Crafts

I have a theory that one group of people has benefitted more from Web 2.0 than anyone else: Crafters. Thanks to blogs, crochet and knitting patterns are often only a google search away. Many of these patterns are completely free, and the range of patterns is ridulous. My favorite pattern so far is a peace sign as seen here: http://www.crochetspot.com/crochet-pattern-peace-sign-detailed/. Its easy to make, but I doubt anyone would think to put something like it in a published book. There are also all kinds of well-known character patterns available such as the angry birds, mario, and even complete tea sets.

The internet is also a great resource for beginners. Many bloggers are willing to post simple tips like stitches as well as reviews of necessary product brands. If you have any trouble, just comment and almost all craft bloggers will answer your questions.

The bloggers benefit as well. They sell finished products and sometimes patterns, and they get the benefit of being seen as an expert. Not everyone has the time to dedicate to getting themselves published or selling through retailers, but thanks to the Internet, they can still make some money with their hobby.

Who do you think has benefitted especially because of Web 2.0?

Anonymous Blogging

I discussed in another post the negative effects that blogging can have on your personal life and career and the importance of boundaries. One way that some bloggers prevent these dangers and others (such as stalkers, threats, or identity theft) is to remain completely anonymous.

It's certainly easy enough to do. Don't mention your real name, where you live, or too many details about yourself. Create an e-mail that you only use for blogging and uses a nickname. Make sure the anonymous blog is not linked to your other social media that may reveal more about you.

Blogging without revealing who you are has a lot of benefits. You can say just about anything you want (within reason) without damaging your career or personal relationships. This allows you to express views you may have but don't normally share and take on controversial topics. It also means you do not have to share your blogging habit with anyone who might not approve.

On the other hand, people may take you less seriously if you take advantage of the anonymity that the Internet offers you. You will most likely be challenged for it. Also, it makes writing personal blogs more difficult because not only do you have to change names, you will have to omit a lot of information that might reveal your location or identity.

Either way, it is a judgement call of how much you are willing to reveal. Plenty of bloggers do use their full name, but these are mostly professional bloggers. The best thing to do might be a balance of the two. Use a fake name, but for everything else use general information.