I'm usually working on one item at a time. If it is difficult and/or large, I will take a break with smaller items (hats) interspersed to give myself a little break. The main reason for doing this is that my financial resources are limited as is the space in my apartment. Love your videos.
I have been knitting for 60 years, and I was a monogamous knitter until about 15 years ago when I discovered Ravelry. Oh dear. This morning I cast on 2 new projects while an unfinished sweater sat right beside me on the couch. Not to mention about 10 or more WIPs in my craft room. You are right. It’s addictive. I was at a knitting retreat last weekend on Pender Island so now have even more patterns in my favourites and more yarn in my stash. Luckily, my daughter is an avid knitter, so instead of inheriting china, she will inherit yarn & WIPS! 😜
Great content. I have come to understand that 6-7 WIPs are my personal sweetspot. I try to vary yarn weight/needle size, to give my hands and fingers some variety, and I also try to vary type and complexity of projects to accompany different moods and places (commuting or home). I did learn the hard way that I should probably avoid starting 6 sweaters at the same time - it got me to 6 x Sleeve Island, like, an extended stay at Sleeve Island Beach & Resort that I didn't ask for but was wholly my own doing. 😂
Hello Nicole, my name is Birgitt, i'm from germany. My english is not the best, but i love to look - and hear - your videos. I'm in sympathy as well as. Knitting helped me personal to get my impatient under controll and to bring things to an end - a good end i hope 😊, thanks for your videos, best wishes
Well I feel better! Gift season makes my wips get completely out of control, but the rest of the year I have to say I feel best when I keep it to about 4 at a time. Always a sock project for the car, a sweater or garment or 2 at home and whatever random things I feel inspired by in the moment. If my wips start to be on the needles for 6 months or longer they go into deep storage for another time so I might have another 4 or 5 unfinished projects that are neatly tucked away and I consider them inactive . I do review them from time to time and generally I do finish them. I find that with fresh eyes after a break, whatever issue I was having that caused me to loose momentum is no longer a problem. I have learned to fix the mistake or have a new purpose in mind or the color completely changes if you add a stripe at the cuffs..... I do confess anxiety and deadline paralysis. I never ever promise a finished thing by a certain date , esp when it's for someone else. I just cant do it
This was so fun to watch. I agree with at last one other knitter who commented already that Ravelry is the main "culprit" for getting addicted to casting on new projects. It can be an overload of inspiration. Luckily my personal taste regarding garments I like to wear is quite unusual so most patterns that almost everyone gets excited about don't appeal to me at all. Otherwise the number of my wips would really go wild. But due to that "limitation" I usually have around five to six wips maimum and that keeps things manageable. I would describe myself as 75 percent process knitter, even close to 100 percent when it comes to garments, the other 25 percent fall on accessoires and home deco, blankets etc. Greetings to everyone from Germany 🌻
Ahh I love this! So far I only work on one project at a time, I think it's because I have to. I love to reuse yarn, so I'll find damaged knit and unravel them, then it's washing the yarn, winding it when I need it etc....that takes a good chunk of time. Not only that, so far it's turned out that I have to do alot of yarn substitutions, the yarn I have is very very fine, much finer than the pattern I want it for, so I have to adapt the pattern for that, along with my size (very tiny male I won't enter the rants about the male knitting pattern sizes or patterns in general!) on top of that if I have to frog a good section of the yarn, I steam it before I use it again, since it's already been reused, it's very easy to stretch it out even more than brand new yarn, I also spray block as I go if there's a section of yarn that's too stretched out, to try and keep the tension even throughout the fabric. I think with all that combined, it takes alot, so to do all that aswell as another project, it would all go very, very wrong. I would say that's what forces me to stick to one project, but I don't do it for that, I enjoy the entire process, I find it very lovely
Wow! What an amazing and dedicated process you have for reclaiming yarn. I hear you about the sorry state of knitting patterns for men. Every time I search for men's patterns, I'm stunned at the lack of selection and I can only imagine that finding them in small sizes is a huge challenge. Love what you're doing - keep it up! 😀
This is an interesting topic. Do we really have to be "labeled" and type set. I like working on one project at a time. I get HEAPS of dopamine fixes with one at a time, just don't need to start new projects to give me more feel goods. I get that all along the way, starting with thinking about the new project, pattern choice, yarn choice and shopping, pattern modification gives a big boost of feel goods, learning something new, the feel of the yarn being worked, the look of the yarn and needles working together, row by row joy of how it all goes together, seeing the progress, solving problems, being constantly amazed at the creation, trying it on, wearing it or gifting it, learning new physical skills. It goes on..... Every moment is pure joy, I want to stay with it and live in the love of it, in the moment. The process is educational, meditative and rhythmical which I love and the project has its own life, that keeps on giving. The lure of the new part isn't what feeds me, it just keeps my mind switched on.
Love all of this! We absolutely do not need to be labeled - this is just all in fun and meant to be very tongue in cheek...and also to give comfort to those feeling "guilty" about having unfinished projects. ALL knitting is GOOD knitting and it sounds like you've got a firm grasp on your knitting "why" 💖
I have 7 wips. However I know now it’s been awhile since I have actually finished anything. I must stop starting stuff! I take comfort in the fact that there is no knitting police gonna knock on my door demanding I finish something or else! I do agree with the swatching idea, and I started that and it has curbed my enthusiasm somewhat, and made me put it together with the pattern, needles and wool ready to go when I finish a wip.
I currently have 30 WIPS. But im down from 41! And hoping to keep reducing. Only 1 of those is a "process knit", and thats the Treasure Trove Wrap by Stephen West. I LOVE those dip stitches!!
You're welcome. It's my pet peeve when I'm watching videos and they mention the name once, then keep talking about it for 10 minutes without mentioning the name again. 😋
Isn't that what makes the creative world so wonderful? That we can all handle our projects as it works best for us! I am fairly monogamist. I do always have a pair of socks in the works for grab and go, and then a bigger project for home. But I also do other crafts and have a very long term cross stitch project and a sewing project in the works. I get the dopamine rush from finishing a section of the knitting project and moving on to the next (Ooooh, ribbing is done, now for main section!) Thanks for another great video!
Absolutely! I bow down to those who can keep their projects down to a WIP or two. I also have other crafts on the go - stitchery, needle felting, painting, sewing - but I'm so absorbed by knitting these days, they don't get much attention. I really need to ditch my day job...lol 😂
I’m both a progress knitter and a project knitter, with currently 11 WIPs. My latest podcast episode was a WIP parade. Reassessing my projects and prioritizing them has remotivated me and eliminated my guilt.
Lived this! I have 6 WIPS and no desire to be a monogomus knitter. :)) I agree with the things on your listed. I would add one...finishing things also gives me dopamine! If I'm working on a sweater that finished dopamine can be far away, but it I am also working on a pair of socks, I get the excitement of finishing things more often! I did the Cowltopus kint along, roo! Where I live it rains a lot, I lot hoods for that. I worn it to work and received compliments already! You look grear in Cowltopus! Also I love your swatch idea.
Thank you for another great episode! I'm in love with knitting and have been knitting most of my life. I always have a complex or large "home" project and a simple and small "to go" project. My dopamine release comes from finishing a section of a project. The process of starting a new project is (for me) riddled in too many choices and can be very time consuming swatching to find the pattern/yarn combination that works well. I'd rather be on sleeve island because at least I know I am making progress on something I (or someone else) will want to wear. I think designers make it look effortless to recreate their fashions but I know there are often hidden obstacles. BTW Your podcast has completely changed my relationship with Ravelry! I retired earlier this year and had never had the time before to figure out the "Stash" and "Queue" sections. My words cannot express how grateful I am for your easy instructions for these. Thank you for being original out there!!
