Yarn Snobs Beware

Yes, in the yarn world, some of the crocheters and knitters are a bit snobby when it comes to their yarn but is it really snobbery?

A personal preference isn't necessary to be a yarn snob, but it's the attitude that is projected outward if you are going to judge another person's yarn choices. When learning to crochet, it's a bit of a shock when you think everyone will respect your own decisions.

If you have experienced this, leave me a rating and perhaps a comment sharing your experience below.

I've seen this in my own experience, walking into an independent yarn shop and being looked at by the end of the shopkeeper's nose. Hell, she should be glad I am there, as crocheters tend to collect and also use a lot more yarn.

People are quick to judge, and I have been told that I have wasted my effort making something with value-based yarn instead of independent-level yarn.

In the crochet world, I'm a big believer that a person's project is their own choice. How they turn a thought into a real item is up to them. I don't live their life or know their budget or priorities.

I don't have children, so I can blow more on my yarn budget than someone with kids or people to care for. I have my partner and the furries running around the house. Mind you, having two great Pyrenees dogs is like feeding children, I think, cost-wise. I even get judged for what we feed our dogs, a raw-food diet, as they are 130 to 140 lbs of dog to take care of. Feed them well, and they will need less veterinary care, I believe.

Focus on the creativity, not how a person gets to that point. I have zero issues picking up yarn in the thrift store. If the yarn calls me, it's going in my cart.

People have personal choices about what brands they prefer. I prefer Red Heart, Bernat, and Caron yarns as my go-to brands. That's my choice, but it is not for everyone.

Be grateful there are choices.

Focus on what brings you joy. If you judge others by their yarn, knock it off or be part of the solution to give them yarn if it bothers you that much. Chances are, though, you won't give out the yarn, so be happy for them that they share your creative outlet.

Don't put everyone in the same category as those who love independent yarn. I know great people who prefer this level of yarn and are sweet when I pull out my value-based yarn. They understand that everyone has their own choices to make.

I will admit, though, that if I feel the shopkeeper is being too judgmental about my craft or my personal choices, it's easier to shop online or go to another location that appreciates the business. Ultimately, you can control your own narrative. You're the writer of your own story.