#Online Money Making Techniques

[gemarsingh]

How To Earn Money From Facebook 2024

Earn Money From Facebook interconnected world, where social media reigns supreme, Facebook Page stands as a towering colossus, offering not just a platform for connecting with friends and family, but also a bustling marketplace ripe with opportunities to earn money. With over 2.8 billion monthly active users, Facebook has transcended its origins as a mere social networking site to become a…

[atracaelum]

This is just kvetching into the void but I periodically see posts on this here internet and website essentially trying to police the terms people use for their own art, ie "you can't call something a doodle if it looks finished (to me)" or "stop doing sketchbook flips that are finished pieces, it's supposed to be doodles and wips in a sketchbook!" and usually there's a reason given about these things setting an unrealistic standard either for other artists, or non-artists, and these irritate the piss out of me every time I fear.

Your 'finished piece' might BE someone's low effort doodle, that's just life sometimes! This is fine! It need not reflect on you!

Similarly, the sketchbook is the medium. Whether it's showcase of completed works or practice sketches is irrelevant. They are showing their sketchbook.

Much of this moaning is indirectly shot at people who are full-time artists, if not professionals, posting online. Are you under the impression their grasp of art terminology is just flat out wrong? Or is it just broader than you would like?

I can't take the fear of unrealistic expectations seriously, sorry. People are very ignorant, yes, but the cure is never a dumbing down of the topic, nor trying in vain to universalize it.

This all kind of wraps into how social media turns people sharing their art into this cut throat arms race, how divorced people become from means of actually learning their craft in that sort of environment, and the, to be blunt, sour grapes that grow from all of this. Sincerely, I just encourage people to worry less about other artists minding their business and focus more on personal growth. Maybe let yourself get inspired! And then we'll both win, because I will see less incessant whining out in the wild!

[neverendingford]

[levelupwithsam]

How to Attract the RIght customers!

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[bladeofthestars]

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[guiadecoraciondeandorra]

Posicionamiento Natural. Consiga estar en la 1.ª página de Google. La importancia de mi trabajo, el posicionamiento SEO. Contacto +376360387 - info@app-shop.fr. Google Trends: la creciente importancia del posicionamiento natural u orgánico sin pagar publicidad. Los últimos cambios en la visualización de los resultados de búsqueda de Google resaltan la creciente importancia de la publicidad de pago (SEM). Sin embargo, mantener una fuerte presencia en el POSICIONAMIENTO natural (SEO) confirma su interés y su importancia, fundamental en algunos negocios como en Google. La posición cero en los resultados de búsqueda proporciona visibilidad de primer nivel, mientras que las consultas de cola larga (Long Tail en inglés) ayudan a orientar mejor la intención de búsqueda de los usuarios. Aunque, en teoría, Google favorece los anuncios de pago, el SEO sigue siendo un elemento esencial de una estrategia de marketing en línea, sigue siendo muy rentable a largo plazo.

https://marketing-de-contenidos.com/

[legendarymarketer]

Hey there, it's Anders Larsson and today's video is an essential guide to making an informed decision in the world of affiliate marketing. So why am I sharing this? Because, as a digital content creator, it is important that you know which affiliate marketing platforms can pave the way for sustainable streams of passive income. The video discusses CPAGrip versus CPAbuild—two giants in the affiliate marketing industry. If you're feeling lost or overwhelmed with the numerous options out there, don't worry; I've done the research for you. Today, we'll be taking a look at how these platforms differ in terms of monetization tools, CPA offers, real-time tracking, and especially user-generated templates. Watch the video to know the full story....

[marketingprofitmedia]

Unlock the Secrets to Getting More Website Traffic and Higher Rankings on Google in 2024

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Significance of Website Traffic and Google Rankings

How much traffic your website receives is what determines how successful it is in the huge internet space. Furthermore, attaining better positions on Google guarantees that your material is readily accessible to visitors seeking pertinent information. The interdependent connection between website traffic and Google ranks is the fundamental basis of achieving success on the internet.

SEO Changes in 2024

As we enter 2024, the SEO environment continues to undergo significant changes. The algorithm adjustments implemented by Google have a significant impact on the tactics used to generate website traffic. Keeping abreast of the newest updates is crucial for those seeking to uncover the strategies of successful SEO in the present year.

The Importance of Success Secrets

Understanding and implementing the strategies that contribute to increased website traffic and higher Google rankings is not just an option; it’s a necessity for businesses aiming to thrive in the competitive digital ecosystem. Unlocking these secrets is the key to a sustainable and successful online presence.

Understanding Google’s Algorithm

Algorithm Updates in 2024

Google’s algorithm is a complex system that determines the ranking of websites in search results. In 2024, staying abreast of algorithm updates is crucial. The continuous evolution of Google’s algorithm demands adaptability and strategic optimization to maintain or improve rankings.

