Connect – thenexusknitter

New years goals for 2025

Let me start by saying, 2024 was really hard. Mostly personally. My mental health to the most has been a challenge. Physically I have been dealing with some challenges there as well. I feel like all the things I wanted to accomplish for my business that year did not go through because I struggled to keep what I had going. Though I will say toward the end of the year I did have one of my best finishes.

So, with all of that said, what do I foresee for this new year of 2025. On my personal end, continue to put myself first. Continue my mental check in everyday. In the end if I’m not happy for myself, nobody else can make me happy.

As for my business, nexusknits, from today on I am vowing to do something everyday to improve myself and my business. Whether it be making product, or improving the site, or even just organizing my work space better to make it easier to work. Putting my business at a higher priority than I have this last year. I have some ideas for new products I want to introduce. One of them is a tribute to my grandmother who was a knitter and used to make us slippers every year. I have had requests over the years to sell slippers and just never got around to it. Couldn’t find the right pattern I liked or just kept putting it off. Whatever the reason it got pushed to the back burner. Long term goal for me is to get to a place that this is my sole job. Making things with my hands and sending it off to people or giving them in person at markets knowing someone likes your work enough to buy it is a thrill for me.

In closing, 2025 is going to be about doing what makes me happy most, continuing to be kind and respectful to everyone but those that bring me down are not getting a place at my mental table. I’m gonna continue to focus on the positive first in my life.

Do you have goals or resolutions you set each year? I’d love to hear it. Lastly, I am gonna try harder to check in with my blog posts this year as well and use this platform more. One step, one day at a time. Til next time, happy new year everyone and let’s hope for a peaceful one.

Sunday morning thoughts

Hello friends, I am writing this blog post today on this cold, snowy November morning with the thought that I want to make this a regular post on Sunday mornings. Hope anyway. It may or may not relate to my craft experience but as a multi crafter, every experience in my life affects my craft. Today though, this is more about my own mental frustrations we will call it that have been brewing for the last three plus years since my husband and I took in a family member of his into our home. At the time when my husband asked me if I was ok having this person be in our home I really didn’t think it was going to be a problem. I had what I thought was a good relationship with them and didn’t think that would be different or change. I have since been proven wrong.

Let me start this conversation by asking anyone who may read this have you ever thought about people’s personality traits? There are different types for sure. I have a degree in health and human development with a focus on early childhood so I have seen this develop in young children. This person is a senior in early 80s. Do you know someone or maybe yourself who is shall we say a dominant, likes to be in charge, in control of a situation or family? Well, this person is that kind of person. She never wants to be told what to do, was in control of the finances for their family, and was/ is the matriarch for their family. I am I would say the complete opposite yet I am also the matriarch of my family that I have with my husband. We have two children. The oldest has been out of the house for a number of years now and my youngest due to circumstances for cost of living in our area being what it is is still living at home with us.

Long story short, let’s just say that my husband and I were brought up in two very different home upbringings. My husband asked me last night why I have been so tense and seem to have a hard time being around this person. In the early hours of the morning I think I finally figured out what it comes down to. Deep down it’s a lack of respect. How do you find a way to get where two people of opposite personalities yet are in the same position to stop butting heads so to speak and live in peace and respect in the same house. Without giving a lot of details let’s just say, the struggle of taking care of a senior member of a family who is a total opposite personality and does not respect you yet wants respect herself, is nothing but difficult and hard. It has made it hard at times for me to find joy in my craft and yet at times that is the only solace I have in my life at times too. If you are in this kind of position or have been and have some insight I would love it if you would comment or give some suggestion. My husbands thought is to have us talk it out and come to agreement to start over. I’m not sure she is able to do that as I have had conversations before and tried to do that very thing and nothing changes. Stay tuned to see.

thoughts of evolving

Believe it or not we are half way through this year already. It has got me thinking now for a while about where do I want my business to go and am I satisfied with my business as it stands now.

That is the big question. Where do I see nexus knits going now and in the future. I started my business because I loved making things for my family and thought maybe other people might like them too. It has been growing over the years since I started on Etsy and then moved into selling at markets in person and now in the last few years added being a part of Goimagine. But I also see my business as not just selling my items that I make but also helping others to create things themselves by teaching. Sharing my experience with others. I started by teaching classes at Michaels when I worked at my local store. Then onto teaching at the public library where I live in Bozeman Montana. Then the pandemic hit and everything shut down in person. In the last couple of years since we have slowly gotten back to teaching in person again at the library.

