Years ago there was a little slogan that made the rounds that said, "Happiness is Homemade."
I think for a crafter, that is often the case. There's something immensely gratifying about making and creating something whether it is in the kitchen, the craft room, or the shop.
My mom taught me how to crochet many years ago. I'm not an expert by any means, but I've made quite a few things throughout the years. My mom could have been the expert crocheter; I'm not as talented as she was. She also taught me how to embroider and I took a class on counted cross stitch. It gives me pleasure to use many of the items I've made.
My mom told me a story from her youth about lots of beautiful things she made. She crocheted all kinds of items and kept them "for good."
If you aren't familiar with this phrase, it was one of my mom's generation...don't use that item, we are keeping it for good, meaning for a special occasion. Sadly, she did all that work and when she went to get some of the items she decided to use, they had disintegrated from not being used. All that work for naught. I learned a lesson about that and try to use many of the things I make because of her story.
But I have my own story. When I was in college, money was very, very tight. I have always been someone who plans and I thought what better gift than making my friend an afghan. She was always complaining about being cold. So, I bought lots of yarn in the same dye lot (very important if you knit or crochet since colors can fluctuate) and spent most of my free time crocheting this afghan. Mind you, we didn't have air conditioning so when the afghan got big enough, it was hot holding it during the summer, but it was for my friend.
I was so excited about giving it to her for Christmas. When I did, I saw the look on her face and it was not one of delight. She wasn't into homemade stuff, even though I picked the colors she liked. She thanked me, and put it aside. It broke my heart, not only the work involved, but the fact I disappointed my friend.
Alas, I realized it was important to recognize "my audience" so to speak. Don't gift something to someone who doesn't understand the work and expense of a homemade gift. I know some think that homemade means cheap, but they apparently haven't priced craft supplies.
Years ago I gave another friend some items I had canned like jam and jelly and tomato sauce. The person said since we grew the tomatoes, that was basically free.
Seriously?
Apparently that person hasn't gardened. Seeds, plants, water, and fertilizer aren't free. Nor are jars, lids, or rings, not to mention all the labor involved. For the jams and jellies I purchased fruit, sugar, and pectin. Again, I misjudged my "audience."
On social media, some folks are applauding "grandmacore" activities like knitting, crocheting, sewing, canning, baking, and the like. I'm pleased because there is a lot of joy in making things. But I am trying to be aware of my "audience" before I gift anything so my feelings aren't hurt and the recipient isn't disappointed. Life lesson learned.
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