And it's not just celebrities that are knitting and crocheting in record numbers. Manufacturers of yarn and other craft supplies report that sales are way up in recent years. One of best-known yarn manufacturers, Lion Brand, reports that their sales have doubled in last year alone. Granted, celebrities have a lot of money, but still, I don’t believe they are solely responsible for Lion Brand's recent success!

It’s hard to know just what may have triggered all recent interest in these activities that have been around for so many years. Some believe that terrible events on 9/11 have influenced people to focus more on home life and simple, more traditional activities. Others suggest that these activities are a nice contrast and welcome respite from lives that have become far too hectic in wake of new millennium.

Enthusiasts report that knitting or crocheting can be a very relaxing activity that also provides a nice sense of accomplishment upon completion of a project. It’s also a great way to create gifts for friends of loves ones that have that personal touch – so much more so than something purchased at shopping mall.

Some also cherish traditional aspect of these activities and still harbor fond memories of a beloved relative that took time to pass along a skill that has endured through countless generations. A skill that they intend to pass down to their children as well.

Whatever motivation, there’s no question that these traditional activities are experiencing a revival of sorts. There are many possible explanations, however I suspect that speculation and statistics don’t interest these enthusiasts as keenly as their plan for next project they intend to tackle just as soon as finishing touches have been applied to current project.

Randae Radford is webmaster for

Now make first earring. Thread first set of bead with beading wire. Then back again through first bead.

Twist 2 ends of wire together to and loop this twisted wire through hoop in earring casting, hook or finding. If there isn't a loop, then loop wire around lowest prong of casting before setting stone into casting and closing up prongs. Close that bottom prong a little loosely to allow hoop to move fluidly.

Twist wire back over top bead to fasten it and cut off excess wire. That's one earring.

Repeat to make second earring.