How are you staying connected with other knitters while socialLY isolating?
Many people are taking advantage of Zoom. Perhaps you have heard of it? It’s easy to use and free for the casual, non-business user. It’s great for groups since multiple people can participate at the same time, and you can see and hear the other participants! It does require that you use a device that has a camera, microphone, and speakers, and you need a WiFi connection to the internet. IPads and other tablets are ideal for this, but smart phones and computers work, too. For mobile devices such as tablets or smart phones, you’ll need to download an app. Free accounts limit group meetings to 40 minutes, but sometimes you get lucky and it lets you go over the limit. You do not need an account to participate in a meeting, only to schedule a meeting.
A number of LYS in the area host Zoom get-togethers and frequently they have business level accounts which allows for longer meetings – just like a drop-in knit-along! Check LYS websites for details – the Guild maintains a list of local shops here. Most LYSs allow anyone to participate, so don’t be shy about joining a meeting hosted by an LYS. You may want to sign up for their newsletters to receive announcements and links to Zoom events.
WhatsApp is another method mentioned by subgroup leader Thea Lazarevic: “We are all in one WhatsApp group and stay in touch that way. Some have shared pictures of finished as well in progress work. Now it can be “shown” virtually!”
If you haven’t already done so, find a group and give one of these methods a try, or start a group with your friends. It’s a lot of fun, and a great way to remain social and make new friends.
