weird sh*t people have said to me about my knitting | knit & chat

[@pseudoeternity5202]

The "Why didn't you just buy it?" to me sounds so much like "I don't have hobbies or appreciation for arts & crafts" or "I am jealous of what you can do with your hands"?? Definitely uncomfortable!

[@RachelCunningham-ut9ks]

I say "it's fun" lol

[@victoriazip]

From certain members of my family I’m used to get comments like: “I could never spend so much time doing something like that, I don’t know how you do it, I would get bored”. And I really hate it because they are telling me that my hobby is boring, why would you tell somebody that something that they love is boring?

[@Bookupied]

That’s so rude! I’m sorry

[@adelinedumas7801]

I always get that comment, too. Especially from my mom. "You have so much patience" 😩

[@Atheyani]

Interesting, I get this comment as well and never thought of it as a way of saying my hobby is boring. There is a beauty in dedicating so much time to something that you could easily purchased ready-made. There is a beauty in that patience and in finding value in such simple things. And it doesn’t even have to be simple! Colorwork, intricate lace patterns, modifying or designing a pattern … Even ‘stockinette hell’ is complex in its own way because without it, your garnement will have no value and wouldn’t be wearable so you have to go through those hours of labour in order for your project to have a sense and a purpose. The complexity lays in the discipline and dedication you need to achieve it. I also find it very meditative, some people need to be overstimulated constantly and seeing someone doing this one simple movement over and over again is simply impossible for them to understand. When I hear this comment, I usually am flattered, because what I hear is ´I don’t have whatever you have to see the beauty in this practice.’ To me it’s a compliment, i feel like they’re seeing that it takes endurance, patience, resilience, discipline, precision and whatever quality is required for this. We love what we do so we don’t necessarily perceive it this way, other people are here to remind you that it is in fact quite extraordinary. That’s why I like receiving this comment, I hope that by giving my point of view it will maybe bring more peace to your experience :)

[@birdladyWanda]

Many people I processed and spun dog hair for at no cost -- it would have been so nice to get a picture of what they made with that custom made yarn. ..those ppl that said that to you.. ingrates. Hope your day goes well. That top you’re working on is very nice!

[@ivettabauman]

Also got to hear that I have amazing patience. I get this as a compliment:)

[@jasminesanchez4118]

Worst interaction: finding out that “friends” of mine were upset that I was ACTUALLY crafting at our Craft Night while they were venting about their problems. I was listening as I always am. I wasn’t saying anything in response because I had learned from previous times they vented about their partners or work that they don’t like to hear that I think they are the jerk in the situation. Best interaction: a newer friend invited me to a little party and i overheard a girl say something about knitting and i instantly lit up. The girl realized i was a knitter too and was wearing a hand knit vest and asked if it was okay if she looked at it (like really inspected it) She was impressed with my even stitches lol. Found out she owns an alpaca!

[@BoingdeGuanabana]

Omg she owns an alpaca?! Haha that must have been an amazing interaction.

[@jasminesanchez4118]

@@BoingdeGuanabana she was awesome. She showed us pictures. She boards it at an alpaca farm and made it seem like its not as hard as you would think to own one lol

[@futurefiber]

ok even stitches is the greatest complement that could be given to a knitter imoo

[@KnitsByNayla]

Mad at crafting during craft night is delusional 😅 I need an alpaca owning friend lol

[@emeraldmurphy8272]

This is your Auntie Em (the ancient radical feminist) speaking: you're very young and way too nice. (1) to the person who asked "Am I boring you?" The correct answer, delivered with a delighted smile, is "No." period. you don't owe her any explanations. Her insecurity is not your problem. (2) to the woman who questions why you make things is it because you can't afford them, etc. - that's really passive-aggressive. Correct response is to the effect, you poor thing, don't you have any practical skills like knitting or sewing? I'd be pleased to give you a list of instructors. And once you start mastering a craft, we can discuss the bloomsbury group and the evolution of the modern craft phenomenon. She's jealous and rather stupid, poor thing. Take heart, dear niece - you're on the right path. Trust in your skills and safeguard your kind heart.

[@futurefiber]

💕 i read this comment last night and i thought about it all day, thank you!

[@KarenStrickholm]

Amen to all of this from me, a woman entering and claiming her own crone stage: Our advisor here is 100% correct, IMHO! These immature women both seem unduly hostile, IMHO. It is highly inappropriate socially, too. Unacceptable in business, among friends and family as well. Just NO! I sense it still bothers you. Otherwise, why would you even be talking about it, probably? It would bother me too. I'm so sorry this happened. Good thing you have a bright shining spirit that can flick away those energy vampires by just noticing them. When I finish being mad at them when that happens to me, I usually get to a place where I simply feel sorry for them, I start reflecting on why they are that way. Because it's about the knitting, and it's also not about the knitting. Ya know? 😊 Anyway, thank you for providing this opportunity to share these rambling thoughts. Xoxox

[@HungryOrca]

I am a better listener when my hands are busy, either knitting or doodling or obsessive note taking. I recently joined a weekly knitting group and it has honestly been healing to spend time with people who also find joy in something that is so meaningful to my life.