Heaven! Now I'm relieved! I'm a notorious cast on-er! I'm constantly discovering new, interesting designs and HAVE to start IMMEDIATELY... I'm apparently addicted to this dopamine. And I can't even tell you how many WIPs I've on my needles... 2 complete Chiagoo sets and a complete Knit pro set with needles are booked …. but I love every single one. Thanks for this video, the “psychology of knitting” would be an interesting field of research
I think I have about 5 or 6 wip’s for now. I divide my wip’s into categories; something to work on in front of the tv, something that needs my 100% concentration, and projects with different needle sizes/fibres. I also need to have time for sewing my own clothes 🙂🙃
I have 2 big items that are awaiting Kitchener grafting. The “do not disturb” sign will be hung on the door for those! From experience I have found that if I put a project aside I either lose interest or forget the methods of making it. Such was with a pair of mittens… I was 7/8 finished the second one and put it aside… when I picked it up again I had completely lost track of what I’d done on #1… (it was my own pattern, in my head!! 🤣🤣). So, I tend to have to finish each project. I’ve just finished a crochet granny square vest (intricate pattern) and I knew I had to keep working on it to completion. Bout time Oscar got his cashmere blanket Nicole…. Even if you just do a swatch!!! 😉😉😉
I too have about 6 on the go, for all your reasons. I find when I do stick to one project (for a gift, for example, hence a deadline) I start to strain either a tendon, my wrist, fingers, whatever because the motion and yarn weight is always the same. I like having plain knitting, cable knitting, colourwork, thick, thin, crochet etc., and this way I don't get repetitive strain injuries. Works for me!
Always have several projects on the go 👍. 90% process knitter , even get surprised when I finish something 😂. Intrigued by new different pattern , new yarn . Very interesting episode 😁.
Oh Nicole, your timing is super! I’ve got 7 or 8 on the needles (Christmas approaches after all)! But I justify it in the same way you do. One is an incredibly intricate piece that I can only work on when I’m alone and focused. Socks I knit while walking Izzy, and stockinette garments get my attention when I’m watching tv or chatting with friends. It’s ok. They understand…
Great video and a topic that I always enjoy reading comments on. I was a monogamous knitter only when I first learned as a child because of $$ limits. I kind of cycle through different interests but I always come back to knitting because it’s so portable. I think I’ve been a process knitter because once the knitting is done I lose interest in doing what is needed to make it a wearable object. But now I am changing that mainly due to sock knitting. I actually DO want to wear my socks. And block those shawls. I love how we all approach knitting to suit ourselves. This fall I am stress knitting, so I’m picking small projects with colorful yarns while also addressing my UFOs. Making things is part of managing my mental health - sometimes I need a simple “comfort” project with tons of garter stitch or stockinette in the round and other times I am craving a challenge.
I guess I've never understood the implied virtue of being a monogamous knitter or the implied problem of having lots of WIPs. Maybe it's all tongue-in-cheek, but enjoyment is the bottom line. I distribute out about the same as you in the process/project scale, maybe that's why I enjoy having lots of things going at once, I LOVE learning anything new. I also finish PLENTY so I'm at peace. Thanks for another nice chat. 💙
I tried to be a monogamous knitter but found that with one project I might not be in the mood to work on it but still wanted to be working on something. I try to keep 1 larger project, then a hat and socks. I keep emergency basic hat knitting in the car, and, I have either socks or mittens in my backpack to have during my coffee break during long walks.
Hi Nicole, I really enjoyed hearing your take on your process. I consider myself also in between a process and project knitter. I had a hiatus of about seven years not knitting. Before the hiatus, I was very much a project knitter.
I used to be a monogamous knitter especially when I first started knitting. But in the last year I’ve accumulated about 4 WIPS. I also have different projects for different times. Socks, a Musselburgh hat, a new pattern to learn something new and a sweater. I do only allow myself to knit one sweater at a time otherwise I’d never finish!
I listened to your first video stating that you would no longer cast on another project until you'd finished all the started projects. I thought, yeah, I should do that, and I did. I was down to my last 2 wips and stopped. I realized that I have different wips started for different reasons. I like to crochet and knit. I crochet upstairs in my craftroom and knit downstairs in front of the TV. I also have an easy on the go knitted project. I have a calendar blanket that I make every year and finish it in January. That makes 4 wips. However, I knit for the family and often have one of their projects as a wip. Plus, the 2 wips I still haven't finished from the beginning of this whole journey. So all together, i have 7 wips. I feel fine with having 5 wips, but not having the extra 2. Those extra 2 are stressing me out. One I could frog, but the other one, no. I want to finish it.
I hear you. My best suggestion is to focus on one of those WIPs as much as you can until it's finished, then try to resist putting something new on the needles. I feel better about having lots of WIPs when I'm finishing projects regularly. 😊
Gosh, this makes me feel so much better about my pile of wips. I do different knits for different purposes, too (one on the go, one a little complicated, one a tiny gauge that's mostly plain knit, etc.). Just finished fingerless mitts for my youngest granddaughter. Working on the final sleeve of a sweater for my grandson. Have three sweaters and a cardigan on the needles for myself, though one of those will likely get frogged. I'm also working on the second sock of a pair and have a scarf/cowl that's been about 10" shy of done for a few years now (ha). It's gift knitting season, so I am going to try to work those in somewhere, too, likely as projects to work on during basketball games, as we're a basketball family.
Hi Nicole, Like you, I am a process knitter and project knitter combined. I try not to have more than 3-4 WIPs otherwise it starts to stress me. I just started using ravelry for my stash and projects (there are about a hundred projects -maybe more? not on my project page, just current). I am listing my to-do projects as WIPs even though I only have 2 actual WIPs right now. I also love the dopamine hit when I start a new project, but also when I finish one! Knitting is not a race, unless you want it to be. I've tried to be monogamous with my knitting and it just doesn't work for me. Edited to add: I always have at least one project that I call my 'social knitting' project. A sweater when I'm in the stockinette sea, or socks, or a garter stitch simple pattern, etc.
Sounds like you have a great system! It's good to know and manage where your own threshold is for getting stressed or overwhelmed by unfinished projects. I like the idea of a "social knitting" project 😄
@@Knicoleknits I belong to a few knitting groups, and I simply can't take anything complicated to them, I have too much fun chatting and visiting to pay attention to anything other than stockinette/garter/or the like.
I have found Ravelry perfect for non-monogamous knitters. I put things I put " in time out" in hibernation. Once a year, I do Finish it February with Roxanne Richardson, and some of those wips come out of hibernation and go into FIF. I have finished some really old WIPS during FIF. My daughter's birthday is in February, and sometimes I find myself unable to patriciate in FIF. I sometimes pick a different month or months to devote to wips. For example, I am knitting the Sushi shrug for my daughter's birthday. I had a stroke in February, and I have found it difficult to start. As soon as I finish the Jethro for my friend's 80th birthday, I will devote time to the Shushi shrug. If everything goes ok, I may be able to start FIF. FIF is a wonderful excuse to forget those WIPs not forever, but a few months.
