I’ve knitted for decades, long before it became “cool” and a popular craft. I notice the rampant push to buy all sorts of accessories that one can do without in the last 10 years especially. Your suggestions are spot on, and so refreshing! Thank you for this good advice to all knitters.
That’s a really interesting perspective. I only started knitting about ten years ago, so this is all I’ve ever known, sadly. My mother gifted me her old straight needles recently, from back when everything was knit flat and then seamed 🥰
Very practical and economical advice. i own exactly one project bag (it was a gift) and I often use Ziplock bags to corral my projects and the back of used envelopes to count rows etc. Having said that, I recognize some people make a living selling all the goodies and I don’t want to rain on their parade. It’s just that I’ve been knitting for 6 decades - I started long before those things were a ‘thing’ and i didn’t need them then and I don’t need them now. They don’t affect the quality of my knitting. Keep telling it like it is good woman!🇨🇦💕
Agreed - I think people should do what makes them happy. But I bet tons of project bags don't make most people happy, it's easy to be influenced by shiny things online (I should know!)
I have tons of pretty knitting project bags (several sewed myself). I DO need a bag to keep my stuff organized and away from the pets. That said I often still have one or two projects in ziplock bags because they’re so convenient!
OMG what a refreshing episode. I LOVE how you roast in a truly sophisticated way and narrow down the crazy consumerism that comes with our beloved hobby. I totally agree on your one-liner "spend your money on yarn". Love from Sweden
This is my first time seeing a video of yours. Brilliant job! I’ve been a knitter for 30+ years and I must admit that bags are a weakness for me…all bags including purses, totes, travel bags, etc. I’ve curbed my tendency to overspend on them by making a resolution to only have bags that I’ve made myself (I sew a lot too). They can be knitted, crocheted, sewn or woven, as long as I made them myself and only from materials I already own.
Love it! A leather bucket bag by a well-known knit designer recently made my pupils dilate. Then I remembered that I would have to spend real, 3-figure money for something that is 100% aspirational lifestyle and 0% useful lifestyle. Nope!
A commenter made the point somewhere below that a leather bag is only one sweating water bottle away from staining all your yarn as well. I never even thought about that but of course it’s true
I have a blue fabric one from JoAnn 😅 However when I see the bucket style totes (mine included) all I can think of is the canvas ones that come from Home Depot for the outside of the 5 gal buckets. 😂
Hi Michelle. I admire your nerve in posting this podcast. Unless you are a knitting gadget snob, so many of these things are unnecessary, especially fancy project bags. I reuse free bags if I am traveling. At home a large basket serves to hold my WIPS. Some time ago, before the time of knitting gadget fads, I made a rough count of how much money I had invested in just knitting needles. I was astounded. With yarn being so expensive, I wholly agree that we should be saving our knitting funds for the perfect yarn for the perfect project. I look forward to hearing from you again soon.
I couldn’t agree more! Yarn on its own is already so pricey. And I’ve definitely fallen victim to completionism or random consumerism in the past 🫣 Thank you for watching!
@@annabelle7123 I’m with you. I made myself a couple bags from remnants and they’re sufficient for my needs. I do need a bag to keep my cat out of it but doesn’t need to be fancy.
I really appreciate your honesty with the “you-don’t-need-this-stuff-to-make-stuff.” I am always tempted by project bags, and stitch markers, and one skein of yarn (although I am a sock knitter, I have way more skeins that I’ll ever be able to knit in my lifetime). I’m sure this podcast will be unpopular with a lot of people, but it was honest and full of practical, common sense. TY.
Thank you so much for watching! If people genuinely love all of their things then that’s awesome for them. But I know I’ve been suckered into all kinds of meh and unnecessary purchases😖 so hopefully sharing my own mistakes will help others resist the temptation
I'm so happy to FINALLY hear someone say they also use random bags for project bags! I have so many great multipurpose bags for my knitting and they didn't cost me a cent...and they are spacious and easy to carry. Also agree about the notebooks, I use old journals my kids abandoned. Great to hear others think the same way 😂
I honestly never heard of most of this stuff until this video since I don't tend to watch social media knitting stuff. I just focus on yarns. Which are too damn expensive sometimes, you don't NEED the posh subtle marker of luxury actually. My mum is a knitter and her mum was a professional cottage knitter and like, I didn't realise you could get all this other stuff. I did realise there was a lot of yarn upselling and brand ridiculousness which I gleaned from shops and books. Special expensive knitting BAGS? Like, why. That's just a silly lifestyle upsell. It's more about the feeling than the physical thing.
Great points! I acquired a diaper bag from a relative once they were finished using it. It's the perfect size for most knit/crochet projects and has a million pockets! That baby is 22 now but I still use the bag! I also took an eyeglass case that came with sunglasses in a gift basket my mom won, and I use that to hold my crochet hooks and yarn needles. I use a lip stick case to hold my stitch markers which are just safety pins and bobby pins. Most of my tools were accumulated as a teenager for free by repurposing items from around my house. It is nice to splurge on the good quality needles and yarn as an adult though! I also keep track of my progress with tally marks in small, cheap notebooks instead of using a row counter - something I learned from my mom.
Hello - I’ve been knitting since about 1960 something - and I loved this video (I”m also a recent new sub). Something I learned recently is that making things with your own hands creates a massive amount of dopamine in the brain! Even better than impulse shopping or obsessive video watching. So if you are a knitter - the yarn and stretching your skill is what matters. It takes as much effort to knit with cheap yarn as it does with more expensive yarn, so always buy the very best you can afford: Which you can do if you don’t buy the haul items. Before circular needles, there were straight ones, and the best way I found to hold stitches on my needles when I needed to do something else were the corks from wine bottles. They don’t last forever, but they sure work! I use a fabric lined wicker basket for my WIPS and I now listen to audio books while knitting (it used to be the radio when I was younger). I still use 4 needles for knitting socks and I write all over my patterns. The only other thing I still do is swatch and then put the finished (washed and blocked) swatch in a baggie with a note about the date, pattern, gauge and needle size I used. I also put in a good length of the yarn in case I have to do some mending. I do have a huge stash of yarn (I also sew which means I have a huge stash of fabric too) Yup, I’m a low-tech knitter and love it, so thank you for helping to remove the consumerism madness from the art.
Yep..me too! Ive been a maker since my hands could move. I’m 65. It’s all above creative self care. My mind is uncluttered with the repetition of the making! ❤❤ Always holding a smile on my face. Which easily moves to the heart space!
Corks are brilliant. what a great idea. My mother gave me her old straight needles from the time when circulars weren’t a thing, and everything was knit flat and seamed 😍 I love them, so sturdy and I love the vintage feel
Fabulous rant well timed! Love and agree with them all, especially the knitting bags phenomenon! I’m a sock knitter and had way too many single skeins so I made 2 scrappy squishy garter blankets holding 3 at a time. They turned out gorgeous with the colors blended and my kids love ‘em👏♥️
I agree that we don’t need branded stuff but I don’t think buying off Amazon is the answer. I think this video is more about not spending in excess, but being a conscious consumer about where you are buying things is also important. It just sounds weird to have a video about being conscious about consuming and then plugging the worst proponent of consumption in the world.
I love clear tote bags for my projects. They come in different sizes, perfect for socks to sweaters to blankets, they are cheap, they are sturdy and stand nicely, and I can see what’s in each bag at a quick glance.
I have been knitting for over 60 years and up until 10 years ago I never had any knitting tools other than my needles. I use supermarket plastic bags for project bags, scrap pieces of yarn to make stitch markers and paper and pencil to keep track of row count. To be honest, I am sick and tired of some of the major influencers hawking product non-stop. “Spend the money on yarn” is very sound advice as the yarn itself has gotten quite expensive.
My mum was a prolific knitter, her tools were old, gifted or 2nd hand straight needles, some she may have bought new - back in the 1970s! Her cable needle was bent out of shape, the grey colour had warn off her knitting needles, she used plastic supermarket shopping bags to keep her knitting in, her stitch markers were scrap yarn or safety pins Inc my nappy pins. She was a ferocious knitted she could churn out a detailed pattern jumper in 6 days and gift on day 7! Tools don't make you a good knitter.
I love that. My mother had the same tools too - she only used straight needles (this was before the days of interchangeable circular needles). She knit everything flat and seamed it.
@yasmingeorge5173 Paper clips! I must have brought home thousands of them from work over 40 years! They're so easy to use - my arthritic hands thank them!
Totally agree with all points! Project bags just seem like the most ridiculous way to waste money. I also use random re-usable bags. Even the bags I get when I buy yarn from the craft store.
