I have been knitting and crocheting for around forty years and I noticed something about myself. If I start a project and finish it quickly, it means I am enthusiastic about it. But if I start a project and I stop halfway through and leave it aside, when I start it again later, I no longer want to finish it. And I realized that if I stopped along the way, it was because something was wrong or I didn't like it. But I was not ready to undo it or start again given the time invested. Now I understand that it is better to undo and start again in this case, and not losing my time on projects I don't like.
Give yourself permission to buy socks next time you need a new pair. It’s a perfectly acceptable choice to pay someone else to do something you are capable of doing yourself. You are a highly competent, creative woman, and there is no requirement that you do everything you are qualified to do. Just say no to making socks! 🥰
My friend has Ehlers danlos a genetic disease and her entire childhood was cursed with knee caps slipping. She is 50 now and diagnosed. Sorry if that is too forward, but hearing your issue reminded me of stories she would tell. I hope you get support and some kind of relief (as much relief as a chronic condition can give (autoimmune here))
I am finally hopefully nearing diagnosis for likely Ehlers Danlos and I’m 42. I dislocated my kneecap twice during my teen years and I can still feel it slip sometimes. Not to mention a host of other issues from hypermobile joints. I feel for your friend. And Evie, I do hope you can find something that helps. ❤
Connective tissues disorders are awful! (Ask me how I know) Hyperextension injuries happen so easily and take FOREVER to heal. One of the great benefits of fiber arts is that it is generally speaking low impact, and while it can be muscularly intensive with repetitive motion issues, and posture issues, some of the easiest types of injuries for connective tissue disorders are bypassed. Also so much can be done when you have limited spoons. Even on low energy or high pain days you can usually do something fiber related.
I have hypermobile joints, but not Ehlers Danlos. My kneecaps used to dislocate a lot in my teens/20s. Now that I’m in my 50s, I’ll need a need a knee replacement. Still very flexible. I also walk around barefoot, but even on carpet. Can’t stand stuff on my feet unless I go out.
I hope you get some relief I know how hard it is when you have knee problems. My left knee goes out on me every once in a while I get no warning luckily I have been able to lean on something every time it had happened. If you make the dart I would hide it in the pocket if you like the way it looks without the dart I would just let it hang. Why do the extra work.
I spin, knit, crochet,sew, weave, dye, and always have things going…Then I bought a floor loom. Everything is now dropped for it.. including socks. This stuff doesn’t spoil. It can all wait till I’m ready. Do what you want. Let things stay fun.
Yes! I quilt, sew, crochet, spin (and paint), and I just move with whatever area is calling to me. I like having a sit-down-at-the-sewing-machine/art-table project and a sit-on-the-couch project going at the same time, so that can help balance for me.
The comments make me think we need to start a hypermobile fiber club! 😅 Thinking about the "should" issue, I realized my "should" is feeling like I "should" make stuff for other people, and never for myself! That's an interesting realization...I've never even knit myself a scarf! Maybe a bit more self care in the form of making some things for myself is due... Also, I am team no-dart. I love how the vest looks now!
New project dopamine is totally a thing. Also, process dopamine is a thing. I have many mostly finished projects that just need a few details, but gosh, it gets hard for me to do the finishing details.
Blocking! I knitted my first socks ever this year, two pairs no less. I've worked in the ends (there was colourwork involved) but they are languishing in a project bag awaiting blocking.
I have a tablet weave project that's been going on around 2-3 years now. I love the pattern and want it done, but can only handle a couple of motifs at a time and only occasionally. It's literally a 9 yard project and I have maybe 5 ft done. It's for an SCA friend, it's torture, and I'm extremely grateful she knows the tablet weave process and understands my angst over the sheer length. Someday!
My thing I Think I should like is... Knitting lol. It feels like pretty much all spinning content online is about spinning to knit and people get to spinning from knitting, and stuff like weaving is an afterthought (and mostly to Use Art Yarns™) It's honestly even hard to find spinning channels that don't also focus (or even mainly focus) on knitting. So I feel pressured to knit lol but the truth is, while I'll do it a little from time to time for utilitarian purposes, I don't enjoy it and I don't really understand it. I like weaving and crocheting and stuff like bobbin lace a lot more. (Also I feel you about socks. I have zero desire to make socks and I feel very alone) Edit: also I think the hem is good as is? The angle will change depending on whether it's opened or closed anyway, and while angling down when open is fine, angling up when closed will look strange and stretched in my opinion. Unless it's just a very small one to get in between the two (and then yeah it could be hidden by the pocket), I just think it'll drape better as is.
As a recommendation, for the vest, if you're trying to level out the hem and the front, if you take it a bit in at the shoulders more towards the neckline rather than the shoulder, it will lift up the front without disrupting the pattern. Then all you'd need to do is drop the armhole a little If you're not sure on what I mean, you can always DM me directly if you like.
I love how your vest would look without any darts, but of course you should go for the look you want! I just love the elegant look of vests and drapey cardigans that hang down in a lower point in front. 🤩
You are speaking my language! Starting way more projects than I finish, self-imposed rules or expectations, I’m there! I think it’s great you’re recognizing what you enjoy making and will use vs what you “should” like. I’ve wavered between telling myself I can’t start new projects until something is done, which means I have no hobby time, and trying to just accept that it’s all for fun and learning, it’s ok to have several WIPs and to give some up eventually
I once entered a medieval "Body of Work" competition, not knowing what was meant by the term. Glass blowing, glass bead making, contemporary needlework, batik, leather tanning, quilting, painting (Celtic interlace and calligraphy on a table top), natural dyes on commercial and hand spun yarns, and tons of weaving. My documentation was a listing of why I'd tried to do the things & why I didn't like most of them, finally settling on Fiber Arts. They seemed to like it but they couldn't figure out what category to put me in so they made up one. LOL
Leaving the vest with it's swoop-y shape would be really lovely! Like you mentioned in the overlay text - it works well with the paisley shapes, and I think that shape looks good over the dress :)
I feel like I SHOULD enjoy working with plush and thicker than worsted weight yarn as a crocheter but I do not. I like DK and sport weight best. I love taking my time with crochet projects ❤
Hat is adorable, I'm glad that yarn got turned into something so pretty and wearable! Maybe a small dart to the bust point on that one? With socks, I'm opposite to you, the fancy knited ones are usually too thick to fit well in my shoes or dress boots and not chonky enough to fit wel under my work boots so I only wear the cute ones at home... I'm on electric heating so I don't keep a very warm house in winter so I need the socks. And my place is carpeted so the only place that can gelt slippy is the kictchen, which I have mostly covered with fatigue matting. And argh, hypermobile joints, I'm lucky that physiotherapy has been able to keep most of my joints from disintegrating. I started a lot of projects and never finished them... so then I stopped starting the project until I thought I'd be able to finish it. Which resulted in crafting plans (and piles of supplies) sitting around collecting dust... so my latest way of getting some stuff done between sewing projects is that before scissors touch fabric on a new project, two things from the UFO pile must be at least re-examined if not completed and put into service, two mending jobs must be done (easily done cause I keep disintegrating my work pants), and get 1D6 pairs of socks back into service from the darning pile. So yes, my sofa has a mending basket, a darning basket, a heap of mockups, and a bunch of sewing supplies... So far this seems to be working, my UFO pile is finally dwindling, though some of my new projects end up back in there, because I'm not good at sewing, just persistent, so I don't always have the skills to do something right the first time (even after mockups), but if I take that vest I made last year and don't wear because the point at the back keeps flipping up and wrinkling, cut the seam that connects the iouter to the lining, sew some boning channels in a matching thread and stick some zip ties in there as boning, and now it's wearable! And mockups that aren't working also end up in the UFO pile sometimes. I'm not firm on myself that UFO item must be completed to the point of wearable, but I must at least try to improve it. So a few things have cycled through the UFO pile a few times till I've found the solution as my skills improve...