I'm definitely not a monogamous knitter. I like to have 2-3 projects on the go to swap between. If I'm working on something complicated or something I think I will need to reference a tutorial for I like to do that at my desktop and then have something simpler for knitting in front of the TV. If I'm crocheting something, I also like to have a knit project for when my wrists need a break from crochet. I usually stick to one large object like a sweater or blanket and one or two smaller projects like a hat or socks. But I can be monogamous in limited contexts, like when I really need to finish a gift or KAL or something. I've been monogamous with my Go Go Dynamo MKAL shawl for over 3 weeks now. Almost done! I've really enjoyed it so much, but I've got projects waiting. I also get a dopamine boost from finishing a project and getting it on the blocking mats. I am definitely a hybrid project/process knitter. I love learning and trying new things and I am always looking for new challenges, but I also love the feeling of getting something done.
I have so many WIPs! I’m more of a process knitter but of course I’m happy when I finish a project. I say “so many projects; so little time” and I just see so many I want to make. I’m trying to finish one in a category before I start another in the same category. I have four categories so I can switch between them to keep it interesting. Basically small, medium, large and knit along projects. It’s working so far and I’m trying really hard to avoid the siren call of new projects until I finish some.
I have four projects on the go. A sweater, a scarf, a shawl and mittens. I like one big project, the sweater. The scarf and shawl are my simple knitting to take to knitting group or to work on when I can't concentrate. The mittens are a class I'm taking to learn new skills. Four is enough for me but I am planning my next three cast ons. I suppose I'm a process knitter. Cheers
This year I've kept my WIP count to five or less and it's probably the only time I've stuck with a New Year's resolution lol. Truthfully, it has been really, really difficult but also rewarding. New patterns and yarn are always calling my name! My tendency is for putting something down as soon as it gets too frustrating (I can read my stitches well but still working on garment construction,) or I get into the pattern and find it rather boring. Keeping this resolution has helped me stick with those projects and take the time for the lessons learned through the mistakes or new techniques. But now, there's Patty Lyons workbook, so I'll justify a high WIP count by promising myself to use that for practice instead 😂
It's a great accomplishment to stick with a resolution and that's definitely worth celebrating! 🎉 I'm waiting on my order of Patty Lyons' workbooks. Amazon tells me they are coming some time next month 😋
I tend to stich to one current project if I feel there is a deadline. UNTIL it goes wrong and then it's in the naughty corner. I am like you with the stars in my eyes on that new shiny pattern or yarn. Then here we go again! I have about 6 to 10. I don't dare count. I have frogged some lately. I'm ok with that too if I really don't want to keep it.
As a monogamous knitter, I found this fascinating. My process is so different. I actually get stressed out during the new project phase. I am overwhelmed by choice and get anxious. I guess that's why I am a one knit at a time girl. (Okay, full disclosure. I do have a sock on the go that could count as project #2 but I am full engaged in the hoodie I am making so the sock has to wait). I also don't have enough needles to have more than one or two things going. Or maybe I do...😉
That's really interesting! I hadn't considered that the planning phase could be stressful for some people. It does make sense though - so many options! 😋
Oh... we have to be sisters! I am pretty much a process knitter unless i have a deadline. I recently finished an easy 50 inch square baby blanket with knitted-on lace edging in about 2 weeks... totally progress knitting (the mom loved it, the baby is here, all is well). But i have not returned to a beautiful cabled Norah Gaughn cardigan knitted in my favorite yarn... it's been 4 years! Can't tell you how many other sweaters i have laying around in various modes of incompleteness started since then!Also, i love fine lace knitting, the 60 inch square shawl super fine wool that knits on US size 2 down to less than a mm in size. There are so many squirrels running around!! But i am not counting things i started decades ago.... if i come across any, i just pull the needles and stitch markers out and cover it up with different yarn!
Hi Nicole, I was wondering why do I have to have a few projeckts on the needels and after watching this video I fully agree with you, it’s not only get borring security, actually it’s this dopamine think. I love this feeling. And I think, as long it makes us good let’s keep it.
I can really relate although you've now inspired me to start a whole lot of new projects. I'm currently actively working on two projects at a time and make hats for innocent smoothie bottles while I'm on the exercise bike. I am wanting to make the TL Yarn Crafts blanket crochet along that's starting soon. However, I also have a pile of wip projects that are in hibernation mode that I need to get back to someday and some Christmas presents to make. I don't think I could ever just make one project at a time, my attention span is too short and I get too excitable about our beautiful craft
I am sort of a monogamous knitter. I have 4-5 WIPs going at the same time but I often hyper focus on one project, which makes me work on it solely for a week straight till I am tired of it or finished. 😅
I have many wips - maybe 5 or 6 knitting projects, 4 spinning projects, 2 tapestry weaving projects. I've probably even got a couple of crochet projects somewhere. I say it's to avoid RSI, using different weights of wool/needles etc. My favourite knitting project is generally a jumper though.
Avoiding a repetitive strain injury is a totally legit reason to have a mix of weights and needles going! I should have added that to the list 😋 My fav projects are sweaters, too 😊
Hi Nicole, I’m a bit like you, I think! I also do dressmaking, and spinning, and crochet… So I have a pair of socks for travel knitting, a 4-ply colourwork jumper for me, a worsted weight Norwegian pullover for my husband and a crochet wrap on the go at the moment. And on the dressmaking front, I’m making a backpack but there are gazillions of project waiting in the wings! I want to start a Tunisian crochet project but can’t decide which one, and I’ve recently come across nalbinding, and I really want to make a hat in that. No time for my beloved spinning, which just creates even more yarn I need to find time to knit up…… Sometimes I feel overwhelmed with it all but the lure of a new project keeps me going - and I do finish things, nothing is left unfinished. Thanks for your videos!
I think you're a lot like me! Did you know that years ago I was a custom dressmaker/tailor and taught sewing classes for a living? I also have a beautiful as yet untouched Tunisian crochet hook set just waiting for me to fire it up and make something cool 😃
@ yay! I love your videos. Good to know there is someone else as nerdy as me about my knitting/crochet/dressmaking etc etc! My friends just don’t get it. I am looking at the Tunisian crochet patterns in a book I’ve got (there are a lot of shawls, yawn) and I’m thinking I will swatch and design my own jumper or cardigan using the stitches shown in the book (very well, I have to say). I used to write for a magazine called Machine Knitting News from 1994-2000, and designed something every month for it, so I do love designing my own stuff, or adapting commercial patterns. Fancy you doing dressmaking for a living. Was it aversion therapy? I couldn’t knit for 10 years after I packed MKN in…..! And I sold all my 7 knitting machines!
@%98%9C%F0%9F%98%9Channel/UCWds963h8mVz3Fw5xxlgPzQ Ha ha! I guess it was aversion therapy because the only sewing I do now are alterations 😋 And FYI - I'm thinking about getting a knitting machine...sounds like you'd have some thoughts about that. If you'd like to connect, feel free to email me at knicoleknitsdesign@gmail.com 😊
I have at any time least a small, portable project and a big one I can work on while watching TV. And I'm 50/50 on the process vs project scale, with a part of "I'm working my stash" on the side. I feel like being on a (forced) buying diet helps a lot with my cast-onite. Whatever catch my eye, I need to make sure I can do it with what I already have. I still spend too much time on Ravelry checking what's new and putting patterns on my bundles. But the urge to cast something goes pretty fast.
