Unsung Heroines #4

Linda Dean

Interview by Gwen Blakley Kinsler

Linda Dean: “Crochet is a symbol of so much of life.”

Discovering Crochet

Linda discovered CGOA in a round-about way, as she first belonged to a Fiberarts Guild, a chapter of the Conference for Northern California Handweavers in her hometown of Placerville, California. She discovered the group by winning  a door prize at a charity event for drop-spindle lessons. Linda recalled: “In this group, I learned other various fiber crafts, including spinning, dyeing, and all about fibers. I served on the board, arranging speakers, planning events and holding the title of President.”

Back then, Linda didn’t know the meaning of the word “Guild.” Her drop-spindle teacher shared the definition in her own way and Linda followed up with some research. All varieties of needle art were practiced in this Guild, and many were receiving certificates in weaving and spinning.

Upon discovering a copy of Crochet! Magazine, Linda learned of CGOA. She explains, “I saw an ad for the Crochet Guild Masters Program and eagerly signed up!” Upon completion of the Program with flying colors, Linda was invited to attend the 2011 CGOA Annual Conference in Minneapolis to receive her Masters Pin. She has attended every consecutive conference since then.

CGOA Service

Chosen as the current Unsung Heroine because of her generosity when it comes to volunteering and the many, many contributions of service to CGOA. I asked her if volunteering was in her genes or if she had experienced other types of volunteerism. She explained that she was very active in the 4H organization throughout her childhood; adults offer guidance and it is run by kids. Linda’s focus was not on animal projects which is often popular or more recognized, but she spent a lot of time learning public speaking. “I didn’t know it was public speaking at the time,” she explains. “I would often present to nearly 200 people about various community events; treasurer reports with the club’s financials; and some presentations were completely spur of the moment! I learned how to use impromptu techniques at a young age!”

From July 2018 to July 2020, Linda served as the President of CGOA. She believes “Different Board Members bring different visions and structures when they join a Board, and the goal is always to embrace crochet.  After her term ended, Linda served on the Masters Review Committee and now heads it up as Co-Chair Michelle Stauffenberg. She has also planned both Masters and Professional Development Days at various conferences and is still active as a Masters reviewer.

Background

Linda earned a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Business Administration Studies. She says this path created independence in her career choices, but her first experience, a government job, was not as enjoyable as she had hoped! Today Linda says, “I am working in an advisory capacity for the Craft Yarn Council (CYC), as well as consulting with Clover, industry leaders and yarn companies. As such she reviews standards for the CYC, assists with brainstorming for Warm Up America campaigns, and consults and designs wherever needed. She blogs at lindadeancrochet.com and teaches crochet both locally, nationally and internationally wherever possible; she is a Founding Member of Crochet Guild Australia. 

Current Work

Additionally, she arranges events and retreats for yarn stores, designers and influencers from Retreat Makers, her company. When I asked Linda how she manages her challenging list of duties, she replied: “The industry is broad, and I dabble in it as much as possible. Now it is like breathing air, like a normal part of my day and almost second nature.”

Linda believes, “Our love of crocheting helps us to build bridges when we tap back into our history, tapping into our future ties us together to our history. I am convinced that yarn can save the world through active chapters, and the new energy from the current CGOA focus on the “boutique- style” gatherings at (Ch Sp). I encourage everyone to plan ahead for our next event in 2026; it may even happen near you!”

Reminiscent of the metaphor Linda offered at the beginning of our interview, she shared an inspiring story that personifies her kindness and passion for her craft.  “I was sad when one of my long-time students died. For me as much as for the family, I offered to finish the last project she was crocheting. When finished and returned to the family, it was a precious memento, and for them, a way to preserve her memory!”

Thank you, Linda, for all you do for CGOA; we owe you a debt of gratitude!

To All CGOA Members: I’m always looking for Unsung Heroines to Interview and welcome your suggestions!