Which brings me to the latest concept. I watch a lot of YouTube videos both being tutorial types and just conversations about various things. A lot of what I watch has to do with the fiber arts in some form whether its people I love talking about their yarn and or life having to do with crafts, or other things. I have also had quite a few people mention to me and ask me if I would do a YouTube video as well for tutorials on crochet /knitting. At first I was dismissing it because I knew there was a lot of people out there already doing that and they didn’t need me adding to the mix. Though lately, in the last few months, I have pondered the idea again and slowly started to look again at what it would take for me to maybe start that myself. The first thought was I don’t have the time to devote to this too. But I think that was just an excuse and not a real good one as I can make the time if I really want to do it. The only other factor is what more equipment would I need to be able to do this. And the cost of it. Turns out I can start this fairly easily without a whole lot of extra equipment to begin with. I just need to get my confidence up and just start.

Do I see this as another avenue to make money? Not really. At least not for right now. But, who knows. I had a gal yesterday that had come up to my booth and had said she was a new knitter and had recently asked the gals at my local yarn shop for some help and they were not helpful at all. She was wondering if I could help her. She was not able to join our times at the library to come in then, so I gave her my card and told her I would be happy to meet up with her sometime and try to help her. She was even willing to pay me for my time. It reminded me then about what the name of my business really means. Nexusknits. Making connections with handmade goods. I have deemed myself a nexus knitter and for me my teaching and helping others with the love of my craft is also a way of making connections.

In conclusion, I see my business, Nexusknits, evolving or expanding if you will to being not just a business of selling handmade items with knit or crochet but also helping and educating others to be able to experience the joy I get from these crafts as well and in turn that is also making connections. The future holds lots of opportunities and Im not sure what will happen but I willing to try and take the steps to see. I will take you along for the journey if you like and let you know when the next steps happen. Come along for the ride if you want. Til next time, stay well and happy crafting.

Embracing the Transition: Fiber Crafts for a seamless summer to fall shift

I know it is still summer and it is hot right now in much of the world it seems but in the world of fiber crafts and crafts in general you have to think ahead a few months as you make things so I am now thinking fall and making things to transition to fall. Whether you are a seasoned knitter, a crochet connoisseur, or a newcomer to the world of fiber crafts, transitioning from summer to fall provides a ideal opportunity to explore new techniques and create cozy pieces to keep you warm during the cooler months ahead. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the magic of transitioning seasons through fiber crafts, exploring creative ideas and inspiring projects that bridge the gap between summer and fall.

Lightweight Accessories: As the temperature starts to drop, you can ease into the fall season by crafting lightweight accessories that provide a touch of warmth without being too heavy. Consider knitting or crocheting airy scarves, shawls, and wraps using soft cotton or silk yarns. These versatile pieces can complement your summer outfits while offering an extra layer of comfort on breezy autumn days.
Harvest-inspired Color Palettes: Let the changing landscape of fall inspire your fiber crafting endeavors. Draw on the rich colors of autumn leaves, pumpkin patches, and harvest fruits to select a warm and inviting color palette for your projects, incorporate shades of rust, mustard, olive, and deep burgundy into your designs, infusing your creations with the essence of the season.

3. Transitioning Garments: Take advantage of the shift in seasons to work on garments that effortlessly transition from summer to fall. Light cardigans, ponchos, and sleeveless vests are perfect for layering over your favorite summer tops and dresses. Opt for breathable fibers such as bamboo or linen blends to ensure comfort as you embrace the subtle chill in the air.

4. Fall inspired Home Decor: I refer to the picture above as an example with drink coasters. Fiber crafts aren’t limited to wearables! Spruce up your living spaces with fall-themed home decor. Create crochet or knit pillow covers featuring autumn motifs like leaves, acorns or pumpkins. Or like these fall leaf coasters to decorate your table. A cozy handmade blanket with an autumn inspired color theme will not only add warmth to your home but also imbue it with the spirit of the season.

5. Preserving Summer Memories: As summer comes to an end, why not preserve its cherished memories through fiber arts? Gather your beach or vacation photos and incorporate them into a scrapbook-style quilt or a memory blanket. Each square can represent a special moment or a unique memory, making the transition from one season to another a heartwarming journey.

