The boys and I were looking for a project in which I could use many of my crafting interests. This fit the bill and they really love the results. Of course the pattern doesn't call for these other crafts but... there ya go. Alongside knitting I was able to integrate spinning, wire wrapping, jewelry making, leather crafting, sewing, whittling and embroidery. There might be more but you get the point. It was a great challenge and I enjoyed it very much. I was recovering from a surgery that meant a lot of down time. That is the reason it took so long.