firstly, this is more a memoir on the author's experiences crafting than essays on crafting, per se. but those who consider themselves crafters will find themselves in the stories, regardless of whether or not they are knitters (the craft in most of these memories). more than anything, it's about the emotions around crafting: the boyfriend sweater and second sock syndrome will be familiar, and so will the need to memorialize those who have died and the desire to connect with fellow crafters you've spotted in public.

points particularly of note: the rant on why the "not just for grandmas!" attitude towards traditional crafts is harmful, the beauty of clothes made to fit your body and only your body ("a quiet fuck-you to any clothing company, magazine, or person that's ever made you feel less"), the emotional power of commissioned work; but also her more personal and emotional moments, like the grief for her mother when her mother's parents died, and how that took away the part of her mother's identity that was daughter.

I read this book in its e-book version, downloaded from my library, but I think I'll buy it because there are pieces I'd like to highlight and mark because I see myself very fully in them. if you're a crafter -- particularly a knitter, crocheter, or embroiderer -- I recommend this quick but moving read to you.

bonus points because this author has reminded me of a book I read as a child that I was trying to remember the name of last week: the secret of platform 13.