Journal

What a beautiful scarf and how generous of you to make the download.
I watched your film over breakfast in the sunny not too sweltering yet garden. I really resonated with what you said about shopping culture/addiction. I am ashamed of my acquisitive nature but am so often entranced by another lovely ‘thing’. Your idea of the separate pot for things/experiences you have thought about and really want is an excellent one - will try it. I’m remembering standing next to an old lady in a queue to pay. I must have had something indulgent in my basket and she asked me if it was ‘an impulse buy’ - well of course it was and boy, did I feel guilty (though still went ahead and bought whatever it was). Thanks again for your words of wisdom

That is a another really interesting video Jane. I try to buy most things locally, ideally from an independent business, but even if it is from a chain store I am giving work to somebody - Amazon etc are my last resort! I buy a lot from charity shops and other second hand outlets. So far as knitting patterns are concerned I have been using patterns from books , either books I bought years ago when I had a bit more spare cash or from the library. But I have often been disappointed with the fit. So now I am trying to learn to design my own starting with simple rectangles and then how to introduce more fitted shaping. I have just bought 2 patterns from Natalie in Stitches because she gives instructions on how to adapt them to fit different body shapes. I reckon if I knit those it should help me learn. And I am experimenting with different stitch patterns so thank you for the download! We have all been trained to support GDP and it really isn't good for us or the planet!

Thank you for once again such a timely video, Jane.
A couple of years ago I had to make some major life changes due to some health issues. As a result, I've had a lot more free time and less contact with other people, and this has been a very difficult adjustment for me to make. I have found, sadly, that I turn to shopping to try to fill some of this void. It of course, doesn't work. Your video has really, once and for all, clarified that for me.
I too feel that it's important to "support" local businesses and entrepreneurs, and thus I justify a lot of this spending. I'm going to try your lovely suggestion of putting that money in a special place and when enough accumulates, I have a local animal charity that I support that would be very grateful for the contribution. And going out for a dog walk, texting a friend, or just sitting down and actually using some of the many art and craft supplies I have bought over the past two years is a far better use of my time that going out on yet one more errand because I'm bored or feeling lonely.
Once again, Jane, you've sent me just the message I needed to hear! Happy knitting!

I downloaded your pattern for the triangle scarf and wonder about the instructions first line "continue decreasing in this manner....". No instruction for "in this manner", am I not seeing something that really is there??

Read again instructions and now think I understand what "in this manner" is referring to!
Please ignore my last request for explanation!

Thank you for making this available it is much appreciated. At the present time my knitting is making summer tops using silk and linen yarn which is quite an adventure. I imagine this scarf could be knit in silk but I think I will try some good old fashioned wool first. A September cast on probably. Im always interested to hear your thoughts on life this time consumerism. As I write this I am without my iPhone because of a technical failure and Im surprised at exactly how anxious I am at the loss. After all the situation will get fixed. I’m 68 not 18!

Ah this is lovely, thanks for the pattern. I am an avid Ravelry user but I try to limit my pattern buying. I was a bit sad that there is no pattern page on Ravelry for it but I'm learning that not every pattern I use has to be available on there. I'll add a link back to this blog post from my project page then people can find it and your post & video.

Jane, I love the scarf and more importantly the knitting, the woven pattern you chose, type of weol, the charming retro element of it. Here's an American style question for you: I never found that style to be of any use, as I tend to need a longer scarf to keep the vitals warm, neck warm, etc. Have you considered a slightly expanded version of it, or conversely do you ponder going 60s retro and wearing it as a strapless top these days. Your comments about shopping are spot on - I find myself falling into it, as "browing online" seems harmless enough for style ideas. Wrong. I find that it becomes like my 500th procrastination tool to avoid the fulfillment of painting or writing or sewing, etc. - not to mention the paperwork. Thank you for being yourself.

Thank you for your recent video and for sharing the beautiful scarf pattern. I too hold the tension between supporting creators, and not spending reflexively for her enjoyment-- or the dopamine hit! I was balanced with this until I started watching knitting channels on YouTube. I finally understood what is meant by influencers! Now my stash has grown and is actually a source of anxiety, not joy. I have decided I need to curate what I truly love from my stash and gift the rest. It will bring( for me) more peace. I really enjoy your channel for the thoughtful reflections on how how we engage with our craft as expression of our creativity, curiosity, and values.

I absolutely love your Friday letters Jane and this was no exception. I had a real treat - empty house, mug of tea and watched it while I crocheted another round of the base of a shopping bag - perfect timing. I definitely tuned into the concept of using up left overs straightaway. I have left overs going back 40 years! I am a basic knitter - but will download the pattern and give it a go - soon.