[@charlottecaywood1099]

I think the core of that “why would you make things” comment that got you heated (got me heated too) is that it’s a gut punch when people point out a virtue that you’ve diligently nurtured in yourself and act like it’s a fault. “You should fix that about yourself” And you’re like whoa that’s what I’m most proud of. It’s an intense feeling of “you really don’t know me do you”.

[@nysaea]

I had never thought of it that way but you're spot on!

[@florencel5816]

I really really related to the video. My take is: If scrolling is ok, then knitting is ok. Once I learned to knit, I took it everywhere with me and have been getting colourful comments since 2014

[@juliannebell4342]

Oooh I have a good one. Once a stranger asked me on public transit who I was knitting for, and when I said myself, he said “oh you’re selfish” 🙃🙃🙃

[@femmeknitted]

Whenever people are like "why did you spend so much time doing that?" I'm immediately like ???? it's my hobby?? i like doing it?????

[@erayeda.t]

The "poor people behavior" attitude is especially weird because I percieve the trendiest thing right now is being sustainable 🌱

[@jkobis]

My Mother in law is a covert narcissist. The first time I took out my knitting in her presence, she said the same thing your friend did. "Am I boring you"? She had to be the center of attention at all times. My knitting took the focus off of her. I always made sure that I knit in her presence. She never failed to make snarky remarks about my knitting. When she was sick and in the hospital, I sat by her side and knit. She smiled at me when I knit so go figure. You are too nice. I would have said something to any of my friends who dared to comment on my knitting. I am retired so all of my friends knit. Great video.

[@liviaa9616]

Sewing or knitting things is no longer poor people behaviour! Source: my yarn and fabric stash!

[@Jenn-98]

Crafting is about the “doing”. Non crafters don’t understand the learning we do, the care we put into things, the ripping out and redoing because we messed up, and least of all the cost of what we do. I find there are 2 types of people that will ask you questions - those who truly are interested in what you are working on and appreciate the art if it and the second is the type of person who has no idea what goes into it and simply cannot comprehend why you do it. I am a knitter and generally only knit for myself because I don’t think others would have a true appreciation for the work involved and not take care of the item to make it last and continue looking nice. Keep doing what you are doing and enjoying it. You do not have to justify yourself to anyone who is coming at you from a negative stance.

[@LeeKnits]

"I don't even knit brioche for myself!" I was dying. Great episode!

[@lsdev4229]

Great conversation Jenny...i had a retail manager ask me to knit me a Gansey sweater for him affter he seen the one i made for myself. He said money wasn't an issue...well knitting a GANSEY sweater for someone i didnt really know was an issue for me. I only knit for knitworthy people. I just knitted an allover cable sweater for my Sister after 20 yrs of knitting. I think most people that say these negative things to us feel inadequate and envious because they have failed at making. 🥰🇨🇦Sharon.

[@Noel.Chmielowiec]

I think the most annoying thing I heard about making clothes was 'you have time for it, I don't'. I'm disabled and can't work, so yeah, maybe I have time, but I also have few illnesses that kinda make me not feel the greatest.. And it was from a person whose only hobby is online shopping on cheap websites and watching Netflix (and I'm not mean, she really does only those two things for fun), like girl, you have time, you just don't want to have it. I get if she said 'I don't like it', 'I'm not interested in it', anything but this. Kinda trying to be nice, but also kinda weird, I was waiting at doctor's office knitting one time and there was this older lady who looked at me and with utter disbelief said 'oh my god, I though you kids don't knit, it's so nice to see some of you do it and not be on your phones!' and I was thinking like what? It's my grandma who's basically glued to her phone because she's constantly writing texts to her friends or posting on Facebook, I'm not, that's first thing, second thing, I might look like a kid but I'll be 30 next year 😂 But truly the funniest thing was when I went to buy thread because I've run out in middle of a skirt, I took it to check if it's right colour and the shop also did some tailoring, the lady who did the tailoring came, asked if I sew the skirt myself, I said yes, and the one I'm wearing too, she inspected the one I was sewing and she offered me a job 😂 If I could consistently go to work I would say yes 😂

[@verylikecheryl]

‘Poor people behaviour?’ Yukk. That’s an impoverished point of view. Sometimes the ‘why would you’ question is less loaded, I think. My friend asked ‘Why would you knit socks when you can just buy them?’ In his case, I think he was genuinely interested in my motivation. He’s a really pragmatic, efficient sort of person and he was trying to get his head round an approach to clothing that was entirely alien to him. I told him I got joy from the making, I could make something unique to me in exactly my size and that I love my hand made socks and think they are beautiful. He was still bemused 😂😂😂. We’re just different. I still love him.

[@mannliie]

the "if you don't have anything nice to comment, then don't" is so real! and for the longest time i did not make any comments on social midia because it felt so weird to me but when i started on fiber art/crafty comunity i genuinely always want to leave a little nice comment on the post like saying "i see your effort, you did well"

[@nytreecx]

You can tell when someone isn't creative, because they don't understand that the making of the thing is part of the joy, not just having something nice at the end. Creating (and maintaining) something is an intimate experience; I think I personally would feel so hollow without it in my life.

