Though age 29 probably isn't really 'kids', looking from my side of 50, it seems so very young. But let me get right to it. My niece and nephew-in-law have a way to relax that is so vintage and so very cool. She has taught herself to knit (via DVD, which is really pretty ironic when you think about it), and he crochets. Both crafts seem to be dying arts.

As their abilities develop, so too are the ideas they're discussing. From scarves to mittens to booties to sweaters and more. As I've listened to the learning curve stories and seen the finished products, as well as chatting about craft ideas, my level of admiration for the kids, already high, has continued to grow. Anything that has anything to do with anything like that, is N.O.T. not my bag. In my world, duct tape is the main supply in the sewing kit. But, that being said, I can recognize talent and art and beauty.

I am also having ideas, on their behalf. I was sorting through all kinds of vintage stuff, craft, sewing, etc..., for my store, when the light bulb came on! (sure the bulb is a little dim and flickery these days, but still.) Knitting needles (some as big as my thumb!) and crochet hooks of all types and sizes, beads (large, small and everything between), a rainbow of colored lace, ribbon, rick-rack, and on and on.

Though I love to go through all the colorful sewing, crafty type stuff, it doesn't seem to be that big of a seller in the store. More importantly, if I throw out some ideas, and provide the supplies to experiment, the kids can just roll with it and use their creativity to make it work, or spark a different line of thinking. So I'm filling a tote with anything that strikes me as something that can work with knitting and crocheting. (and some things that are so cool I can't wait to see if they can make it into something special.) I will get to participate, on a low level, in something creative. I already came up with an idea they like. When you finish a project, and I do mean finish (both mittens, all 4 hairties, etc...) bag it, tag it, and put it in a tote with a sachet. When the tote is full you'll be ready for gifting, a little sale, or a craft show. If they decide to make things for sale and are successful, wouldn't that be wonderful!

Everyone has something they do to relax. Crosswords, reading, computer games, gardening, etc... How cool would it be to relax and make it pay for itself at the same time?!?! In addition, they are keeping alive an art form that goes back to practically the beginning of time. They have 3 young children who, as they get older, may want to learn to knit or crochet. (or embroider or sew) Who knows?

It's been a real treat hearing how their hobby is blossoming. When I saw the gifts the kids had made for their friends, they were so far above what I had expected. Yes, it was old fashioned knitting and crocheting, but their modern fashion sense and creativity made the items more than totally wearable. For example, the scarf not only will be warm for winter, but could be worn as an accessory with the right shirt. The yarns were different from anything I'd ever seen before and the style was way beyond what I remember a hand knitted scarf was suppose to look like. The hair ties for their little girls, were outstanding as well. They looked complex and were a perfect blend of cute and beautiful. When they told me how they were made, the explanations were full of....all we did was this....it only need that...etc... That told me that the talent is in the kids. They are a little modest, as knitting and crocheting are fairly new activities, but if these are their early projects, what will they create as the confidence and idea pool grow?

No, I will never be able to give a hand crafted scarf, or the like, for a gift. (the amount of duct tape needed would surely be cost prohibitive!) But I can certainly provide the supplies for them to create more, and try out new ideas.

I'm thrilled to participate, and honored that they share these ups, downs, and triumphs with me. (can you tell I don't have my own children?) Being supportive is easy and really fun when you're sharing with.... Clever, Creative, Kids!

Written by Elizabeth Allison

The Other Place, ABC Shop on Ruby Lane