My therapist wanted me tested for ADHD before he left his center. We never got around to it. I can't work on the same project for too long. It drives me absolutely nuts, and I don't mean that mildly. I have 13 knitting projects just on my work desk (my work computer freezes a lot). 4 more on the tables and shelves behind me. A few more in the bedroom and downstairs. But if I work the same pattern for too long, I get anxious and NEED something new. Luckily, this has also led to me learning a lot of complicated lace knitting in a relatively short time!
My ADHD has me starting and frogging constantly. Of every 5 I start, I finish 1. Teaching people to knit and crochet makes me more accountable and I finish more. I go to town about once a week. So have have very little opportunity to wear nice things. Especially so because I'm on disability, due to autoimmune issues. I just need to wear them anyway. I love my scarves. I wasn't wearing my socks. So to fix the bumps on my feet hurting, I now do princess soles (reverse stockinette). Now i can use my socks. It's like wearing pretty underwear, i may be the only one who knows, but that's OK. I feel pretty! Plus, if someone asks what I make, I can pull up a pants leg! I have two friends with Ehlers Danlos and I probably have it, but not diagnosed. I used to pop my hips in and out with a tensing of muscles. Not normal! But if you aren't bleeding, you don't need to go to the doctor. My mother's saying. Argh! Take care of yourself, or no one will. I've included everything here to show how fragmented I tend to be. Sorry if i trigger anyone. It wasn't intentional.
Have you ever pulled out all your WIPS and laid them out to evaluate where each are at in progress? You may have a pile of projects that are nearly finished? When I’ve done this I do Mend it Mondays and focus on wrapping up nearly finished projects on Mondays, bind offs, weaving in ends, block… For the vest, what about putting the pocket on the inside of the vest? It would not break up the fabric pattern, it’s so lovely it shouldn’t be broken up/disrupted.
Hand quilting, I dislike like hand quilting a quilt top. I like to piece the fabric into a quilt top, and I like tge end results of a hand made quilt, but... hand quilting is tedious, to me. Oh, and I really dislike machine quilted quilt tops. What a quandry I'm in. 😅
I wouldn’t add a dart at the bustline. It fits you beautifully in the underarm/high bust area. When you showed the dart, the armhole didn’t fit as well. I realize that it might be better when actual measurements happen rather than a quick mock up but it’s still a focal point. I think you showed better options than disrupting the pattern there. I would either adjust the hem in the front by bringing it up to be more level OR hide the dart behind the pocket. I thought that looked great. While you could definitely leave it as is, I do like it better adjusted once I saw your options. It’s gorgeous. I love the fabric and the sewing is beautiful.
I’m a crocheter who started spinning a year ago. I don’t love knitting. The tension is too difficult and the projects feel to flat/round compared from my beloved crochet. I know that is a weird option to have when in spinning and yarn communities. I do love the way knit makes variegated yarns look as fabrics… everything has its place, and my personal preference one hook.
i'm in a warmer climate and it's rarely sweater weather... only a short period each winter and as layers that are frequently removed... so i only end up wearing the same 1 sweater all the time. i keep trying to knit sweaters. i keep thinking i should love them. but i just don't get excited about them and don't wear them if i do manage to finish them.... but socks? i kint and wear them all day every day! i so love my sock knitting! :D
I say leave the vest shape as is without the darts! The pockets will add a smidge of weight to the vest, and the vest will naturally want to keep the shape it has now with where the pockets will be.
I love finishing projects and am reluctant to start them unless I believe they are well chosen. The better designed the project the higher the likelihood of finishing I reckon. Pattern, skill level, colours, yarn quantities, gauge, sizing, etc, etc.
The asymetrical shape is good, and the pattern of the fabric looks great as is. The pocket could be done as a slit, to maintain that pattern, or splashed on: whatever floats your boat.
I like your vest the way it is - I would not put darts in it. And I love your madder-dyed wool -- did you you use madder powder or bits of dried roots? As far as my project process goes, I have a list of projects in a word processing document, with the current (or almost current) projects on my current to-do list, and projects I plan to do soon (haha) in a separate part of the document. I have hoped for projects to do every month, and update weekly, but to be completely honest -- they get rolled over a lot! But, finished projects get their own section to remind me of when a project actually got done!
I have found that the older I get the more I feel the need to finish all of my unfinished projects! While I do get that uplifted feeling when starting a new project I actually find when I'm having a rough day etc it makes me feel better to get something finiahed. Like you (and probably many others) I did make a goal to finish as many projects as I could by the end of 2023...I'm proud of myself for actually sticking to it!
I try to knit/crochet 15 pieces a year, I'm at 14 right now, so I should be right on track. But yes, starting something new is a lot more exciting. Now with my RUclips channel I find I work a little bit more monogamous on projects, because there is some extra responsability when I start filming the project too
The hat is phenomenal and looks so great on you! I really like the contrasting brim. I think it highlights the art yarn body far more than if the whole hat was in the art yarn. That would be beautiful too but I think a bit more subtle. The brim really points my eye to those gorgeous locks. ❤
I love this vid!! It has encouraged me to finish several languishing started projects by year end. 🎉 AND - I don’t like cowls! There, I said it. They never fit me right. They droop and drape funny and I find myself never wearing them. I have several items in my stash that are intended for cowls and you just gave me permission to ditch that and change what I plan to make with them!! THANK YOU!!! I😂 whoo hoo!! 🎉
Later in the video I saw that the beautiful fabric was a vest. It looked beautiful with your dress. I would leave it just the way it is. It drapes nicely and compliments you. You are the only fiber spinner I watch. I have two Ashford Traditionals and an Elizabeth with a large orifice for art yarn spinning. I think the size of walking-wheel you have is the average size and was made for home use. Thank you for all the wonderful podcasts/instructional videos. Watching you is like visiting with a friend. Wish you were my neighbor so we could spin together! Have a wonderful holiday season. May the Fiber Fairy send Santa to your home with welcome fiber gifts🎁🎁🎁. Look forward to the next podcast or instructional video. Sincerely, David Kish from the Artist Community of Carrizozo New Mexico USA
This may be the highest like count to sub count in the history of RUclips! Over 90 percent of your subs liked this video!! That is an almost UNPRECEDENTED occurrence in the history of RUclips! You know what it says to me? That your subs are all genuine subs that want to be here and truly support you! We aren't a bunch of freeloading lazy hangers on who are stingey with the like button. No ma'am. We love our Jillian and aren't afraid to press that button and say so! Proud of you for buckling down and finishing some projects, and it has inspired me to do the same! I too have run out of yarn on a hat brim before and had to finish it with a highly contrasted yarn once because I wanted the texture to be consistent even if the colour wasn't. My daughter still wears that crochet cable beanie in stormy blue, with the grey trim to this day lol. There just isn't much that pairs well with Patons wool other than, well, more Patons wool 😂 *edit* there is clearly something wrong with my RUclips because I later realised there were more likes than views on this video! Then I noticed ALL videos having the same number of likes. I screenshot them to prove I wasn't crazy lol. So please disregard the first part of this message, as sadly I was mistaken that this video has 43k likes. I cant see how many any video actually has now apparently. They all say 43k!*
I usually don't start a project i don't finish. But that does mean that I've had a project on my hook for almost a decade. What project? A blanket. Something about blankets is so .... i love them. They just take forever and i feel like I'm making progress until i look and I've barely finished a row. So many stitches in a row. Bleh.
I usually ONLY have 1 WIP going at a time, but in September and October I had more than about maybe 2-3 Wips going and it was a lot. Right now I only have 4, 1 I need to make an I-cord and I just need to sew the bag together for, 2 I need some more Yarn, 3 is just finishing up some decreases for a Hat and 4 is just My Knit a Sweater in a Month. I have a antique spinning wheel whom I named Elizabeth as she is a double drive and I love her, but I am saving up for a modern one and I am trying to figure out which one.
I'm the same when it comes to WIPs. Been trying to make myself finish one project before starting any new ones. I don't always succeed lol. And I have found a wonderful reseller here in Ontario, Canada. They buy old wheels of all types and has them refurbished. I've bought all 3 of my wheels from them. 2 are antiques.