So true. I get super excited about a pattern in the moment, but if I make myself wait even a short period, I find that initial urge can pass more often than not. 😊
I’m sort of a monagamous knitter…sort off. Always have a pair of socks on the needles as well as a larger project. I do have some project bags with little swatches for future projects which keeps me motivated to finish the one I’m working one. ❤
I’m both a process and project knitter. Currently I’m knitting birthday socks monogamously. I need to get the done. I also keep a project notebook and I want t now how long these are taking start to finish with no other project distractions.
Fun video, as always, made even better by Oscar's interjections. 👍🏻😄 Not a monogamous knitter, but I do limit how many projects I have going at one time. Three is about the limit. Currently, I have a crochet blanket that is a giant granny square that I've been working on sporadically for several years. Also, I have a knitted blanket for a neighbor's son on the needles. About half-way through that. That's two big projects, but I also need "instant gratification" projects to keep me motivated. Usually, those take the form of an accessory or a charity hat. Currently, the motivator is a Friendship Bracelet Cowl by Stephanie Lotven. So, process or project knitter? Like you, a bit of both. Oh, almost forgot that I always keep a dishcloth project in my purse...just in case. 🙄
Knitting one yes one project at a time, now sewing 2 or more quilts, machine embroidery project, and always some type of hand sewing is ready to be worked on.
Hi Nicole, I am facinated by your knitting journey! ❤❤I'm not monogamous either. I'm definitely looking for dopamine in knitting as well. I'm also anxious that I might not live long enough to try all the knitting ideas out there! You're awesome!
I caught your brief mention of converting Interval Training from a stranded project to a slip stitch project. My heart skipped a beat! This is on the top of my explore/figure out/invent list right. Would it be easy enough to explain here how you did that, or maybe include it in at near😉- future video? I'm really excited to try this out. Thanks!
I love starting new projects!! I do only have 1 or maybe 2 going at the same time. I have 2 sock projects that only have one sock finished because I wanted to start something else. I have to learn how to knit 2 together.
Hi Nicole! I'm a new subscriber and LOVE your channel. I'm a very seasoned knitter and learning new things from you all the time! As for WIPs...no shaming here! I currently have around 23 to 25 and that's not counting my crochet 😂
I am mostly a process knitter and a non monogamous knitter/ crafter. The only time I am monogamous is when I do a sample knit for a dyer or a test knit for a designer.
I currently have only 4 'active' WIPs - there are 2 or 3 (or possibly more) hibernating WIPs, that I'm sure I'll get to one day. Right now, I'm trying to focus on getting 2 projects finished, as they are Christmas presents for my granddaughters, but I am still getting seduced by new ideas. Oh look, Stephen West is promoting his Hiberknitalong. Oh, there's that yarn I go from a friend to knit something for DH. Oh, thanks Nicole, for showing me those two Thea Colman sweaters - now I want them too. And there's Munich Knits coming up at the end of the month, and I'm taking an Estonian knitting class with the wonderful Aleks Bird, and there will be soo much yummy yarn. I'm doomed!
This is very timely for me. I have been monogamously knitting on a blanket and I am almost done. I have been "cheating" in my mind with another project. I think this week will be my time to veer away from this monogamy with another blanket. 😲🤭 I think I can do it. 🙂🤔💡
Ok. I have a backup of projects I have decided to frog back and reuse the yarn for other projects. I have too many items that I was excited to knit but were really never a good fit. Once I have done that I may need some help in figuring out how to reuse the yarn. 😅
Hi Nicole! My problem is that unless I have a specific project in mind with a deadline (Christmas! New Baby! Birthday!), I find it very hard to finish things. I have a bunch of stuff I've started, and never finished, tucked away in various places that I have no idea if I'll *ever* finish. Examples: a shawl I started 6 years ago on vacation, tucked away when I got home and never completed and I don't know if I still have the pattern for, nor do I know where all the yarn for it is; an asymmetric triangular shawl I started for car knitting three years ago that is straight stockinette that I thought would keep my interest because of the gradient yarn, that's 2/3rds finished but it's soooooo boring that I can't bear to knit more than a row before I have to stop; a mohair lace jabot that I thought looked so elegant that I laid out for the very spendy Aussie yarn, only to find working with it incredibly frustrating; a loop scarf whose stitch pattern was so extremely complex that I had to frog so often that I put it away hoping to try again when I'm a better knitter. Just yesterday I rediscovered a silk crochet lace shawl I'd finished about a third of that I can't even remember starting, nor do I know where the pattern is, but I'm going to have to make into a scarf because it's simply too beautiful to leave languish. Just recounting this litany makes me feel like I have ADD. So now I try to keep to things I know I'll have to finish by a certain time, like my 4 year old nephew's Christmas sweater. Like you, I NEVER miss a deadline. I just wish I could make things that I don't have a particular deadline for and finish them, because Lord knows my list of "make in the future" projects is a mile long. So, how, with that many projects going on at once, do you ever get any of them finished in a reasonable amount of time?
You are not alone! As for finishing things, I've been much better lately about staying mostly focused on one or two projects at a time. For instance, the Pina Colada is my current TV knitting so I'm working on that almost every day, and the baby blanket is my office knitting, so that's getting regular attention too. And of course, I have an on-the-go project which is also getting regular progress. When one of those is finished, I'll bring one of my newer WIPS into one of those "focused" slots until it gets done. That's kinda my process...more or less...lol 😋
I have as many as three WIPs on the needles at any given time. Usually a pair of socks, another small project, and one major stranded sweater. More than three and I get overwhelmed and put everything down and go into my mental cave, where nothing gets accomplished. Just me? I’m ok with that. As for MKALs, I don’t like mystery projects. I rarely like them.
I'd be delighted if I could keep my WIPs to three at a time! We all have our threshold of overwhelmedness (not a word? should be). This was my first and last MKAL. There's a reason for that. Sigh.
I am definitely not a monogamous knitter, nor a monogamous crafter. I like to be able to have a few projects to choose from based on my mood or what im doing (knit night group better be knit stitches only or ill get all messed up!) but i also flit from hobby to hobby. With ADHD ive found that its best for my mental well being to be able to move as the wind blows me. If im bored of a projevt i pick up something else. Eventually ill circle back. Since my hobby is for my own enjoyment theres no pressure!
Loved this! Yes, I can totally relate as a lifetime crafter. But since I started knitting, I have forced myself to finish everything before starting another to keep the amount of money, and stash to a minimum. Question for you: You said when talking about the interval training project that you converted the two stranded colour work to slip stitch. Is this fairly straightforward to do? My next project (when I finish this one!) is slip stitched colour work and I am hoping to be able to use this technique for other two stranded colour work. My current project is two coloured stranded knitting mittens. My tension is terrible!! I know what I'm supposed to do, but somehow not achieving it. Thanks again, love your videos. You have great presence!
Once upon a time, I could stay with one project until I finished, but no longer can. Not sure why. Currently I have socks and three sweaters and just cast on a new sweater last night. I've been knitting Christmas socks and I'm currently at 6.5 pairs knit over the past 3-4 weeks and I just needed a break and something new. I have 1.5 pair to go but plenty of time before Christmas.
Yup. I remember the days when I was knitting one project at a time. That was back when I was a relatively new knitter and wasn't confident enough to flip back and forth between projects. I guess that means I'm super confident now? 😂 Happy Christmas knitting!
Oh I understand that new project rush, but I can't understand a few things: like where you get all those needles (surely the needle size must overlap on 10 plus projects?) , how do you remember all the modifications you might have made and how do you store all these projects? I have to speak strongly to myself to finish my current wip(s) (I have 2 to 3 normally) before I start a new one.
