Gifts come in all shapes and sizes. Some are purchased, some handmade, and some intangible. The best gift I ever received was given to me by my mother during my childhood years—a desire for knowledge. She also gave me a crochet hook and a set of knitting needles.

I was hopeless with the knitting needles, but instantly in love with the crochet hook. I wanted to learn everything about crochet and try every technique. One of my first projects was a sampler afghan on which I played with puff stitches, shells, lace, and more.

My mother searched all over for books and magazines with new crochet techniques for me to try. They were harder to find then, but I used these new resources and my expanding crochet knowledge to create gifts for friends and family. A not-quite-perfect filet crochet dresser scarf is still proudly displayed in my parent's bedroom.

These days there are many more ways to find new techniques and projects. Each issue of Interweave Crochet has new techniques for me to try, whether it's a new stitch, construction technique, or project. The double-ended Tunisian crochet in the Winter 2010 issue instantly caught my attention.

 This technique, which dates back to at least the late 19th century, is enjoying a resurgence in popularity, and I quickly discovered why. It's fun to do, and allows you to work Tunisian crochet in the round with two colors.

As a passionate crocheter, I would have loved a subscription to Interweave Crochet when I was younger. Now, since I get to see each issue from conception to completion, I get to learn from it all the time. And I share the crochet knowledge that's in each issue with my aunt in the form of a gift subscription to the magazine. You, too, can share the exciting world of crochet with easy-to-give gift subscriptions. You can order online quickly for all those last-minute gifts! And your gift of knowledge, found in each issue, will be appreciated all year.