Monthly Crochet Yarn Haul: Embracing Minimalism and Mindful Choices

Welcome to a new series on my blog! Each month, I’ll be sharing my latest yarn haul; but with a twist. This isn’t just about showing off new yarn; it’s part of my journey to embrace a more intentional, minimalist lifestyle. Cutting back on my yarn addiction feels like a big step in my personal “spend less, live minimal” mission.

Yes, you read that right. I’m on a mission to cut back on yarn.

I’ve definitely been my own worst enabler. My go-to mantra has always been, “Vanesa, you don’t drink, you don’t smoke… so why not buy yourself a little yarn treat?” And, when that line doesn’t do the trick, my “girl math” justifies it as “Well, it’s cheaper than a latte at Costa, so go for it!”

But I’m starting to realise that my yarn habit may be more than just a harmless hobby. There’s a dopamine rush that comes with every purchase, a momentary satisfaction that keeps pulling me back for more. I’ve noticed that this habit is part of a broader pattern: searching outside myself for validation and comfort instead of tuning into what I truly need.

In recent months, I’ve felt the need to reconnect with myself and break the cycle of seeking happiness through external things. I’ve recognised how this desire for validation has led me to buy things I don’t really need. Maybe the days of lockdown sparked this habit of stockpiling, but somewhere along the way, my craft turned into a way to fill a deeper void.

Read more about this journey here

So here I am, taking it one yarn beautiful squish skein at a time; becoming more mindful of my purchases, only bringing home the yarn that truly speaks to me, and working with what I already have. I’m excited to share these monthly hauls with you as part of my journey toward crafting with intention and living with a little less.

October Yarn Haul

Yarn: West Yorkshire Spinners Zandra Rhodes ColourLab DK
What I plan to make: A crochet collar to add a pop of Zandra Magic to clothing. So happy how it turned out. I have wanted to try this yarn for such a long time but the price was always a little out of my budget. The universe sent me a sign via the Wool Warehouse reduced yarn section so I dived in and treated myself.

Completed

Yarn: Yarnsmiths Aran Cornflower Blue & Antique Gold
What I plan to make: Finishing off a granny blanket.

WIP…

Yarn: Stylercraft Naturals Bamboo
What I plan to make: This is one of my favourite yarns. I made a couple of crochet collars in the Summer using this yarn and absolutely adore it. As part of my wardrobe capsule I will be making myself something to add to a colourful item. Now my hair is light I do not suit bright colours close to my face/hair. This will allow me to continue to wear my happy dopamine colour vibe clothing but tweak it so it suits me better now.

Yarn: Stylecraft Highland Heathers
What I plan to make: A baby blanket

Yarn: Woolcraft New Fashion
What I plan to make: A blanket for a baby born asleep to donate to a bereavement midwife.

Yarn: Paintbox Chunky Pots Confetti
What I plan to make: A colourful chunky tunic for myself

WIP…

Yarn: Aldi Middle Isle Ombre Yarn
What I plan to make: Unsure yet I just couldn’t leave it for that price!

Yarn: Aldi Middle Isle Rainbow Yarn
What I plan to make: Unsure yet I just couldn’t leave it for that price!

Yarn: Aldi Middle Isle Aran Yarn Shade Nickel
What I plan to make: Unsure yet I just couldn’t leave it for that price!

Yarn: Aldi Middle Aran Yarn Shade Plum
What I plan to make: A pretty crochet collar

Completed

Other Dopamine Yarn Hauls
(Gifted or Commission)

My sons girlfriend gave me two batches of gorgeous yarn. One was some extra balls of the Aldi Aran in Plum as I loved that yarn so much and also some of the most perfect shade of green yarn.

Also this month I am working on a commission (posh word for my niece saying, Ness will you make me this?)

I will get back to you will details of this stunning long chunky coat-i-gan she has requested.

Hope you enjoyed this new addition to my blog, I really enjoyed making it.

Hope your day is magical and you notice the small precious moments.

Love & healing hugs

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