6. Prepping for winter: As you transition from summer to fall, it’s the ideal time to get a head start on crafting winter essentials. Begin working on heavier scarves, mittens, and hats using luxurious wool or alpaca yarns, bison, etc. These projects will your hands busy and ensure you’re ready to face the colder months with handmade warmth.

In Conclusion:

Embracing the transition from summer to fall through fiber crafts allows you to infuse your creations with the beauty and essence of each season. Whether you’re crafting lightweight accessories, incorporating harvest-inspired colors, designing transitioning garments, adorning your home with fall decor, preserving memories or prepping for winter fiber arts offer a boundless creative outlet. So, pick up your needles or hook, select your favorite yarns, and let the changing seasons be your muse as you dive into the captivating world of fiber crafts. Happy crafting!

The Therapeutic Magic of Fiber Crafts for Seniors

In this blog post, we explore the wonderful world of fiber crafts and their positive impact on the elderly. Engaging in various fiber crafts, such as knitting, crochet, weaving, and more, can offer numerous physical, mental, and emotional benefits for seniors. Let’s delve into the therapeutic magic of fiber crafts and how they can enhance the lives of our beloved elderly community.

I recently visited my parents and my mom who used to crochet when I was younger had asked me to help her get back into crochet. Her oldest sister who is 96 now has been back into knitting the last few years making things like shawls, and now baby blankets. I have friends who all knit or crochet, etc and they have all said the same thing. The medical community also has said these activities are wonderful for so many reasons. As we get older and age takes it’s toll on things anything we can do to prolong that with crafts to help your fine motor skills and mental abilities as well as other things is a great start. Here are some of the benefits.

1. Mental Stimulation and Cognitive Benefits: Fiber crafts require focus and concentration, stimulating the brain and enhancing cognitive abilities in seniors. Learning new patterns, colors, and techniques can keep their minds sharp and agile, reducing the risk of cognitive decline.

2 Physical Dexterity and Motor Skills: The repetitive movements involved in fiber crafts help seniors maintain and improve their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. This can be particularly beneficial for those with arthritis or other age-related conditions.

3. Stress Relief and Emotional Well-being: Crafting with fibers provides a calming and meditative experience, reducing stress and anxiety levels in seniors. It can serve as a creative outlet for expressing emotions, boosting their overall emotional well-being.

4. Social Connection and Community: Joining knitting circles, crochet groups, or weaving workshops to name a few, offer seniors the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, fostering a sense of belonging and combating feelings of isolation or loneliness.

5. Purpose and Sense of Accomplishment: Completing a fiber craft project gives seniors a sense of achievement and purpose, boosting their self-esteem and confidence. It also allows them to create meaningful gifts for loved ones or contribute to charitable causes.

6. Intergenerational bonding: Fiber crafts provide a unique opportunity for intergenerational bonding. Seniors can pass down their knowledge and skills to younger family members, creating cherished memories and strengthening family ties. As well as integrating it’s you get folks in the groups.

7. Adaptive Techniques and Inclusivity: For seniors with physical limitations, there are adaptive techniques and tools available that enable them to participate in fiber crafts. This inclusivity ensures that everyone can experience the joy of creating with fibers.

In Conclusion: Fiber crafts are more than just hobbies. They hold the power to enrich all our lives whatever the age but for seniors in numerous ways. From improving cognitive function and physical dexterity to promoting emotional well-being and social connections, these crafts offer a holistic approach to healthy aging. So, let’s all embrace the therapeutic magic of the fiber crafts and encourage our elderly loved ones to explore their creativity and passion!

I am thrilled that my mother and my aunt have done so and I personally know how it has benefited me in so many ways. Do you have a loved one or a friend that does any of the fiber crafts? I’d love to hear how it has helped them.

As the seasons change

Hello, so does anyone else feel like we were cheated out of summer? In Montana we get a short summer anyway so this year it feels doubly so with all of June being so wet and cold a lot of it. Now Aug is over and September is here. Everywhere things are transitioning to fall items like pumpkins and fall colors. When you have a handmade business like mine you have to think a few months ahead anyway. As I look to the end of the year for 2022 and starting 2023 I am deciding that I need to make some changes in my business moving forward. I am going to be adding some new products to my shop in the coming weeks and months. Also I have been looking at the option of subscription plans and what that would look like for nexusknits. If I were to offer a subscription type option for people what would it be.