I do start projects more than i finish too, but i am just not able to work on things that i don't want to. I do eventually finish most things but i usually need a pretty long break in the middle. Like Calvin said "i must obey the inscrutable exhortations of my soul". Sometimes that's finishing things and sometimes it's starting 5 new things. I don't really wear socks at all unless it's wet or i'm spinning in public. I have edema in my feet too and have been working on a sock pattern for ppl with edema for like 5 years now. Eventually I will perfect it. Also, I just wear mismatched socks. That way I only have to make one in each color. It's fine. The thing I don't like that I think I should is color work. I get excited about it because it's beautiful, but actually doing it is so annoying with the yarns all tangling up. I'm really jealous of all the ppl who will get to go to Peru with you. It sounds like an amazing trip, but I don't have all the mobility aids I'd need to manage it. I grew up in Colombia and miss the Andes so much. One of my kneecaps is wander-y too, and it is very painful. Mine is the result of surgery where they had to reduce it's size because it was broken, but it is still awful.
I started a bunch of halloween projects at the start of october and I was doing GREAT on getting them finished before the last week in october and then, as usual, my EDS decided to give me so much pain I couldn't sit up for longer than an hour at a time and I was using that time to eat food so I didn't finish in time. And now I am bummed because I didn't finish on time. So I just keep looking at it all sad. My enthusiasm is gone. I need to make it novel again (which will be hard because glow in the dark paint was involved). I'm thinking felt and a glue gun.... If I have bunch of WIPs I tend to see which one I feel like doing. If I don't feel like working on anything I try to make them new and shiny again by swapping stitches, changing hook size, little things that make it more fun. I try to keep my WIPs below 5 but the halloween drama ruined my progress there XD Oh well
Oof, I know that "knees won't stay in place" feeling. It's unpleasant. I wear compression stockings all day to help my blood pressure and so I never wear socks anymore. And my wife likes thick socks, so I don't spin for sock yarn anymore. Just funny how it worked out.
Hey. I would leave the vest. It's nice with the angle. I also have a issue with socks. Especially as I live at a place where I can buy beautiful handknit socks for 3 bucks and support local village women this way. I tried to get into sock knitting this year and work on my 4.pair. But I am still not a fan. I also don't kbit them for myself. So if someone asks me for some i will do them. My bigger issue with not finishing projects is that I love the not so simple knits. So i need to focus on them and be home to work on them. I am just never home. So only the mindless knits get done but they are not so motivating. But most of what i pkan is not even started. Have a lovely day. Thanks for sharing How amazing that you will do a fiber trip to Peru. Have you been before? I am just knitting on lama wool i got on my Peru trip. It's an amazing place for yarn obsessed people. I didn't spin back then but got a drop spindle gifted from a lovely lady there. I am sure you will have a blast.
I have a hard time working/finishing sweaters or vests. Part of it is that I don’t spin a sweaters quantity of yarn. I have lots of fibre so no excuse. Right? On the other hand, I’m always working on socks.😊
I'm on year 2 (?) of inventing a back brace for my scoliosis, and I have discovered that I hate it. I never want to make another brace. Unfortunately, I can't function without a brace, and so I keep at it, even though I'd rather be working on almost anything else.
I totally identify! I call it, 'riding the hobby wave' . I work on what brings me joy and it often bounces back and forth. From knitting to embroidery to sewing to crosstitch....etc... Too many categories to type here. But, it stays fun this way . I of course am pleased when I do finish something and I also love perusing for new projects. I have only spun yarn on a spindle 3 times, I intend to continue trying and would love to buy a wheel. I do have a large frame loom which I am learning to use and have great intentions of saving for a rigid heddle loom that can sit on the table. So goes the saga...😊
Hi there Jillian EvE, YeS UFO’ are a big problem for me at least there for a while and I’ve had to learn not to do too many big projects at once. So now usually I have one small, one medium and one large on the go at any given time not big as in size necessarily but in degrees of difficulty ; so when I get frustrated with one project I will just do some mindless knitting or something easy I’m good at and know how to do well so at least I feel like I’m Actually accomplishing something until I have the time and the strength to continue with something more challenging.😊I’ve had to learn how to discipline myself to not start new stuff toO much 😄
I cannot fall in love with knitting socks either. I thought it was the needles. I tried magic loop, 4 needles, and then finally Addi Flex needles. Those are the best so far but I still don’t like knitting socks. My knitting/spinning friends laugh because they always have a new pair on their needles. Finally, a kindred spirit!
My first wheel was an antique wheel from the 1860s. It honestly almost scared me off the hobby altogether because the ratio was so fast. It was hard to get the hang of things! Also, it only had 1 bobbin so I had to skein off each single, soak them, and then use a big drop spindle to ply. Old wheel cost $300 (it was in generally good condition and came from 1 family). Six months later, I spent $600 buying a Lendrum that had two flyers, six bobbins, and a lazy kate. The Lendrum was a much better deal! I love my old girl, but my working wheel is my Lendrum! These days, I’d recommend getting an EEW from Dreaming Robots if you are on the fence with spinning as a hobby since they are so affordable.
I just bought a brandnew spinning wheel, (build after an antique one), raw wood, so I oiled it, and it is now waiting to be build. I am not all sure how to do that yet, but will figure it out. I will need your videos to teach me how to use it.. lol I thank you for teaching me! It is something I wanted to learn for years and years, but had nobody to teach me how. You make a dream come through! Big HUG!!! ❤🤗
I don't make things I don't like doing. If I want something to help me relax then I will make something for charity. I love to crochet children's hats as they are a short project and I love to crochet - win win situation. Local children of families in need will receive them. What I receive is a lovely afternoon relaxing with RUclips talks which I wouldn't watch on their own as they are a bit slow - I am interested in hearing the subject matter. With my crochet hat to work on, I thoroughly enjoy them together. And each hat is a slightly different colour or pattern or mix of colours. Afterwards, I have the info I wanted from the video and a lovely hat for a local child. And I feel GOOD! Pink top: Where the front dips down it would be good to make it curved from the front, all the way to the side seam, with or without the pocket. BUT as it looks good with the hidden dart and pocket - that seems to be the way to go.
Super interesting video. I also did some small project finishing this week, I have a small scarf I finished that was my first hand spun hand dyed braid, and I finished one half of each of my parents Christmas gifts, which are gloves! I somehow like knitting these more than socks? So satisfying to weave all the ends in and look at the glove on. Recently also bought an antique flax wheel, and tried to figure out how to spin on her, but she is going to have to be a decoration/long term project for now and I am a wheel beginner just like you said lol! So validating to hear that I am not the only one with these issues. I didn't even know it was a flax wheel/double drive till research brought me to the very video you mentioned 😂
As for darts, you should put that at the side of your bust which would have brought that up a bit. You would have had to be careful of your armhole opening though. I find trying to make clothing for my morbidly obese body quite challenging, so it’s a learning curve for me.
I don't care for knitting socks either. Considering that I put my socks in the wash after every single wear, I would never have time to knit anything else... I would much rather spend a lot of time knitting a sweater that I could never find in a store. As far as your lovely vest is concerned, I think it would look much neater without the pointed edge. A dart may not be the neatest way to make it straight though, because no extra fabric was added for the dart to be sewn into the edge. For this reason, I would simply cut the excess fabric at the hem to make a straight edge. By the way, your videos on antique wheels were helpful to me, thank you so much for that. I recently bought a CPW and I was able to ensure that it had all its parts and was in good working order. In support of your argument that old wheels were custom made, you had mentioned in one of your videos that your Philias Cadorette wheel had a 20:1 ratio. Mine is also a Cadorette double drive and it looks exactly like yours, but it has a ratio of 14:1. I suppose that either the maker customized each wheel, or the wheel evolved to over time, or may even have been made a bit smaller to lower the cost of fabrication.