[@valeriebellecats8939]

I knit a cardigan that a friend chose the pattern and colorfir. When i gave it to her she said "eeww its red" (she chose the color!) and she did not want it. I was so annoyed and wouldn't ever make her anything again.

[@jasminesanchez4118]

Sheesh. Dont even be friends with someone like that

[@BoingdeGuanabana]

That is so sad, knitting for someone else is joyful and it hurts when someone acts disgusted with something you knitted. Red is a beautiful color.

[@KnitsByNayla]

My jaw just dropped 😢

[@nysaea]

that's 100% a friendship breaker for me, wtf...

[@lillianbarker4292]

A few months ago I was in Mexico at an art workshop. One afternoon some of the artists started talking about a local fabric shop. I was stunned. I thought, “ I’ve found my people!” I just love to make things. Thank you for this discussion.

[@lenoreball8798]

Love this episode! You are definitely a kinesthetic learner. I am also kinesthetic, and was also a fidgety day dreamer in school. I have taught many kinesthetic adults, and in my humble opinion, knitting (or any needlework craft) is a great hobby for any kinesthetic learner. I can't imagine why anyone would value fast fashion over a hand made garment. I think that sometimes people who have not been exposed to crafts in their families do not understand the value and joy crafting can give. Thanks Jenny.

[@johannabliss5406]

When I knit at a doctor's office or whatever, I tell people it's because I don't wait well and this keeps me patient :) I once made a crocheted christening dress for a close friend's baby in size 10 cotton. It was beautiful....even if I do say so She was vefy worthy. She did love it and the baby did wear it for his christening.

[@bc-ie1pr]

Girl, forget opinions, criticism, and assumptions. We all have them. Enjoy your craft, the creative satisfaction it gives you, and the feeling of accomplishment!!! I do! ❤

[@KimClinger]

One of my favorite responses I like to give when people ask me if I could make something for them is, “Yes I Could…. But you couldn’t afford it.” Or I’ll say “people tell me that you can buy one for $10 at Target”. So many opinions out there…but none matter except your own! It was fun watching you knit, you look so relaxed, Right? BTWs I watch you on my TV KZbin and usually don’t comment because I can’t on my TV. This time I looked up the video on my iPad and commented. Now I have to go back to my tutorial on YT that I was keeping my eye on while watching your podcast. ADHD and ridiculous multitasking don’t just go away as you get older. Hold onto your coping mechanisms aka knitting! ❤

[@wwirelesswwizard]

6:25 I’m neurospicy (Autism & ADHD), so I like doing things like knitting to stim. I hate it when people assume that I’m “just bored”; I literally bring my knitting to the movie theater and knot while enjoying the movie. I also knit during staff meetings at work & at my volunteer group meetings. And yes, knitting helps me pay attention!

[@jungwonsgarden4574]

It kinda irks me when I'm knitting in public (always socks) with headphones on and someone asks me if I'm knitting a scarf. Clearly I don't want to talk to anyone, and it's obviously not a scarf; use your eyes perhaps ???? Or when someone makes a comment about how they could never knit because knitting is super time-consuming, meanwhile they engage in hobbies that are even more time-consuming.

[@RJ-qv8ku]

OH!!! That one kills me!! I asked one twit how many hours she spends scrolling on her phone. She looked at me like I was crazy, like scrolling is a life-giving activity.

[@Shetooktothewoods]

I once had another sports mom ask me if I was knitting a bikini. No. Two at a time, toe up socks. 😂

[@Red-ql2wr]

@@Shetooktothewoods you should have said: nipple warmer!

[@AmeliaMastervally]

I've only had one bad interaction which was someone asking me why I'd knit (or sew) something I could just buy, which honestly stumped me cause store bought garments are almost always poor quality yarn, very basic designs that I don't even like that much and not super well made? Good interactions would be I knit all my friends birthday and Christmas gifts and they send me photos of them wearing what I made them❤

[@carlafawcett3851]

You are such a hoot! People are weird sometimes. Thrifting is the best. It's the thrill of the hunt !! I love seeing your makes, your thrifted items, everything : )

[@VioletGreen-v5s]

I started knitting few months ago but I was creative person my whole life, and I was sweing a lot too, ever since highschool, making custom bags and other things. These people who comments why not buy it and all that similair things you mentioned, also happened to me to, and actually, I'm like glad it came from their mouth because I now know I don't want to be friends with them in any form, so nice of them to give me heds up so quickly ;D (back then I was unmature though and still tried to be friends with people like that:/) Some people just want you to feel bad about what you do (so their ego will feel better), sometimes they don't have a single hobby and they don't get it but mostly they are just mean but try to cover it up with "I'm just worried about your wrist, or about your time waisted" etc. So don't even let it get to you - they are commenting like that on purpose, in passive negative way. Maybe some also want to chitchat with you and they choose the worst way possible without thinking ;)

[@lucillereczek3201]

I knit actively from middle school onwards and most teachers didn't mind since I kept my grades up and engaged in the class discussions. Though I did have teacher in high school think I would text during class for the first month since I did it under my desk, but was chill when she learned. It helps me focus and do something with my hands.

[@estefanamanrique3317]

So good the subject!!! Some people commented similarly to me... No explanation to such comments! People who doesn't make things cannot understand the fun / interest we get doing our craft! It's not even a question of money.

