The Little World

Do not be envious.

Don’t resent the other person for their success. Regard it as a chance for a free gift from them; one they will probably be delighted to give you.

Study the model carefully. Ask about it, and in particular the bits of it that are better than you can do. Nearly everyone who has a skill is flattered when it is recognised and happy to talk about it. Of course some of the best craft workers have some difficulty communicating with others – that is what has driven them to a solitary hobby. But be polite and sincere and the subject will start to speak for itself.

Above all, listen in the rhythm of the conversation. Let the questions be answered fully and carefully, because that is where the gift is – the person is telling you how you can do it too.

You might be discouraged when seeing a model that is just so perfect that you think you can never aspire to it. Don’t be greedy – learn one new skill or technique from this example and apply it until you can use it regularly. Then learn another. Always having something better coming up is great for the soul.