and now for something completely different: the gift guide for fiber artists/hobbyists

So you know a fiber artist (I hate that phrase, but I'll use it because it's easier than saying "spinner/knitter/weaver/crocheter/rug hooker/Kumihimo braider/etc."!) and you want to get them something related to their preferred craft.  Unfortunately, as someone who doesn't partake in these activities (though you should try!), you have no idea where to start. Hopefully this guide will get you started!

Photo from Purl Soho

Knitters, spinners, crocheters, and weavers are pretty hard people to gift. The highly specialized nature of the craft, as well as the fact that most products are created by small producers, means you can't just go into a local store and pick something out like you would for a film aficionado or heavy reader. (Obviously there are exceptions to this, but go with me here.) As fiber artists' skills advance, their tastes become more specific. For example, I can't count how many people have sworn they would never knit with cotton or acrylic. Unfortunately, this is the type of yarn most commonly sold in chain stores.

Painting by Albert Anker

Let me reiterate:  sometimes there is nothing better than just asking someone what they want. But if you want to surprise them, make sure to do your research. See if they have a Ravelry profile and look at the type of things they like to knit, spin, or crochet. If they knit in public, ask some questions about their knitting. If they wear their knitted accessories, look at the weight of yarn they've used (check here for standards, although nothing compares to looking and feeling yarn!).

I've been working with yarn for over five years, and while I'm by no means an expert on all fiber crafts, I think I've picked up some info that might be useful for gifters!

Part 1: Gifting Your Knitter

Part 2: Gifts for Crocheters

Part 3:  Gifts for Spinners

Part 4:  Gifts for Weavers

Part 5:  Other Gifts