[@BeshenayaVishnya]

A lot of people, even who knit, have to pay attention to knitting and not something else around like a conversation. So, it seems fair for someone not that familiar with knitting to assume that you’re not interested in the conversation and sending a sign to finish it. TBH I’d find it rude to knit while chatting to someone not extremely close, to me it’s similar to being scrolling though the phone while talking to someone

[@Tracyc5801]

I always doodle in meetings because it is the only way I can pay attention. I did get in trouble for it. Thank goodness people are generally aware of different ways of focusing

[@TwoSeniors]

When asked or queried about my knitting or making things… my short answer is, “I like to make things.” And then I might, might add, “How about you?” Which brings the question back to them causing them to think or even state, “I don’t know how to do this.”

[@thebooknitter]

I am always afraid if I knit while talking with somebody they may think I am not paying attention 😢 people have asked me if it is crochet when I am knitting but just an example of basic questions like that. I love these knit and chats

[@susantrail3507]

I always enjoy your posts, I think you are a lovely, funny person!

[@elleandish]

1. “who are you making this for?” why are you assuming all things are gift knitting? i hate the term “selfish knitting” why induce guilt 2. “you should sell what you make” tired of people thinking monetizing your hobbies is worth all the time and stress

[@Noel.Chmielowiec]

Omg, the second thing is so my mother in law. I love her, but damn, ever new craft I learn should be monetised in her opinion. I made 2 hats and she said I should sell them. I can't even make my own pattern, how am I supposed to sell them 😂

[@Shetooktothewoods]

I totally agree that “selfish knitter” needs to go. Why is it that, because the majority of knitters are women, our labor is meant to benefit someone else as the default and “selfish” when it doesn’t? Monetizing it seems like a offshoot of that, especially because people think the products of our knitting should be sold at less than the cost of materials most of the time. I knit because 1) I enjoy the process and 2) I want the finished garment.

[@nonnasstitchingloungewithr7281]

I can relate to all you've said. I've even had people say weird things when I've been on vacation at the pool when they see me knitting. What difference is it whether I'm knitting or reading a book. At least Knitting I can still talk to people. And I definitely focus more on Zoom when i was knitting.

[@Bookupied]

So many people draw or doodle or even play mobile games for concentration both when I went to uni and now at work, so knitting is valid. I’d rather have someone craft than getting out their phone honestly. I had a boss questioning my knitting and I said it helps me concentrate and keep calm and i have several colleagues who draw to keep their hands busy to concentrate. I have GAD so knitting on the tram is a must and have generated funny conversations but mostly nice ones!

[@peggybo5128]

I had a very nice experience during a train ride. An old man sat opposite me and watched me knitting. I smiled at him and he started talking: Seeing me knitting reminded him of his late wife, she used to knit socks too. So he had expertly recognized that I also had a sock on the needle. We had a very nice chat for the rest of the journey.

[@kimbryan2014]

I have always had people question the validity of crafting/knitting and I have said it is a calming/relaxing way to achieve an end product that lasts way longer than the fast fashion most people buy and also when they want me to make them an item I say you get the "stuff "and I will teach you how....of course the average answer is I do not have the patience....go figure

[@nicolanoller9264]

The fortyish man sitting next to me at the start of a flight said incredulously “Are you knitting a sock? Why on earth would you do that!” I muttered something about the benefit of mindfulness, creativity and wearing nice things. “I travel without any clothes,” he announced, “and just buy what I need when I arrive.” With another three hours next to this guy to come, I figured it best not to pursue a conversation. 🤷‍♀️ I enjoyed your chat - thank you. I find most people to be interested in a positive way.

[@fiberhag]

Ooh!! If someone ever says that to me I'm going to say "I dont travel with clothes either!! I have to knit all mine on the way"

[@nicolanoller9264]

@@fiberhag Dammit. Wish I’d thought of that!

[@mumsbe]

the eventual alien apocalypse is a perfect reason lolll I use that one all the time 😆

[@TwoSeniors]

I knit almost everywhere, but… I knit in church. I think I’m the only one knitting in my church (about 600 people). It helps me focus better. From a psychological point of view … Doing something with our hands, like doodling or knitting, can help us pay attention better because it engages our brains in a way that prevents mind-wandering without overloading our cognitive resources. Cheers to all of us who knit wherever we are. We are likely the “most relaxed” persons around.

[@bigblackdogfiberarts]

Funniest thing that ever happened to me knitting related was killing time before a friend I was visiting got home in Queens, NY. I had no where to be, so I thought I’d pop into a little “taverna” to get a glass of wine, a salad and kill the hour I needed to wait. I put in my order, pulled out my knitting and about 5 minutes later the waitress came back. Seems the owner was offended and told her she needed to make me put away the knitting as this was a “fine dining establishment” (with your choice of wine being red or white - no actual label, just red or white). I was a bit incredulous and thought she was kidding around, but no, absolutely serious and I would make people turn away if they saw someone knitting at a back table in the corner.