Omgggg that trip sounds so exciting!! Not sure it can line up with my life events but dang!!! Thank you for explaining the reason for carding with greasy wool, makes a lot of sense!
I pick up new projects to learn new techniques. I also drop old projects because the learning curve was too steep. So I'm reminding myself that an old project I put down still has things for me to learn, and learning new things is satisfying even if it's frustrating. This is part of dopamine regulation and weaning myself off nonsense habits like phone scrolling. It's also about healing from the trauma of being a gifted kid who is too afraid of doing something badly to do anything at all.
Literally started a new project as I started watching this video AND ran out of my handspun yarn lol (thankfully just a plain spin so very easy to make more to match)
I like knitting socks but I don’t like the feel of wearing hand knit socks. I’ve tried different patterns and yarn blends but they’re all just too scratchy.
OK. Last comment. I had to wait until the end of the video to write this. I have 3 wheels and 4 looms. I get board doing the same project from start to finish. I constantly move between multiple projects. But there are times when I am down to the last 25% of a project and I have gotten board with it. The best motivator for me, is to come up with a new project to go on that wheel or loom. Suddenly I'm all about finishing the old project so I can get to the new one. On another note, the trip sounds great. I'm going to have to do some research to see if I can make it work.
Beautiful work! I think for the vest I would actually just redo the bottom hem to be straight. That was the pattern isn't interrupted and it is nice and straight along the bottom.
I love the hat. Please don’t do the darts. The way the vest drops with the points going down in the front are eye distracting and lengthens your physique, gorgeous. Pockets, yes.❤
The socks. Oh man, I want to want to knit socks. But I live in Florida and just don’t wear them often. Hubby has some I knit to wear hunting, but I just can’t seem to get in to it. I want to be a sock knitter, but sweaters steal me away.
Re the vest: it looks like if you closed it where the vertical edges bend that would pull the bottom corners up to the point where the hem might be level. I know you don't intend to wear it clised, but maybe if you put the suggestion of a way to hold it closed -- ties or mock buttons, for example --then one would perceive the hem ASF being as intended.
I have a personal rule not to have more than 3 fiber projects going at once. It helps me finish things before moving on to the next new and shiny pattern!
It’s ok to not like certain things to make, it’s why there are lots of patterns and variety of projects. Why cause anxiety and stress trying your best to finish something you’re not enjoying. Creativity is meant to be enjoyed so just make more of the things you do like and buy from other creatives the things (maybe socks) that they make as a gesture of appreciation for their forte or even swap at a meet. Happy creativity 🤗
When you put the word “should” in there, immediately pause. Should is a word that’s usually used to shame someone. So if you’re saying “should” ask yourself if you genuinely want to, or if you actually need to. And if it’s not either of those things, don’t do it. Life is way too fucking short to do things because you or someone else is guilting you into it. ❤
Ah, I realized not long ago, that I don’t like to knit a big garment with solid colors. I have started a dress a year and a half ago, and i cannot finish it, because since the yarn doesn’t change its colors, I don’t see my progression. Plus, when you start a new skein, this is the longest before you can clearly see that the skein is diminishing. I am almost done with it, but never again! 😊
I also struggle with socks. I think part of it is that I struggle to get them to fit well. I’m also going through a toe sock phase right now because it helps me to be able to spread my toes more for grip and balance. I have a lot of ankle instability. And maybe I also just don’t enjoy it as much? It’s the project I’m the least likely to pick up of any of the ones I have going, even though it is the most portable.
Poor dear. I generally only wear my handmade socks at home in my slippers … which don’t slip! My feet are almost always cold in the winter because I keep the thermostat low, so the wool warms my toes. I think the dart would enhance the lines of your vest. And I love your dress!! Cool trip planned …
I recently seen a great wheel at a flea market that was taller than me.. I'm 6'4 and it was in an absolutely perfect state. It was beauttttiful. The spindle on it could be considered a small javelin. Lolol.
It's so cozy and fun watching you speak about all these subjects, I love how honest you are about what you share and teach on this channel. About the on going projects, I personally rather to "go with the flow" of what I feel like doing at the moment, 'cause I've noticed that putting a deadline for a project is something that takes away a bit of my joy of making it. I need to compliment you for the hat and this gorgeous vest, that I believe it's perfect on the actual shape, without the darts. The pattern of the fabric flows so well with the shape, the figure of it on the body. Looks beautiful with this dress, also. Love you a lot, cheers from Brazil 😆💖
One of my goals this year has been to try and finish a lot of my older projects …. But more importantly I am trying to figure out projects that utilize some of my fiber, fluff and fabric stash. I am fearing my stash will outlive me.
Going with you and Abby to Peru would be a dream come true. Wow! Have a blast - I know you will! My envy in no way diminishes my joy for you! As it is, I can't even save enough ($200) for one of those put-it-together-myself wheels from GoodandBasic. Stalled WIPs get this treatment: I pick a number between 1-3 hours with a random picker. I put all my WIPs in another random picker. Then I have a set time frame to work on whatever was chosen. If I get in a groove, I keep going. If I'm fed up, and have time, I repeat the process with the leftover WIPs. Slowly things get done. I work on my more pressing projects (or just more enjoyable ones!) in between. Love ya, Evie. Hugs
My personality tends to desire to finish rather than to start new. I was just thinking the other day, I am going to have to pause my shawl to start a hat my child needs and that discouraged me. Anyways, as always, love your video. I can't wait to see and hear more of your peru trip!
I don't like knitting lol. I'm not really good at it. I can make a scarf and that's about it haha! I'll pick up a knitting whip every time I clean my sewing room and find one in a bag somewhere. I really need to try to get better at that... 😂
I learned something from my former knitting teacher who passed away a couple years ago now, but I noticed she would wear a pair of Birkenstocks around her house and one day I asked her whY and she said to show off the Kitchenerstitch she used binding off the toes of her own recipe for knit socks.😄 i used to do that when I was younger after I learned how to make those socks but I’ve got arthritis so bad now I wear keens.
Just learnt to knit, made the fronts and back of a cardigan but have discovered I suffer from sleeve syndrome , can't get them right and done for the life of me. I have frogged and reknitted so many times. Starting to think I may be a vest maker not a cardigan maker.
Can you put pocket inside and use it? Or, can your pocket material match pattern on garment? I suggest not make dart. Looks nice as is and you said you like it.
I'm so hard on socks. I don't want to put all the work into spinning and knitting sock to wear them out. I'd rather use my knitting and hand spun on other creative projects.
I have been knitting and crocheting for around forty years and I noticed something about myself. If I start a project and finish it quickly, it means I am enthusiastic about it. But if I start a project and I stop halfway through and leave it aside, when I start it again later, I no longer want to finish it. And I realized that if I stopped along the way, it was because something was wrong or I didn't like it. But I was not ready to undo it or start again given the time invested. Now I understand that it is better to undo and start again in this case, and not losing my time on projects I don't like.
Give yourself permission to buy socks next time you need a new pair. It’s a perfectly acceptable choice to pay someone else to do something you are capable of doing yourself. You are a highly competent, creative woman, and there is no requirement that you do everything you are qualified to do. Just say no to making socks! 🥰
My friend has Ehlers danlos a genetic disease and her entire childhood was cursed with knee caps slipping. She is 50 now and diagnosed. Sorry if that is too forward, but hearing your issue reminded me of stories she would tell. I hope you get support and some kind of relief (as much relief as a chronic condition can give (autoimmune here))
My knee caps "rotated" when I walked. It was very painful. Now, I fall because they give out. At least they aren't painful anymore.
I am finally hopefully nearing diagnosis for likely Ehlers Danlos and I’m 42. I dislocated my kneecap twice during my teen years and I can still feel it slip sometimes. Not to mention a host of other issues from hypermobile joints. I feel for your friend. And Evie, I do hope you can find something that helps. ❤
Connective tissues disorders are awful! (Ask me how I know) Hyperextension injuries happen so easily and take FOREVER to heal. One of the great benefits of fiber arts is that it is generally speaking low impact, and while it can be muscularly intensive with repetitive motion issues, and posture issues, some of the easiest types of injuries for connective tissue disorders are bypassed. Also so much can be done when you have limited spoons. Even on low energy or high pain days you can usually do something fiber related.