@@easilyknitfluenced They do that. I've also noticed they multiply with projects inside of them too...soon all you have are project bags and have to buy more for groceries at the store! *gasp* LOL
A .99 cent notebook @ the dollar store, serves the purpose for me, project, yarn used, needle size, grams used, who it was gifted to and date. I also tape a piece of yarn from project to page.
My issue with it if you use it when til it's full, you will probably trash it, I use a pdf version I can just wipe out everything when I am done with a project
I've always saved drawstring bags when I've got them along with stuff. Never knew what I would use them for until I started knitting. Many of them are pretty nice as well
I really enjoyed watching your video. I haven’t quite delved into knitting but have tools to start. This video hit home because I started crocheting in 2021 and saw all the lovely yarn, notions, and bags I could get and wanted it all. You’re absolutely right when you say you don’t need all those things. I am on the same page as you with everything you said. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you for watching! It’s tempting to buy all the shiny things isn’t it? I’ve learned from overspending on other hobbies that it’s not necessary to produce beautiful work
I totally agree with this list. I turn off so many RUclips videos with the podcasters going on about project bags and super expensive hand dyed yarn….. I don’t relate and don’t have the interest or money to go down that rabbit hole
I love this! I’m new to your podcast and now I want to go back and see old episodes! Although some of the project bags, especially the leather ones, are beautiful, I personally can’t justify the cost. I’d rather spend it on yarn!🧶 But I understand that it is a business for those people and appreciate the workmanship and applaud the people who can buy them and support their business!
I used to make stitch markers..they are super easy and fun to do. All you need is split rings, little bit of wire and some beads. If you do clay (which I did and had a great time doing it), you need some glue and needle nose pliers. Cheap materials and there are plenty of tutorials if you want to do them. Otherwise, some spare yarn knotted into a circle works just as well. :D
I LOVE cute stitch markers, so I started making my own. I had an old jewelry-making kit and some earrings and pendants that I never wore, so now they're stitch markers that I actually like using.
Yes! 100% agree BUT with one exception about the needle sets. But that’s only because I personally use all the sizes. From teeny sock needles to big chunky needles for quick to knit hats and all the different sweater projects in between. 😂
While I cannot say I agree with most of these, I do understand that I don't need many knitting accessories, I just enjoy them when I can afford them. I usually try to support small makers. I also can make a pair of dk weight socks for myself out of one skein 😊 and have yarn left over. I love how cosy they are in the winter. Still, some interesting ideas here.
As one of the many obsessed enthusiastic crafters with ADHD, amen. I now set myself the rule that I have to have a VERY EXACT project plan for EVERYTHING I buy. That gorgeous yarn is NOT gonna get bought unless I know exactly what I'm making and that I have a specific timely plan to make it. A gorgeous yarn I NEVER use or can't find when I need it is WORSE than no yarn. Because it takes up space, makes it harder to find other stuff, collectively is overwhelming and stressful and guilt inducing, and that's not including the cost of it if it wasn't free or very cheap.
If I see a nice tote bag I'll pop it on my wish list so my family can get it for me as a small gift, I now have quite a few that come in very handy as I like to have several WIPs on the go. Single skeins are great for wrist warmers or fingerless mittens which my family like so more singles for me 🤣🤣
@@easilyknitfluenced I don't really use a pattern as I've knitted so many of them, but there are some good free patterns around which I found by googling for them.
I love that you decided to put this into a video! Especially for good new knitters to know that you can be a successful knitter without these things. I, too, just use random bags for my knitting along with scrap yarn for stitch markers, though I do own some stitch markers in plastic and use them when I feel like it. I never keep track of my knitting. I started with a spreadsheet once but realized I spent valuable knitting time updating it, so I stopped.
Your ideas are very refreshing. Thank you for bringing down to earth ideas to the craft, i am like you in a lot of ways. The notebook and knitting needles suggestions really hit me hard. Thank you!
Hello there . Ive been knitting for a few years. My life, my work, is about spiritual awareness. I have been shocked by the abundant consumerism there is in knitting podcasts. Equally, a somewhat accepted nurturing of addiction: 'im obsessed by this design', ' I saw this and i knew i had to have it, now'! So thank you very much for a voice of reason!,. Esmeralda
I think that’s part of the territory with all hobbies that attract influencers now. Knitting isn’t as consumerist as something like health and beauty, but I see some of the same trends there
Yeah, it's not just knitting, unfortunately. I used to follow a lot of cross stitchers (now only a few!), and fancy project bags have become a thing there, too. Health and beauty, craft, candles, reusable cups... there's rampant consumerism everywhere.
Love your video. I don't knit (wish I could get the hang of it and I admire anyone who does) but I DO crochet, and a lot of things you said transfer over to the crochet world too.
I think you've summed it all up by saying "spend the money on yarn instead!" 😂 I have a very eclectic collection of tote bags I keep my projects in, one thing I sometimes like doing now is buying a tote bag at the merch stand if I'm at a gig, because I know I'll use it for knitting and it works as a souvenir without my having to own 10 000 t shirts!
I think some of us need to spend LESS money on yarn. I've been looking through FB marketplace for destash bargains and my god the amount some people have, including some VERY overpriced brands for what you actually get that they actually expect to recoup most of because it's a omg hipster yarn brand. And no, "vintage" does not make your yarn worth more, but I'm glad you're finally destashing your woolly mountain, Janet.
Love the video! The single skein dilemma is something I used to do a lot. I was talking with a customer at the yarn store I work with, and she says that instead of seeing it as just one skein, she sees it as the amount of hours it takes for her to make a sock. I thought that was soo smart!
Thankyou for the video. While I don't knit, I do a lot of crochet and these days I tend to think similarly about my craft supplies. After years of accumulating hooks, yarn and accessories I started to question why I wasted money on over half of it. Hook set cases that never get opened because I don't use those sizes and the ones I do use are in an easy to reach jar on my desk. My $80 craft bag sits in a corner while I use beach bags and shopping totes for my wips
Hi Michelle! Your takes are relevant and so helpful especially to new knitters. I have been influenced to buy super expensive knitting items that I have no use for.
I've been there :( But, there are worse things in the world - I just try to be more cognizant as I continue my knitting journey. I'm sure there are many more mistakes to come though XD
I think this is a great message and of course everyone will make their own choices, but as one who has a lifetime of needles, yarn, bags, gadgets, there is little that I truly need. I agree with one of the commenters that it is good to support the makers of things that are truly beautiful, and occasionally I do…but the reality is that I can also make many of these items on my own, if needed. You are a joy to listen to always.
Thank you, Michelle, for your fun video. I agree with most of everything that you said and I‘m actually using small tubtrugs for my knitting around the house which I initially bought for the kids‘ toys when they were little. They‘re big enough to hold everything I need from all the yarn to pattern to needles and I can see it all at one glance. Maybe not very stylish but very useful. For knitting on the go you can always use bags for toiletries. They‘re usually the right size and also come in fancy colours and you most likely have them already. Finally, single skeins could be used for yoke contrast colours if you‘re at all a yoke knitter. But maybe have in mind how many of those yokes you want to knit 😆 Again thank you for saying out loud what probably most of us are thinking quietly 😂 Love from Germany, Margareta
I make my own easy drawstring project bags. Elizabeth anne can stitch has a tutorial on something similar. I have tried a few over the years but the reality is one you can squish into whatever bag you are carrying is the best. The drawstring bag just keeps the yarn clean and everything together.
Amen, girl. I feel the same way. I use dollar store vinyl totes for project bags. And instead of project notes journals, hey I write on the pattern as I am knitting it. When I've finished knitting that item, I put the written-on pattern into a binder I have labeled "Knitting Projects Completed." I buy fixed circular needles when I need them because I don't like screwing on tips and worrying that they will get loose and drop stitches.
I love your repurposed bags! I agree with use what you’ve got. The money saved could always be spent on yarn 😂 🤷🏻♀️ I have bought organic cotton sheets that came “packaged” in a fabric drawstring bag with the “labels” printed on fabric and sewn on. I clipped the top open & now it also has 2 pockets!
I mostly agree with your points however I have few dedicated project bags. One is a basket I got second hand and three I sewed myself. As for socks, you can totally get 1-2 pairs out of a single skein and I’m trying to cut down on buying yarn in general because my stash is at an unmanageable level for me
I fell in love with an organza drawstring bag that some online order arrived in, so I started using it as a project bag. Easy to toss into a purse and sheer enough to see the project. When it wore out, I checked Amazon's price to replace it, and they had a package of 25 for $6.