[@bigblackdogfiberarts]

Next was my sister’s friend who saw me knitting at a get together, looked down her nose and said in that derisive voice, “How domestic of you.” I laughed out loud and said, “Hardly. It just makes it so I can tolerate people like you for an afternoon.” My sister was not amused. As to why I knit and sew my own clothes, I have since I was 4. Due to my proportions, shopping makes me feel like a freak of nature. Off the rack is never going to fit. “I like my clothes to be of excellent quality, marvelous materials, and perfectly tailored to me. Couture, if you will.” If you glance from their head to their toes and back up again, even with a neutral expression or a little smile on your face while saying it, they’ll get the message and drop the subject. I don’t do passive aggressive often, but if it is dished out, it will be returned.

[@futurefiber]

OMG this story is so insane because i can't think of a single "fine dining 5 star establishment" in queens (and i live here...)

[@bigblackdogfiberarts]

@@futurefiber yep. It definitely wasn’t what anyone would call fine dining. One step above diner, maybe. 10 years ago now, so I suspect it isn’t there anymore because even then the decor was late 70s/early 80s. Was a block off that road that runs under the train tracks, the name of which escapes me. And maybe 2 blocks down from the last station. Taverna was in the name. One of these days I should hop down to see if it is still there. Lol

[@thriftythreader5998]

I try not to respond to rudeness with more rudeness. I don’t want to bring myself self down to their vibration. I usually just smile and say thank you for your concern, or your interest, or whatever. It baffles them. You have such a great laugh, start with that!

[@nata6025]

13:00 I think this says more about the person than it does about you. You knit because you see the value in your work (as all knitters do). The questions from that person definitely shows they have no appreciation for creative hobbies/art.

[@MissSholia]

Oh yeah I used to doodle in my books all the time when I was in class. When I was a kid, my mom was worried about that but one of my teachers reassured her by saying it was my way of listening. Not all the teachers are like that though!!

[@janet_Luv2_Knit]

I always enjoy your podcasts. Thought provoking at times and amusing at other times. Totally agree about being able to focus much better while knitting. Happy knitting 🧶

[@maryburns5040]

Anyone who would make a comment about why would you make that obviously doesn’t understand the many joys hobbies bring… I am so grateful for my love of crafts…and you are adorable 😊

[@SickOfIt19]

Ah,I felt the “are you a grandma” comment. I’m in my mid 30’s and I get this so many times. One guy actually laughed at me saying that I need grey hair to knit so I should just stop knitting until I reach pension age. I asked him to explain to me how is this funny and after seeing that I’m not amused,he stopped.

[@lillianbarker4292]

We have research now that shows that some kids in school do better in lectures if they doodle. I was that way. I was told not to knit in meetings at work because it looked unprofessional, but it actually helped me stay calm and listen better.

[@KarenStrickholm]

PS : Doodling and twitching like shaking your foot are strong indications of intense focus/engagement, and also of being in a creative place. It's a good thing!

[@thriftythreader5998]

You are my knitting hero. Love your attitude towards life.

[@kathiejoseph33]

I heard someone say that knitting is like sex. If I love you, it's free. If I don't, you can't afford it.

[@Shetooktothewoods]

I am totally stealing that.

[@cherrellkirby1495]

Let the judgers judge. You keep enjoying.... the making, and the finished project. Not everyone can create, or appreciate the beauty and peace of creating. You can, and do. That is priceless. 🖤💚🖤

[@suecoles7824]

Thank you Jenny! I thoroughly enjoyed this musing on your knitting adventures/opinions . Having knitted for a long time and I have come to the conclusion that you generally have a crafty mindset to appreciate the pleasure a craft gives you. I have just finished a pair of socks for a friend who I have known for a long time but does not live in the Uk now, I offered to make hum socks not realising that he had size 12-13 feet! 👣 (UK) I don’t know whether he will truly appreciate them but the pleasure will be mine that I made something for him. Suze. 😊

[@kayleejorose]

I also feel that I can pay attention much better if I'm knitting or doing something similar in meetings/classes/etc...but I always feel a little bad about it too. I think it's becoming more normalized now though, so many people in my PhD program bring knitting to seminars! Knitting/sewing as poor person behavior!? Please, I wish. I spend way more money on fabric and yarn than most new things I would buy for worse quality. Not to mention how awful fast fashion is for the environment The most annoying thing someone has said to me has been "can you make me a sweater?? I will buy the yarn!!!" as if 1) that is appropriate compensation for something that will take 50+ hours and 2) they proceed to buy the most ugly annoying to work with yarn ever

[@sparklingeveryday]

I did get the "am I boring you?" comment! also was watching a movie with someone and was asked if I didn't like it, so I asked why and they said they thought that me knitting meant I wanted to do something else and not waste my time for the next 2hours. :))))

[@billiechristine4034]

I've had questions similar to that, but in a theater (nothing blantantly rude, just curious). My husband loves going to the theater, I don't particularly like it because I can't sit still that long with nothing to do. I started working on a scrappy blanket, and it now covers my legs. I call it my movie blanket and it really helps me get through the movie

[@sewlivi]

Something that I hear occasionally is "I don't know how you have the patience". I am not a patient person. It's definitely odd and I never know how to respond. I also tell people I'm a selfish knitter because I always get asked who I'm knitting for. Me! lol One story I can think of that was different from the norm was several years ago when I was living in Korea, I was on the subway knitting along and this older lady came and sat next to me, took my knitting, and started knitting on it. I think she was trying to show me I was doing it "wrong" (I'm an English-style flicker and I think she was doing continental). No words were spoken between us, but I was a little thrown off.

