Although not really "young", I am 41, I experienced the same type of stunned response. I have crocheted since I was six years old. Before quilting (Jan. this year!) I very rarely went anywhere without my bag of yarn and container of hooks. People have always told me I was too young to crochet! I would just make them something practical in response! Those same people come to me time again asking for baby clothes, afghans, dish cloths and scrubbies. I have offered to teach them but they never take me up on it! I just figure it's their loss! Bty, my 19 year old daughter lives sewing and quilting!