Holding Each Other Up occurred to me because Jazz musicians do such a wonderful job of it. I see them post about each other, comment, and interact. It may be true of all musicians, I just follow Jazz.
One night on Instagram a post from Ron Carter (famous bassist) showed up. I didn’t know who he was, but he had amazing socks and shoes, so I followed him. Turns out he is not only a famous bassist, but probably the best-dressed jazz musician there is. I’ve learned so much following him! There is an amazing documentary about him, streaming on PBS.
In the Yarn Industry
As I’ve been mulling the XRX exit, and for a long time before, I’ve been wondering why in the Yarn Industry (designers, yarns, tech editors, LYS, etc.) don’t do more to hold each other up. Seems like it is always just down to our own selves to do it all, when we could do more if worked collectively.
For instance, I would love to have a LYS where I could teach some classes, do a trunk show, host a measuring clinic, etc. In turn, I would talk about them and help them in whatever way I could. Perhaps sharing my patterns and which yarn in their shops might work in them. It is on my list. I would also love to work with Not-So-LYS
I love working with other creatives in a variety of ways. I have lots of expertise and opinions, and I can mentor, be a sounding board, or actually create something together. Will be working on this at H+H
I recently did a collaboration with Chattanooga Yarn Co for LYS Day just because it was fun. It may not make either of us rich, but it created a nice connection.
I would love to feature others on my website, but I can’t do all the work. But I can get my VA to do it if I know you are interested. I wrote a book review of Sheep, Shepherds & Land but I don’t even know if the publisher is interested (sending email as soon as I finish this). On my list.
I got a comment on my most recent post and amended one of my lists to add something that is important but I had forgotten to include. Thanks YarnCon for reminding me of local event!
Holding Each Other Up More Generally
If you aren’t a yarn professional, you can hold us up too!
Like our posts, comment on them, share them, talk about us, tell us you appreciate us. Tell your LYS about us. Purchase our offerings, even if they cost a little more — you might find they are totally worth it.
Knitters & Yarn Professionals Together
Come to our last Wednesday of the Month Behind The Curtain Chats. Jamie and I always present something — May 29 is Bust Darts and Horizontal Shaping — and you would be surprised what you might learn. Often there is good chat, and some other professionals show up too so you can interact with them! Plus it is a blast.
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