Core Web Vitals and User Experience

Core Web Vitals, introduced by Google, focus on user experience metrics such as page load speed, interactivity, and visual stability. Prioritizing these aspects ensures a seamless and enjoyable user experience, positively influencing rankings.

Mobile-First Indexing

The prevalence of mobile devices makes mobile-first indexing a key consideration. Google prioritizes mobile versions of websites for indexing and ranking, making it imperative for businesses to optimize their websites for mobile devices.

Keyword Research Strategies

Long-Tail Keywords in 2024

Long-tail keywords play a pivotal role in SEO strategies. They cater to specific search queries and can enhance the visibility of your content in niche searches. In 2024, understanding and utilizing long-tail keywords is a strategic move.

Competitor Analysis

Analyzing competitor keywords provides valuable insights. Identifying gaps and opportunities in your competitors’ strategies allows you to tailor your approach for better results in attracting targeted website traffic.

Tools for Effective Keyword Research

Utilizing advanced keyword research tools is essential for success. Tools like Ahrefs, SEMrush, and Google Keyword Planner can provide valuable data to refine your keyword strategy and uncover untapped opportunities.

On-Page SEO Optimization

Title Tags and Meta Descriptions

Crafting compelling title tags and meta descriptions is an art that can significantly impact click-through rates. These elements not only contribute to SEO but also serve as a preview of your content, enticing users to click.

Header Tags (H1, H2, H3)

Header tags structure your content and signal its importance to search engines. Properly utilizing H1, H2, and H3 tags organizes your content for readability and SEO optimization.

Image Optimization and Alt Text

Images are integral to engaging content, but they should not be overlooked in SEO. Optimizing images for faster loading times and adding descriptive alt text enhances accessibility and SEO.

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Content Creation for SEO

Quality Content vs. Quantity

While quantity has its place, quality content is the cornerstone of effective SEO. Creating content that resonates with your audience, answers their queries, and provides value is a surefire way to boost rankings.

Importance of Evergreen Content

Evergreen content stands the test of time. Investing in content that remains relevant ensures a continuous flow of organic traffic, as users discover and engage with your valuable resources.

User Engagement Metrics

Google considers user engagement metrics such as bounce rate, time on page, and click-through rate in its ranking algorithm. Focusing on creating content that keeps users engaged contributes to higher rankings.

Link Building Techniques

Natural Link Building in 2024

Natural link building involves earning links organically. Creating valuable content, building relationships with influencers, and leveraging social media are effective ways to naturally attract quality backlinks.

Guest Posting and Outreach

Guest posting remains a viable strategy for building backlinks and expanding your audience. Outreach to relevant websites in your niche can result in valuable collaborations and link-building opportunities.

Building Authority Through Backlinks

Backlinks from authoritative sources boost your website’s credibility in the eyes of search engines. Strategic link-building efforts contribute to higher rankings and increased website traffic.

Social Media Integration

Impact of Social Signals on SEO

Social signals, such as likes, shares, and comments, contribute to your website’s authority. Integrating social media into your SEO strategy enhances visibility and encourages user engagement.

Best Practices for Social Media Engagement

Consistent and meaningful engagement on social media platforms builds a loyal audience. Implementing best practices for social media engagement translates to increased website traffic.

Leveraging Social Platforms for Traffic

Strategically promoting your content on social media platforms drives traffic to your website. Utilizing platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram can amplify your reach and attract a diverse audience.

Technical SEO Considerations

Website Speed and Performance

A fast-loading website is not only user-friendly but also favored by search engines. Optimizing images, leveraging browser caching, and investing in a reliable hosting provider contribute to improved website speed.

B. Mobile Responsiveness

Mobile devices dominate internet usage, making mobile responsiveness a non-negotiable aspect of SEO. Responsive design ensures a seamless experience across various devices, positively impacting rankings.

HTTPS and Security

Google prioritizes secure websites with HTTPS. Ensuring your website has a secure connection builds trust with users and contributes to higher rankings in search results.

Local SEO Strategies

Importance of Local SEO

For businesses with a physical presence, local SEO is indispensable. Optimizing for local searches, claiming your Google My Business listing, and acquiring positive reviews enhance local visibility.

Google My Business Optimization

A fully optimized Google My Business profile increases the likelihood of appearing in local search results. Accurate business information, customer reviews, and regular updates contribute to local SEO success.

Online Reviews and Citations

Positive online reviews build credibility and influence local rankings. Acquiring reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, and industry-specific directories, coupled with consistent citations, strengthens your local SEO presence.