[@nysaea]

omg rude!!!

[@toosilverme]

People can be SO limited in their thinking and automatically apply everything to themselves, instead of being happy for you. Myopic thinking!!!! Not to mention Rude!!!! Gott say you are brave to bring out your knitting in public. I'm working on it, but I usually get so self-conscious I can't enjoy or concentrate, lol!

[@CasualKnitter]

I've had family members slap the crochet out of my hands when I was a teen, as a way to motivate me to have a more productive hobby ( i could only crochet doilies back then)... Fast forward me in my thirties visited a friend that knits, crochets everything for the house, all the clothes and proudly displays them - for me it was a light switch, I am an adult now and I can do the hobbies that I want so I have been knitting and crocheting pretty much non-stop, and I say if its acceptable for people to scroll of their phone its acceptable for me to knit on a sock 😅 Family members constantly ask me how much I make from selling the pieces I make and are shocked when I tell them I don't and change the topic

[@cellotag]

Ooooh I'm kind of with you on the project bags - I have one, but that's all I really need? I have a shitton of tote bags that I'm going to use if I need to, and I have a small makeup bag that is perfect for a sock or hat project so I use that for my "public" knitting. I'm lucky too in that my circle is generally supportive of my "old lady" hobbies 😂 But I'm also not afraid to call out the classist comments my friends make. 😂

[@stockinette_only]

I knit because I can have a 100% wool clothe which i warm. It is hard to come by an affordable woolen item. Tell them this next time they shiver in their acrilic hat!😜 Tell them "Cant you buy a wool hat? I saw this one in cashmere for 300 $!"(exagerating here)

[@billiechristine4034]

This is a big reason for me. I have sensitivities to man-made materials, especially polyester, which feels like everything is made from nowadays. It allows me to have more options in clothing if I can make it with my choice of materials, color, and shape.

[@Shetooktothewoods]

Actually, I’ve seen dead plain wool beanies at Nordstrom for about that price, with no mention of them even being hand knit.

[@terinskyweaver]

A few weeks ago I was wearing a hat and scarf (cos it's winter where I am) and had someone ask 'do you knit?' To which I was slightly taken aback because it had no relevance to the conversation but said 'yes'. They then replied, 'it looks great.' What looks great? Oh the hat that was commercially made and the crocheted scarf. 😂😂😂😂

[@wigglymoose]

the number of loved ones who send me posts about crochet 😅 i don’t have any desire to learn to crochet (any more than is beneficial to knitting) so inside i’m like “i love you but this is the most irrelevant thing to me”

[@magicksecrets]

Cheeto puff here for a chaos and destruction!! Love to hear your gossipy podcast

[@jackiewoodrow3878]

Some comments made to me caused me to be embarrassed or fearful to knit in front of others who are not clearly creative. I was new to home health as a healthcare employee which I was blessed to become for 20 years, not bragging well… maybe. I would try to re-light that desire for those who were use to-be knitters or crocheter’s which my intention was to have them engage in an activity that would spark an interest in something to take up all those lonely hours in their day. One comment that keeps resonating in me was “who taught you to knit? You are doing it wrong!” She held her needle as in pencil style, me: English style. In my world as in any craft there is no right or wrong way!!!! I may not be a fast knitter but am not the slowest, which doesn’t matter because I enjoy what I do and it is my hobby, my de-stressor. Yes it may cost more to make myself but it is the process and the end result which I crave .!😀 If only more people threw themselves into something they enjoy there may be less crotchety humans that we encounter in our lifetime!!! I just found you, love your podcast. Smile people and be HAPPY 🌞 Be creative and proactive ❤

[@cynthiastinson7059]

I am gaining skills for “the alien apocalypse “. 🤪 yep, works for me.

[@Rhobinknits]

I feel grounded when I am knitting too! My focus is better and I am less fidgety. It does not always go well with the person on the other side but I try to explain it before we start talking. I guess for non-knitters it takes a while to be comfortable around someone who keeps their hands busy. But there are always nice ways for them to say it. About the carpel-tunnel comment, if someone close to me brings it up without me talking about it, I ask them for a free wrist massage since they are so concerned 😄 And, AMEN about the project bags!

[@maker5035]

I sew and knit my own clothes including my underwear. I buy thrifted items whether clothing or household goods. I upcycle and reinvent things. I extend the life of my belongings by fixing, repairing or mending things. I take care if my things. I like quality materials and i am a minimalist and an individualist. When someone thinks they’re complimenting me when they tell me my makes look store bought, i know they have no concept of quality or detail - that comment makes me feel trivial. If i want to look like and be like everyone else, i’ll buy it but shopping takes a lot of time and is a huge footprint in our environment.

[@thriftythreader5998]

On the contrary, when I’m told my knitting looks store bought, I see it as a compliment to my knitting ability.

[@esumphrey]

Great content. You’re so real and entertaining. 😂 thanks for sharing your time with us!

