November Product Review - Alpaca WPI Tool from Moonsong Ranch of Etsy

I've named him Henry...

Earlier in the month I finally "splurged" (yes I call it that whenever I buy supplies or tools) on a tool I've been yearning for for quite some time.  When I first saw the WPI tool I wondered what in the world that silly stick was for and what it had to do with yarn.  As I have grown as a crocheter, into a knitter, and now a spinner I understand it's use.

For the uninitiated a WPI tool or wraps per inch tool serves the purpose of giving you the weight of a yarn.  This is especially handy and most commonly used by spinners to determine the weight of their handspun, but it's also useful for when you don't have a yarn label.  (Which is what prompted me to buy it finally.)

While most things you find in the handmade marketplace are one of a kind, some can be remade.  But you never know when something will be available so it's my modicum to buy now, rather than wait till later.  I have to tell you I couldn't be happier with this little guy, because unlike your typical WPI tool, this one is shaped like an alpaca (a fiber which I have a love for by the way too.)

So I commend Moonsong Ranch on their adorable craftmanship!  And not only did they send my order, but a handy laminated reference for determining yarn weights based on wraps which also included average stitches/4" and needle size recommendations with its other side bearing strand sample sizes.  (I also received a fabulous surprise of some top with which to spin...)  I recommend their work highly and will happily use my lil 'paca to my heart's content!  They had excellent customer service and prompt delivery as well!

Let's Not, But Don't Say We Did...

Image Credit:  3 Faces of Brigid by Aradia Goseling

I love being supported, I really do.  It warms my heart when another person artist or not compliments my work.  Support in the handmade community is very important, especially when you're starting off.  But in my humble opinion (which is shared by more than just me) there is a line you have to draw in the sand...

Recently I came across a post by Marie Forleo tackling just this exact subject.  It also brought up this post by Laura George I'd read a few weeks ago.  What both women are talking about is a bit of a touchy subject, as I covered earlier when I first read Laura's post.

For many there is a bit of an instant desire to support someone because they supported them.  But to quote one of my favorite comedians John Pinette "I say nay, nay."  When you support someone you're not just doing them a favor.  You're recommending them to your audience and you're putting your reputation on the line.  So I urge you to think twice about who you recommend.  If you can't recommend because you don't know their work, or do not support it's quality take Marie's advice on the matter and say it with class.  Thank them for their support and perhaps suggest ways they can up their ante.

Have you had issues with this subject?  Do you often find yourself immediately reciprocating in the "You like me, I like you" mentality?  Share your story in the comments below!

Happy Crafting,
Aradia
of
Aradia's Hand