This post was originally published in 2011. I am republishing it to share it with those who might have missed it the first time around.
This interview is with Rhymit, a Bronx, New York based crocheter with an Etsy store. Here is what she had to say …
CROCHETBLOGGER: What was the first thing that you learned to crochet, if you can remember?
Rhymit: My Aunt Ethel taught me to crochet more than 40 years ago. I don’t remember the first items I crocheted but I do remember some of the benefits of being taught to crochet during childhood. I believe that learning to crochet as a child helped to improve my ability to focus and concentrate. I also learned patience and an appreciation of details. I credit counting stitches and reading crochet patterns with improving my math and problem solving skills as a child. My Aunt Ethel taught me also to appreciate the value of hand crocheted items.
CROCHETBLOGGER: What a great summary of what a child can learn from crochet! Where would you say that your inspiration for crochet comes from now?
Rhymit: My inspiration to crochet comes from my desire to give to others. Any special occasion (birthdays, weddings, baby showers, holidays) inspires me to crochet a gift for someone I care about. I am especially happy when I see babies using the baby blankets that I have crocheted.
CROCHETBLOGGER: I bet that they are happy too! Do you read any crochet sources that also inspire you?
Rhymit: I enjoy reading Crochet Magazine.
CROCHETBLOGGER: Is there any item that you don’t enjoy crocheting?
Rhymit: There is no item I dislike crocheting in particular. I like trying to crochet patterns that are challenging even if it takes a while for me to be successful. I crochet hats, scarves, baby clothes and afghans. Afghans are probably my favorite item to crochet, especially ripple style afghans.
CROCHETBLOGGER: That’s great – I always have difficulty with making ripples work out well so I’m always impressed with people who can do it! What type of yarn is your favorite to use in your work?
Rhymit: I order my yarn from Herrschners online. I buy cotton yarn or acrylic soft yarn.
CROCHETBLOGGER: What made you decide to start an Etsy store for your work? How has that experience been?
I decided to start an Etsy Store for my work because I needed to supplement my disability income. I have plenty of free time to crochet because I am not able to work outside my home due to my health issues. Crocheting provides a creative outlet that helps me cope with my impaired mobility.
I really appreciate that an item from my Etsy Shop was featured on this site in March 2011. That hat (the Gray Beret) was my first Etsy sale a few weeks after being featured here.
CROCHETBLOGGER: So glad that I was able to share it with others! Is there anything else that you would like people to know about crochet?
One thing I want other people to know about crocheting is that it I find it is a great stress reducer. Crocheting helps me remain positive and calm in spite of my health struggles.
CROCHETBLOGGER: Great point! Thanks so much for doing this interview!