Bits and Pieces

Inspiration has a way of sneaking up on you from unexpected sources sparking flashes of creativity. Lucky for us, there seems to be a limitless supply of what and when and how. And of course, on the flip side, what gives us that kick of momentum once doesn’t necessarily mean going back to the same well will quench again. It all feels quite magical* and other worldly spiritual. 

I may find myself wandering a farmers market fingering fabrics, gazing at paintings, tasting homemade goodies, and soaking in vendor anticipation and excitement. Or taking in a new display of carefully curated goods in a local shop window. Or even scrolling through Pinterest or watching a poignant movie expressing life and loss.

These fill me. 

All the senses are activated making it possible to take in the creativity of others. Being able to participate this way in the energetic work of artists the creative vein of my own life is renewed and begins flowing more freely.

Enter Master Crochet Artist

Let me introduce you to one such maker who has done far more than just inspire me - she has bestowed upon me the greatest gift a creator can give: her inventory. Hmm…”inventory” sounds so commercial, so industrial. Let’s try her “stockpile of endless possibilities” on for size. Yes! That is more like it. 

Several years ago, I met this crafter/master crocheter and was quite nearly blown away with her ability. Even though what we each typically make is polar opposite, it does not detract from my immense admiration and undeniable acknowledgement that this lady is TALENTED! Such detail, so well done, each piece a character and destined heirloom. 

And then there is her workroom! As she rolls back the closet doors even her organization, labelling and displaying of colors, fibers, tools, accessories and patterns are a piece of art. I leave that room brimming with inspiration and ideas. 

Imagine this being your greatest, happiest creative outlet. 

Now imagine it being stripped away.

The Gift

It wasn’t a sudden tragic event but a slow realization that she would no longer be able to continue her craft due to a physical challenge. What would you do? After the devastation and grief, I think I would be inclined to hoard it all for myself. At least I could still look at it; besides it’s mine after all! And maybe, just maybe one day I could use it again.  

After weighing the possibilities, her decision is one that will allow her gift to the world a chance to continue in some form. She contacts me to see if I would “be interested in inheriting some yarn.” 

INTERESTED???!!! 

It does not matter my confined storage. 

It does not matter my lack of project ideas. 

It does not matter her creations will not be my creations. 

What matters most is a creative is willing to continue creating through another creative. To let whatever magic there is to be released because of her unselfish gift.

Load the Truck

The first “haul” is a sobering affair. Definitely not a grab and go kind of deal. It is unmistakably the reverent handing off of someone’s creative expression - a part of their soul. We quietly and unhurriedly lay skein upon skein in stretchy white trash bags - an ironic carrying vessel for what we deem as treasure knowing full well the thoughts of others to be quite the opposite. It's "just yarn" after all. 

Like at a funeral or wake stories are shared over particular yarns - what they had become, what the plan was for their future, where it came from and who it was meant for. Eleven bags are loaded that day with exultance held at bay by the sacredness of what has just been exchanged. No doubt there are tears as I drive away. 

Celebration still does not arise quickly being buried under the weight of obligation of such a gift even once I get home and survey my rainbow of responsibility. Was I worthy?? Can I honor this collection and make beautiful things? How will I ever use it all? 

Second Haul

Scraps

Possibilities

And just like that I leave the other full bags of whole skeins where they lay and allow the ideas to come. What sticks in my mind and gets me excited to the point of near obsession is “Baskets of Possibility”. These seemingly insignificant cut off remains will become usable crafted containers for whatever the buyer deems important: plants, toys, trinkets, work in progress, more yarn! Their bits of color will intertwine and connect and form something that cannot be replicated all the while giving quiet testimony to the importance of being a small left-over piece. 

Small pieces that make up the greater whole. (Yes, please apply that to the making of your life!)

To Another and Another

I am pleased to say those scraps didn’t end there. Yet another inspiration flowed from that bag. I come across bits and pieces of unfinished projects. An “A”, a cute little dress, some eyes? I know I won't be using these, but another creative comes to mind. A little 10-year-old who has proven to be mathematical, inventive and uncanny with a crochet hook. Might she benefit from a bag of inspiration? Oh, I believe so! And so, a package is being compiled with possibilities from one creative to another and to another… 

I can’t wait to see how this sparks her.