I’ve just recently started knitting but when I got back into crochet a few years ago my husband bought me an expensive project bag with wheels and handle etc. very flimsy though. Then recently he brought home a tool bag similar sized with wheels and collapsible handle but it is sturdy and more pockets. I gave my old bag away as I prefer the tool bag. Recently I discovered mop buckets work great. They are good yarn bowls and you can throw your wip on top.
Hi Michelle! Love this video! I completely agree on all of these. I've purchased expensive project bags in the past and they don't ever seem to work for me as well as I would like. I've already been down the needle set rabbit hole and have WAY more sets and sizes than I really need. And why use a knitting notebook when you can use Ravelry for free? Also agree on the 1 skein purchasing. That's a new knitter mistake I wish someone would have told me back then. Have a great day!
This was a fun episode to watch and I agree with many of your points. I have definitely fallen for some of these unnecessary items - even a few project bags which I could easily have made myself as a sewist. One thing I have not fallen for are the journals. I like journaling and have many journals from the past, but the funny thing is that I never go back and look in them. I love Ravelry for keeping track of my yarn and projects. It’s perfect for me.
I’m not even consistent on Ravelry! 😂 which should be the easiest thing ever. I want to knit and start the next hot thing rather than compile notes…maybe if I make it a New Year’s resolution that’ll change
I also use any random drawstring or tote bag that I have laying around. I got some aquarium tubing (from my son) when I wanted to try using that for holding stitches. More trouble that it's worth :) What I have to keep talking myself out of is the wooden yarn bowl. I really, really want one, but all the reviews I've read said the knitter used it once and now it sits on a shelf because it's a pain to use. But I WANT one.
You just popped up . Kudos for courage. Totally agree and would add stitch/progess markers as loop of yarn or bits from jewelry section/beads works great. Yarn bowls. Don't drag knitting out so soup pot is both yarn bowl, project keeper .since use instant pot now gives a purpose. Needles,holder, patterns can be found at most thrift stores. Alpaca is much cheaper than mohair which is major trend.If cheap like me make drop spindle from dowel, wooden wheel from craft store and tiny hook from picture hanging kit every one has. Can decide if want top or bottom whorl using rubber bands to secure/change. Lazy kate does same thing as knitty/noddy and do you really need exact meterage? Do you really love that pattern that EVERYONE has knitted in 8 colors? Is it truly your jam to be worn for decades? Shawls...have you seen any/many in the wild? Only good for bed bound seniors ,yet influencers crank 2-4 per year. Okay. I feel better, thanks for listening.
AMEN to shawls!! I have never knitted a shawl, I don’t understand it. I don’t think I’ve ever seen someone wearing one in real life either. Maybe people wear them at home??
@@easilyknitfluenced I must confess after seeing outlander kinda want a rent shawl as looks like coverage and ease of a vest but easier to get into. Neuromuscular disease makes button hard to do and pullovers get stuck especially if vet overheated. Constantly looking for cheap, adaptive solutions for life
I loved this! There seems to be a lot of consumerism going on in the knitting world. I’m in my 60’s and at this point in my life, I want less stuff, not more. I created my own quilted knitting bags from leftover scraps. They make me happy to see when I pull out my knitting projects. I think too, you hit on something important, that you should embrace what you enjoy doing. If it’s not keeping a journal, don’t follow that trend just because it’s popular online. If I bought a knitting journal, it would just gather dust! ❤
Excellent tips! I am the same. I only invest in fiber/yarn plus a few good tools (loom, e-spinner, carder). Everything else I own is either a plain low-budget option or something I repurposed. Collapsible fabric storage boxes are great for projects: they keep their shape, so the garment doesn't wrinkle, and they can be folded and stashed away if you don't need them. It's also a multi-purpose item that can be used to store all kinds of things at home (toys, shoes, etc.). One other thing you didn't mention that we don't need is to buy patterns "for later." Trends change, and our preferences change, so patterns end up just sitting there. I used to buy patterns like that (many are still un-knit, years later), but now I only buy them when I'm ready to knit the garment - I mean when I am sitting down with my yarn and needles and ready to start knitting - only then do I go ahead and purchase. Better to save patterns in your 'Favorites' folder and browse when you have the yarn and time to make something.
So true. That’s another one I thought of, but you articulated it much better than I could have. I also have lots of unused patterns sitting in my inbox 💀 such a waste of money
Great video! I slightly disagree about the PetiteKnit Stitch holder rubber band though. It's so much easier than placing your project on a piece of scrap yarn because you don't need needles and can just slide it onto the ends of your knitting needles. Very easy and satisfying. Since getting it, I have been trying on my projects way more during the knitting process which made me catch small mistakes way earlier on. Before buying it I always put off putting my project onto scrap yarn to try it on. They sold the PK holder for 3 Euro at my local yarn store though so that's probably why I feel like it's a very reasonable purchase 😀
I started knitting after a fifty year break August 1st of last year. For the first few months I was bedazzled by all this wonderful Needle sets and the accessories. As I keep on knitting I find that I have simplified my way to knit and the need for extras. I've recently purchased enough ChiaoGoo needles to cover what I want to knit! I'm not interested in knitting sweaters and I've not been into scarves or hats for a while because I've been hooked on socks and since the middle of this month learning to knit mittens! So I'm quite content now with my needle set from US4-US8 And I use them all. Now I've gone from throwing to flicking, I'm quite content. Thanks for this little Rant! We all need to hear it!
How wonderful that you came back to it after such a long gap! Keep knitting those socks😎 the world needs sock knitters as much as any other type of knitter!
Thank You for having the nerve to make this honest video. I use old purses if I need to carry something away from the house. In the house I use a ziploc bag. Also keep your eyes peeled at garage sales. Every now and then you can get lucky.
Love this video!!! My project bags tend to be the smaller (not blue giant) shopping bags from IKEA that fold into the little square pocket. They'll fit a sweater or blanket project as they grow. They are slightly better made than the bags from Target, so the seams won't fail as the project grows. Also, they're washable...
It’s something I’ve been noticing more and more, and I wasn’t sure if it was just my feed. I can KIND OF understand it if you’re a one WIP kind of knitter, but let’s face it, who among us can claim to be a truly monogamous knitter 100% of the time 🫣
Loved this! I crochet and just started knitting. Have many wip bags and none of them specific crochet/knit project bags. In fact I am known to save and use a cute plastic bag if it catches my eye!
All of this is so painfully true - especially the project notebook one because I never finish any journals I start either 😅 hearing things in such a straightforward manner actually helps so much ❤ Here’s a hard truth that I’d like to share - ultimately it is your own choice to embellish your knitting hobby with beautiful trinkets and goods, but it speaks to a wider culture of unnecessary overconsumption. If you want to take a more environmentally-friendly approach or reevaluate the sheer amount of accumulating stuff (junk?) in your home, this video is the wake-up call you need.
love this episode. i am working on scaling back on stuff and agree with your points. my favorite project bags either double as a purse or i made them myself. the one thing i would suggest is taking basic notes and keeping them togehter. i recntly bought a simple notebook, i put my current projects in there, needle size and type of yarn used. nothing fancy but i like to make things more than once and i got tired of reinventing the wheel.
Such a good episode! Love the little roast! I mostly use paper bags from supermarket or random gift bags for my projects because they stand up on their own on the floor and I can easily pull the yarn from them.
Yes! 1000 times yes!! A ziplock bag holds a lot of projects just fine- and is reusable- or a canvas shopping bag will do the trick. Designer notions are a luxury gift but not required. For those single skeins- too easy to fall into that trap! If you love it- buy “enough” to make a real thing, instead of an expensive novelty that will finally use it up (one RUclipsr did a video about the $300 baby blanket..). If you do have these lovely orphan skeins, check out westknits shawls- often they feature wild color inspirations and one skein of a few colors will do.
I bought a couple of project bags (cotton) to get the idea from. I am a sewer so have made loads of project bags from leftover fabric. I can make them the size and style I want. Some have zippers, some are drawstring, some with pockets. I have fun making them so it’s a win for me in many ways and usually cost me nothing except a zipper. As far as knitting journals go, I’ve tried with journals I already have and failed every time. I do keep the info in Ravelry but not as detailed as some. I have referred back to the info several times.
Watched your podcast for the first time. You are so practical and so right about all those expensive knitting "extras". If I need a project bag, I go to Goodwill and pick one up for $2 or less to add to my other Goodwill bags. BTW, your makeup application is stunning.
Watching this video on my TV and I had to pull it up on my phone to comment about how gorgeous you are! Your voice just immediately caught my attention and I’m hooked!
