Samples of pet accessories you’ll find at the craft fair!
Diana Oleson
Several of the ladies who have donated yarn, knitting needles, and crochet hooks to us are quitting due to arthritic pain in either hands, wrists, or both. I want you to know that there are accessories to aid in helping to avoid the pain and allow you to continue to knit and crochet, pain free.
For crocheting, there are crochet hooks sold at Walmart for arthritic hands with a comfortable grip. If you do not want to buy new hooks, then there are comfort cushions and crochet hook grips available at craft stores and online. I have arthritis in both wrists and the onset of carpal tunnel syndrome in both wrists, and the comfort grip crochet hooks are my favorite.
For knitters, you need to avoid heavy needles as they require more effort to hold, and cold metal needles are uncomfortable for stiff joints. Wood or bamboo needles are best. Shape is important as well. Small rounded needles require a tighter grip, and there is a specially designed ergonomic knitting needle for this problem. The ergonomic needle has three flat sides, making them easier to hold. They cannot roll away—an added benefit. See knittingneedleguide.com for more information on this subject.
Anyone with arthritis must exercise those joints to keep them flexible and avoid the crippling of wrist and/or fingers. I am not a doctor, nor am I giving medical advice, I just wanted to share with you what I am doing to continue to enjoy knitting and crocheting.
Don’t forget to come by the Needle Crafters table at the upcoming craft fair and see what we have for your furry babies! See us March 11 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Hermosa Ballroom.
Needle Crafters meet Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon in studio VI at the Creative Arts Center.