Analytics and Monitoring

Google Analytics and Search Console

Google Analytics and Google Search Console provide invaluable insights into website performance. Monitoring key metrics, tracking user behavior, and addressing issues promptly contribute to ongoing optimization.

Monitoring Traffic and Ranking Changes

Regularly monitoring website traffic and ranking changes is essential for gauging the effectiveness of your SEO strategies. Adapting to fluctuations ensures sustained growth in website visibility.

Adjusting Strategies Based on Data

Data-driven decision-making is central to successful SEO. Analyzing data from various sources empowers you to make informed adjustments to your strategies, ensuring continuous improvement.

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Trends in 2024

Voice Search and AI Impact

The rise of voice search and the integration of AI technologies into search algorithms are shaping the SEO landscape. Understanding and adapting to these trends are essential for staying competitive in 2024.

Video Content and SEO

Video content continues to gain prominence in SEO strategies. Creating engaging and informative videos can enhance user experience, increase dwell time, and positively impact rankings.

Emerging Technologies in Search

Keeping an eye on emerging technologies, such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), provides insights into future SEO trends. Adapting to technological advancements ensures long-term relevance.

Common SEO Mistakes to Avoid

Over-Optimization Pitfalls

Over-optimizing content, using excessive keywords, or engaging in manipulative practices can harm your website’s rankings. Balancing optimization with natural and valuable content is crucial.

Ignoring Mobile Experience

Neglecting the mobile experience alienates a significant portion of your audience. Prioritizing mobile responsiveness and usability is paramount for overall SEO success.

Neglecting Local SEO Factors

For businesses serving local markets, overlooking local SEO factors can be detrimental. Focusing on local keywords, obtaining positive reviews, and participating in community events contribute to local SEO success.

Case Studies

Successful SEO Campaigns in 2024

Examining successful SEO campaigns provides actionable insights. Case studies reveal strategies that have proven effective, offering inspiration for your own SEO endeavors.

Learning from Failures

Failure is an inherent part of any journey. Analyzing unsuccessful SEO efforts provides valuable lessons, helping you avoid common pitfalls and refine your strategies for success.

Real-Life Examples and Insights

Showcasing real-life examples and insights from industry leaders adds credibility to your understanding of SEO. Learning from the experiences of others contributes to a well-rounded approach.

Conclusion

In conclusion, unlocking the secrets to increased website traffic and higher rankings on Google demands a multifaceted approach. By mastering on-page and off-page SEO, staying abreast of algorithm changes, and prioritizing user experience, you pave the way for sustained success. Remember, the dynamic nature of SEO requires continuous learning and adaptation. Embrace new strategies, stay informed, and navigate the digital landscape with agility to ensure your online presence remains strong and competitive.

FAQs

Q. What is the significance of mobile-first indexing?

Mobile-first indexing prioritizes the mobile version of a website for indexing and ranking. It ensures that websites are optimized for the majority of users who access the internet through mobile devices.

Q. How often should I update my website content for SEO?

Regular website content updates help SEO. Balance new information with evergreen resources. New data, visualizations, and insights may be added.

Q. Are backlinks still crucial for SEO success in 2024?

Yes, backlinks are still important for SEO in 2024. The focus is now on quality above quantity. Guest writing, natural link development, and high-quality backlinks work.

Q. What tools can help monitor website performance?

Monitoring website performance using Google Analytics, Search Console, Ahrefs, and SEMrush is crucial. Traffic, user behavior, keyword ranks, and other optimization information are provided.

Q. How can small businesses benefit from local SEO?

Search engine optimization for local searches benefits small companies. This involves claiming and optimizing Google My Business, getting great ratings, and attending local events.

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Affiliate Disclaimer :

This article Contain may be affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission at NO ADDITIONAL cost to you if you decide to purchase something. While we receive affiliate compensation for reviews / promotions on this article, we always offer honest opinions, users experiences and real views related to the product or service itself. Our goal is to help readers make the best purchasing decisions, however, the testimonies and opinions expressed are ours only. As always you should do your own thoughts to verify any claims, results and stats before making any kind of purchase. Clicking links or purchasing products recommended in this article may generate income for this product from affiliate commissions and you should assume we are compensated for any purchases you make. We review products and services you might find interesting. If you purchase them, we might get a share of the commission from the sale from our partners. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended.

Source : Unlock the Secrets to Getting More Website Traffic and Higher Rankings on Google in 2024

Thanks for reading my article on “Unlock the Secrets to Getting More Website Traffic and Higher Rankings on Google in 2024“, hope it will help!

[mentormaven777]

The Fastest Way to Earn Money Online, Shorten Links and Profit!

