My name is Michelle M. Blakely, and I am a self-taught knitter and crocheter. I have been knitting for 14 years and crocheting for 12 years. I have been sewing on and off since I was 12, but really got into it this last year(2020). I enjoy projects that are a bit challenging. I have been writing poetry since I was 11 yrs old. I got into making crochet dolls when my oldest didn’t want a store bought doll because it didn’t look like her. So I made her one. I am currently working on making dolls that represent every branch of the military service. Being a fiber artist has helped with keeping me calm at times when life is very hectic. The rhythm of my knitting needles and or sewing machine creates a zen like mood for me. It is my meditation. I love that I can bring my ideas to life in various fiber art forms, and show the world my thoughts and expressions. It is something that I can share with my family, my community, and I can teach my children the love of creating. I have knitted and crocheted for charity, making blankets for vets and the children’s hospital through a local knitting and crochet group.