I'm happy to answer all these questions! 1. I have a HUGE needle collection. But you don't need a huge collection like mine to have several projects on the go if you're using an interchangeable needle set. You can often "borrow" the tips from one project and put them on a new cable to use on another project. 2. For modifications, I will record them on the pattern itself and/or on my project page in Ravelry. I use running markers in my projects so I always know exactly where I am no matter how long it's been since I last picked it up. (I have a video about running markers, if you're not familiar) 3. I am fortunate to have a whole room dedicated to my crafting. I'm also a project bag collector, so each project gets to "rest" in its own pretty bag until I get back to it 😊 Now, having said all that - I am sort of kind of a semi-professional knitter, so I don't consider myself at all "average" in terms of resources. 😉
Nooooo! I try to do one at a time otherwise it seems.to go.on forever. If im knitting very dark colour then I might have a light one for evening knitting.
I am not, definitely not, a monogamous knitter. I tend to like five or less on the go, a simple/small project (vanilla socks), a medium (in size or difficulty), and a large/challenging project. I had a weird thing happen to me a few weeks ago. I finished all my projects at once. I felt absolutely lost. I now have only one on the go, but there will be socks shortly. (There should always be socks!). I am 75 and have decided I can just do what I please. I also spin, so there is always that.
Hi Nicole, maybe because I’m a newly knitter, I’m monogamous. But… my list for future projects is immense 😂. I’d like to let you know that your tip to Combination knitting to fix rowing out is working pretty well. TY for that. I’m working the Artwork by Hinterm Stein, it has a really nice construction, check it out! Greetings from Switzerland ❤
I chuckled at today’s topic…! I am a monogamous knitter - I lack the discipline to come back and finish something once I’ve put it down. I know it will just languish until it ends up stuffing an emotional support chicken (does that seem like a rest story to you? I’m not admitting to anything.). So I stick to just one project, start to finish, because I don’t trust myself to come back to it and know where I was up to. I’m NOT a disciplined note-taker, so therefore I’d never be able to figure out where I am on a pattern. Either way, for me it’s a matter of choosing where to be disciplined.
@ look, it was yarn that was not well suited for the project I was using it for… but it was perfect as the guts of a chicken… It gave Plum Chicken a good heft - very realistic.
Huh. I only have 4 wips going on at present, with two more that are “hibernating.” But I intend to do at least one or two little projects-a pair of warm booties in bulky yarn and a hat-for gifts before Christmas. Maybe. But I’m grinding on this Stephen West MKAL shawl just because, dammit, I feel like I’m behind. Talk about imaginary peer pressure! My friend who is also working on it would never judge. 😅 I generally have one large and a couple of small and maybe a shawl. Because I get bored with just one pattern. Right now I have three shawls and a sweater…well, YMMV. 😉 This Go Go Dynamo shawl is anything but boring.
I know I'm weird (hey, I live in a city that has the slogan "Keep Austin Weird") but, I am very much a monogamous knitter. I freak out that I'll never get back to one project if I set it down to start another. Also, because I tend to not go exactly by any pattern, if I'm using a pattern at all, I'm concerned (although I document what I'm doing) that I'll forget what I was doing or intended to do if I lay one thing down in favor of another. I sometimes wish I could work on multiple projects at once, but it's just not who I am.
I have another reason to not be a monogomous knitter -- I likebto have projects on different sized needles, andvefen sojetijes a crochet project. If my hands startvto get tired or sore I switch projrcts. Right now I am working on Autumn League sweater, briggsc&,little socks for my husband, sask rough rider socks for my daughter in law, a crochet stegasaurus stack8jg toy for chartiy and bearly bonnet also for charity ( our healthcare cauxiliary)
Oh dear - I am a monogamous knitter - does that make me a bad person? I rarely have more than one project on the go because I want it - ie I want to finish it. I tried a yearlong KAL this year for a Christmas sweater - I was supposed to start in February and finish at the end of November - I divided the pattern into 10 roughly equal sections - one for each 'knitting month' - and bought my yarn. But in February and March I was trying, ie wanting, desperately to finish something else so it got put aside - I'd start a bit late and catch up, right? I started late in April and knitted the first 3 months' sections and then carried on with May's section. Phew - I'd caught up. Then the same thing happened ie I got asbsorbed in other projects (and it was summer!) and suddenly it was the end of August. I was 3 months behind again! I'd just finished another project so I picked up the Christmas sweater and it was done by the end of September. I feel so relieved. The whole thing made me anxious and I was starting to wonder which Christmas I would actually finish it, 2027 maybe? Luckily this was a KAL where I could choose my own project, yarn etc. MKALs and, while we're on the subject of unpleasant surprises, mystery advent calendars are NOT for me either. I enjoyed your video, Nicole, as I always do, but thank goodness there are lots of different people in the knitting community who do things different ways and yet we can all still be friends. Good luck to all you non-monogamous knitters - you do you and I'll do me, OK?
Oh my goodness! You DEFINITELY do you 😀 I'm in complete awe of those who can stick to one project at a time! We all have our comfort zones. I've always liked the idea of having a structured project like your Christmas sweater, but I know I wouldn't stay on track. You're so right that we all have our own processes - ALL knitting is good knitting 😃
I love your swatch tip! Sometimes the yarn yells really loud 'knit me now' 😂
That yarn can be SO loud, right???
I'm usually working on one item at a time. If it is difficult and/or large, I will take a break with smaller items (hats) interspersed to give myself a little break. The main reason for doing this is that my financial resources are limited as is the space in my apartment. Love your videos.
Very smart to keep the WIP noise down when you've got limited cash and space. Well done! 😀
I wish I’d realized how small my apartment is before refusing to part with a skein during the move. Working slowly through the cache.
@@TheSuzberry Been there! 😋
I have been knitting for 60 years, and I was a monogamous knitter until about 15 years ago when I discovered Ravelry. Oh dear. This morning I cast on 2 new projects while an unfinished sweater sat right beside me on the couch. Not to mention about 10 or more WIPs in my craft room. You are right. It’s addictive. I was at a knitting retreat last weekend on Pender Island so now have even more patterns in my favourites and more yarn in my stash. Luckily, my daughter is an avid knitter, so instead of inheriting china, she will inherit yarn & WIPS! 😜
Oooo...you went to Pender...one of these years I'll get to that retreat. Lucky daughter! 😃
Great content. I have come to understand that 6-7 WIPs are my personal sweetspot. I try to vary yarn weight/needle size, to give my hands and fingers some variety, and I also try to vary type and complexity of projects to accompany different moods and places (commuting or home). I did learn the hard way that I should probably avoid starting 6 sweaters at the same time - it got me to 6 x Sleeve Island, like, an extended stay at Sleeve Island Beach & Resort that I didn't ask for but was wholly my own doing. 😂
Ha ha! I hope your stay at Sleeve Island Resort was all-inclusive (I'd be needing those bottomless martinis!) 😉💖
Hello Nicole, my name is Birgitt, i'm from germany. My english is not the best, but i love to look - and hear - your videos. I'm in sympathy as well as. Knitting helped me personal to get my impatient under controll and to bring things to an end - a good end i hope 😊, thanks for your videos, best wishes
Hello Birgitt! Thanks so much for watching my videos 😊
Well I feel better! Gift season makes my wips get completely out of control, but the rest of the year I have to say I feel best when I keep it to about 4 at a time. Always a sock project for the car, a sweater or garment or 2 at home and whatever random things I feel inspired by in the moment. If my wips start to be on the needles for 6 months or longer they go into deep storage for another time so I might have another 4 or 5 unfinished projects that are neatly tucked away and I consider them inactive . I do review them from time to time and generally I do finish them. I find that with fresh eyes after a break, whatever issue I was having that caused me to loose momentum is no longer a problem. I have learned to fix the mistake or have a new purpose in mind or the color completely changes if you add a stripe at the cuffs.....