Looking to make quick money online? Look no further! One of the fastest and easiest methods to generate income is through link shortening and affiliate marketing. By utilizing this strategy, you can earn money by simply sharing shortened links that include your affiliate code. In this article, we will explore how you can leverage link shortening services to maximize your earning potential in the online world.

Link shortening platforms, such as Bc.vc , offer a simple and efficient way to make money online. These services allow you to take long and cumbersome URLs and transform them into concise, shareable links. By signing up as an affiliate with a reputable company, you can incorporate your affiliate code into these shortened links, enabling you to earn commissions for each click or purchase made through your link.The Fastest Way to Earn Money Online:Shorten Links

[cashnello]

HOW TO MAKE MONEY ONLINE: PROVEN METHODS REVEALED!

Discover the most effective and proven methods to make money online. From freelancing and affiliate marketing to e-commerce and online courses, learn how to generate income from the comfort of your home.

Are you looking to escape the traditional 9-to-5 grind and make money online? You’re in the right place! In this comprehensive guide, we will unveil the most effective and proven methods to generate income from the comfort of your home. Whether you’re a student, stay-at-home parent, or simply seeking additional sources of revenue, these strategies will empower you to monetize your skills and…

[juniperskye]

Just a little something.

Based on the following ask: I have a request that may be a little difficult for you to write, if you're up for it. I would like to request Hotch with a non-bau reader that likes to crochet in their spare time, particularly stuffed animals, and gift them to others. Jack and Hotch would obviously receive the majority of the amigurumi projects, but one day, the reader makes too many little crochet animals and persuades Hotch to take them to work and hand them out to other agents. You wouldn't have to go too into depth about the crocheting techniques if you don't think you could properly write about it; you could honestly just mention the creation period in passing and the present the finished crochet piece in the plot.

Aaron Hotchner x Fem Reader

Fluff

Word count: 841

Not edited - please be kind. Requests are open and feedback is welcome if it's constructive!

Warnings: My blog is 18+, minors DNI, Age gap (non-specified), established relationship with Hotch, no use of y/n, Fem reader, reader has no physical description, reader crochets, mention of Jack, mention of reader’s nieces and nephews, mention of anxiety (reader uses crocheting as an outlet) use of pet names, let me know if I missed any!

I do not consent to having my work translated or reposted to any other site. That being said I do not own the characters portrayed in this story.

You had picked up crocheting back when you were in college. Then, and even now it served as an outlet to release stress and anxiety. When you had started out your projects were fairly simple, wash cloths, granny squares, simple blankets.

The beauty of this hobby was that it allowed for some beautiful handmade gifts. As time went on, you began making stuffed animals. Your sister had gifted you a book with patterns for amigurumi projects, and from then on you’d been making all sorts of little creatures.

The primary recipients of your creations had been your nieces and nephews. First it was their baby blankets, then elephants, and turtles, which turned into cows and opossums, and most recently Pokémon.

When you and Aaron started dating you’d mentioned your hobby in passing, but as things progressed in your relationship, crocheting seemed to come out a little more in you. You’d casually pull out a project while watching a movie with Aaron and Jack, you’d brought over a throw blanket for the back of the couch. You’d even gifted Aaron a scarf and some socks before he left for a case in Colorado in the dead of winter.

--

One night after finishing a plushie of Charmander for your nephew, Jack spoke up…soft and unsure.

“That’s really cool.” He whisper.

“Thanks bud, do you like Charmander?” You replied.

“Kinda…I don’t really play Pokémon that much.” He shrugged.

“Oh yeah, what do you like then?” You smiled.

“I like spiderman!” Jack exclaimed.

A few days later you’d showed up with a stuffed spiderman for Jack. He was over the moon and from then on, he wasn’t afraid to ask you directly for something.

--

He was an incredible kid, he’d patiently wait for you to complete the project, even asking you questions throughout the process.

“And what kind of stitch is that?” He’d ask.

“This one here is a half double crochet.” You answered.

“And that’s different than a single crochet?”

“Yes, for a half double, you put the yarn over and then pull it through all three loops. You see that?” You asked, holding the project up as you showed him how to do it.

That night you hopped online and ordered Jack a Woobles crochet kit so he could learn alongside you.

--

For as long as you’d been crocheting, people have suggested you open an Etsy shop, and you always met them with the same response; it’ll lose the serenity it currently brings me. And this is why you only make small batches for two local boutiques.

Once a month you make a few things for each shop, and you go in and drop them off. As they sell, the profits are split 60/40 between you and the shops, which gives you the money for yarn and a little extra.

In the last week, you’d made a wide variety of stuffed animals, ranging anywhere from dinosaurs and bunnies all the way to peas in a pod and cherries. You had been packing everything up to get ready to deliver them.

--

“Hey sweetheart.” Aaron called as you entered the apartment.

