I’m good to go, but then put up a road block. I think I’ve lost my weaving confidence and am struggling to get it back….and I’m missing Kelly’s weaving community too. Maybe tomorrow….

[@KellyCasanova]

I knew you were going through a rough patch, I don't see you in the group much anymore, though I know you try. Maybe the unfinished projects are part of the problem, they maybe feel like a burden? So it was easier to do the squares because it's something fresh and fast to finish.

[@gaibutler3254]

@@KellyCasanova, though this hadn’t occurred to me, there is most likely some element of this mixed in with the things I mentioned elsewhere. You have really got me thinking Kelly, and I appreciate your insights - they could be just just the catalyst needed to help me over the invisible barrier.

[@JanetGardner-i7t]

Thank you for sharing. I also struggle with chronic illness. I have rheumatoid arthritis and sometimes my hands are affected so I have to take a break from weaving. Those are the times I read weaving books or watch you tube videos on weaving.

[@WedittsPlaythings]

Dorset buttons are my quiet-time go-to; sort of a tiny weaving project.

[@KellyCasanova]

I haven't made one of those for ages, love them!

[@howlingwind1937]

My mum got a 24 shaft louet computer assist doby, mum loves it and is still enjoying weaving and she'll be 90 this year and she's still weaving. When you're ready to transition to a doby loom, look into thread collective in Queensland, the lady there was brilliant when mum was thinking of getting hers and it was shipped free to Tasmania! It was easy for mum and Me to set it up for her, I did the grunt work 😁😁 and it was also cheaper than another place in sydney. Hope you're feeling stronger again I understand what it's like living with pain. Cheers from Tasmania!

[@KellyCasanova]

That is so awesome that your mum is still happily weaving ❤️ I know Nicky at Thread Collective, she is great 😊

[@howlingwind1937]

@@KellyCasanova yes mum is very good she even designs her own patterns on the computer. Nicky was fabulous always keeping mum updated with emails etc and she gave a very good price and we were amazed that she didn't charge for delivery to Tassy, and she took care of all the import duty stuff, it would've been factored into the price but it was still cheaper than getting it from the lady in Sydney. Feel well soon. Cheers from Tassy!

[@CheapEngineerCrafts]

Thank you for these insights. I have more to consider before purchasing a loom

[@bon47ful]

Thank you. God bless. 🫶🏼

[@KellyCasanova]

You too!

[@hersheyroden1302]

I have been thinking about getti g a ride loom . And selling g my floor loom. I see your loom looks awsome

[@nancynurse7803]

Thank you so much.

[@KellyCasanova]

You're welcome!

[@nancynurse7803]

@@KellyCasanova I have a chronic illness that slows me why down. What you said helps me not to feel so guilty with how long it takes to get a project done

[@KellyCasanova]

@@nancynurse7803 No way, guilt shouldn't even be a factor when it's something that is out of your control. Focus on your little wins, not just finishing a project but some days it will just be gratitude that you were able to work on a project at all (and yes, 5 minutes absolutely counts!)

[@peterivkovich2314]

from Gerry- As I open up you-tube each day I will try to remember to pray for you to have less bad days and many days to rejoice in what you are able to do. God bless.

[@KellyCasanova]

Thank you so much 🥰🙏

[@taraligon8201]

THANK YOU FOR THIS!

[@cindyfrye3026]

We do our best every day. Our best is not the same every day. That's okay.❤😊😊

[@amandag5072]

Thank you for sharing this video. I'm 43 and have SI joint issues which can leave me in a lot of pain. I currently only have a 40cm Sample-it loom, but I do want to upgrade. I'm looking at the Louet David 3. You have the 90cm David, what made you decide on that width? I'm perhaps looking at the 110cm as I would like to weave blankets. Would the wider width be much different in terms of managing it with back/hip issues?

[@KellyCasanova]

I decided on the smaller width because when I bought the loom I didn't have a studio or loom room, just a very small space to fit into. I also had a tight budget and the 90cm was cheaper. If I had my time again I would have gone with the 110cm. I can't say that "yes, for sure" you would be fine with the 110, but I know for myself it would be ok. I mostly weave on 4 shafts, so the treadles are all very easy to reach. I can get sore if I'm using all 10 treadles and have to reach with my feet repeatedly, but that is hardly ever the case and even then, I find it do-able as long as I don't sit and weave for too long in one session.

[@hersheyroden1302]

What is the shawl that ur wearing called it neat...I want one

[@KellyCasanova]

I made it on my knitting machine 🥰

[@hersheyroden1302]

@@KellyCasanova do you sell them?

[@KellyCasanova]

@@hersheyroden1302 Not usually, I do sell a pattern for them though. Occasionally I will sell one, when I have time to knit one!

[@hersheyroden1302]

@@KellyCasanova thank u. I do t have a knitting machine. And I don't knit.

[@1956HBS]

You look lovely

[@lizkimber]

As you point out, no ones life is as perfect as people often make out on the internet.. Its fake and means, especially younger people, expect life to be like that. Its like how on tv, good always conquers evil, or how the mailboy is spotted and becomes CEO overnight.. this isnt true, the world needs some reality..