#88 - From Trachtenjakke to Ski Pants: Making what you need AND want

October 25, 2024

Hey friend!

In this episode, I dive into my love for autumn and how it affects my mood. The beautiful sunlight and cozy atmosphere of this season have always been special to me. However, I've noticed that as I've gotten older, the changing seasons can sometimes bring a bit of melancholy. I turned 49 in October and I talk a bit about how that makes me feel.

I step on a soap box about making things we need AND want and pull you into my own process that is far from flawless...

I'm excited to share updates on my current knitting projects which come from a sometimes frustrating need.

My biggest project is sewing ski pants. I know... why? Because I am fat and they don't really make stuff for fat skieers. So yeah!

I'm working on a trachtenjakke cardigan for my husband, which is a traditional style that pairs well with lederhosen. I know, it's kind of a weird project... weird, and labor-intensive with endless rows of garter stitch! I'm even considering adding a hidden pocket for a tracker, since the hubbie tends to lose knit items regularly!

Another project I'm working on is a pair of colorful, high-calf socks designed to be worn as ski socks. They are totally wonky and missmatched, but they'll serve their purpose.

I also discuss my upcoming plans for the Landelijke Spindag (National Spinning Day). And about my spinning in general. I'm weirdly nervous and looking forward to it. Will you be there? Reach out!

In exciting news, I've designed a wall calendar for 2025, which is available for free on my website, patternshift.fm. This calendar is designed to help you organize your crafting events, festivals, and personal time. It's a tool to help you pace yourself throughout the year and maintain a healthy balance in your crafting life.

Lastly, I want to talk about the importance of community support. I invite listeners to join our Ja, Wol Community, where we focus on making things we need and want, and support each other in our crafting journeys. This community is also a great resource for business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs in the crafting world.

I also take a moment to express my need for support. Running this podcast and business requires financial resources, and I'm asking for your help. Whether it's through community membership or silent support of the podcast, your contribution is vital in keeping this content coming. I know it's not easy to ask for help, but I want to be transparent about the needs of the business and my work.

Thank you all for your continued support and for being part of this crafting community. Together, we can continue to grow, learn, and create amazing things! Things we need AND want!

5 Main Takeaways:

Autumn can affect mood, making self-care crucial during this season.
When you grow older you still want pink hair!
Knit what you need first then make it what you want.
A free 2025 wall calendar is available on patternshift.fm for organizing crafting events and maintaining balance.
Community support through membership or podcast support is vital for the continuation of content creation.