“Hi honey.” You set your tote bin down and made your way to the kitchen.

“How were the deliveries?” He asked, wrapping his arms around your waist.

“They were good! I actually came home with a few things. With the Holidays just ending, one of the shops still had a few items and so they didn’t need their usual stock.” You explained.

“Oh, well now you’ll have some for next time?” He offered.

“You know, next time it’ll be Easter themed stuff…chicks and bunnies. What if you took some of these in for the BAU?” You suggested. “I can wrap one up for each of them and you can leave them on their desks for me.”

“I’m not sure…”

“Oh, please Aaron! Think of it as a late Christmas gift from me! I’ll even write them notes so they know it’s from me!”

“Sweethe-”

“Please!” You begged.

“Okay sweetheart. Whatever you want.” Aaron pressed a kiss to your forehead.

--

The next morning Aaron arrived at work even earlier than usual, that way he could place the brightly colored bags on everyone’s desks prior to their arrival. You had selected a specific plush for each person, even pulling from some other projects you had stored for an event you’d be participating in.

One by one, each member of the BAU arrived, quickly taking note of the giftbags on each desk. They shared confused glances and shrugged before Aaron stepped out of his office.

“There should be a note in each bag. Feel free to open them and enjoy.” He said, returning to his office.

Aaron smiled gently, toying with the crocheted whale shark you snuck into his bag. You always said he, like whale sharks frightened people, due to preconceived notions derived from fear, but in all actuality, they were gentle creatures.

Aaron’s smile only grew as he heard Garcia squeal with joy over the soft unicorn you’d gifted her.

[renthony]

On Cosplay, Fast Fashion, & Waste

Fast fashion and disposable outfits in cosplay community spaces give me anxiety. Seeing people openly talk about throwing their "trashed" cosplay away after a single con makes me sad. Some costumes are crafted with such low durability that they fall apart beyond repair if you look at them the wrong way. I've met a ton of other cosplayers whose idea of "cosplay repair" ends with a stapler and some hot glue.

I never ever ever ever want to shame people for not knowing something. Crafting is hard. Making a low-quality costume isn't a sin or a crime. If you're new and still learning and don't really know what you're doing yet, that's fine! No harm, no foul, no bruise.

The cosplayers who do make me grouchy, however, are the ones who are unwilling to try. The ones who are flippant about throwing away a cosplay without trying to mend it, repurpose it, reuse it, or pass it along. The ones who intentionally make a costume just durable enough to last a single day, then toss it in the trash with zero thought.

My sewing and costuming experience started when I joined the ren faire, and I had to make my costumes sturdy enough to survive multiple weeks of heavy use, with the durability and freedom of movement to allow sword fighting on the living chessboard. I was taught how to shop for inexpensive fabrics and materials, but use high-quality, long-lasting techniques so that my costumes didn't disintegrate after a single day of performing. I have made extremely durable, cost-effective costumes out of bedsheets and thrift store fabric, as have many of my friends.

That experience has carried over into my cosplay. I am not happy with a costume unless it can go through three consecutive days of stage combat and high-intensity walking around outside in the heat, go through the washer and dryer, and come out completely unscathed.

Again, I never want to needlessly shit on other people's cosplay. Cosplay gatekeeping sucks and is no fun for anyone. At the same time, fast fashion is just as rampant in cosplay as it is everywhere else, and it sucks to see how wasteful it is.

You can make things durable even with cheap materials. Stop making flimsy costumes that you're just going to toss. Stop making piles and piles of waste. Please stop buying fabric just to slap a costume together with glue and throw it in the trash. If you are going to invest time and money into making something by hand, make it durable and comfy and worth the effort.

Even if you only want to personally wear it once, you can sell it, give it away, trade it, do something other than toss it in the trash. Show some love to your costumes, show some love to the planet, pick one action you can take to make your cosplay a little less wasteful. Being obsessed with the myth of a "personal carbon footprint" isn't helpful, but we as cosplayers should try to at least make things that'll last longer than 24 hours.

I understand that sewing can be incredibly intimidating, but basic stitching really isn't that complicated if you have a guide and the right tools. I personally need assistive devices for sewing thanks to my hand tremors and tendonitis, but those tools do exist, and can make things easier for both disabled and newbie sewists. I use rotary cutters instead of scissors, I keep a supply of needle threaders on hand, I have multiple little gadgets that help me sew in a straight line so my shaking hands don't screw everything up. There are tons of tools available, tons of tutorials online, and if you're interested in learning, there's a whole world out there to explore.

If you don't want to do all the crafting yourself, that's totally fine, but if you are going to hand-make your costume, you should try and make it durable. It's better for the planet and it's way less stressful to go to an event when you know your costume won't fall apart on the con floor.

