I must say I'm really disappointed with LOTRO's crafting system. I think it should be based on developing a skill instead of level. I really don't understand why did they make it this way. Why can't I be able to spend some time developing my crafting skills and become able to produce high quality items even though I'm not that experienced with killing monsters?
I suppose that the devs wanted to prevent people from having alts that are used just for crafting. I think it's the legit way of thinking but still I agree with you that system isn't good and having a crafting skill would be better. Anyway, I don't think there'll be any change to that.