At thirteen I knitted my first sweater. Shortly after I finished it, I began knitting another, impetuously omitting the step of knitting a gauge swatch to make sure the sweater would come out the right size. Result? Sleeves that almost grazed my knees. I am no longer the impulsive girl who wouldn’t test out her materials before starting a project, but I am just as enthusiastic about beginning new projects and learning new techniques. The experiences of a lifetime, including many years as psychotherapist and academic, have taught me a great deal about patience—and editing. I have knitted and crocheted ever since I made that first sweater. Making things with my hands has been a great boon during difficult times, both personal and professional. Over the years I have taught myself how to quilt, embroider, and do needlepoint, amassing quite a craft library along the way. Since my retirement, having overrun my friends' and family's homes with the fruits of my labors, I have sold many pieces at the Brooklyn Women' Exchange. A few years ago I stumbled upon the work of the jewelry artist Julie Powell, and the modernity of her pieces and her design sensibility made an enormous impression upon me. The discovery of this new medium inspired me to learn all I could about beadwork and to practice many new techniques. I’ve discovered that I can apply everything I’ve learned about color, form and technique from the practice of knitting, crocheting, quilting, and embroidering to my new craft. I’m still learning.