If you have zero idea where to start, here are some books with crafting techniques I've found very useful, both in cosplay and regular household sewing I do for my family:

Make, Sew and Mend: Traditional Techniques to Sustainably Maintain and Refashion Your Clothes, by Bernadette Banner (who also has an incredible YouTube channel)

Cosplay Fabric FX: Painting, Dyeing & Weathering Costumes Like a Pro, by Julianna Franchini

Creative Cosplay: Selecting & Sewing Costumes Way Beyond Basic, by Amanda Haas

Level Up! Creative Cosplay: Costume Design & Creation, SFX Makeup, LED Basics & More, by Amanda Haas

[onegirlatelier]

April, 2024 | Shetland lace shawl

Hi there! It’s been a while. I’ve been kept busy by all my university work…and this shawl.

The shawl is knitted to celebrate the wedding of my friend (now friends, I should say). A wedding is really the perfect excuse for all the heritage crafts and heirloom projects that might seem too serious to gift in other occasions. I did ask the recipient beforehand if she would like it, though, and I was so, so honoured that I got an enthusiastic ‘yes’. I’m sure this sentiment is shared by many makers, whatever gift they are making.

Shetland fine openwork, a knitted lace, seems to have emerged with the beginning of the reign of Queen Victoria, who championed and popularised the craft. It was probably spread from the Isle of Unst to other parts of Shetland. What surprised me the most when I first read about it was that Shetland shawls and other lace pieces were largely exported as luxury items and rarely worn by islanders themselves. Women bought yarn from spinners and knitted mostly in their homes. They then took them to local merchants and exchange the finished objects for goods or (commonly after the 1880s) money to supplement the household income. The ‘supplement’ nature of this work probably means it was not compensated as much as a job outside the home would be for the same hours and skills. Besides, it was not always easy to spin an even 1-ply yarn at 1600 metres per 100 grams. For a piece of knitting with a large ‘plain’ area (i.e. only knit stitches), the unevenness was impossible to hide but could only be discovered after the area was worked. Then the maker had to either frog (unravel) the area or continue with the risk of the whole piece not being able to sell.

Whilst it is very reasonable to point out that Shetland ladies did not usually wear this type of lace (I’ve been to the Scottish Highlands once, in summer, and it was not fine lace weather), I imagine that at least for some, it wasn’t just about making money. Some sort of fulfilment must have been from the satisfaction of having a piece ‘properly done’ by continuing and adapting a traditional pattern, technique or material. I think this sort of satisfaction is also why many modern knitters are willing to spend hundreds of hours on lacework.

Intricate handknitted lace items can still be bought today (a quick search on Etsy would show many are form eastern European countries with a long and prominent craft tradition), but many are knitted for friends or family members. It always makes me so happy to see people share the gifts they have made, whether big or small, simple or complex. I joke with my online craft friends that no handmade fibre project can claim to be so unless they have a hair or two woven into it. It is the proof of existence for the maker, who tries to go against the irregular nature of handicrafts and, at the same time, accepts it. It is about wrapping up hours, weeks or months in one’s life, along with the songs they have listened to and the perfume they have worn and the memories they have made, and putting it squarely in someone else’s hands and saying: ‘All this, for you.’

A Wedding Shawl

I have not read anything about there being a standard form of ‘wedding shawl’ in the Shetland tradition. However, there is definitely a category of square shawls with similar sizes and a few construction methods. The samples I’ve seen mostly measure 1.5-2m on one side and have three parts: a central panel, four borders and a strip of edging. It is worked flat in garter lace from centre out.

Neither is there a standardised yarn weight. A widely available yarn is the Shetland Supreme Lace Weight 1-ply by Jamieson and Smith, which weighs at 400m/25g. The Queen Ring Shawl examined by Sharon Miller used a yarn at 700m/25g. From my experience, if you want the shawl to be a true ring shawl (i.e. you want to be able to pull the shawl through a ring) at the size of the Queen Ring Shawl (210cm on the side), go for 700m/25g or finer.

I chose a rectangular shawl because I had very limited time, but I did enlarge it because for me, an abundance of fabric does mean an abundance of cozy happiness.

Pattern

Shell Grid and Spider Webs Puzzle, pattern No.19 in the book Shetland Knitting Lace by Toshiyuki Shimada.

The names of the motifs are confusing. One motif (or two highly similar motifs) might just have two different names if they are produced in two different regions. Names do not mean everything, but I’ve had fun trying to match the motifs with names according to this article by Carol Christiansen at the Shetland Museum.

The double yarnovers (YO's) in the diamonds were called Cat's Eye, but perhaps the 'Spider Web' in the pattern name is referring to the three rows of double YO's in the centre panel. It has a really simple but effective edging.