Well, well done! I needed you last week however when I actually went INTO. A yarn store and bought almost everything you mentioned, fancy stitch markers 20.00, Project Bag 70.00 and SOCK YARN, I don’t knit socks, EVERYTHING was so tempting and LOVELY, so NOW I KNOW (BILL NYE), FOR me, ORDER YARN FROM THE WEB….. stores are amazing and feel so gooooood, but unless you have a lot of CONTROL, as you said, spend the money $$$$ on YARN, the bits and pieces really aren’t that helpful. Great Video my dear, Georgia from BC
Thank you for watching, Georgia 🩷 The old Purl SoHo store in Manhattan used to get me in exactly the same way. I’d walk in and be so dazzled by the beautiful aesthetic that I would end up buying all kinds of wildly impractical, random things. They’d seem like such a great idea in the moment, and then I’d get home to my apartment and wonder what on earth to do with them 😆🤪
The best way I avoid buying yarn that I won't use is to chose the pattern I want to make before I buy the yarn! My stash isn't huge, but when I look at it I see a box of future projects instead of a bunch of pretty yarn and it keeps me motivated to finish my wips so I can start another. There's also the added bonus of not having a lot of extra leftover yarn since I only buy the amount I need!
totally agree on all of these but especially on the single skeins of yarn!! I've fallen into this trap so many times and now I have a bunch of beautiful useless yarn in my stash :(
I’ve been there :( pretty things draw my eye and cloud my better judgement. I’m much more disciplined now, but there are still some single skeins staring angrily at me from my stash 😱
I so agree with you about the overconsumption! I’m as tempted as the next person to buy cute and beautiful project bags and endless single skeins of gorgeous yarn, but for the most part I’ve been able to resist. I have about 6 project bags, and that seem like too much. I didn’t have much yarn stash to begin with, but I did have several skeins I knew I wouldn’t use, so I destashed them as well as some tools and notions on Ravelry. I have one small plastic bin of yarn now. I like to look at the Rav destash threads, and the amounts that some people have and are now trying to get rid of are just astounding. Expensive things too. One brand that I see a lot of in the bag destash group is Joji’s leather bags. Beautiful but SO expensive, and some people have several! Thanks for the video!
I can see that for sure. There are some beautiful ones out there - I've certainly been tempted. But ultimately they wouldn't get the use they deserve with the way I knit. I just don't display anything knitting-wise; it all gets rammed under a desk or in a drawer
It’s so interesting to me when people say they only use a limited range of needles. I regularly use US11 for one project then US3 for the next! I like to make a variety of things and having they range is so necessary for me.
You have no idea how much I needed to see this video! I also used to be into beauty RUclips big time, and anti-haul videos saved me from making so many dumb purchases lol. Thank you.
Saaame here. I had a ludicrous makeup collection at one point, and of course because I only have one face, a lot of it went bad or was past its prime by the time I got around to using it
I have a plastic kids sewing needle that i use for cabling. Came with a kit for my daughter a few years back and better than any of the fancy-pants cable needle/shawl pin/broach things ive used before. My spinning wheel drive band is a length of scrap linen yarn, and project bags are often the postal bag the yarn came in! I have found the interchangeable set has grown over time as my preferred gauge has shifted since i started, but like you, i buy tips and cables as and when needed now.
I love gift bags for project bags, especially because they're recyclable after they get worn down or torn. And super easy to replace! I have also used the drawstring bags that my shoes have come in, or other shoulder bags as well. And the person who said totes from events! My LYS does a yarn crawl every year and I try to get that tote to use for projects! or shopping!
I agree! I have also used paper bags from clothing stores. They’re quite sturdy and a good size, and when they fall apart I can throw them out knowing that at least I reused them for something ✌🏻
This felt like a very targeted financial advice session-- esp your points about DK weight single skeins. This video made me laugh out loud several times 😂
You came for me with that single skein yarn XD As an avid thrifter, I'll find beautiful yarns at the thrift store but theres never enough yardage to do anything I want to do with them. Even if its $2 for a 50g of merino wool in the most beautiful color, it too will also just sit there. I did buy one of those knitting needle sets when I started and I actually have used every size at least once. For me, personally, it was actually cheaper to buy them all in one go rather than piecemeal, but I do agree with you that its probably a good idea to just save your money. It was a regret for me bc I bought a knitter's pride set and now I know I like lykke needles better. Oh well, live and learn.
Love the video 🙌🏻 I use freezer ziplock bags for projects 🫣 You can easily see what’s inside and they stay closed well. Granted mine are somewhat chewed, because my kitties love to gnaw on them. For stitch holding, I use floss 😅 I have accumulated a stash of samples from the dentist over the years and can pop one in every ziplock wip bag, along with those blunt kids craft scissors.
I’ve knitted for decades, long before it became “cool” and a popular craft. I notice the rampant push to buy all sorts of accessories that one can do without in the last 10 years especially. Your suggestions are spot on, and so refreshing! Thank you for this good advice to all knitters.
That’s a really interesting perspective. I only started knitting about ten years ago, so this is all I’ve ever known, sadly. My mother gifted me her old straight needles recently, from back when everything was knit flat and then seamed 🥰
“Spend the money on yarn”…. Best suggestion ever. Lol
Love your podcasts.
Yes! Thank you!
Top tip: make a project bag out of a random single skein that you love, but don't know what to do with :)
Brilliant idea. Maybe I can learn how to crochet to make this a reality :)
Fabulous, was thinking the same?
Cowls, neckwarmers and hats are good for random skeins of yarn!
Very practical and economical advice. i own exactly one project bag (it was a gift) and I often use Ziplock bags to corral my projects and the back of used envelopes to count rows etc. Having said that, I recognize some people make a living selling all the goodies and I don’t want to rain on their parade. It’s just that I’ve been knitting for 6 decades - I started long before those things were a ‘thing’ and i didn’t need them then and I don’t need them now. They don’t affect the quality of my knitting. Keep telling it like it is good woman!🇨🇦💕
Agreed - I think people should do what makes them happy. But I bet tons of project bags don't make most people happy, it's easy to be influenced by shiny things online (I should know!)
I have tons of pretty knitting project bags (several sewed myself). I DO need a bag to keep my stuff organized and away from the pets. That said I often still have one or two projects in ziplock bags because they’re so convenient!
I actually prefer to use ziplock bags because I worry about moths! It’s crazy how some people really think they need of these things.
OMG what a refreshing episode. I LOVE how you roast in a truly sophisticated way and narrow down the crazy consumerism that comes with our beloved hobby. I totally agree on your one-liner "spend your money on yarn". Love from Sweden
Glad you enjoyed it, thank you for watching!
This is my first time seeing a video of yours. Brilliant job! I’ve been a knitter for 30+ years and I must admit that bags are a weakness for me…all bags including purses, totes, travel bags, etc. I’ve curbed my tendency to overspend on them by making a resolution to only have bags that I’ve made myself (I sew a lot too). They can be knitted, crocheted, sewn or woven, as long as I made them myself and only from materials I already own.
Amazing if you can make them yourself! I haven’t challenged myself with bag making yet. One day!
Love it! A leather bucket bag by a well-known knit designer recently made my pupils dilate. Then I remembered that I would have to spend real, 3-figure money for something that is 100% aspirational lifestyle and 0% useful lifestyle. Nope!
A commenter made the point somewhere below that a leather bag is only one sweating water bottle away from staining all your yarn as well. I never even thought about that but of course it’s true
I have a blue fabric one from JoAnn 😅 However when I see the bucket style totes (mine included) all I can think of is the canvas ones that come from Home Depot for the outside of the 5 gal buckets. 😂
Hi Michelle. I admire your nerve in posting this podcast. Unless you are a knitting gadget snob, so many of these things are unnecessary, especially fancy project bags. I reuse free bags if I am traveling. At home a large basket serves to hold my WIPS. Some time ago, before the time of knitting gadget fads, I made a rough count of how much money I had invested in just knitting needles. I was astounded. With yarn being so expensive, I wholly agree that we should be saving our knitting funds for the perfect yarn for the perfect project. I look forward to hearing from you again soon.
I couldn’t agree more! Yarn on its own is already so pricey. And I’ve definitely fallen victim to completionism or random consumerism in the past 🫣
Thank you for watching!
Same! I’m probably the only knitter who doesn’t have any cute project bag but I have enough fabric bags or free plastic bags for the same purpose 😅
@@annabelle7123 I’m with you. I made myself a couple bags from remnants and they’re sufficient for my needs. I do need a bag to keep my cat out of it but doesn’t need to be fancy.