I have hypermobile joints, but not Ehlers Danlos. My kneecaps used to dislocate a lot in my teens/20s. Now that I’m in my 50s, I’ll need a need a knee replacement. Still very flexible. I also walk around barefoot, but even on carpet. Can’t stand stuff on my feet unless I go out.
I hope you get some relief I know how hard it is when you have knee problems. My left knee goes out on me every once in a while I get no warning luckily I have been able to lean on something every time it had happened. If you make the dart I would hide it in the pocket if you like the way it looks without the dart I would just let it hang. Why do the extra work.
I spin, knit, crochet,sew, weave, dye, and always have things going…Then I bought a floor loom. Everything is now dropped for it.. including socks. This stuff doesn’t spoil. It can all wait till I’m ready. Do what you want. Let things stay fun.
Yes! I quilt, sew, crochet, spin (and paint), and I just move with whatever area is calling to me. I like having a sit-down-at-the-sewing-machine/art-table project and a sit-on-the-couch project going at the same time, so that can help balance for me.
The comments make me think we need to start a hypermobile fiber club! 😅
Thinking about the "should" issue, I realized my "should" is feeling like I "should" make stuff for other people, and never for myself! That's an interesting realization...I've never even knit myself a scarf! Maybe a bit more self care in the form of making some things for myself is due...
Also, I am team no-dart. I love how the vest looks now!
Seriously, a hypermobile fiber club would be great and we can help each other with tips to keep our joints comfortable while we craft!
New project dopamine is totally a thing. Also, process dopamine is a thing. I have many mostly finished projects that just need a few details, but gosh, it gets hard for me to do the finishing details.
Blocking! I knitted my first socks ever this year, two pairs no less. I've worked in the ends (there was colourwork involved) but they are languishing in a project bag awaiting blocking.
I have a tablet weave project that's been going on around 2-3 years now. I love the pattern and want it done, but can only handle a couple of motifs at a time and only occasionally. It's literally a 9 yard project and I have maybe 5 ft done. It's for an SCA friend, it's torture, and I'm extremely grateful she knows the tablet weave process and understands my angst over the sheer length. Someday!
My thing I Think I should like is... Knitting lol. It feels like pretty much all spinning content online is about spinning to knit and people get to spinning from knitting, and stuff like weaving is an afterthought (and mostly to Use Art Yarns™)
It's honestly even hard to find spinning channels that don't also focus (or even mainly focus) on knitting.
So I feel pressured to knit lol but the truth is, while I'll do it a little from time to time for utilitarian purposes, I don't enjoy it and I don't really understand it. I like weaving and crocheting and stuff like bobbin lace a lot more.
(Also I feel you about socks. I have zero desire to make socks and I feel very alone)
Edit: also I think the hem is good as is? The angle will change depending on whether it's opened or closed anyway, and while angling down when open is fine, angling up when closed will look strange and stretched in my opinion. Unless it's just a very small one to get in between the two (and then yeah it could be hidden by the pocket), I just think it'll drape better as is.
You did a fantastic job matching the crochet hat colors! Love your scarf
As a recommendation, for the vest, if you're trying to level out the hem and the front, if you take it a bit in at the shoulders more towards the neckline rather than the shoulder, it will lift up the front without disrupting the pattern. Then all you'd need to do is drop the armhole a little
If you're not sure on what I mean, you can always DM me directly if you like.
I love how your vest would look without any darts, but of course you should go for the look you want! I just love the elegant look of vests and drapey cardigans that hang down in a lower point in front. 🤩
Agreed ! Fabric is too beautiful to put a dart in.
I love the vest. I would keep the curvy lines. I think they look good.
You are speaking my language! Starting way more projects than I finish, self-imposed rules or expectations, I’m there! I think it’s great you’re recognizing what you enjoy making and will use vs what you “should” like. I’ve wavered between telling myself I can’t start new projects until something is done, which means I have no hobby time, and trying to just accept that it’s all for fun and learning, it’s ok to have several WIPs and to give some up eventually
I once entered a medieval "Body of Work" competition, not knowing what was meant by the term. Glass blowing, glass bead making, contemporary needlework, batik, leather tanning, quilting, painting (Celtic interlace and calligraphy on a table top), natural dyes on commercial and hand spun yarns, and tons of weaving. My documentation was a listing of why I'd tried to do the things & why I didn't like most of them, finally settling on Fiber Arts. They seemed to like it but they couldn't figure out what category to put me in so they made up one. LOL
Leaving the vest with it's swoop-y shape would be really lovely! Like you mentioned in the overlay text - it works well with the paisley shapes, and I think that shape looks good over the dress :)
I'm with you on that, I think having the bottom of the vest absolutely straight would look a bit "blocky".
I feel like I SHOULD enjoy working with plush and thicker than worsted weight yarn as a crocheter but I do not. I like DK and sport weight best. I love taking my time with crochet projects ❤
Aaaaahhh! I'm from Peru (but not living there atm)!!! I'm so excited for you to visit!!!
Hat is adorable, I'm glad that yarn got turned into something so pretty and wearable!
Maybe a small dart to the bust point on that one?
With socks, I'm opposite to you, the fancy knited ones are usually too thick to fit well in my shoes or dress boots and not chonky enough to fit wel under my work boots so I only wear the cute ones at home... I'm on electric heating so I don't keep a very warm house in winter so I need the socks. And my place is carpeted so the only place that can gelt slippy is the kictchen, which I have mostly covered with fatigue matting. And argh, hypermobile joints, I'm lucky that physiotherapy has been able to keep most of my joints from disintegrating.
I started a lot of projects and never finished them... so then I stopped starting the project until I thought I'd be able to finish it. Which resulted in crafting plans (and piles of supplies) sitting around collecting dust... so my latest way of getting some stuff done between sewing projects is that before scissors touch fabric on a new project, two things from the UFO pile must be at least re-examined if not completed and put into service, two mending jobs must be done (easily done cause I keep disintegrating my work pants), and get 1D6 pairs of socks back into service from the darning pile. So yes, my sofa has a mending basket, a darning basket, a heap of mockups, and a bunch of sewing supplies...
So far this seems to be working, my UFO pile is finally dwindling, though some of my new projects end up back in there, because I'm not good at sewing, just persistent, so I don't always have the skills to do something right the first time (even after mockups), but if I take that vest I made last year and don't wear because the point at the back keeps flipping up and wrinkling, cut the seam that connects the iouter to the lining, sew some boning channels in a matching thread and stick some zip ties in there as boning, and now it's wearable! And mockups that aren't working also end up in the UFO pile sometimes. I'm not firm on myself that UFO item must be completed to the point of wearable, but I must at least try to improve it. So a few things have cycled through the UFO pile a few times till I've found the solution as my skills improve...
My therapist wanted me tested for ADHD before he left his center. We never got around to it. I can't work on the same project for too long. It drives me absolutely nuts, and I don't mean that mildly. I have 13 knitting projects just on my work desk (my work computer freezes a lot). 4 more on the tables and shelves behind me. A few more in the bedroom and downstairs. But if I work the same pattern for too long, I get anxious and NEED something new. Luckily, this has also led to me learning a lot of complicated lace knitting in a relatively short time!
My ADHD has me starting and frogging constantly. Of every 5 I start, I finish 1. Teaching people to knit and crochet makes me more accountable and I finish more.
I go to town about once a week. So have have very little opportunity to wear nice things. Especially so because I'm on disability, due to autoimmune issues. I just need to wear them anyway. I love my scarves. I wasn't wearing my socks. So to fix the bumps on my feet hurting, I now do princess soles (reverse stockinette). Now i can use my socks. It's like wearing pretty underwear, i may be the only one who knows, but that's OK. I feel pretty! Plus, if someone asks what I make, I can pull up a pants leg!
