What I Love about Needlework Monday!

This week, we're going to lay it all out there and share the love about our fabulous crafting group!

Working Alone is Sad

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Well first of all, you all know that I don't knit, I don't crochet like @girlbeforemirror, I have never even heard of "felting" until I met you guys, and I surely cannot make my own clothes like @lizgore and @tali72, or cool quilts like @mtnmeadowmomma. Yet, this group makes me feel included. I'm a part of a community even though I'm just a stray cat lampmaker.

Working Together is Fun!

With the #NeedleworkMonday crew, I get positive feedback, encouragement, friendship, and visibility to the most amazing and diverse group of needleworkers that I have ever seen. I feel like I'm looking into your windows at night when I see each step of your processes, and then the finished product. You are sharing your gifts with me, and I'm honored to play with you!

Staying Calm with @phoenixwren

More than once--okay nearly every time--that I have a massive beading project for a lamp, I get out on "The Beading Ledge". This is the part where I lose my shit, get hissy, and try to give up. Dearest @phoenixwren gave this state of mind a name, and in doing so, she helps me to realize that it is only a temporary condition and I'm not the only person who feels this way. Just knowing this allows me to recognize when I have gone too far out on the ledge, and I can make a choice to crawl back into the window. (What's with me and windows today?!?) Thank you, @phoenixwren, for helping me own my ledge!

In a State of Wonder about @wondermaey

You blow my mind, @wondermaey. Every week I see the creations that you make, seemingly out of thin air, and I cannot help but be amazed by you.
The colors, patterns, fabrics and styles you produce are absolutely beautiful. Your talent and cultural pride show in every piece you make. I remember when I first met you! You were new to Steemit and trying to figure out how all this crazy #NeedleworkMonday stuff worked. Now look at you..you're a Pro! You inspire me to one day put down the lamps an really learn how to sew.

Top Five Reasons to Join #NeedleworkMonday

You like to stab things, and we do too!
We have a mascot. Dax approves.
@cryptocariad will miss you if you don't post for awhile, @neumannsalva will make you laugh, @apanamamama will teach you a better way to live and @jamethiel can knit and geocache at the same time--with beer! And I think @horazwiwik is giving gifts these days! Oh, and everything @innahandmade does is adorable, and you will want to adopt @inna-yatsuk as a new sister because she is so freaking cute. Plus, @crosheille is always there to show you what true engagement looks like. I could go on forever naming everyone but it's easier if you just join!
You will learn something, I guarantee it.
There is no stranger danger or hidden agenda. We all spend what little precious free time we have giving each other encouragement, friendship and support every single week. Need some? We are here for you.

Oh, and Here's a Lamp I Kinda Made

Okay, I just decorated it. I got a little sassy with a plain Ikea hanging lamp. Black on black with ostrich feathers, old-school cotton lace, and fringe. Check out those steel-cut authentic Victorian antique buttons! Woot. I'm hoping the steamy punks at the Steampunk festival in June will like it. More to come.