Totally agree 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻. Save the money for more yarn ❤
I really appreciate your honesty with the “you-don’t-need-this-stuff-to-make-stuff.” I am always tempted by project bags, and stitch markers, and one skein of yarn (although I am a sock knitter, I have way more skeins that I’ll ever be able to knit in my lifetime). I’m sure this podcast will be unpopular with a lot of people, but it was honest and full of practical, common sense. TY.
Thank you so much for watching! If people genuinely love all of their things then that’s awesome for them. But I know I’ve been suckered into all kinds of meh and unnecessary purchases😖 so hopefully sharing my own mistakes will help others resist the temptation
I have been knitting for nearly 60 years (!!!) and didn't even know that a lot of these things existed. I only got stitch markers about 6 years ago!
I'm so happy to FINALLY hear someone say they also use random bags for project bags! I have so many great multipurpose bags for my knitting and they didn't cost me a cent...and they are spacious and easy to carry. Also agree about the notebooks, I use old journals my kids abandoned. Great to hear others think the same way 😂
Love it!! Every shop these days gives you a reusable bag with your purchase (looking at you, Athleta). I'm not mad about it!
I honestly never heard of most of this stuff until this video since I don't tend to watch social media knitting stuff. I just focus on yarns. Which are too damn expensive sometimes, you don't NEED the posh subtle marker of luxury actually. My mum is a knitter and her mum was a professional cottage knitter and like, I didn't realise you could get all this other stuff. I did realise there was a lot of yarn upselling and brand ridiculousness which I gleaned from shops and books. Special expensive knitting BAGS? Like, why. That's just a silly lifestyle upsell. It's more about the feeling than the physical thing.
Great points! I acquired a diaper bag from a relative once they were finished using it. It's the perfect size for most knit/crochet projects and has a million pockets! That baby is 22 now but I still use the bag! I also took an eyeglass case that came with sunglasses in a gift basket my mom won, and I use that to hold my crochet hooks and yarn needles. I use a lip stick case to hold my stitch markers which are just safety pins and bobby pins. Most of my tools were accumulated as a teenager for free by repurposing items from around my house. It is nice to splurge on the good quality needles and yarn as an adult though! I also keep track of my progress with tally marks in small, cheap notebooks instead of using a row counter - something I learned from my mom.
Hello - I’ve been knitting since about 1960 something - and I loved this video (I”m also a recent new sub). Something I learned recently is that making things with your own hands creates a massive amount of dopamine in the brain! Even better than impulse shopping or obsessive video watching. So if you are a knitter - the yarn and stretching your skill is what matters. It takes as much effort to knit with cheap yarn as it does with more expensive yarn, so always buy the very best you can afford: Which you can do if you don’t buy the haul items. Before circular needles, there were straight ones, and the best way I found to hold stitches on my needles when I needed to do something else were the corks from wine bottles. They don’t last forever, but they sure work! I use a fabric lined wicker basket for my WIPS and I now listen to audio books while knitting (it used to be the radio when I was younger). I still use 4 needles for knitting socks and I write all over my patterns. The only other thing I still do is swatch and then put the finished (washed and blocked) swatch in a baggie with a note about the date, pattern, gauge and needle size I used. I also put in a good length of the yarn in case I have to do some mending. I do have a huge stash of yarn (I also sew which means I have a huge stash of fabric too) Yup, I’m a low-tech knitter and love it, so thank you for helping to remove the consumerism madness from the art.
Yep..me too! Ive been a maker since my hands could move. I’m 65. It’s all above creative self care. My mind is uncluttered with the repetition of the making! ❤❤
Always holding a smile on my face. Which easily moves to the heart space!
Corks are brilliant. what a great idea. My mother gave me her old straight needles from the time when circulars weren’t a thing, and everything was knit flat and seamed 😍 I love them, so sturdy and I love the vintage feel
Fabulous rant well timed! Love and agree with them all, especially the knitting bags phenomenon! I’m a sock knitter and had way too many single skeins so I made 2 scrappy squishy garter blankets holding 3 at a time. They turned out gorgeous with the colors blended and my kids love ‘em👏♥️
I agree that we don’t need branded stuff but I don’t think buying off Amazon is the answer. I think this video is more about not spending in excess, but being a conscious consumer about where you are buying things is also important. It just sounds weird to have a video about being conscious about consuming and then plugging the worst proponent of consumption in the world.
Very fair point
I found different size Vera Bradley bags at Goodwill. They are pretty, fabric, good sizes, with pockets. They work great! Great for travel too.
Oh great idea! I bet they’re very portable too
I do this, too!
Me too!
I love clear tote bags for my projects. They come in different sizes, perfect for socks to sweaters to blankets, they are cheap, they are sturdy and stand nicely, and I can see what’s in each bag at a quick glance.
Great tip!
I have been knitting for over 60 years and up until 10 years ago I never had any knitting tools other than my needles. I use supermarket plastic bags for project bags, scrap pieces of yarn to make stitch markers and paper and pencil to keep track of row count. To be honest, I am sick and tired of some of the major influencers hawking product non-stop. “Spend the money on yarn” is very sound advice as the yarn itself has gotten quite expensive.
Yarn on its own is expensive enough! Crafting is definitely not a cheap or money saving hobby
Your comment about handbags reminded me I have several shoulder bags/purses I rarely use but love - bam - now they’re my project bags 🤓
Good idea, I have so many empty handbags too!
My mum was a prolific knitter, her tools were old, gifted or 2nd hand straight needles, some she may have bought new - back in the 1970s! Her cable needle was bent out of shape, the grey colour had warn off her knitting needles, she used plastic supermarket shopping bags to keep her knitting in, her stitch markers were scrap yarn or safety pins Inc my nappy pins. She was a ferocious knitted she could churn out a detailed pattern jumper in 6 days and gift on day 7! Tools don't make you a good knitter.
I love that. My mother had the same tools too - she only used straight needles (this was before the days of interchangeable circular needles). She knit everything flat and seamed it.
@yasmingeorge5173 Paper clips! I must have brought home thousands of them from work over 40 years! They're so easy to use - my arthritic hands thank them!
Totally agree with all points! Project bags just seem like the most ridiculous way to waste money. I also use random re-usable bags. Even the bags I get when I buy yarn from the craft store.
I have so many reuseable bags, I suspect they’ve started multiplying secretly in my home 😂
@@easilyknitfluenced They do that. I've also noticed they multiply with projects inside of them too...soon all you have are project bags and have to buy more for groceries at the store! *gasp* LOL
I love your reasoning for not buying a knitting journal. A new notebook isn't going to change my personality. 😂 Thanks!
Sadly I have learned this lesson through experience *looks at the stack of untouched bullet journals collecting dust🫣*
A .99 cent notebook @ the dollar store, serves the purpose for me, project, yarn used, needle size, grams used, who it was gifted to and date. I also tape a piece of yarn from project to page.
My issue with it if you use it when til it's full, you will probably trash it, I use a pdf version I can just wipe out everything when I am done with a project
@@velvety2006 I write notes down and keep it so I know what needles I used / yarn if I make another project, especially hats, simple shawls etc.
This was hilarious. I actually laughed out loud at the part about not buying single DK-weight skeins. Amen.
Hahaha thank you for watching!
I've always saved drawstring bags when I've got them along with stuff. Never knew what I would use them for until I started knitting. Many of them are pretty nice as well
Yup, same!
I really enjoyed watching your video. I haven’t quite delved into knitting but have tools to start. This video hit home because I started crocheting in 2021 and saw all the lovely yarn, notions, and bags I could get and wanted it all. You’re absolutely right when you say you don’t need all those things. I am on the same page as you with everything you said. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you for watching! It’s tempting to buy all the shiny things isn’t it? I’ve learned from overspending on other hobbies that it’s not necessary to produce beautiful work
I totally agree with this list. I turn off so many RUclips videos with the podcasters going on about project bags and super expensive hand dyed yarn….. I don’t relate and don’t have the interest or money to go down that rabbit hole
I love this! I’m new to your podcast and now I want to go back and see old episodes! Although some of the project bags, especially the leather ones, are beautiful, I personally can’t justify the cost. I’d rather spend it on yarn!🧶 But I understand that it is a business for those people and appreciate the workmanship and applaud the people who can buy them and support their business!
Agreed. It's just an expense and an item I really don't need rolling around my house
I would add fancy stitch markers and progress keepers to the list. You can get a bunch of basic ones for very little that do the job just as well.
I used to make stitch markers..they are super easy and fun to do. All you need is split rings, little bit of wire and some beads. If you do clay (which I did and had a great time doing it), you need some glue and needle nose pliers. Cheap materials and there are plenty of tutorials if you want to do them. Otherwise, some spare yarn knotted into a circle works just as well. :D
Oh that sounds so delightful!
