"Did you make that?"

[cam90066]

Over many decades I sewed many of my clothes (including suits, winter coat, etc). I would feel downright embarrassed if someone asked if I'd made something because I thought my tailoring skills were very good. The question carried a negative connotation.

However, with my knitted creations, I feel complimented if someone asks. Does it have to do with the uniqueness of knitted/crocheted pieces and the 'assumption' it's hand-crafted? Is a sewn item expected to look like ready-made? Is there more 'creative license' attached to knitting, crocheting et al? What's your reaction when asked if you made something?

cam

[miccisue]

Over many decades I sewed many of my clothes (including suits, winter coat, etc). I would feel downright embarrassed if someone asked if I'd made something because I thought my tailoring skills were very good. The question carried a negative connotation.

However, with my knitted creations, I feel complimented if someone asks. Does it have to do with the uniqueness of knitted/crocheted pieces and the 'assumption' it's hand-crafted? Is a sewn item expected to look like ready-made? Is there more 'creative license' attached to knitting, crocheting et al? What's your reaction when asked if you made something?

cam

I guess I never bothered to think about the negative connotations of it....probably because the tone of voice tends to have an inflection of "WOW, I can't believe you did that, it must take so much time and effort". I have to admit, I'm proud when someone asks me that.
I knit 50 little drawstring "goodie bags" for our 35th class reunion, and people were really appreciative of the effort put forth for them.....so, yeah, I'm thrilled when someone comments on it.

[Ingrid]

It has gotten to the point where no matter what I'm wearing, if it is in the knit family, someone will ask if I made it--even a Land's End cotton sweater. (I'd have had to use size 000 needles and thread ). Everyone at works knows I knit, so I think they're covering their bases.

I can recognize a hand knit sweater, usually, not because it's "less than" store-bought, but uniquely beautiful.

[scout52]

I can recognize a hand knit sweater, usually, not because it's "less than" store-bought, but uniquely beautiful.

I love how you state that!! I have gone up to random people when I have seen a recognized pattern in the wild. I always tell them that I love it. Usually it was a gift and then they say they wish they could knit it. Its secret goal to meet fellow knitters and end up with a new friend. Alas I keep meeting the person receiving the gift not the knitter. Doh!

[Ingrid]

. . . in the wild

[1knittychick]

When I made my first scarf and wore it to my son's football games, people wanted to know where did I get it. They practically fell off the bleachers when I told them I made it (I swear some people were looking for the company label!) I really blow their minds when I pull out my needles and knit before the games.