Darla Fanton

Enjoying A Student’s Success

Without a doubt, for me the best part of teaching is enjoying my student’s success. What a thrill it is to see a student gain confidence and take concepts they have learned in one of my classes and run with them.

It often isn’t possible to finish a project in the short time alloted for a class. I’m always thrilled when students follow-up and either e-mail me photos or bring completed projects with them when they take the next class.

Carol has taken several of my classes here in Portland this year. She was kind enough last week to bring in some of the models and allow me to share them with you.

Carol and I share a fondness for felting. This photo shows Carol’s projects from two different classes - Tapestry Crochet Bowl to Felt and the Felted Tunisian Entrelac Coaster.

We also share a fondness for beads. The green necklace on the right is the one Carol made in the Crochet with Wire: Beads & Chips Necklace class. The necklace on the left is one she made from her own supply of beads. Then using the same crochet with wire technique and smaller beads she went on to make a bracelet.

When Carol started taking classes with me she said one of her goals was to become better at reading patterns. Last week’s class at the Knitting Bee was an advanced Aran Crochet class and it was obvious to me that Carol has met that goal…she was reading the pattern like a pro! I’m so happy I could help her succeed. It is what I hope for every student!