I have two friends with Ehlers Danlos and I probably have it, but not diagnosed. I used to pop my hips in and out with a tensing of muscles. Not normal! But if you aren't bleeding, you don't need to go to the doctor. My mother's saying. Argh!
Take care of yourself, or no one will.
I've included everything here to show how fragmented I tend to be. Sorry if i trigger anyone. It wasn't intentional.
ADHD brains are kind of fun and frustrating. 😅
Have you ever pulled out all your WIPS and laid them out to evaluate where each are at in progress? You may have a pile of projects that are nearly finished? When I’ve done this I do Mend it Mondays and focus on wrapping up nearly finished projects on Mondays, bind offs, weaving in ends, block…
For the vest, what about putting the pocket on the inside of the vest? It would not break up the fabric pattern, it’s so lovely it shouldn’t be broken up/disrupted.
That's an excellent idea for the vest! Genius.
Hand quilting, I dislike like hand quilting a quilt top. I like to piece the fabric into a quilt top, and I like tge end results of a hand made quilt, but... hand quilting is tedious, to me.
Oh, and I really dislike machine quilted quilt tops.
What a quandry I'm in.
😅
I wouldn’t add a dart at the bustline. It fits you beautifully in the underarm/high bust area. When you showed the dart, the armhole didn’t fit as well. I realize that it might be better when actual measurements happen rather than a quick mock up but it’s still a focal point. I think you showed better options than disrupting the pattern there.
I would either adjust the hem in the front by bringing it up to be more level OR hide the dart behind the pocket. I thought that looked great. While you could definitely leave it as is, I do like it better adjusted once I saw your options. It’s gorgeous. I love the fabric and the sewing is beautiful.
I’m a crocheter who started spinning a year ago. I don’t love knitting. The tension is too difficult and the projects feel to flat/round compared from my beloved crochet. I know that is a weird option to have when in spinning and yarn communities. I do love the way knit makes variegated yarns look as fabrics… everything has its place, and my personal preference one hook.
i'm in a warmer climate and it's rarely sweater weather... only a short period each winter and as layers that are frequently removed... so i only end up wearing the same 1 sweater all the time. i keep trying to knit sweaters. i keep thinking i should love them. but i just don't get excited about them and don't wear them if i do manage to finish them.... but socks? i kint and wear them all day every day! i so love my sock knitting! :D
How much for the Peru trip? Sounds amazing!!♡♡♡
I love the vest as is... no darts needed! ❤
Yes, hide your dart, which will provide some shape to the bust and lift that angle, under your pocket.
I love how the hat turned out!!♡♡ Excellent job matching the rim of the hat. It looks like it was meant to be!
I say leave the vest shape as is without the darts! The pockets will add a smidge of weight to the vest, and the vest will naturally want to keep the shape it has now with where the pockets will be.
I love the drape and figure shaping of the vest as it is, so I would say no to the dart. Congrats on your finished projects. :D
I always have my hair up as well so all I make for myself is pony tail beanies.
Your spin is beautiful!
I love finishing projects and am reluctant to start them unless I believe they are well chosen. The better designed the project the higher the likelihood of finishing I reckon. Pattern, skill level, colours, yarn quantities, gauge, sizing, etc, etc.
No pleat … the sloping front looks very pretty and adds to the nice drape of the vest!
The asymetrical shape is good, and the pattern of the fabric looks great as is. The pocket could be done as a slit, to maintain that pattern, or splashed on: whatever floats your boat.
I like your vest the way it is - I would not put darts in it. And I love your madder-dyed wool -- did you you use madder powder or bits of dried roots? As far as my project process goes, I have a list of projects in a word processing document, with the current (or almost current) projects on my current to-do list, and projects I plan to do soon (haha) in a separate part of the document. I have hoped for projects to do every month, and update weekly, but to be completely honest -- they get rolled over a lot! But, finished projects get their own section to remind me of when a project actually got done!
Bits of the root. It was fun!
I have found that the older I get the more I feel the need to finish all of my unfinished projects! While I do get that uplifted feeling when starting a new project I actually find when I'm having a rough day etc it makes me feel better to get something finiahed. Like you (and probably many others) I did make a goal to finish as many projects as I could by the end of 2023...I'm proud of myself for actually sticking to it!
I try to knit/crochet 15 pieces a year, I'm at 14 right now, so I should be right on track. But yes, starting something new is a lot more exciting. Now with my RUclips channel I find I work a little bit more monogamous on projects, because there is some extra responsability when I start filming the project too
I love all of your projects. The vest hangs perfectly as is and looks great on you.
The hat is phenomenal and looks so great on you! I really like the contrasting brim. I think it highlights the art yarn body far more than if the whole hat was in the art yarn. That would be beautiful too but I think a bit more subtle. The brim really points my eye to those gorgeous locks. ❤
I love this vid!! It has encouraged me to finish several languishing started projects by year end. 🎉 AND - I don’t like cowls! There, I said it. They never fit me right. They droop and drape funny and I find myself never wearing them. I have several items in my stash that are intended for cowls and you just gave me permission to ditch that and change what I plan to make with them!! THANK YOU!!! I😂 whoo hoo!! 🎉
If you're reliably finishing all your projects, you definitely don't have enough projects.
Later in the video I saw that the beautiful fabric was a vest. It looked beautiful with your dress. I would leave it just the way it is. It drapes nicely and compliments you. You are the only fiber spinner I watch. I have two Ashford Traditionals and an Elizabeth with a large orifice for art yarn spinning. I think the size of walking-wheel you have is the average size and was made for home use. Thank you for all the wonderful podcasts/instructional videos. Watching you is like visiting with a friend. Wish you were my neighbor so we could spin together! Have a wonderful holiday season. May the Fiber Fairy send Santa to your home with welcome fiber gifts🎁🎁🎁. Look forward to the next podcast or instructional video. Sincerely, David Kish from the Artist Community of Carrizozo New Mexico USA
This may be the highest like count to sub count in the history of RUclips! Over 90 percent of your subs liked this video!! That is an almost UNPRECEDENTED occurrence in the history of RUclips! You know what it says to me? That your subs are all genuine subs that want to be here and truly support you! We aren't a bunch of freeloading lazy hangers on who are stingey with the like button. No ma'am. We love our Jillian and aren't afraid to press that button and say so! Proud of you for buckling down and finishing some projects, and it has inspired me to do the same! I too have run out of yarn on a hat brim before and had to finish it with a highly contrasted yarn once because I wanted the texture to be consistent even if the colour wasn't. My daughter still wears that crochet cable beanie in stormy blue, with the grey trim to this day lol. There just isn't much that pairs well with Patons wool other than, well, more Patons wool 😂 *edit* there is clearly something wrong with my RUclips because I later realised there were more likes than views on this video! Then I noticed ALL videos having the same number of likes. I screenshot them to prove I wasn't crazy lol. So please disregard the first part of this message, as sadly I was mistaken that this video has 43k likes. I cant see how many any video actually has now apparently. They all say 43k!*
I have ADHD. I ONLY have plans that don’t finish when I expected them to be. So I have become a bebopper solely for my own sanity.
I usually don't start a project i don't finish. But that does mean that I've had a project on my hook for almost a decade. What project? A blanket.
Something about blankets is so .... i love them. They just take forever and i feel like I'm making progress until i look and I've barely finished a row. So many stitches in a row. Bleh.
I usually ONLY have 1 WIP going at a time, but in September and October I had more than about maybe 2-3 Wips going and it was a lot. Right now I only have 4, 1 I need to make an I-cord and I just need to sew the bag together for, 2 I need some more Yarn, 3 is just finishing up some decreases for a Hat and 4 is just My Knit a Sweater in a Month. I have a antique spinning wheel whom I named Elizabeth as she is a double drive and I love her, but I am saving up for a modern one and I am trying to figure out which one.