Yarn

Mermaid Lace, in colourway #naturel, sold by Great British Wool in the Netherlands. This yarn is 75% merino and 25% sea algae silk. ‘Sea algae silk’ seems to be a semi-synthetic plant fibre like viscose, with algae involved as part of the raw material. (At this price point I don’t think it has anything to do with sea silk, which is fibre produced by actual shells.) The brand name for the most popular product of its type is probably Seacell.

I bought the yarn, because I had never worked with this fibre before and was curious. What I like: it was a little cheaper than a wool/silk blend and has blocked very well. The whole skein was continuous so I didn’t have to deal with a single yarn joint. What I do not like: it lacks the sheen and smoothness of real silk and doesn’t feel as strong, although it doesn’t shed. In conclusion, I’d rather use a traditional Shetland 1-ply or another natural fibre yarn.

It's also worth mentioning that whilst I prefer to support small businesses, it was disappointing to have received a 93-gram skein when I had ordered 100 grams. It was one of those days between Christmas and the New Year and I somehow did not contact the customer service, but I really should have.

Needle

2.5mm 80cm circular needles. See modification below.

Modification

This Japanese knitting book follows Japanese sizing for knitting needles. The suggested size was no. 1=2.4mm. I figured that I could use a 2.5mm since I knitted on the tighter side, and in any case it was probably okay to make the lacework a little more open by going up a needle size.

I am not going to give out the pattern, but it is probably necessary to explain the structure of this shawl. The centre is knitted first, and then an edging is knitted onto it by picking up either live stitches or the vertical edge of the centre as you go (see schematic below). The four ‘corners’ of the edging have short-row shaping to help it lay flat. I know that traditionally people can achieve this by other methods, but I haven’t tried any of those yet.

I enlarged the pattern by increasing both the width and the length. I casted on 133 stitches instead of 101 for the centre panel and knitted Part B 8.5 times instead of 5.5. The spider web pattern in Part B requires the stitch count to be (something dividable by four) plus two, so I made one central increase before the spider web to get 134 and a central decrease after it to get it back to 133. Due to the openness of the lace, the change of one stitch is not visible.

The enlargement meant I had to recalculate the edging as well, because the number of stitches available for pick-up changed. Originally, at each corner you do two repeats with four short-row shaping each. I did 1.5 repeats following the original placement of short-row shaping in order to make the total number of repeats fit the number of edge stitches on the centre panel.

The pattern says to Kitchener-stitch the last row of the edging to the provisional cast-on. It just didn’t make sense because that would be two rows too much (the Kitchener stitch row plus the provisional cast-on row). To make the number perfectly fit, I knitted only ten rows of the last repeat (there were usually twelve in each repeat). Then I Kitchener-stitched the end to the provisional cast-on, following the lace pattern. I am quite proud of this solution because it is completely invisible.

Somewhere in the pattern it said to purl (looking from the right side). It seemed strange because the rest of the lace was entirely garter. I knitted those stitches and so far I haven’t sensed a ‘mistake’.

The pattern originally calls for 45 grams of yarn. I estimated (based on the increase of stitches in the centre panel) to need about 80 grams. I ended up using 86 grams. Besides the inaccuracies in my estimation, it was probably also because I knitted much more loosely than expected as it was difficult to tension the yarn tightly at such a weight. Like I've point out in the Yarn section above, I was lucky not to have needed more than 93 grams.

The original finished size is 53*118cm. I ended up with approximately 70*170cm.

Conclusion

This shawl took about three months of my craft time i.e. one full day every week for three months and many mornings before I had to leave for university. Knitting outside my room just didn’t work because I was a) engaged in some other activities that made it difficult to steady my hands, and b) worried about putting a white shawl on any public surface.

The pattern itself is relatively straightforward. The first difficulty was, of course, to understand the instruction written in Japanese. Google translate was horrible so I had to rely on my knitting experience. Fortunately, much of the text description was also found in graphs and charts. Then I had to get my hands used to the tiny yarn. After that, it was only fiddly when I did the edging, because I had to turn about every twelve stitches, and by that time I was handling a giant cloud of stitches on my lap. It did give me a lot of time to go over my favourite documentaries and films, and the last bit of edging was surprisingly quick!

Traditionally, Shetland shawls could be sent back to the maker for maintenance. I think it only fair for me to offer that too because I don’t want a gift to become a trouble (same as how you do not use non-machine-washable yarn for baby knits).

In general, I am very pleased with this shawl. It does pass the ring test, despite not being a traditional wedding shawl size or thickness. I do have a whole lot of actual Shetland 1-ply in my stash, so I am really looking forward to taking my Queen Ring Shawl project out of hibernation in the near future.