I LOVE cute stitch markers, so I started making my own. I had an old jewelry-making kit and some earrings and pendants that I never wore, so now they're stitch markers that I actually like using.
I use scrap yarn to make stitch markers. They cost nothing at all and I can colour-code in a wider range.
Yes! 100% agree BUT with one exception about the needle sets. But that’s only because I personally use all the sizes. From teeny sock needles to big chunky needles for quick to knit hats and all the different sweater projects in between. 😂
That’s great! My preferred needle size range has turned out to be surprisingly narrow so I still kick myself for buying the huge sets
While I cannot say I agree with most of these, I do understand that I don't need many knitting accessories, I just enjoy them when I can afford them. I usually try to support small makers. I also can make a pair of dk weight socks for myself out of one skein 😊 and have yarn left over. I love how cosy they are in the winter. Still, some interesting ideas here.
Thank you for watching!
Great advice for all hobbies: don’t invest in anything but the essentials until you’ve done it long enough to make it a part of your life.
Such a good rule. One which I have frequently failed to follow, with predictable consequences 😂
Amen to this. Then whatever you buy will actually meet your needs and fit into the your lifestyle.
As one of the many obsessed enthusiastic crafters with ADHD, amen. I now set myself the rule that I have to have a VERY EXACT project plan for EVERYTHING I buy. That gorgeous yarn is NOT gonna get bought unless I know exactly what I'm making and that I have a specific timely plan to make it. A gorgeous yarn I NEVER use or can't find when I need it is WORSE than no yarn. Because it takes up space, makes it harder to find other stuff, collectively is overwhelming and stressful and guilt inducing, and that's not including the cost of it if it wasn't free or very cheap.
I content myself with making elaborate wishlists and project plans to get my enthusiasm out. If things are meant to be, I'll get it later.
If I see a nice tote bag I'll pop it on my wish list so my family can get it for me as a small gift, I now have quite a few that come in very handy as I like to have several WIPs on the go. Single skeins are great for wrist warmers or fingerless mittens which my family like so more singles for me 🤣🤣
I will probably knit some fingerless mitts for Xmas gifts this year too. Any good patterns you use?
@@easilyknitfluenced I don't really use a pattern as I've knitted so many of them, but there are some good free patterns around which I found by googling for them.
I love that you decided to put this into a video! Especially for good new knitters to know that you can be a successful knitter without these things. I, too, just use random bags for my knitting along with scrap yarn for stitch markers, though I do own some stitch markers in plastic and use them when I feel like it. I never keep track of my knitting. I started with a spreadsheet once but realized I spent valuable knitting time updating it, so I stopped.
Thank you so much for watching!
Your ideas are very refreshing. Thank you for bringing down to earth ideas to the craft, i am like you in a lot of ways. The notebook and knitting needles suggestions really hit me hard. Thank you!
I keep my projects in random drawstring bags and tote bags as well!
Yay for the drawstring bags!
Hello there . Ive been knitting for a few years. My life, my work, is about spiritual awareness. I have been shocked by the abundant consumerism there is in knitting podcasts. Equally, a somewhat accepted nurturing of addiction: 'im obsessed by this design', ' I saw this and i knew i had to have it, now'! So thank you very much for a voice of reason!,. Esmeralda
I think that’s part of the territory with all hobbies that attract influencers now. Knitting isn’t as consumerist as something like health and beauty, but I see some of the same trends there
Yeah, it's not just knitting, unfortunately. I used to follow a lot of cross stitchers (now only a few!), and fancy project bags have become a thing there, too. Health and beauty, craft, candles, reusable cups... there's rampant consumerism everywhere.
Love your video. I don't knit (wish I could get the hang of it and I admire anyone who does) but I DO crochet, and a lot of things you said transfer over to the crochet world too.
Thank you so much!
I think you've summed it all up by saying "spend the money on yarn instead!" 😂 I have a very eclectic collection of tote bags I keep my projects in, one thing I sometimes like doing now is buying a tote bag at the merch stand if I'm at a gig, because I know I'll use it for knitting and it works as a souvenir without my having to own 10 000 t shirts!
What a fun idea! Maybe I’ll start doing that too 😁
I think some of us need to spend LESS money on yarn. I've been looking through FB marketplace for destash bargains and my god the amount some people have, including some VERY overpriced brands for what you actually get that they actually expect to recoup most of because it's a omg hipster yarn brand. And no, "vintage" does not make your yarn worth more, but I'm glad you're finally destashing your woolly mountain, Janet.
Thank you for posting this! More crafters need to know this stuff.❤
Love the video! The single skein dilemma is something I used to do a lot. I was talking with a customer at the yarn store I work with, and she says that instead of seeing it as just one skein, she sees it as the amount of hours it takes for her to make a sock. I thought that was soo smart!
Oh that is very smart!
Thankyou for the video. While I don't knit, I do a lot of crochet and these days I tend to think similarly about my craft supplies. After years of accumulating hooks, yarn and accessories I started to question why I wasted money on over half of it. Hook set cases that never get opened because I don't use those sizes and the ones I do use are in an easy to reach jar on my desk. My $80 craft bag sits in a corner while I use beach bags and shopping totes for my wips
Been there 😭😅 it’s not just my knitting though, I’ve noticed this pattern with every hobby I pick up
Hi Michelle! Your takes are relevant and so helpful especially to new knitters. I have been influenced to buy super expensive knitting items that I have no use for.
I've been there :( But, there are worse things in the world - I just try to be more cognizant as I continue my knitting journey. I'm sure there are many more mistakes to come though XD
I think this is a great message and of course everyone will make their own choices, but as one who has a lifetime of needles, yarn, bags, gadgets, there is little that I truly need. I agree with one of the commenters that it is good to support the makers of things that are truly beautiful, and occasionally I do…but the reality is that I can also make many of these items on my own, if needed. You are a joy to listen to always.
Thank you so much for watching!
I love Ravelry as my journal. I keep notes there so I do not forget what I did. It has been handy. I also want others to learn from my notes.
I wish I were more disciplined on ravelry. I am admittedly terrible about updating it
Thank you, Michelle, for your fun video. I agree with most of everything that you said and I‘m actually using small tubtrugs for my knitting around the house which I initially bought for the kids‘ toys when they were little. They‘re big enough to hold everything I need from all the yarn to pattern to needles and I can see it all at one glance. Maybe not very stylish but very useful. For knitting on the go you can always use bags for toiletries. They‘re usually the right size and also come in fancy colours and you most likely have them already. Finally, single skeins could be used for yoke contrast colours if you‘re at all a yoke knitter. But maybe have in mind how many of those yokes you want to knit 😆
Again thank you for saying out loud what probably most of us are thinking quietly 😂
Love from Germany, Margareta
Thank you for watching, Margareta!
I make my own easy drawstring project bags. Elizabeth anne can stitch has a tutorial on something similar. I have tried a few over the years but the reality is one you can squish into whatever bag you are carrying is the best. The drawstring bag just keeps the yarn clean and everything together.
Amen, girl. I feel the same way. I use dollar store vinyl totes for project bags. And instead of project notes journals, hey I write on the pattern as I am knitting it. When I've finished knitting that item, I put the written-on pattern into a binder I have labeled "Knitting Projects Completed." I buy fixed circular needles when I need them because I don't like screwing on tips and worrying that they will get loose and drop stitches.
You’re more organized than me then! I always tell myself I’ll remember what my needle size and gauge was, despite all evidence to the contrary 😆
I also write notes on my patterns! 😊 I file my printed patterns in a binder.
I love your repurposed bags! I agree with use what you’ve got. The money saved could always be spent on yarn 😂 🤷🏻♀️
I have bought organic cotton sheets that came “packaged” in a fabric drawstring bag with the “labels” printed on fabric and sewn on. I clipped the top open & now it also has 2 pockets!
Yes I use sheet bags too!
I mostly agree with your points however I have few dedicated project bags. One is a basket I got second hand and three I sewed myself. As for socks, you can totally get 1-2 pairs out of a single skein and I’m trying to cut down on buying yarn in general because my stash is at an unmanageable level for me
I wish I could make my own bags! That’s a challenge I haven’t attempted yet
All I want to say is Thank you, Thank you, Thank you for this video and making me feel better about things I don't have and can't afford!
You are so welcome! If I've learned anything over the years, it's that how much you spend does not correlate to how good of a crafter you are
So true!
I fell in love with an organza drawstring bag that some online order arrived in, so I started using it as a project bag. Easy to toss into a purse and sheer enough to see the project. When it wore out, I checked Amazon's price to replace it, and they had a package of 25 for $6.