[@ekotts144]

lol in the time you did a whole section of a sleeve I did like 3 or 4 *rows* of stockinette 😂 I've just started knitting recently but have been crocheting for 3 or 4 years now

[@louiserossiter4310]

I have a friend who bought me some yarn and a pattern for my birthday and then made it clear she wanted me to use it to knit her the top and it's not like I hadn't told her how many hours knitting a top might take.

[@futurefiber]

omg.............. at that point it's not a gift for you WHAT

[@louiserossiter4310]

@@futurefiber Thank you!!!

[@marygrace7538]

My male friend whom I travel with always enjoys watching me knit. I like to knit when he’s driving the car. When we are riding in a Coach Bus, and the Amtrak train. Also sitting by the river in my favorite Colorado mountain town. So far no snarky people. 😁

[@taylortran4244]

Multiple times I've gotten "What are you making? Who is it for, a child? Oh for yourself? Is it...gonna fit?" First of all, I'm not done yet!! Second of all, who is the knitter here? I know what I'm doing! Who are you to question my ability to make something that's gonna fit me?

[@jhayyleones]

I think its always the people that is asking you to make it for them and then gets dejected with the material & labour cost, followed by "oh i could actually buy something like this in Zara or H&M" or "its just a knitted sweater", etc.I find that when people makes comments about my handmade crafts (whether its positive or negative) I just smile and say cool lmao I try not to let it get to me because at the end of the day, I'm doing it for myself LOL

[@jhayyleones]

And it's not that I dont really mind making stuff for people, dont get me wrong. But I do like to settle some boundaries and compromise on what I can make for people. I just strictly just say one sock is the only thing I can make for them hahaha

[@kateg1227]

I got into knitting because I got sober. It helps me keep my hands busy and it's super meditative. However, there are times when I find myself in a situation where I am the designated driver (for example, at a wine tasting). I don't mind being DD but if ya'll are trying wine, then I'm going knit. What else am I gonna do? Twiddle my thumbs? But apparently it's socially unacceptable. I've been really self conscious of where I take my knitting.

[@bigblackdogfiberarts]

I knit everywhere. I’ve knit (or crocheted or what have you) in classes, theaters, bars, parks, parties, holidays, picnics, cars, trains, planes, while hiking, even through funerals (helps me keep it together). I have done this since I was a kid. My entire extended family and all my friends know this about me. None of them would be offended by my doing it and if they did, they wouldn’t be in my inner circle anymore. If others to whom I have no connection are offended, I don’t care. If they have the temerity to say something, the answer they get will likely offend them even more (do I know you?). I’m not going to sit in the front row doing it. That would be distracting to others and that WOULD be rude. I place myself somewhere quietly to the back where I will be unobtrusive.

[@closurehascomex]

I have a corpo job and I totally bring my simple knitting projects to the office. If they're making go to the office again I will be knitting in my downtime idgaf 💀I'm very efficient at work so I've never had anyone complain about it thankfully!

[@onamissionize]

I can't tell you how many times my work was given to lousy people who did not deserve it. I spent weeks knitting a sweater for a new baby and the mother has never even said thank you although the child wore it constantly.

[@josdantas9739]

You are funny, I like your genuine style

[@amberr2934]

For Christmas gift exchange: it has to cost 25 dollars. It has to have monetary value. Knitting doesn't have any monetary value.(In other words, it needs to have a barcode so they can return it to target after the party)

[@bigblackdogfiberarts]

So hand them the ball band of the single skein of amazing yarn you used to make it. There, barcode and price tag (though I’d love to see them try to return it after). Hahaha

[@polkadada]

I find that certain generations can sometimes have a bad taste in their mouth about handmade things because craft hobbies were a social expectation for them in childhood, and/or because they grew up with "only" handmade clothes as opposed to store-bought. I think this can come out at times as a "chip on their shoulder" and rude comments about how they would never do a given craft. The quality of consumer goods tanking in recent years also is maybe not as apparent to older generations, who may not realize that skillfully handmaking something can be a much better investment in the long run, whereas high-quality, tailored garments were an affordable investment for more people in the past. I also think the need for undivided attention in social gatherings just speaks to how lonely everyday life is. Throughout time people have socialized and collaborated during their day to day labor (like doing laundry and peeling potatoes together). I get why 100% eye contact, undivided attention socializing is like this distilled way of talking to people to make up for the lack of chatting and friendship in the day-to-day, but it does make me sad.

[@ClayCraftCoffee]

On the PATH so not the MTA but still a train! One time i was knitting a sock and this woman came and told me about how her daughter? (I think) lost all hand function in an accident so wouldn’t do something like sock knitting. And I was just like uhhhhhh 😟

[@god_7594]

It annoys me so much when those who don't knit/crochet see me pull out my yarn and pull the "someone's bored/someone's being antisocial 🙄" while I am fully in the conversation. Especially when they have just been scrolling on their phone for the last half hour. Like, how is it different??

[@TheramblinRose-11ily]

It's a creative outlet. I have been knitting since I was six, so for 61 years. I can't sit without doing something with my hands.

[@dianepothier3078]

We all know people who, whether it be where you live, your social status, the job you have, what you wear or your hobbies, are always going to be critical and believe they are better by making you feel less than; I believe it is because they are either jealous or have low self-Esteem. That is there problem - NOT YOURS You do what brings you joy and it’s no o es business to judge.

