Hi, it’s Michelle 👋

Last weekend I took an in-person class at a local fiber festival on broomstick lace crochet. I’d never heard of it and that’s what intrigued me.

The story goes that when the pioneers were journeying out west, given their limited space in the wagon, the women would use a broomstick handle to quickly crochet blankets without turning their work.

They would loop the back loop of a single crochet onto a broomstick and then slip them off and crochet the loops together.

Using only single crochet stitches, they made long and open stitches without the need to turn the work.

In our class, we used a size 50 knitting needle (yes, they go that big!) instead of a broomstick handle to learn how to do it. Here is my progression:

It’s a little wonky, but you get the idea. It just goes to show that there is always something new you can learn in crochet! 🧡

In this week’s e-mail:

Prada’s Miu Miu Spring 2026 fashion show featured aprons as the main attraction, including crochet styles decorated with small flowers worn over polo shirts and blouses. Could we see a resurgence of the apron as fashion? (See pictures and read more: MarieClaire)

The Craft Yarn Council's Yarnsgiving initiative started yesterday, on I Love Yarn Day, and runs through December 2nd. Crafters can make holiday projects to gift or donate to Warm Up America!, a charity helping people in need. The campaign offers free patterns for festive items like pumpkins and wreaths, inviting crafters of all skill levels to share their handmade creations using #Yarnsgiving while celebrating creativity and generosity. (See more: Yarnsgiving)

A massive snake was spotted in Baltimore’s Butchers Hill neighborhood encircling a school under construction — but it’s crocheted, not cold-blooded. Inspired by the Year of the Snake, the yarn project was created by neighbors to fix a community problem. (See video: FoxBaltimore)

Furls Crochet has released a limited edition Matte Pistachio colorway for its Streamline Metal crochet hooks. The ergonomic aluminum design features a soft green hue and a velvety matte finish, available in sizes 3.50mm through 6.50mm. It combines aesthetic appeal with comfort-focused engineering to reduce hand strain during long crochet sessions. (See hooks: FurlsCrochet)

A curated selection my favorite finds this week — all links vetted and crochet approved! 🧡

👉 Do you crochet for charity? Reply to tell me about and I’ll feature it in an upcoming issue!

Last week we talked about where to find our crochet people. But finding a group and actually walking through the door are two completely different challenges.

I'll never forget my first meetup after moving to a new city. I sat in my car for what felt like forever, hands gripping the steering wheel, trying to talk myself into going inside. 

What if I said something stupid? What if no one talked to me? What if I was the only one who didn't know what they were doing?

Those feelings—the butterflies, the self-doubt, the fear—they're completely real. And terrifying!

But I went in anyway. And you know what? After a few meetings, it got easier. One familiar face became two, then three. Before long, I actually looked forward to going.

Getting older doesn't make this easier. I've become more introverted over the years, and putting myself out there feels harder than ever. So if you're feeling nervous, you're not alone.

I can't promise you a magic cure for the anxiety (believe me, I wish I had one). Sometimes, you just have to take a deep breath and go. But I can share what's helped me survive—and even enjoy—those first few awkward meetups:

Start with your comfort zone. You already have something in common with everyone there: crochet. That shared interest is your built-in conversation starter.

Prepare a few friendly questions. My mind goes blank when conversations stall, so I keep a mental list handy: "What are you working on?", "I love that yarn—where'd you find it?", "How long have you been crocheting?" People light up when you ask about their projects.

Give yourself an escape plan. Tell yourself you'll stay for just one hour or 10 rows. You can always stay longer if you're having fun.

Build in a reward. Promise yourself a trip to the yarn store afterward. You earned it just for showing up!

Bring conversation starters. A unique project bag, colorful yarn, or unusual hook gives people an easy reason to approach you.

Ask for help. Working on something tricky? Bring it along. Experienced crocheters love sharing their knowledge, and it's a natural way to connect.

Courage doesn't get easier to find—but using it does. Each time you walk through that door, the next time gets a little less scary.

Your people are waiting.

I need your help finding a great Santa hat pattern for newborns. The charity I crochet for donates them to area hospitals for Christmas.

Hit me up with your favorites!

WEAVING IN THE ENDS

I hope you found something interesting in today’s issue - and let me know if you’ve ever tried Broomstick Lace Crochet I’d love to see your work.

Thanks for reading. See you next week!

—Michelle 🧡

P.S. Oh, tell me what you liked and didn’t like in today’s issue. This email is for you after all!