The obvious one people think of is offering a video class exclusively for subscribers. Well, that may be a option in the coming year as I look at what equipment I would need to successfully take that on. I have had people ask me about that. The option though I was looking to start with is a physical product. Since I am a small, one person run business I had to come up a product that I could offer that I knew I could put together in a relatively short period of time and offer multiples of. So I am going with my stitch markers. It will be a special, monthly, exclusive stitch marker set with probably some extra goodies thrown in. The theme will be something happening in each month, whether that is a holiday that falls then or a season, etc. If it is successful then I will look at other ideas for themes. You would have a choice of deciding to buy monthly, three months, or 6, or a year. What do you think? Obviously this is meant for people who knit or crochet. These also make a wonderful gift for that special person who does too. I’m still working on the details and will give more details as it comes available. But for now I would love some feedback. Would you go for something like this? Do you subscribe to anything?

Here are some examples of new products available. The bubble tea stitch markers are in the shop now. The baby hat and bootie set will be available soon. I am also stepping it up a bit and have gotten some custom labels made for my products so to look more professional, and up to date with my brand.

As I’ve said, my goal, mission with my business and craft is to make items that bring about some connection for people. Whether it is a accessory like hats, baby items, kitchen home items, and or the stitch markers and key chain items I offer. With that in mind I am also evaluating what hasn’t been selling and adding new, fresh things. The items that haven’t sold will be donated instead to my local charities that could use them for people in need as they are still very good things just not a interest for people to buy. Yet another way I can build connections. In conclusion, as the seasons change so is my business changing in a good way. Til next time, keep making connections and take care.

Quarantine Time

So here we are. Quarantine time to stay at home and try to do our part to prevent the virus from spreading. Is everybody listening and heeding this advice? No. I would love to stay home more but my current part time work is still open (Michaels crafts store) and I could use the paycheck so I still go to work. The thing that gets all of us who work there right now is why people still keep coming in and yet amazed we are still open. I get it, people need something to do while they are at home but from what I see not many people are staying home like they should. The thing that is challenging for most families right now with kids is the schools are closed and the date keeps changing as to when they might go back to school. Ours just got pushed farther to April 10th now. How do you navigate your work at home (if you can) and home school your kids and try not to get sick in the process. My only child that is home still is 16 so it is not as difficult for me but I still wonder how things are going to play out for the rest of his junior year in high school now.

I bring all this up right now to show that as a nexus knitter/crocheter all of these things play into my craft life. The connections and process of balancing work and life are becoming intertwined even more than normal with the closures and interruptions of life right now. But, also with that comes the piece of mind and calmn that my craft gives me ever more now as it is needed. I can shut off the ever changing noise there is of news and changes because of this medical crisis we are in and just sit and focus on making things like my stitch markers or a new hat, or a shawl or even just potholders and washcloths. It gives me a chance to just take a breath, relax and unwind from all the stress of the unknown and what can or can’t happen. There is so much we can’t control right now and people are stressing so much. The one plea I will say is please do whatever you can to lower that stress level in your life right now because it will help you immensely to fight this disease more than you know. When I was fighting cancer 22 years ago as a new mom with a 1 1/2 year old if I didn’t have the ability to think positive and relax and focus there was no way I could have beaten it. There is so much info and most of it not 100% correct out there with the internet now. We need to take a moment and breathe and just chill for a while. Read a good book that you haven’t had time to do, start a new craft skill, take time to be with your kids, There are positives to this crisis and we need to focus on the positives and try to keep our attitude in check. It lowers our blood pressure, keeps are heart rates normal and in turn keeps our overall health in check. Yes, you need to do all the things they tell us to as well. Ive found I can do multiple things like listen to a audiobook while I am working on my crafts and it takes me to a happy place. Keeps me going and strong so I can keep working. Let me know what that thing is for you in the comments if you will. I’d love to hear. If you have a good book you recommend I’ll take it too. Im making items for the summer markets right now in the hopes that we will have them. I am also working on things for myself to just chill with and love to just focus on the project and nothing else. Making that connection with me and my craft. Putting my mind at ease. What puts your mind at ease. Let me know. I will try to do my best to post more and share what I am doing to get by during this time and hope you all stay well and stay safe, and help others to do the same by staying home. Make it a positive, peaceful time. Till next time, happy spring.