I do confess anxiety and deadline paralysis. I never ever promise a finished thing by a certain date , esp when it's for someone else. I just cant do it
I love how you’ve got your own system for managing WIPs. That's a great approach to keeping things manageable! 💖
@Knicoleknits it mostly works haha
This was so fun to watch. I agree with at last one other knitter who commented already that Ravelry is the main "culprit" for getting addicted to casting on new projects. It can be an overload of inspiration. Luckily my personal taste regarding garments I like to wear is quite unusual so most patterns that almost everyone gets excited about don't appeal to me at all. Otherwise the number of my wips would really go wild. But due to that "limitation" I usually have around five to six wips maimum and that keeps things manageable. I would describe myself as 75 percent process knitter, even close to 100 percent when it comes to garments, the other 25 percent fall on accessoires and home deco, blankets etc. Greetings to everyone from Germany 🌻
Ahh I love this! So far I only work on one project at a time, I think it's because I have to. I love to reuse yarn, so I'll find damaged knit and unravel them, then it's washing the yarn, winding it when I need it etc....that takes a good chunk of time. Not only that, so far it's turned out that I have to do alot of yarn substitutions, the yarn I have is very very fine, much finer than the pattern I want it for, so I have to adapt the pattern for that, along with my size (very tiny male I won't enter the rants about the male knitting pattern sizes or patterns in general!) on top of that if I have to frog a good section of the yarn, I steam it before I use it again, since it's already been reused, it's very easy to stretch it out even more than brand new yarn, I also spray block as I go if there's a section of yarn that's too stretched out, to try and keep the tension even throughout the fabric.
I think with all that combined, it takes alot, so to do all that aswell as another project, it would all go very, very wrong. I would say that's what forces me to stick to one project, but I don't do it for that, I enjoy the entire process, I find it very lovely
Wow! What an amazing and dedicated process you have for reclaiming yarn. I hear you about the sorry state of knitting patterns for men. Every time I search for men's patterns, I'm stunned at the lack of selection and I can only imagine that finding them in small sizes is a huge challenge. Love what you're doing - keep it up! 😀
This is an interesting topic. Do we really have to be "labeled" and type set. I like working on one project at a time. I get HEAPS of dopamine fixes with one at a time, just don't need to start new projects to give me more feel goods. I get that all along the way, starting with thinking about the new project, pattern choice, yarn choice and shopping, pattern modification gives a big boost of feel goods, learning something new, the feel of the yarn being worked, the look of the yarn and needles working together, row by row joy of how it all goes together, seeing the progress, solving problems, being constantly amazed at the creation, trying it on, wearing it or gifting it, learning new physical skills. It goes on..... Every moment is pure joy, I want to stay with it and live in the love of it, in the moment. The process is educational, meditative and rhythmical which I love and the project has its own life, that keeps on giving. The lure of the new part isn't what feeds me, it just keeps my mind switched on.
Love all of this! We absolutely do not need to be labeled - this is just all in fun and meant to be very tongue in cheek...and also to give comfort to those feeling "guilty" about having unfinished projects. ALL knitting is GOOD knitting and it sounds like you've got a firm grasp on your knitting "why" 💖
I have 7 wips. However I know now it’s been awhile since I have actually finished anything. I must stop starting stuff!
I take comfort in the fact that there is no knitting police gonna knock on my door demanding I finish something or else!
I do agree with the swatching idea, and I started that and it has curbed my enthusiasm somewhat, and made me put it together with the pattern, needles and wool ready to go when I finish a wip.
The swatch idea is excellent. I may have to do that also to curb the enthusiasm.
Boo to knitting police! 😂
Try it! I works for me (most of the time...) 😘
I currently have 30 WIPS. But im down from 41! And hoping to keep reducing. Only 1 of those is a "process knit", and thats the Treasure Trove Wrap by Stephen West. I LOVE those dip stitches!!
Whoa! I think you "win" 😉😂 I'm not familiar with that Stephen West - I'll have to check it out 😊
Oh dang I thought I'd win with 23-25 knitting WIPs! I also have about 6 crochet WIPs. Ya got me beat!
Thank you so much for leaving the pattern name and designer up there long enough to write down
You're welcome. It's my pet peeve when I'm watching videos and they mention the name once, then keep talking about it for 10 minutes without mentioning the name again. 😋
Isn't that what makes the creative world so wonderful? That we can all handle our projects as it works best for us! I am fairly monogamist. I do always have a pair of socks in the works for grab and go, and then a bigger project for home. But I also do other crafts and have a very long term cross stitch project and a sewing project in the works.
I get the dopamine rush from finishing a section of the knitting project and moving on to the next (Ooooh, ribbing is done, now for main section!)
Thanks for another great video!
Absolutely! I bow down to those who can keep their projects down to a WIP or two. I also have other crafts on the go - stitchery, needle felting, painting, sewing - but I'm so absorbed by knitting these days, they don't get much attention. I really need to ditch my day job...lol 😂
I’m both a progress knitter and a project knitter, with currently 11 WIPs. My latest podcast episode was a WIP parade. Reassessing my projects and prioritizing them has remotivated me and eliminated my guilt.
Awesome! I'll be delighted to watch your WIP parade and sub your channel 😊
Lived this! I have 6 WIPS and no desire to be a monogomus knitter. :))
I agree with the things on your listed. I would add one...finishing things also gives me dopamine!
If I'm working on a sweater that finished dopamine can be far away, but it I am also working on a pair of socks, I get the excitement of finishing things more often!
I did the Cowltopus kint along, roo! Where I live it rains a lot, I lot hoods for that. I worn it to work and received compliments already!
You look grear in Cowltopus! Also I love your swatch idea.
That's a great point about finishing a smaller project to get that dopamine hit! I'm glad you're enjoying your Cowltopus!
Thank you for another great episode! I'm in love with knitting and have been knitting most of my life. I always have a complex or large "home" project and a simple and small "to go" project. My dopamine release comes from finishing a section of a project. The process of starting a new project is (for me) riddled in too many choices and can be very time consuming swatching to find the pattern/yarn combination that works well. I'd rather be on sleeve island because at least I know I am making progress on something I (or someone else) will want to wear. I think designers make it look effortless to recreate their fashions but I know there are often hidden obstacles. BTW Your podcast has completely changed my relationship with Ravelry! I retired earlier this year and had never had the time before to figure out the "Stash" and "Queue" sections. My words cannot express how grateful I am for your easy instructions for these. Thank you for being original out there!!
Hooray! I'm so happy my videos have been helpful for you 😊 My goal is always to make knitters' lives easier and fun!
Heaven! Now I'm relieved! I'm a notorious cast on-er! I'm constantly discovering new, interesting designs and HAVE to start IMMEDIATELY... I'm apparently addicted to this dopamine. And I can't even tell you how many WIPs I've on my needles... 2 complete Chiagoo sets and a complete Knit pro set with needles are booked …. but I love every single one. Thanks for this video, the “psychology of knitting” would be an interesting field of research
Ooooo...what a great idea for a video! I'm adding that to my draft list 😀
I totally get it, totally!! That is just like what I feel when I have my gazillion wips going. Monogamy in knitting is boring!
