My Crochet Origin Story
Hello! My name is Gail, and I’d like to tell you the story of how I came to crochet.
When I was 8 years old, my elementary school had a program called mini units. During mini units faculty and staff taught students life skills like cooking and sewing or hobbies they were passionate about like art, games, theatre, and dancing. My favorite sessions were the crafty ones like macrame, ceramics, and crochet.
Crochet is the one that has stayed with me, and I am grateful to the teacher’s aide who hosted the sessions. I don’t remember her name but have a clear picture of her in my mind. She was patient and encouraging to the small group of students who chose her mini unit.
We made bracelets and hair ribbons by winding yarn around nails hammered into a wooden spool. We also made placemats by weaving yarn through dishtowels with a tapestry needle, leaving long ends for fringe. I was so proud of each item I made.
She tried to teach me to knit but for whatever reason I couldn’t grasp the skill. But she managed to teach me to crochet a chain and other simple stitches like single crochet. I made potholders and other small things.
That summer, while on vacation with my family, I purchased a size G shiny red Boye crochet hook and some yarn with my spending money. Much to my dismay, I couldn’t recreate any of the things the teacher’s aide had shown me. So, crocheting soon went the way of many hobbies and interests of an 8-year-old: into a closet or drawer.
While I would make many attempts over the years to pick it back up, it was fruitless until I met Ms. Freddie. Ms. Freddie was an older woman from my church who showed me how to make granny squares on Saturday afternoons, offering up tips about turning my squares and changing colors. When I mastered the granny square, I made my first baby blanket for my godbrother. Proud doesn’t begin to describe the feeling.
The crochet bug grabbed hold of me and didn’t let go … I started buying pattern books whenever I had money. Learned to read the patterns so my crochet makes looked like the pictures in the books. Crochet became my creative outlet, playing with color and texture to make beautiful gifts for friends and family.
Now, with the help of YouTube, I get lots of tips and tricks from seasoned crocheters the world over and access to amazing patterns and tutorials fueling my passion for a craft that’s been with me most of my life.
My oldest graduated high school a couple of years ago. And the advent of him leaving home was overwhelming. While crocheting his graduation blanket, I felt calm and peace as I poured my love for him into the gift. As a result, crochet has become an everyday event for me benefiting my mental and emotional wellbeing.
Soon my husband and I will be empty nesters as our youngest son will graduate this academic year. And we’ve been contemplating how we will spend our time when both boys are off at school … which leads to me sharing my crochet journey with you.
Some of my time will be spent handmaking pretty and practical gifts for baby showers, baptisms, weddings, anniversaries, graduations, and other special occasions. If you’re looking for handmade gifts and maybe a book recommendation to pair with it … you’ve come to the right place.
Welcome to Champion Street Crochet!