by Crystal Kennedy
Like any other craft or hobby, loom knitting can quickly become an
addiction--generally a positive one, but an addiction nonetheless. So, you
may be wondering what to do with your mountains of loom knit items. Before
you move to create space for more, why not try some of the following ideas
to get all those loom knit items off your hands?
1. Choose some for gifts. Hand made gifts are under-rated nowadays. Yes, it
takes more time and energy to make a gift than to rush out and grab
something. But it also means the gift will be appreciate for the time and
energy you put into it. Hand made gifts also offer more customization
possibilities. Even something you didn't loom knit for that person
specifically will be appreciated, because of the simple fact that you made
it. So go through your loom knit stash, and decide what you can give your
friends and family as gifts. And just think: You'll be getting rid of things
and avoiding the holiday crowds!
2. Sign up for a craft fair. This requires some outlay of money, as spaces
are usually rented. However, you could easily find someone to split a space
with you. Consider choosing a theme for your booth, and select loom knit
items to go along with the theme. It's very rewarding to receive money for
your work! To get an idea of pricing, ask in the loom knitting and crafting
community. Generally hand made items sell for more than their manufactured
counterparts, because they're hand made. You also need to consider the cost
of the materials you used, as well as the time it took you to make the item.
After pricing a few things, you'll come up with your own formula for price
calculations.
3. Donate! There is an endless list of charities that will gladly accept
loom knit items. From baby items to children's hats and scarves to mittens
and blankets for women's shelters and everything in between, you'll surely
be able to find a cause that means a lot to you. Even animal shelters accept
pet blankets. You can also ask a local church, community center,
hospital--especially the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), rescue
mission, or crisis pregnancy center if there's anything they need.
There are many more uses for loom knit items! These are just a few to get
you started. Whatever you decide to do, keep crafting and giving to
yourself, your family, friends, and others, and you will be rewarded!