I don’t know about anyone else… but for me, it depends. But if I really think about it… it’s a combination of process, product, and overall achievement. Most of my crochet projects (well, almost all of my craft projects of late) are for personal use, or as a gift. Plus the need to make extra income for my family. That’s why I started writing patterns.
I enjoy the process of creating a new pattern. It’s true, that right now, my patterns are really simple, easy patterns… but it’s the fact that I am being creative in a way that will allow others to work in the craft. That process of crocheting something out, figuring out a pattern and writing it out for others to follow gives my brain the stimulation it needs.
Once I’m done, I actually have two products. The item I crocheted, which I will either use, or give to someone else to use, and the pattern I’ve written, which I will then sell to others that are interested in it. In that way, I’m giving back to the craft, in creating patterns other can follow and enjoy.
Then there is the overall achievement. I’ve made something unique, with my own two hands. It’s the look on someone else’s face when I give that item to him or her. That look of delight, when someone realizes I love, and care about them enough to devote the time, energy and creative spark, to make something uniquely for them. A hand crafted item is an item made with loving care. It may not be perfect, but that’s part of its charm. Anyone can go to a store and buy a gift. When you take the time and effort to make a gift for someone, you are thinking about that person every step of the way. From what colors they like, to what their personal style is… you are creating a product that can not be found anywhere else. Then there is also the accomplishment of completing the project, and the sense of satisfaction that comes with it. You brought that product into existence. The patience and devotion that comes with making an item by hand, breeds its own sense of triumph. There are not many that can say ‘I did that’. It’s a tangible reminder of who you are, and what this person means to you.
Wow, I seem to be in a philosophical mood today!