Reference list for Introduction

Christiansen, Carol. Shetland fine lace knitting: Recreating patterns from the past. Marlborough: Crowood, 2024.

Mann, Joanna. 'Knitting the Archive: Shetland Lace and Ecologies of Skilled Practice'. Cultural Geographies 25, no. 1 (January 28, 2017): 91–106. https://doi.org/10.1177/1474474016688911.

[cyberstudious]

✨ 📖 ✏️ studyblr masterpost jam ✏️ 📖 ✨

📌 what is this?

this is a masterpost jam, like a game jam or a hackathon or a writing challenge, but for creating masterposts! the goal is to share knowledge and resources, as well as connect with other cool folks on tumblr! this challenge was born out of the studyblr community, but anyone who loves learning is welcome to participate. each day, share a masterpost following the prompts below and tag your posts with the hashtag #studyblrmasterpostjam so we can all reblog them and share the love <3

🗓️ when is this happening?

the main challenge will run August 12th through August 18th, although you're welcome to participate on your own timeline :)

✨ everyone is encouraged to participate in whatever way is comfortable!

you don't have to be an academic or a professional! tell us about your special interest, a favorite hobby or craft, or something else that you like learning about!

even if you're a beginner, you still have a valuable perspective that's worth sharing (and writing posts for this challenge is a great way to do some research and learn!).

you don't have to do all of the days or share posts on the "right" day! pick and choose your faves if you want, combine things, and take as long as you need to put them together.

you don't have to make super long posts! if you have a single resource or tip to share, please do and we will appreciate it all the same <3

if you don't want to write any posts, you can still participate by reading posts that other people make and reblogging them so we can all learn from each other!

please feel free to interpret the prompts below in your own way and expand upon them! there are so many different topics out there and the questions I've written probably don't make sense for some of them, so take what makes sense and use the rest as inspiration!

✏️ prompts

[monday, august 12th] an intro to your topic or field of study

how would you describe this topic to someone who has never heard of it? what careers are available? what professional organizations/conferences are big? what journals do academics publish in? what are the big questions, goals, or challenges? what are the sub-fields/sub-topics/areas of specialization? what are some resources for learning about the field itself?

2. [tuesday, august 13th] books

textbooks, fiction that relates to the field, inspiring memoirs, biographies, art books, graphic novels, audiobooks… anything that you think is relevant to your topic and helpful!

3. [wednesday, august 14th] free resources

online things! resources that you might be able to get from your library! and and all ways to learn/study/practice that don't require money - feel free to get creative here and come up with some cool ideas beyond just links to websites!

4. [thursday, august 15th] notable figures

who has made important contributions to the field? is there anyone who made big contributions in the past that are now outdated or incorrect? who has done great things but been overlooked because of racism/sexism/ableism/etc.? who is making interesting contributions today? is there anyone in the field that you look up to? this is a great time to do some research if you don't already have some notable figures in mind!

5. [friday, august 16th] study tips

what are your favorite tips and ways to study this topic? are there lots of things you need to memorize or tricky concepts that are hard to understand at first? is there a skill that requires lots of practice? tell us about it and how you approach it!

6. [saturday, august 17th] tools of the trade

do you work with software? lab equipment? art supplies? your favorite pen and notebook? certain analysis frameworks or processes? tell us about them!

7. [sunday, august 18th] beginner's guide

what resources were most helpful when you were a beginner? what are the important concepts/techniques to start with? are there any prerequisite skills? also, include links to your previous masterposts!

remember to tag your posts with #studyblrmasterpostjam! if you want to participate, feel free to reblog this to spread the word. I'll see y'all on August 12th for the first masterpost!

[sreegs]

I can't find the post I made about it before but I wanna reiterate, if you want to learn how to cook but don't have anyone to learn from (which is best, imo, but not everyone has that), watch Good Eats. There's like over 16 seasons and most of it holds up in terms of food advice. However, there were some corrections over the years (addressed in Good Eats: Reloaded), and some of the humor is kinda dated and cringey. Alton Brown knows his shit, though.

There's a number of reasons why it's good:

Even if the episode is about something you might never make, cooking is about applying a series of techniques to different foods. Many of those techniques are adaptable to other foods.

He recommends budget-friendly options even if he advises you to spend money on something. Although some of his homemade gadgets or hacks are kinda silly, some of them are worth trying.

Good Eats focuses on the science of food so he doesn't just tell you how, he tells you why. If you're like me, you have to know why or else you won't be convinced.

If you have Max or Food Network you can already watch all the episodes streaming. If you don't, you can find each season pretty readily online in various places streaming and uh downloadable. I don't want to call out where but if you know you know, and if you don't I suggest you read this.