I’ve just recently started knitting but when I got back into crochet a few years ago my husband bought me an expensive project bag with wheels and handle etc. very flimsy though. Then recently he brought home a tool bag similar sized with wheels and collapsible handle but it is sturdy and more pockets. I gave my old bag away as I prefer the tool bag.
Recently I discovered mop buckets work great. They are good yarn bowls and you can throw your wip on top.
What a great idea! Might give that a shot
Hi Michelle! Love this video! I completely agree on all of these. I've purchased expensive project bags in the past and they don't ever seem to work for me as well as I would like. I've already been down the needle set rabbit hole and have WAY more sets and sizes than I really need. And why use a knitting notebook when you can use Ravelry for free? Also agree on the 1 skein purchasing. That's a new knitter mistake I wish someone would have told me back then. Have a great day!
Thank you for watching!
You can put single skeins in colour work 😊
Good point! I am not the best at color work so that’s a skill I need to build up more
This was great! Especially the project bag - totally agree. Use whatever you have and absolutely I would rather spend the money on yarn!
Totally!
This was a fun episode to watch and I agree with many of your points. I have definitely fallen for some of these unnecessary items - even a few project bags which I could easily have made myself as a sewist. One thing I have not fallen for are the journals. I like journaling and have many journals from the past, but the funny thing is that I never go back and look in them. I love Ravelry for keeping track of my yarn and projects. It’s perfect for me.
I’m not even consistent on Ravelry! 😂 which should be the easiest thing ever. I want to knit and start the next hot thing rather than compile notes…maybe if I make it a New Year’s resolution that’ll change
This is exactly the video that I needed. 10mins in and I have emptied my wish lists on Amazon, Etsy and at least another 3 websites. 😂❤
Glad it was helpful! 😂😂😂
I also use any random drawstring or tote bag that I have laying around. I got some aquarium tubing (from my son) when I wanted to try using that for holding stitches. More trouble that it's worth :)
What I have to keep talking myself out of is the wooden yarn bowl. I really, really want one, but all the reviews I've read said the knitter used it once and now it sits on a shelf because it's a pain to use. But I WANT one.
Confession time: I got one of those wooden bowls, and never use it. The yarn doesn’t move out of it smoothly and it’s more trouble than it’s worth
@@easilyknitfluenced I'll add that to my list of why not to buy one ...
Sounds like a great birthday present for you-and practical. My balls of yarn roll around and sometimes get stuck in the wheels of my desk chair 😂.
You just popped up . Kudos for courage. Totally agree and would add stitch/progess markers as loop of yarn or bits from jewelry section/beads works great. Yarn bowls. Don't drag knitting out so soup pot is both yarn bowl, project keeper .since use instant pot now gives a purpose. Needles,holder, patterns can be found at most thrift stores. Alpaca is much cheaper than mohair which is major trend.If cheap like me make drop spindle from dowel, wooden wheel from craft store and tiny hook from picture hanging kit every one has. Can decide if want top or bottom whorl using rubber bands to secure/change. Lazy kate does same thing as knitty/noddy and do you really need exact meterage? Do you really love that pattern that EVERYONE has knitted in 8 colors? Is it truly your jam to be worn for decades? Shawls...have you seen any/many in the wild? Only good for bed bound seniors ,yet influencers crank 2-4 per year. Okay. I feel better, thanks for listening.
AMEN to shawls!! I have never knitted a shawl, I don’t understand it. I don’t think I’ve ever seen someone wearing one in real life either. Maybe people wear them at home??
@@easilyknitfluenced I must confess after seeing outlander kinda want a rent shawl as looks like coverage and ease of a vest but easier to get into. Neuromuscular disease makes button hard to do and pullovers get stuck especially if vet overheated. Constantly looking for cheap, adaptive solutions for life
@@cherylcarlson3315shawls are a great alternative to a sweater for those of us who have mobility issues
I loved this! There seems to be a lot of consumerism going on in the knitting world. I’m in my 60’s and at this point in my life, I want less stuff, not more. I created my own quilted knitting bags from leftover scraps. They make me happy to see when I pull out my knitting projects. I think too, you hit on something important, that you should embrace what you enjoy doing. If it’s not keeping a journal, don’t follow that trend just because it’s popular online. If I bought a knitting journal, it would just gather dust! ❤
I agree. I’m no minimalist by any means, but I think it’s healthy to be wary of consumerism and needless spending
Excellent tips! I am the same. I only invest in fiber/yarn plus a few good tools (loom, e-spinner, carder). Everything else I own is either a plain low-budget option or something I repurposed. Collapsible fabric storage boxes are great for projects: they keep their shape, so the garment doesn't wrinkle, and they can be folded and stashed away if you don't need them. It's also a multi-purpose item that can be used to store all kinds of things at home (toys, shoes, etc.).
One other thing you didn't mention that we don't need is to buy patterns "for later." Trends change, and our preferences change, so patterns end up just sitting there. I used to buy patterns like that (many are still un-knit, years later), but now I only buy them when I'm ready to knit the garment - I mean when I am sitting down with my yarn and needles and ready to start knitting - only then do I go ahead and purchase. Better to save patterns in your 'Favorites' folder and browse when you have the yarn and time to make something.
So true. That’s another one I thought of, but you articulated it much better than I could have. I also have lots of unused patterns sitting in my inbox 💀 such a waste of money
Barbercord is also found in $2 shops as bead string. For kids pony bead necklaces.
Yup that’s right! It’s not a knitting specific thing
Solid advice! I try to live by all 5 but the single skein always gets me like a lost puppy, I need to take one home every so oft😅
RANT ON!! Honest view, and the truth came thru.
Great video! I slightly disagree about the PetiteKnit Stitch holder rubber band though. It's so much easier than placing your project on a piece of scrap yarn because you don't need needles and can just slide it onto the ends of your knitting needles. Very easy and satisfying. Since getting it, I have been trying on my projects way more during the knitting process which made me catch small mistakes way earlier on. Before buying it I always put off putting my project onto scrap yarn to try it on. They sold the PK holder for 3 Euro at my local yarn store though so that's probably why I feel like it's a very reasonable purchase 😀
If you can get it that cheap locally, do it! If I were to order them it would probably cost around $20 once you built in the shipping costs ☠️☠️☠️
@@easilyknitfluenced That's insane and definitely not worth it.
I will occasionally buy a single skein of yarn, BUT, I love colorwork, and I save these to use in sweater yokes.
Brilliant! First time watching one of your videos and this was brilliant, so true, so real..
Thanks and welcome!
All so true! Thanks for saying it out loud! ❤
You are so welcome!
I started knitting after a fifty year break August 1st of last year. For the first few months I was bedazzled by all this wonderful Needle sets and the accessories. As I keep on knitting I find that I have simplified my way to knit and the need for extras. I've recently purchased enough ChiaoGoo needles to cover what I want to knit! I'm not interested in knitting sweaters and I've not been into scarves or hats for a while because I've been hooked on socks and since the middle of this month learning to knit mittens! So I'm quite content now with my needle set from US4-US8 And I use them all. Now I've gone from throwing to flicking, I'm quite content. Thanks for this little Rant! We all need to hear it!
How wonderful that you came back to it after such a long gap! Keep knitting those socks😎 the world needs sock knitters as much as any other type of knitter!
I do like sewing project bags but literally a favorite reusable project bags are dollar store zipper pencil cases.
I call those things "nice to have".
Me too!
Great tip!
Thank You for having the nerve to make this honest video. I use old purses if I need to carry something away from the house. In the house I use a ziploc bag. Also keep your eyes peeled at garage sales. Every now and then you can get lucky.
Oh good point! I haven’t harnessed thrifting yet for knitting purposes
YES!!!! 100% I'd spend my $$ on lovely yarn, thank you
You are so welcome!
Love this video!!!
My project bags tend to be the smaller (not blue giant) shopping bags from IKEA that fold into the little square pocket. They'll fit a sweater or blanket project as they grow. They are slightly better made than the bags from Target, so the seams won't fail as the project grows. Also, they're washable...
Great idea!!
Thank you very much for your honesty and common sense!
New to your channel-and I love your honesty. My favorite is your opinion on project bags. Thanks!!
Thank you for watching!
The expense project bags are so ridiculous! Thank you for talking about this.
It’s something I’ve been noticing more and more, and I wasn’t sure if it was just my feed. I can KIND OF understand it if you’re a one WIP kind of knitter, but let’s face it, who among us can claim to be a truly monogamous knitter 100% of the time 🫣
I love my project bags. I’ve sewn longer than I’ve knitted and was able to pick my favorite features and make my bags primary from stash.
