Crocheting is fun! We can’t deny that! We had so much fun testing various type of yarns, trying different projects and color swatching. While sitting on the couch, instead of doing nothing, our hands are crocheting while watching Netflix. That’s what I called watching Netflix productively.
Then I could dance all day when I am so thrilled with the finished project.
While many people find crocheting to be relaxing and a way to unwind, there are a few reasons why it can become stressful for some individuals, either to beginner or master.
Here are a few potential factors that could contribute to the stress of crocheting:
Fine Motor Coordination is not Well Developed yet
This usually happens to beginners who are just starting out. It’s awkward to exercise your finger muscles, let alone to allow fingers and brains familiarize with the new activity. Crocheting require fine motor coordination skills. Like other skills in this world, it require consistent practice before you really get it.
It’s too quick to give up. I always recommend beginners to keep chaining until your hand grasp the crocheting routine. Start small and slow, and not too ambitious to crochet complex project.
Complex Patterns
Crocheting intricate or complex patterns can be mentally challenging and require a great deal of focus and concentration. Sometimes, working with this kind of pattern doesn’t allow you to watch Netflix while crocheting!
Complex pattern is good for crocheters who wanted to push their crochet ability. I like them too for the new experience! It will give you some new perspective and challenges in crocheting. However, being stress resulting of doing complex pattern could demotivate you from crocheting.
If you’re a beginner or not experienced with complex patterns, it can be frustrating to make mistakes or struggle to understand the instructions. This can lead to feelings of stress or even self-doubt.
Time Constraints
I personally hate this one the most. Time constraints kills the joy of crocheting.
Crocheting large and elaborate projects (such as blankets, dresses, table runner, tops) can be time-consuming. It is relaxing as most of them are repetitive crochet pattern. However, if you have a deadline to meet or a specific occasion for which you need to finish a project, it can create pressure and stress. The fear of not completing the project on time or feeling rushed can take away from the enjoyment of the process.
If you taking custom orders, be conscious when setting up deadlines. Make sure that you are able to meet the deadlines. I think it’s okay to decline customer request for the sake of respecting your joy in crocheting.
Perfectionism
There are no such thing as a perfect art. Some individuals may have perfectionist tendencies and strive for flawlessness in their crocheting projects. When things don’t go as planned or the final product doesn’t meet their high standards, it can lead to stress and dissatisfaction. Perfectionism can make crocheting more demanding and less enjoyable.
Accepting the flaws in the project is a part of enjoying the creative process of crocheting. I journaled what things go wrong and re-do the project again whenever I have time. By journaling your crochet project, you are in the journey of perfecting your craft.
Physical Discomfort
Crocheting involves repetitive hand and arm movements, which can lead to physical discomfort or even pain, particularly if you crochet for long periods without taking breaks or maintaining proper ergonomics. Straining your hands or developing issues like carpal tunnel syndrome can add stress to the experience.
Use Pomodoro technique while crocheting to allow yourself taking a 5 minute break in between 25 minutes crocheting. Stretch your arm, walk around within the 5 minutes break.
Comparisons and Expectations
In the age of social media and online communities, it’s easy to compare your work with others and feel inadequate or pressured to match their skill level. Seeing stunning crocheted creations by others can create unrealistic expectations for yourself, leading to stress and self-doubt.
Focus on yourself. Do not try to beat any crocheters. Beat yourself from time to time.
Lack of Progress
If you’re working on a project that seems to be taking forever to complete or if you’re struggling to learn new techniques or stitches, it can be demotivating and stressful. The feeling of stagnation or lack of progress can take away the joy of crocheting and make it feel like a source of frustration.
What’s more important is to build the crocheting habit. Crochet everyday even it is as simple as one stitch. 1% progress everyday is better than nothing at all!
Putting due date could motivate you to pick up the crochet hook everyday.