Today I posted a poll on my IG story to see what other makers thought of the question listed above.
As you can see from the percentage of yes/no answers, most folks say we can be makers and minimalists too.
You might be wondering where this question comes from.
I tend to turn on YouTube and watch random videos on subjects that interest me. Last night, as I was getting a little spinning time in, I decided to watch newer videos on a minimalist life. After a good hour of listening to how folks live without having too much stuff, I was still feeling a bit disconnected from myself regarding whether it is even possible as a maker.
The number of spinning wheels I have collected over the years, along with the knitting machines, the flock of fleeces, and all the fiber, keeps growing. Where and when does it stop? It won’t end until I take my last breath in this world.
Yarn? I really won’t have to worry about a yarn stash diet, since I don’t have a full tote’s worth. It’s the equipment that could be a serious burden on a minimalist lifestyle.
Brother Bulky Knitting Machine
Dare I tell you how many flat knitting machines I own? I’m not ashamed of the number. There are a few duplicate models, and most of them I bought for less than what a sweater’s worth of yarn would cost.
I think I need to make an excuse for hoarding a few too many knitting machines. They are no longer being made, could be used for parts, and they aren’t taking up space in my studio, as the ones I am not using now are stored in the barn’s storage room (the old game room, the old fiber room, now called the storage room), which is insulated.
Vintage handmade flax spinning wheel rescued from Craigslist
Spinning wheels. What can I say other than I have rescued a few over the years? Though I have sold several too, I have more than a pair of hands can handle at once. How can you part with a wheel that you brought home on a whim after seeing it stored in a cold, damp garage, just begging to be cared for? You can’t, or at least I can’t.
What is the main point here? Not much for me, just something to think about and talk over with others. If anything, it’s a good way to start a conversation.
