Category Archives: Crochet

What Can’t I Do: Quit

Posted in Creativity, Crochet, Motivation by

On Tuesday, March 15th a question was posted to me by Michael Jackson of MJM Photography Group… What “Can’t” You Do?

What can’t I do?…. Quit. I may take a breather yet I will never quit!  When what you do is truly your passion you will fight to see that doll created, that stitch mastered, and/or that cake fashioned.

I’m a Crochet Artisan/Craft Maven so learning is what I know how to do. An artisan is constantly learning as they craft. A maven is a person who has a wealth of knowledge of a particular discipline. Mavens and artisans are constantly learning something new about their medium/discipline. Yarn and synthetic fibers are a few of the mediums I use to create items.

I can honestly say, I never thought that half the things God allowed me to create were possible. I had a limited scope of what crocheting was because of the items I saw. Yet when someone, namely Renée, challenged me I would never say no. Did I want to say no? I sure did, yet there is no growth in staying complacent and with every challenge I said yes to I grew.

Saying yes to a challenge doesn’t mean you can foresee the outcome. It means that you are willing to follow a path to see a vision manifest in the material.

You can see the growth from our first popcorn stitch name blanket to our Kente themed blanket.

Anthony Josiah Popcorn Stitch Keepsake

Anthony Josiah Popcorn Stitch Keepsake

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Shaka Kente Cloth Keepsake

Each time I said yes to a challenge the Creator of the universe showed me how crocheting has limitless potential.

I want to encourage all of you to never quit honing your craft, skill, and passion.

Creatively yours,

J. Monroe

Embracing Your Creativity

Posted in Crochet by
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Adjustable Shawl & Hat Set

I had a dream when I was a teenager and the word “distinct” was everywhere. In the dream people told me my style was distinct. For many years I remembered that dream yet I had no clue what was “distinct” about me. I had always been an artist and sold or gave away my work. Yet what made my picture frames, gift boxes,T Shirt designs or hairstyles different from anyone else’s?

My interpretation of my craft as wearable art is distinct… I create multi-purpose pieces.

I believe we learn through practice which leads to creativity. You have to embrace your art form and put our unique signature/stamp/personal touch on it.

I will display my artwear and confections through a process I call: Contemplation to Creation.

I hope as you take this journey with me it breathes new excitement, enthusiasm, and determination to see yourself grow as an artist.