I'm the same when it comes to WIPs. Been trying to make myself finish one project before starting any new ones. I don't always succeed lol.
And I have found a wonderful reseller here in Ontario, Canada. They buy old wheels of all types and has them refurbished. I've bought all 3 of my wheels from them. 2 are antiques.
Let's just say I have 4 pair of promised socks from????? 2 shawls, 1 hap in time out from 2020. Then 4 sweaters. 😢
Thank you for posting that sounds like fuN!😄I wish I Could go on the trip adventure I live what you’re hat I love your blending techniques.💕
I do start projects more than i finish too, but i am just not able to work on things that i don't want to. I do eventually finish most things but i usually need a pretty long break in the middle. Like Calvin said "i must obey the inscrutable exhortations of my soul". Sometimes that's finishing things and sometimes it's starting 5 new things.
I don't really wear socks at all unless it's wet or i'm spinning in public. I have edema in my feet too and have been working on a sock pattern for ppl with edema for like 5 years now. Eventually I will perfect it. Also, I just wear mismatched socks. That way I only have to make one in each color. It's fine.
The thing I don't like that I think I should is color work. I get excited about it because it's beautiful, but actually doing it is so annoying with the yarns all tangling up.
I'm really jealous of all the ppl who will get to go to Peru with you. It sounds like an amazing trip, but I don't have all the mobility aids I'd need to manage it. I grew up in Colombia and miss the Andes so much.
One of my kneecaps is wander-y too, and it is very painful. Mine is the result of surgery where they had to reduce it's size because it was broken, but it is still awful.
I started a bunch of halloween projects at the start of october and I was doing GREAT on getting them finished before the last week in october and then, as usual, my EDS decided to give me so much pain I couldn't sit up for longer than an hour at a time and I was using that time to eat food so I didn't finish in time. And now I am bummed because I didn't finish on time. So I just keep looking at it all sad. My enthusiasm is gone. I need to make it novel again (which will be hard because glow in the dark paint was involved). I'm thinking felt and a glue gun....
If I have bunch of WIPs I tend to see which one I feel like doing. If I don't feel like working on anything I try to make them new and shiny again by swapping stitches, changing hook size, little things that make it more fun. I try to keep my WIPs below 5 but the halloween drama ruined my progress there XD Oh well
Oof, I know that "knees won't stay in place" feeling. It's unpleasant. I wear compression stockings all day to help my blood pressure and so I never wear socks anymore. And my wife likes thick socks, so I don't spin for sock yarn anymore. Just funny how it worked out.
Hey. I would leave the vest. It's nice with the angle. I also have a issue with socks. Especially as I live at a place where I can buy beautiful handknit socks for 3 bucks and support local village women this way. I tried to get into sock knitting this year and work on my 4.pair. But I am still not a fan. I also don't kbit them for myself. So if someone asks me for some i will do them.
My bigger issue with not finishing projects is that I love the not so simple knits. So i need to focus on them and be home to work on them. I am just never home. So only the mindless knits get done but they are not so motivating. But most of what i pkan is not even started. Have a lovely day. Thanks for sharing
How amazing that you will do a fiber trip to Peru. Have you been before? I am just knitting on lama wool i got on my Peru trip. It's an amazing place for yarn obsessed people. I didn't spin back then but got a drop spindle gifted from a lovely lady there. I am sure you will have a blast.
I have a hard time working/finishing sweaters or vests. Part of it is that I don’t spin a sweaters quantity of yarn. I have lots of fibre so no excuse. Right? On the other hand, I’m always working on socks.😊
I'm on year 2 (?) of inventing a back brace for my scoliosis, and I have discovered that I hate it. I never want to make another brace. Unfortunately, I can't function without a brace, and so I keep at it, even though I'd rather be working on almost anything else.
I totally identify! I call it, 'riding the hobby wave' . I work on what brings me joy and it often bounces back and forth. From knitting to embroidery to sewing to crosstitch....etc...
Too many categories to type here. But, it stays fun this way . I of course am pleased when I do finish something and I also love perusing for new projects.
I have only spun yarn on a spindle 3 times, I intend to continue trying and would love to buy a wheel. I do have a large frame loom which I am learning to use and have great intentions of saving for a rigid heddle loom that can sit on the table. So goes the saga...😊
Hi there Jillian EvE, YeS UFO’ are a big problem for me at least there for a while and I’ve had to learn not to do too many big projects at once. So now usually I have one small, one medium and one large on the go at any given time not big as in size necessarily but in degrees of difficulty ; so when I get frustrated with one project I will just do some mindless knitting or something easy I’m good at and know how to do well so at least I feel like I’m Actually accomplishing something until I have the time and the strength to continue with something more challenging.😊I’ve had to learn how to discipline myself to not start new stuff toO much 😄
I cannot fall in love with knitting socks either. I thought it was the needles. I tried magic loop, 4 needles, and then finally Addi Flex needles. Those are the best so far but I still don’t like knitting socks. My knitting/spinning friends laugh because they always have a new pair on their needles. Finally, a kindred spirit!
My first wheel was an antique wheel from the 1860s. It honestly almost scared me off the hobby altogether because the ratio was so fast. It was hard to get the hang of things! Also, it only had 1 bobbin so I had to skein off each single, soak them, and then use a big drop spindle to ply. Old wheel cost $300 (it was in generally good condition and came from 1 family). Six months later, I spent $600 buying a Lendrum that had two flyers, six bobbins, and a lazy kate. The Lendrum was a much better deal! I love my old girl, but my working wheel is my Lendrum!
These days, I’d recommend getting an EEW from Dreaming Robots if you are on the fence with spinning as a hobby since they are so affordable.
I just bought a brandnew spinning wheel, (build after an antique one), raw wood, so I oiled it, and it is now waiting to be build. I am not all sure how to do that yet, but will figure it out. I will need your videos to teach me how to use it.. lol I thank you for teaching me! It is something I wanted to learn for years and years, but had nobody to teach me how. You make a dream come through! Big HUG!!! ❤🤗
I don't make things I don't like doing. If I want something to help me relax then I will make something for charity. I love to crochet children's hats as they are a short project and I love to crochet - win win situation. Local children of families in need will receive them.
What I receive is a lovely afternoon relaxing with RUclips talks which I wouldn't watch on their own as they are a bit slow - I am interested in hearing the subject matter. With my crochet hat to work on, I thoroughly enjoy them together. And each hat is a slightly different colour or pattern or mix of colours. Afterwards, I have the info I wanted from the video and a lovely hat for a local child. And I feel GOOD!
Pink top: Where the front dips down it would be good to make it curved from the front, all the way to the side seam, with or without the pocket. BUT as it looks good with the hidden dart and pocket - that seems to be the way to go.
Super interesting video. I also did some small project finishing this week, I have a small scarf I finished that was my first hand spun hand dyed braid, and I finished one half of each of my parents Christmas gifts, which are gloves! I somehow like knitting these more than socks? So satisfying to weave all the ends in and look at the glove on. Recently also bought an antique flax wheel, and tried to figure out how to spin on her, but she is going to have to be a decoration/long term project for now and I am a wheel beginner just like you said lol! So validating to hear that I am not the only one with these issues. I didn't even know it was a flax wheel/double drive till research brought me to the very video you mentioned 😂
As for darts, you should put that at the side of your bust which would have brought that up a bit. You would have had to be careful of your armhole opening though. I find trying to make clothing for my morbidly obese body quite challenging, so it’s a learning curve for me.
I don't care for knitting socks either. Considering that I put my socks in the wash after every single wear, I would never have time to knit anything else... I would much rather spend a lot of time knitting a sweater that I could never find in a store.
As far as your lovely vest is concerned, I think it would look much neater without the pointed edge. A dart may not be the neatest way to make it straight though, because no extra fabric was added for the dart to be sewn into the edge. For this reason, I would simply cut the excess fabric at the hem to make a straight edge.
