In the world of handcrafted goods, a product can be one thing to its maker but another thing to its user. There’s nothing wrong with that. The main issue is that the craftmanship, the work and effort put into the project, be appreciated.
I have often received a dishcloth that I used as a hotpad. I’ve received a hotpad I’ve used as a potholder. Small doilies and coasters are almost interchangeable.
This was made even clearer to me today. A dear friend received some glass cozies from me. They are also known as bottle sweaters or can covers. Whatever. They keep the contents cold and the table dry. However, when I sent them, I had some loose items to send, also. I didn’t want them jiggling and bouncing around in the container. I’m a practical person. I tucked them into the cozies. When my friend opened the container, she assumed they were unique little crocheted gift bags.
That’s great. Now she can use them either for glass cozies or gift bags. And I can also extend the use of the pattern, in the same way, myself.
It’s fun to discover new uses for old things. My long time friend, Jane, works a lot with plastic canvas. Years ago, twenty years ago, approximately, she made a plastic canvas holder for “fireplace matches.” It was long and slender, and very nicely done. At craft sales, she had several inquiries as to the price of the “umbrella carrier” or other products. It was fun to see what other uses folks came up with for this unique item.
So, let your imagination go. That’s what creativity is. That what handcrafters are full of: creativity.
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