Oh this is me. I am like Dory when I’m knitting…..so easily distracted. I love it when I meet people like me 😀
Ha ha! Dory...that's totally me with knitting and crafts 😋😂
I think I have about 5 or 6 wip’s for now.
I divide my wip’s into categories; something to work on in front of the tv, something that needs my 100% concentration, and projects with different needle sizes/fibres.
I also need to have time for sewing my own clothes 🙂🙃
I used to sew my own clothes too! Someday I'll have time for that again 😊
I have 2 big items that are awaiting Kitchener grafting. The “do not disturb” sign will be hung on the door for those!
From experience I have found that if I put a project aside I either lose interest or forget the methods of making it. Such was with a pair of mittens… I was 7/8 finished the second one and put it aside… when I picked it up again I had completely lost track of what I’d done on #1… (it was my own pattern, in my head!! 🤣🤣).
So, I tend to have to finish each project.
I’ve just finished a crochet granny square vest (intricate pattern) and I knew I had to keep working on it to completion.
Bout time Oscar got his cashmere blanket Nicole…. Even if you just do a swatch!!! 😉😉😉
I too have about 6 on the go, for all your reasons. I find when I do stick to one project (for a gift, for example, hence a deadline) I start to strain either a tendon, my wrist, fingers, whatever because the motion and yarn weight is always the same. I like having plain knitting, cable knitting, colourwork, thick, thin, crochet etc., and this way I don't get repetitive strain injuries. Works for me!
Very smart 😀
Emergency car knitting - brilliant! I'm taking this idea into my life (and car).
Always have several projects on the go 👍. 90% process knitter , even get surprised when I finish something 😂. Intrigued by new different pattern , new yarn . Very interesting episode 😁.
I can really relate! Now I want to knit the Pina Colada sweater!
Oh Nicole, your timing is super! I’ve got 7 or 8 on the needles (Christmas approaches after all)! But I justify it in the same way you do. One is an incredibly intricate piece that I can only work on when I’m alone and focused. Socks I knit while walking Izzy, and stockinette garments get my attention when I’m watching tv or chatting with friends. It’s ok. They understand…
It's amazing how we all have our own knitting rituals. 😊
Great video and a topic that I always enjoy reading comments on. I was a monogamous knitter only when I first learned as a child because of $$ limits. I kind of cycle through different interests but I always come back to knitting because it’s so portable. I think I’ve been a process knitter because once the knitting is done I lose interest in doing what is needed to make it a wearable object. But now I am changing that mainly due to sock knitting. I actually DO want to wear my socks. And block those shawls.
I love how we all approach knitting to suit ourselves. This fall I am stress knitting, so I’m picking small projects with colorful yarns while also addressing my UFOs. Making things is part of managing my mental health - sometimes I need a simple “comfort” project with tons of garter stitch or stockinette in the round and other times I am craving a challenge.
I love how you're leaning into choosing projects for self care. Honestly, knitting quite literally keeps me sane 😊💖
I've always got a selection of different projects. I get bored, but....my projects always get finished or frogged. Love the Podcast.❤
Thank you! 💖
I guess I've never understood the implied virtue of being a monogamous knitter or the implied problem of having lots of WIPs. Maybe it's all tongue-in-cheek, but enjoyment is the bottom line. I distribute out about the same as you in the process/project scale, maybe that's why I enjoy having lots of things going at once, I LOVE learning anything new. I also finish PLENTY so I'm at peace. Thanks for another nice chat. 💙
It absolutely is all tongue-in-cheek! I strongly believe that ALL knitting is good knitting, no matter how you do it 😊💖
I tried to be a monogamous knitter but found that with one project I might not be in the mood to work on it but still wanted to be working on something. I try to keep 1 larger project, then a hat and socks. I keep emergency basic hat knitting in the car, and, I have either socks or mittens in my backpack to have during my coffee break during long walks.
Hi Nicole, I really enjoyed hearing your take on your process. I consider myself also in between a process and project knitter. I had a hiatus of about seven years not knitting. Before the hiatus, I was very much a project knitter.
I used to be a monogamous knitter especially when I first started knitting. But in the last year I’ve accumulated about 4 WIPS. I also have different projects for different times. Socks, a Musselburgh hat, a new pattern to learn something new and a sweater. I do only allow myself to knit one sweater at a time otherwise I’d never finish!
Very smart to stick to one sweater at a time. I might try to do that too...heavy on the TRY, that is 😉😋
I always have a crochet and a knitted item going on the same time. I switch between the two❤
I listened to your first video stating that you would no longer cast on another project until you'd finished all the started projects. I thought, yeah, I should do that, and I did. I was down to my last 2 wips and stopped. I realized that I have different wips started for different reasons. I like to crochet and knit. I crochet upstairs in my craftroom and knit downstairs in front of the TV. I also have an easy on the go knitted project. I have a calendar blanket that I make every year and finish it in January. That makes 4 wips. However, I knit for the family and often have one of their projects as a wip. Plus, the 2 wips I still haven't finished from the beginning of this whole journey. So all together, i have 7 wips. I feel fine with having 5 wips, but not having the extra 2. Those extra 2 are stressing me out. One I could frog, but the other one, no. I want to finish it.
I hear you. My best suggestion is to focus on one of those WIPs as much as you can until it's finished, then try to resist putting something new on the needles. I feel better about having lots of WIPs when I'm finishing projects regularly. 😊
@Knicoleknits yes, that's true. I feel like I've accomplished something when I have a finished wip. Thanks
Gosh, this makes me feel so much better about my pile of wips. I do different knits for different purposes, too (one on the go, one a little complicated, one a tiny gauge that's mostly plain knit, etc.). Just finished fingerless mitts for my youngest granddaughter. Working on the final sleeve of a sweater for my grandson. Have three sweaters and a cardigan on the needles for myself, though one of those will likely get frogged. I'm also working on the second sock of a pair and have a scarf/cowl that's been about 10" shy of done for a few years now (ha). It's gift knitting season, so I am going to try to work those in somewhere, too, likely as projects to work on during basketball games, as we're a basketball family.
I can relate - I'm a "football" knitter at this time of year 😉
Hi Nicole, Like you, I am a process knitter and project knitter combined. I try not to have more than 3-4 WIPs otherwise it starts to stress me. I just started using ravelry for my stash and projects (there are about a hundred projects -maybe more? not on my project page, just current). I am listing my to-do projects as WIPs even though I only have 2 actual WIPs right now. I also love the dopamine hit when I start a new project, but also when I finish one! Knitting is not a race, unless you want it to be. I've tried to be monogamous with my knitting and it just doesn't work for me.
Edited to add: I always have at least one project that I call my 'social knitting' project. A sweater when I'm in the stockinette sea, or socks, or a garter stitch simple pattern, etc.
Sounds like you have a great system! It's good to know and manage where your own threshold is for getting stressed or overwhelmed by unfinished projects. I like the idea of a "social knitting" project 😄
@@Knicoleknits I belong to a few knitting groups, and I simply can't take anything complicated to them, I have too much fun chatting and visiting to pay attention to anything other than stockinette/garter/or the like.
