Hi! I have a problem because people keep asking me (or I keep offering) to knit cats for people and first it was just like 8 people and 2 hours per cat- not a big deal- but now they want me to knit stuff for their sisters and brothers and multiple for them etc. I have probably knitted like 30 cats to date and this has been going on for a week. They also don’t pay me for the cats and sometimes people criticize them too and ask for a new one. Also, my friend wants me to undertake a project where I knit like 20 snowmen plus hats and scarves, and she doesn’t have any yarn or knitting supplies so I let her borrow some of mine but I don’t want to spend all my time and money on this project but I feel bad asking her to chip in. I’m panicking! Sorry for ranting also… I needed to get that off my chest.
Overwhelmed
Cate1,
Just tell these folks that you 1) do it for fun and 2) don’t wish to anymore because it’s not fun anymore.
Set those boundaries; you will be glad you did and your knitting projects will be your own again.
Thank you It really helps to get someone else’s perspective!
Couldn’t agree with Claudia1 more. It’s not you who should be feeling bad but all the people who have imposed upon your kindness for free projects. Your time is valuable in addition to the materials for the projects.
(We’d love to see photos of the cats, btw.)
Thank you! I’ll be sure to post a photo in a little bit!
Here’s the photo of the cat! I know it’s not perfect, but I dunno, I think they’re kinda cute in a derpy way
I’ll take any suggestions on how to make it cuter!
By the way, I am a beginner knitter which is why some people in my class say that they don’t like my cat (which is why I didn’t outright refuse to give them a new cat in the first place)
It is a cute cat! Very original.
I should tell you I am known to not like real cats because they really bother my allergies.
You have received some very good suggestions.
Thank you
Just say NO. It will be hard at first, but do it.
Thanks for your support
Cate 1, Welcome to the KH community. I am sorry to read your post this morning. You are in no way obliged to knit toys and accessories for your friends (really?). Simply, stand up and say No! No to further abusive conducts from your selfish relatives. Listen to your inner feelings and learn to respect and take care of yourself! I wish you strength and determination!
Thanks
This is great
Assertiveness is one of the things I would teach with my patients. Here are good tips from the AMA website. Hope it helps.