Get to Know Me
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Hello and welcome! I’m Shannon from Shannon Talks Yarn. If you’re new here, my YouTube channel is all about the everyday experiences of fiber artists—whether you crochet, knit, or just love yarn, we tackle real-life topics with positivity and encouragement. While I occasionally share projects or tutorials, my main focus is on discussing the joys and struggles of being a fiber artist. Today, I want to do something a little different and properly introduce myself by answering some fun and personal questions about my yarn journey!
Grab your latest WIP (work in progress), maybe a cup of tea (or a Dr. Pepper, like I just finished), and let’s dive in!
What Inspired Me to Start Shannon Talks Yarn?
I’m about to enter my fourth year on YouTube, which is wild to think about! In the beginning, I didn’t really "get" YouTube. I watched cleaning and decorating videos but never thought of starting my own channel. Eventually, I realized that if regular people were creating content, why couldn’t I?
Initially, I followed the typical formula: yarn hauls, tutorials, and three videos a week to gain exposure. But that approach quickly burned me out. I was crocheting things just to have content, not because I truly wanted to make them. I ended up with a pile of projects no one had asked for! So, I re-evaluated and shifted my channel toward something more authentic—discussing real fiber artist issues, the struggles we face, and the joys we experience. That shift made all the difference.
What Makes My Channel Unique?
Unlike many yarn-focused channels, I don’t do frequent yarn hauls or tutorials. While I occasionally show yarn and have an upcoming tutorial in the works (a rare stretch for me!), my main goal is to explore the fiber artist lifestyle. My content isn’t about learning a new stitch—it’s about the emotions, struggles, and experiences that come with loving yarn.
My Biggest Struggle as a Fiber Artist
Organization. Hands down.
I might make my filming space look tidy, but in reality, there are bins of yarn hidden on the floor! I’m constantly trying new organizing systems, some more successful than others. Recently, I found the Bobble and Puff organizers super helpful (click HERE to check them out), and I’m also working on a digital organizing system that I hope to share soon. Keeping my stash in check is an ongoing battle, but I’m making progress! HERE'S a playlist of my organizing attempts.
My All-Time Favorite Yarn
I don’t have one specific brand I swear by, but I do love wools and alpacas. Recently, I’ve gravitated toward fingering weight yarn. Over the past couple of years, I’ve really enjoyed projects made with finer weight yarns, and now when I buy new yarn, that’s my main focus. To see the yarn I'm currently using, click HERE.
If I Could Only Crochet/Knit with Three Colors...
I absolutely love autumnal colors. My oversized fall shawl, which reminds me of jam and honey, perfectly captures the shades I adore. If I had to pick, I’d go with deep reds, warm golds, and rich oranges. HERE'S the video where I give all the details an you can find the yarn HERE.
Staying Inspired as a Content Creator
Coming up with fresh video ideas can be tough! I always aim to create valuable content for my viewers. I often draw inspiration from other genres, like self-help, and see how their concepts apply to fiber arts. Sometimes, I get ideas from a great title, a thumbnail, or a unique perspective that I can adapt for our community.
Advice for Beginners in Fiber Arts
Don’t rush into building a yarn stash!
When I first started, I focused on getting as much yarn as possible with my budget or gift cards, prioritizing quantity over quality. While I scored great deals, I ended up with yarn I didn’t love or use. Now, I’m much more intentional about my purchases. I recommend experimenting with different fibers and textures before committing to a large stash—it’ll save you money and frustration in the long run! Check out my mistakes HERE.
Childhood Memory That Sparked My Love for Fiber Arts
I don’t have one defining moment, but my grandmother was a huge influence on my creativity. She wasn’t much of a crocheter or knitter, but she was incredibly resourceful and crafty. Growing up during the Great Depression, she instilled in me the confidence to create, repurpose, and appreciate handmade things. I’m forever grateful for her encouragement and inspiration. Watch a video I filmed all about this amazing lady HERE.
If I Could Have a Crafting Day with Anyone...
I never really thought about crafting with a historical figure, but I’d love to know if you have a dream crafting buddy! For me, I’d pick my friend Cydney from Sweet Pea Cyd's Inspirations. We chat online all the time about our projects, but getting to hang out and craft together in person would be amazing! Watch our Lives HERE.
This was such a fun Q&A, and I hope you enjoyed learning a little more about me! I’d love to hear your answers to some of these questions, too. Let’s chat in the comments!
If you want even more behind-the-scenes content, don’t forget to join my email list Thank you for being here!
Watch the YouTube video here (it goes live 3/24/24 at 7PM Central) where I answer even more questions!
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