I wish I could sew. That seems like a great way to use up stash fabric
I agree, if you are sewing your own. Those are precious! I should make a couple for myself from my fabric stash!
Loved this! I crochet and just started knitting. Have many wip bags and none of them specific crochet/knit project bags. In fact I am known to save and use a cute plastic bag if it catches my eye!
Wonderful! So do I - I have so many reusable bags!
All of this is so painfully true - especially the project notebook one because I never finish any journals I start either 😅 hearing things in such a straightforward manner actually helps so much ❤
Here’s a hard truth that I’d like to share - ultimately it is your own choice to embellish your knitting hobby with beautiful trinkets and goods, but it speaks to a wider culture of unnecessary overconsumption. If you want to take a more environmentally-friendly approach or reevaluate the sheer amount of accumulating stuff (junk?) in your home, this video is the wake-up call you need.
🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻
My fav project bags are literally reusable book bags from book stores.
love this episode. i am working on scaling back on stuff and agree with your points. my favorite project bags either double as a purse or i made them myself. the one thing i would suggest is taking basic notes and keeping them togehter. i recntly bought a simple notebook, i put my current projects in there, needle size and type of yarn used. nothing fancy but i like to make things more than once and i got tired of reinventing the wheel.
I am definitely trying to be better about note keeping. I just get dazzled by new projects and don't want to go back to write down my thoughts
My favorite small project bags are bags my daughter and I made when she wanted to practice purttng in zippers and practice free motion quilting.
That’s so sweet ❤️
Such a good episode! Love the little roast! I mostly use paper bags from supermarket or random gift bags for my projects because they stand up on their own on the floor and I can easily pull the yarn from them.
I use the paper bags my LYS packs my yarn in!
Yes! 1000 times yes!! A ziplock bag holds a lot of projects just fine- and is reusable- or a canvas shopping bag will do the trick.
Designer notions are a luxury gift but not required.
For those single skeins- too easy to fall into that trap! If you love it- buy “enough” to make a real thing, instead of an expensive novelty that will finally use it up (one RUclipsr did a video about the $300 baby blanket..). If you do have these lovely orphan skeins, check out westknits shawls- often they feature wild color inspirations and one skein of a few colors will do.
“Spend the money on yarn.” Good advice. 😊
🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻
I bought a couple of project bags (cotton) to get the idea from. I am a sewer so have made loads of project bags from leftover fabric. I can make them the size and style I want. Some have zippers, some are drawstring, some with pockets. I have fun making them so it’s a win for me in many ways and usually cost me nothing except a zipper.
As far as knitting journals go, I’ve tried with journals I already have and failed every time. I do keep the info in Ravelry but not as detailed as some. I have referred back to the info several times.
I wish I could sew! I’d love to be able to make my own bags, maybe that’ll be a new craft I can pick up
Watched your podcast for the first time. You are so practical and so right about all those expensive knitting "extras". If I need a project bag, I go to
Goodwill and pick one up for $2 or less to add to my other Goodwill bags. BTW, your makeup application is stunning.
Watching this video on my TV and I had to pull it up on my phone to comment about how gorgeous you are! Your voice just immediately caught my attention and I’m hooked!
Oh you’re so sweet, thank you so much!
Well, well done! I needed you last week however when I actually went INTO. A yarn store and bought almost everything you mentioned, fancy stitch markers 20.00, Project Bag 70.00 and SOCK YARN, I don’t knit socks, EVERYTHING was so tempting and LOVELY, so NOW I KNOW (BILL NYE), FOR me, ORDER YARN FROM THE WEB….. stores are amazing and feel so gooooood, but unless you have a lot of CONTROL, as you said, spend the money $$$$ on YARN, the bits and pieces really aren’t that helpful. Great Video my dear, Georgia from BC
Thank you for watching, Georgia 🩷
The old Purl SoHo store in Manhattan used to get me in exactly the same way. I’d walk in and be so dazzled by the beautiful aesthetic that I would end up buying all kinds of wildly impractical, random things. They’d seem like such a great idea in the moment, and then I’d get home to my apartment and wonder what on earth to do with them 😆🤪
The best way I avoid buying yarn that I won't use is to chose the pattern I want to make before I buy the yarn! My stash isn't huge, but when I look at it I see a box of future projects instead of a bunch of pretty yarn and it keeps me motivated to finish my wips so I can start another. There's also the added bonus of not having a lot of extra leftover yarn since I only buy the amount I need!
This is the system I’ve started instituting in recent years, and it definitely works
totally agree on all of these but especially on the single skeins of yarn!! I've fallen into this trap so many times and now I have a bunch of beautiful useless yarn in my stash :(
Weaving is an excellent stash buster!
I’ve been there :( pretty things draw my eye and cloud my better judgement. I’m much more disciplined now, but there are still some single skeins staring angrily at me from my stash 😱
I so agree with you about the overconsumption! I’m as tempted as the next person to buy cute and beautiful project bags and endless single skeins of gorgeous yarn, but for the most part I’ve been able to resist. I have about 6 project bags, and that seem like too much. I didn’t have much yarn stash to begin with, but I did have several skeins I knew I wouldn’t use, so I destashed them as well as some tools and notions on Ravelry. I have one small plastic bin of yarn now. I like to look at the Rav destash threads, and the amounts that some people have and are now trying to get rid of are just astounding. Expensive things too. One brand that I see a lot of in the bag destash group is Joji’s leather bags. Beautiful but SO expensive, and some people have several! Thanks for the video!
Honestly, with project bags, I only buy them if I want to support the maker, and that's more the smaller hand made ones, not the commercial companies
I can see that for sure. There are some beautiful ones out there - I've certainly been tempted. But ultimately they wouldn't get the use they deserve with the way I knit. I just don't display anything knitting-wise; it all gets rammed under a desk or in a drawer
It’s so interesting to me when people say they only use a limited range of needles. I regularly use US11 for one project then US3 for the next! I like to make a variety of things and having they range is so necessary for me.
That’s awesome! I wish I could spread myself across more variety sometimes
You have no idea how much I needed to see this video! I also used to be into beauty RUclips big time, and anti-haul videos saved me from making so many dumb purchases lol. Thank you.
Saaame here. I had a ludicrous makeup collection at one point, and of course because I only have one face, a lot of it went bad or was past its prime by the time I got around to using it
I have a plastic kids sewing needle that i use for cabling. Came with a kit for my daughter a few years back and better than any of the fancy-pants cable needle/shawl pin/broach things ive used before.
My spinning wheel drive band is a length of scrap linen yarn, and project bags are often the postal bag the yarn came in!
I have found the interchangeable set has grown over time as my preferred gauge has shifted since i started, but like you, i buy tips and cables as and when needed now.
Smart!
I love gift bags for project bags, especially because they're recyclable after they get worn down or torn. And super easy to replace! I have also used the drawstring bags that my shoes have come in, or other shoulder bags as well. And the person who said totes from events! My LYS does a yarn crawl every year and I try to get that tote to use for projects! or shopping!
I agree! I have also used paper bags from clothing stores. They’re quite sturdy and a good size, and when they fall apart I can throw them out knowing that at least I reused them for something ✌🏻
I loved loved this video! As a new knitter, I can really relate!
Glad you enjoyed it!
This felt like a very targeted financial advice session-- esp your points about DK weight single skeins. This video made me laugh out loud several times 😂
You can tell what my favorite yarn weight is 😆
You came for me with that single skein yarn XD As an avid thrifter, I'll find beautiful yarns at the thrift store but theres never enough yardage to do anything I want to do with them. Even if its $2 for a 50g of merino wool in the most beautiful color, it too will also just sit there.
I did buy one of those knitting needle sets when I started and I actually have used every size at least once. For me, personally, it was actually cheaper to buy them all in one go rather than piecemeal, but I do agree with you that its probably a good idea to just save your money. It was a regret for me bc I bought a knitter's pride set and now I know I like lykke needles better. Oh well, live and learn.
Oh you're unusual then :) And yes, I am so tempted by those single skeins. They call my name as soon as I enter my LYS, every time XD
100% in agreement with all your points. What a sensible young lady you are.
Thanks for watching!
Love the video 🙌🏻 I use freezer ziplock bags for projects 🫣 You can easily see what’s inside and they stay closed well. Granted mine are somewhat chewed, because my kitties love to gnaw on them.
For stitch holding, I use floss 😅 I have accumulated a stash of samples from the dentist over the years and can pop one in every ziplock wip bag, along with those blunt kids craft scissors.
Ohhhh floss! what a brilliant idea :D