[@carrotlover7763]

I knit in public everywhere, including restaurants. I wouldn’t take my knitting with me to an expensive restaurant, that is my personal comfort level.

[@thriftythreader5998]

You are an amazing knitter! As per the rude comments from your friends about why you would put so much time into knitting, it’s just jealousy, pure and simple. That’s why I’m mostly a selfish knitter. Only other knitters can appreciate why we knit. And by the way, I’m a proud thrifter, sewer and knitter. This past winter, I needed a periwinkle blue hat, so I made one, out of merino. I didn’t have to go online searching for a shitty acrylic hat. Today I hemmed a pair of designer jeans that I bought my husband for $10 at one of my awesome thrift stores. They look perfectly tailored. Having skills like knitting and sewing is as awesome as being an artist or musician. And it only took me 55 years to realize that. Your aloha green sweater is fabulous. I can’t wait to see it completed.

[@iamkid_a]

RIPPING THE NAPKINS lmao also that person is CRAZY and ungrateful abt the carpal tunnel 😤

[@mauraccc6491]

It is so bad that people think store bought things are better than handmade things, beside the fact that having a hobby and being proud of things you can do or make is absolutely amazing, like the time and effort you put into your hobby makes you such a beautiful person. So now my rambling about store bought things: First fast fashion and overconsumption is a huge problem, every single year enough clothing is made to give every person on earth 14 items. The people making this cheap plastic clothes work in horrible conditions and don't get enough paid. The quality is so bad and we don't even need so much clothing, so that makes it actually worse that people are still forced to make clothing in bad working environments. And this is not only about fast fashion but a lot of more "luxurious" brands as well, fibres are getting worse, much more plastic is used in clothing and the pieces are made bad, with unfinished hems or without proper lining. These clothes sometimes costs hundreds of dollars. Buying new clothing is absolutely not better, without even considering all the benefits of having a hobby and wearing things you made yourself.

[@ptoste1]

Omg! Some people just don’t care about anything. I sew bags and some clothing now. I like the challenges and the results. Sometimes it’s not even cheaper making them but it’s a pleasure and , for me because I am petite, it’s a question of fitting too. Now I’m getting obsessed with knitting and crocheting. I just love my crafts. My daughter sometimes is wearing a complete outfit made by me and even the bag. I just don’t make shoes, yet. 😅😂😂😂😂 I also make my bread, yogurts, fresh cheese. I cut my husband’s and son’s hair 😂👌😂🤣😂🤣😂 not im only save money but I’m also happy because they love it too. I’m very proud of my skills. I don’t need processed foods or “things” So don’t even bother trying to understand that kind of people. Have fun ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@BoingdeGuanabana]

I lost the joy of knitting a bit. Perhaps some day ill feel as happy as i felt before... just like gardening and writing.

[@KarenStrickholm]

My fave comment: "Oh! You crochet!" 😂

[@Geobrianna]

Moral of the story, mind ya business

[@deyaneria]

As a knitter and ex-smoker who is a fidgety person anyway. I knit everywhere. I used to knit and crochet in class too. No one said word to me about it. I find it funny because I'm 50 years old and back in from 4th grade on when I'd bring crafts to school, Not one teacher said a word about it. But now people take offense. I even used to knit in bars.

[@mandyhartwig9456]

The weirdest comment I have gotten was when I knitted on the train and an elder woman said to her friend that I should stop knitting as it is forbidden to knit in public due to the danger of hurting other people or myself worth the needles. I overheard it, since she spoke very loudly and I think she wanted me to hear it, looked at her and started laughing. I just thought this was so weird to say that and also to get angry about a woman knitting on the train. 😂

[@kristintamm502]

On the topic of doodling in school...when I had decided to get my stuff together and fix my grades in middle school, I started taking a lot of notes and one of my teachers teased/schold me about it. As for weird things I've heard about knitting: a crafty person told me that they've seen crafts that have been dying out, come back....like knitting for example 👁👄👁 Also, if not with my partner or mother, I'll ask if it's okay that I knit while socialising. So far no one has been upset.

[@mngmay]

I’d 100% stare your friend who made the “why do that?” Dead ass in the eye and say “I like to reduce the contribution to industrialized slave labor…. And it’s fun!” And I’ve 100% gone on rants to my husband about people who I’ve never even gifted anything to asking me to make them things with no intention of paying me for my effort like bbbbb you gonna pay me $75 for a crop top or mittens? As soon as I offer to teach them knitting basics instead they instantly lose interest. I know those comments come from a place of admiration and attempt to be complimentary but why would I spent all this time learning skills to then spend time making something I don’t want to make for someone else. If I want to make you a gift I would tell you or just do it #endrant

[@the_homun_system]

the only things ive really gotten when knitting (or crocheting) is either people being amazed at the idea of creating things which is cute. or old people like "oh wow thats so cool i wish i could do that but i just cant see well enough anymore" and stuff like that. dunno but maybe i put out enough autistic aura that the most common reaction i get is no comments. a little better than doing illustration in public and getting "i cant even draw a stick figure" when like who cares dont have to be worlds best artist yknow.