By the way, your videos on antique wheels were helpful to me, thank you so much for that. I recently bought a CPW and I was able to ensure that it had all its parts and was in good working order. In support of your argument that old wheels were custom made, you had mentioned in one of your videos that your Philias Cadorette wheel had a 20:1 ratio. Mine is also a Cadorette double drive and it looks exactly like yours, but it has a ratio of 14:1. I suppose that either the maker customized each wheel, or the wheel evolved to over time, or may even have been made a bit smaller to lower the cost of fabrication.
Omgggg that trip sounds so exciting!! Not sure it can line up with my life events but dang!!!
Thank you for explaining the reason for carding with greasy wool, makes a lot of sense!
I pick up new projects to learn new techniques. I also drop old projects because the learning curve was too steep. So I'm reminding myself that an old project I put down still has things for me to learn, and learning new things is satisfying even if it's frustrating.
This is part of dopamine regulation and weaning myself off nonsense habits like phone scrolling. It's also about healing from the trauma of being a gifted kid who is too afraid of doing something badly to do anything at all.
Your hat is amazing. My little boy and niece would love to have ones like it. You always give such great ideas. Happy creating 💚🧶💚
Literally started a new project as I started watching this video AND ran out of my handspun yarn lol (thankfully just a plain spin so very easy to make more to match)
I like knitting socks but I don’t like the feel of wearing hand knit socks. I’ve tried different patterns and yarn blends but they’re all just too scratchy.
OK. Last comment. I had to wait until the end of the video to write this. I have 3 wheels and 4 looms. I get board doing the same project from start to finish. I constantly move between multiple projects. But there are times when I am down to the last 25% of a project and I have gotten board with it. The best motivator for me, is to come up with a new project to go on that wheel or loom. Suddenly I'm all about finishing the old project so I can get to the new one. On another note, the trip sounds great. I'm going to have to do some research to see if I can make it work.
Beautiful work! I think for the vest I would actually just redo the bottom hem to be straight. That was the pattern isn't interrupted and it is nice and straight along the bottom.
I love the hat. Please don’t do the darts. The way the vest drops with the points going down in the front are eye distracting and lengthens your physique, gorgeous. Pockets, yes.❤
The socks. Oh man, I want to want to knit socks. But I live in Florida and just don’t wear them often. Hubby has some I knit to wear hunting, but I just can’t seem to get in to it. I want to be a sock knitter, but sweaters steal me away.
I dislike making socks. I made one pair, and that was enough. Why make them when you can buy Darn Toughs! 😁💖
Re the vest: it looks like if you closed it where the vertical edges bend that would pull the bottom corners up to the point where the hem might be level. I know you don't intend to wear it clised, but maybe if you put the suggestion of a way to hold it closed -- ties or mock buttons, for example --then one would perceive the hem ASF being as intended.
I have a personal rule not to have more than 3 fiber projects going at once. It helps me finish things before moving on to the next new and shiny pattern!
I'm restricting myself to max 5 UFO's. So far it has workes miracles for my finishing list.
It’s ok to not like certain things to make, it’s why there are lots of patterns and variety of projects. Why cause anxiety and stress trying your best to finish something you’re not enjoying. Creativity is meant to be enjoyed so just make more of the things you do like and buy from other creatives the things (maybe socks) that they make as a gesture of appreciation for their forte or even swap at a meet. Happy creativity 🤗
When you put the word “should” in there, immediately pause. Should is a word that’s usually used to shame someone. So if you’re saying “should” ask yourself if you genuinely want to, or if you actually need to. And if it’s not either of those things, don’t do it.
Life is way too fucking short to do things because you or someone else is guilting you into it. ❤
Ah, I realized not long ago, that I don’t like to knit a big garment with solid colors. I have started a dress a year and a half ago, and i cannot finish it, because since the yarn doesn’t change its colors, I don’t see my progression. Plus, when you start a new skein, this is the longest before you can clearly see that the skein is diminishing. I am almost done with it, but never again! 😊
I also struggle with socks. I think part of it is that I struggle to get them to fit well. I’m also going through a toe sock phase right now because it helps me to be able to spread my toes more for grip and balance. I have a lot of ankle instability. And maybe I also just don’t enjoy it as much? It’s the project I’m the least likely to pick up of any of the ones I have going, even though it is the most portable.
Poor dear. I generally only wear my handmade socks at home in my slippers … which don’t slip! My feet are almost always cold in the winter because I keep the thermostat low, so the wool warms my toes.
I think the dart would enhance the lines of your vest. And I love your dress!!
Cool trip planned …
I recently seen a great wheel at a flea market that was taller than me.. I'm 6'4 and it was in an absolutely perfect state. It was beauttttiful. The spindle on it could be considered a small javelin. Lolol.
It's so cozy and fun watching you speak about all these subjects, I love how honest you are about what you share and teach on this channel.
About the on going projects, I personally rather to "go with the flow" of what I feel like doing at the moment, 'cause I've noticed that putting a deadline for a project is something that takes away a bit of my joy of making it.
I need to compliment you for the hat and this gorgeous vest, that I believe it's perfect on the actual shape, without the darts. The pattern of the fabric flows so well with the shape, the figure of it on the body. Looks beautiful with this dress, also.
Love you a lot, cheers from Brazil 😆💖
One of my goals this year has been to try and finish a lot of my older projects …. But more importantly I am trying to figure out projects that utilize some of my fiber, fluff and fabric stash. I am fearing my stash will outlive me.
Evie, I love the vest!
Can you look at taking up at the shoulder seam (at the neck), [then you may need to take a bit off the opening].
Such a beautiful hat🥰 love you’re vest💕 what’s the best beginner friendly vegetable fiber to spin?
Going with you and Abby to Peru would be a dream come true. Wow! Have a blast - I know you will! My envy in no way diminishes my joy for you! As it is, I can't even save enough ($200) for one of those put-it-together-myself wheels from GoodandBasic. Stalled WIPs get this treatment: I pick a number between 1-3 hours with a random picker. I put all my WIPs in another random picker. Then I have a set time frame to work on whatever was chosen. If I get in a groove, I keep going. If I'm fed up, and have time, I repeat the process with the leftover WIPs. Slowly things get done. I work on my more pressing projects (or just more enjoyable ones!) in between. Love ya, Evie. Hugs
Put the dart under the pocket and use a complementary color for the pocket and you won't have such a pattern disruption...
My personality tends to desire to finish rather than to start new. I was just thinking the other day, I am going to have to pause my shawl to start a hat my child needs and that discouraged me.
Anyways, as always, love your video. I can't wait to see and hear more of your peru trip!
I don't like knitting lol. I'm not really good at it. I can make a scarf and that's about it haha! I'll pick up a knitting whip every time I clean my sewing room and find one in a bag somewhere. I really need to try to get better at that... 😂
I learned something from my former knitting teacher who passed away a couple years ago now, but I noticed she would wear a pair of Birkenstocks around her house and one day I asked her whY and she said to show off the Kitchenerstitch she used binding off the toes of her own recipe for knit socks.😄 i used to do that when I was younger after I learned how to make those socks but I’ve got arthritis so bad now I wear keens.
I have monthly project goals. I am currently up to mid April.
Just learnt to knit, made the fronts and back of a cardigan but have discovered I suffer from sleeve syndrome , can't get them right and done for the life of me. I have frogged and reknitted so many times. Starting to think I may be a vest maker not a cardigan maker.
I would leave the grease/oil. Among other things if you remove it the colors will look off and the would will need to be conditioned regularly.
Why do you have to call me out on starting new project and not finishing existing???? so mean.
Oh my...can I ever relate...many, many projects in my house too. 🤫
Can you put pocket inside and use it? Or, can your pocket material match pattern on garment? I suggest not make dart. Looks nice as is and you said you like it.
Oh yeah.....this is me 😕 I would leave the vest as is. I like the asymetric from back to front. It is very pretty!
I'm so hard on socks. I don't want to put all the work into spinning and knitting sock to wear them out. I'd rather use my knitting and hand spun on other creative projects.