As a knitter, crocheter you know that crafting is not just a hobby- it’s a way of life. From scarves to sweaters, blankets to hats, there’s always a new project to start and a new skill to master. However, like any activity, knitting and crochet can take a toll on your body. That’s why it’s important to know about lifelines.
Now, I can describe the actual term of what a lifeline is for those that craft and use them which is usually a thin piece of thread or yarn that is placed into your knitting or crochet project at regular intervals. They can be used to help you keep your place in your pattern, but their main purpose is to provide a safety net. But I also believe and it is true for me especially lately that lifelines come in other forms besides a physical tool to help with a project. With my struggle lately mentally my craft has become a lifeline for me in so many ways. It is a release from the tension in my house and the stress I may feel either from work or home life. But I also know that besides the craft itself being a lifeline, I find that my social group of friends that knit and crochet with me weekly for a couple hours a week for a knit and chat time are also a major lifeline for me. Again all of these aspects being a safety net of some sort.
Why are lifelines important
Lifelines are important for complex patterns, like lace work or when working with delicate fibers. It’s easy to get lost in a pattern or make a mistake, and undoing work can be time consuming and frustrating. With a lifeline in place, you can confidently tackle even the most complicated of patterns, knowing that if you make a mistake, you’ll be able to get back on track. Additionally, if you are working with a delicate fiber like mohair or silk, you may not be able to unravel your work without causing damage. A lifeline can help you avoid having to undo your work entirely, which can be a lifesaver. I would add here that by reaching for your knitting or crochet or whatever craft you do when in tough times and stress, you can find some sense of peace and calm. For me it has become a type of meditation for me as well. Now to be clear, that is picking a simple, easy project to do that does not take a lot of brain work to do. But the process of just knitting or a simple crochet project like washcloths or something easy like a blanket, are great things to meditate with. Just focusing on the process of function to help you forget what has caused your stress or frustration is good.
In conclusion, lifelines are an essential tool for any knitter or crocheter. They can help you save time, prevent frustration, and ensure that your projects turn out the way you want them to and help your sanity and peace of mind. They come in many shapes and sizes, be it friends that support you and help you in a pinch or a piece of thread you use to save your spot in a tough project. Or as a form of meditation. They are all lifesaving and I have come to rely on them more and more lately.
thenexusknitter 