Problems Solved

Some people scoff at making mindless crochet projects, but I like the time they allow me to think without distraction. I usually try to problem solve or work in my head on a day job project. Lately I've been having a lot of luck with this, especially when it comes to managing little crochet-related problems.

I've been using baskets as containers for yarn I've earmarked for different projects, but it's not a good space saver. I thought instead I'd make use of the space between my yarn storage bookcases. I considered stacking some crates on end to create some extra mini shelves, but that probably wouldn't be very stable.

I thought about it a lot while I was crocheting, and decided to look for less rickety solutions. Yarn isn't especially heavy, so I could use something lightweight without worry. I've seen those toy hammocks that crocheters use to hold yarn, but I'm not very tall, so I'd have to situate it pretty low for easy access.

While we were visiting IKEA I saw this reasonably priced Tigerfink hanging net organizer, which was perfect for what I wanted to do. All I had to do was suspend it from a 1"X 2" piece of wood propped atop the edges of the two bookcases. Turns out it holds a ton of yarn! Since it's worked out so well I plan to get another one the next time we're at IKEA so I can do the same on the other side of my left yarn storage bookcase.

I really like using the little row counter I found in a hook set I thrifted. The problem is that it's very small, and it rolls around, so I'm always hunting for it on the sewing table. I thought at first I'd poke a chopstick through it, but the opening is too small for that. Also, it would look silly.

While I was crocheting I thought of all the jewelry I've made, and wondered if I could fit a narrow ball chain through the counter. I have a very short one that worked great, and that I can wrap around my wrist twice. I want something less obstructive, thought, so I've ordered an 18" long ball chain so I can make it into a necklace.