Following Lynda’s crochet journey has been nothing short of inspiring to me. Watching her find healing and practicing mindfulness through creative therapy was something that intrigued me from the get-go. I often wondered how I could fit crochet into my own life. How will I benefit from unplugging and winding down, I wondered? I knew it would bring magic into my life, but I didn’t realise just how much I would gain from learning something new.
To paint a picture for you, I am a mother of three children aged five and under, and a freelance copywriter. I am busy with a capital B. But when I finally got to meet Lynda in person at the soul soothing Sydney Finders Keepers market she encouraged me and told me I could do it. Not only did she tell me that I could do it, she insisted that I actually needed crochet in my life. And I did. And I do.
Going home with the Chunky Scarf Crochet Kit which I chose in the soft, beautiful neutral grey, was exciting! I was starting a new project and learning a new skill all for myself – with video tutorials so I knew I could do it! I have never been one to read instructions so the video element was the key to my success. The videos take you from creating a slip knot and holding your hook, all the way to joining the two ends together once you have completed your rows. That part is so exciting!
I just adored how the Melbourne Snood looked on the pattern cover – so toasty and warm and like a big hug on a cool day. I could picture myself wearing it and everyone asking where I got it, to which I would reply, “I made it!” To which no one would ever believe me because I am NOT a crafty person. I have never knitted nor crocheted anything in my life – ever. Never ever. I am the kind of person who outsources the hemming of my daughter’s school uniform because I am afraid to stuff it up. So this was a big step for me.
So how did I create my first ever crocheted snood in a single day?
I fell in love with the feeling and texture of the fibers, the smooth motion of whipping the yarn around the back of the hook and looping it through. Once I got the hang of the first three rows, I took things into my own hands. I attempted a few rows on my own, and before I knew it I had built half the snood! The repetitive motion allowed me to truly zone out, center myself and relax for the first time in a long time.
Now, my turns, and stitches are let’s just say, abstract. There are clearly spots where I went rogue and should have kept my eye on the videos. Lynda provides a video for every single step, so if you pay attention, you really can’t go wrong. Alas, I love my imperfect snood like no other item in my wardrobe. It is unique, completely me, and made by me. Something I have never had before.
When I completed the snood, I emailed Lynda to tell her I had made it in a day and how much I enjoyed it. I also told her how much I adored wearing it simply because I loved how it felt on my neck and shoulders.
Would I recommend this project to a beginner?
Absolutely. I am of the notion that if I can do this, anyone can! Yes, even if you have never crocheted before, and think, “oh I can’t possibly find the time to make that!”, take it from a working mother of three, who finds going to the grocery store alone a luxury, you absolutely can! And you should! Get your Chunky Scarf Crochet Kit now!