I have found Ravelry perfect for non-monogamous knitters. I put things I put " in time out" in hibernation. Once a year, I do Finish it February with Roxanne Richardson, and some of those wips come out of hibernation and go into FIF. I have finished some really old WIPS during FIF. My daughter's birthday is in February, and sometimes I find myself unable to patriciate in FIF. I sometimes pick a different month or months to devote to wips. For example, I am knitting the Sushi shrug for my daughter's birthday. I had a stroke in February, and I have found it difficult to start. As soon as I finish the Jethro for my friend's 80th birthday, I will devote time to the Shushi shrug. If everything goes ok, I may be able to start FIF. FIF is a wonderful excuse to forget those WIPs not forever, but a few months.
Gotta love that Rox! Finish it February sounds brilliant 😀
the KAL hood was so funny! thanks for the chuckles. Great fun to knit, but... when will you wear it 😂
I won't wear it. It's going to be gifted 😄
I'm definitely not a monogamous knitter. I like to have 2-3 projects on the go to swap between. If I'm working on something complicated or something I think I will need to reference a tutorial for I like to do that at my desktop and then have something simpler for knitting in front of the TV. If I'm crocheting something, I also like to have a knit project for when my wrists need a break from crochet. I usually stick to one large object like a sweater or blanket and one or two smaller projects like a hat or socks.
But I can be monogamous in limited contexts, like when I really need to finish a gift or KAL or something. I've been monogamous with my Go Go Dynamo MKAL shawl for over 3 weeks now. Almost done! I've really enjoyed it so much, but I've got projects waiting.
I also get a dopamine boost from finishing a project and getting it on the blocking mats.
I am definitely a hybrid project/process knitter. I love learning and trying new things and I am always looking for new challenges, but I also love the feeling of getting something done.
I'm really enjoying checking out the finished projects from Stephen's MKAL this year. It's possible I'll give that one a go 😋
I have so many WIPs! I’m more of a process knitter but of course I’m happy when I finish a project. I say “so many projects; so little time” and I just see so many I want to make. I’m trying to finish one in a category before I start another in the same category. I have four categories so I can switch between them to keep it interesting. Basically small, medium, large and knit along projects. It’s working so far and I’m trying really hard to avoid the siren call of new projects until I finish some.
The struggle is real! 😋
I have four projects on the go. A sweater, a scarf, a shawl and mittens. I like one big project, the sweater. The scarf and shawl are my simple knitting to take to knitting group or to work on when I can't concentrate. The mittens are a class I'm taking to learn new skills. Four is enough for me but I am planning my next three cast ons. I suppose I'm a process knitter. Cheers
It's great that you have projects for different purposes and skill levels!
This year I've kept my WIP count to five or less and it's probably the only time I've stuck with a New Year's resolution lol. Truthfully, it has been really, really difficult but also rewarding. New patterns and yarn are always calling my name! My tendency is for putting something down as soon as it gets too frustrating (I can read my stitches well but still working on garment construction,) or I get into the pattern and find it rather boring. Keeping this resolution has helped me stick with those projects and take the time for the lessons learned through the mistakes or new techniques. But now, there's Patty Lyons workbook, so I'll justify a high WIP count by promising myself to use that for practice instead 😂
It's a great accomplishment to stick with a resolution and that's definitely worth celebrating! 🎉 I'm waiting on my order of Patty Lyons' workbooks. Amazon tells me they are coming some time next month 😋
I tend to stich to one current project if I feel there is a deadline. UNTIL it goes wrong and then it's in the naughty corner. I am like you with the stars in my eyes on that new shiny pattern or yarn. Then here we go again! I have about 6 to 10. I don't dare count. I have frogged some lately. I'm ok with that too if I really don't want to keep it.
Yes! I didn't even talk about the value of frogging languishing WIPs. I'm sure many knitters can relate to that 😊
As a monogamous knitter, I found this fascinating. My process is so different. I actually get stressed out during the new project phase. I am overwhelmed by choice and get anxious. I guess that's why I am a one knit at a time girl. (Okay, full disclosure. I do have a sock on the go that could count as project #2 but I am full engaged in the hoodie I am making so the sock has to wait). I also don't have enough needles to have more than one or two things going. Or maybe I do...😉
That's really interesting! I hadn't considered that the planning phase could be stressful for some people. It does make sense though - so many options! 😋
Oh... we have to be sisters! I am pretty much a process knitter unless i have a deadline. I recently finished an easy 50 inch square baby blanket with knitted-on lace edging in about 2 weeks... totally progress knitting (the mom loved it, the baby is here, all is well). But i have not returned to a beautiful cabled Norah Gaughn cardigan knitted in my favorite yarn... it's been 4 years! Can't tell you how many other sweaters i have laying around in various modes of incompleteness started since then!Also, i love fine lace knitting, the 60 inch square shawl super fine wool that knits on US size 2 down to less than a mm in size. There are so many squirrels running around!! But i am not counting things i started decades ago.... if i come across any, i just pull the needles and stitch markers out and cover it up with different yarn!
Done! Consider us sisters 😘 I can so relate to the pulling out needles and hiding that loser project in the bottom of a basket 😋
6 to 10 for me too 😂 I love it! Always something interesting to work on! 😂 Its great!
Love your videos ❤ never too many wips for me. I am like you - process and project knitting.
Hi Nicole, I was wondering why do I have to have a few projeckts on the needels and after watching this video I fully agree with you, it’s not only get borring security, actually it’s this dopamine think. I love this feeling. And I think, as long it makes us good let’s keep it.
I can really relate although you've now inspired me to start a whole lot of new projects. I'm currently actively working on two projects at a time and make hats for innocent smoothie bottles while I'm on the exercise bike. I am wanting to make the TL Yarn Crafts blanket crochet along that's starting soon. However, I also have a pile of wip projects that are in hibernation mode that I need to get back to someday and some Christmas presents to make. I don't think I could ever just make one project at a time, my attention span is too short and I get too excitable about our beautiful craft
It's a real struggle to lean into that excitement without ending up overwhelmed. Sounds like you're having lots of creative fun, though! 😃
I am sort of a monogamous knitter. I have 4-5 WIPs going at the same time but I often hyper focus on one project, which makes me work on it solely for a week straight till I am tired of it or finished. 😅
I have many wips - maybe 5 or 6 knitting projects, 4 spinning projects, 2 tapestry weaving projects. I've probably even got a couple of crochet projects somewhere. I say it's to avoid RSI, using different weights of wool/needles etc. My favourite knitting project is generally a jumper though.
Avoiding a repetitive strain injury is a totally legit reason to have a mix of weights and needles going! I should have added that to the list 😋 My fav projects are sweaters, too 😊
Great video. I always have at least a couple of projects on the go. I really enjoy a new project that has new processes. 🎉
Hi Nicole, I’m a bit like you, I think! I also do dressmaking, and spinning, and crochet… So I have a pair of socks for travel knitting, a 4-ply colourwork jumper for me, a worsted weight Norwegian pullover for my husband and a crochet wrap on the go at the moment. And on the dressmaking front, I’m making a backpack but there are gazillions of project waiting in the wings! I want to start a Tunisian crochet project but can’t decide which one, and I’ve recently come across nalbinding, and I really want to make a hat in that. No time for my beloved spinning, which just creates even more yarn I need to find time to knit up…… Sometimes I feel overwhelmed with it all but the lure of a new project keeps me going - and I do finish things, nothing is left unfinished.
Thanks for your videos!
I think you're a lot like me! Did you know that years ago I was a custom dressmaker/tailor and taught sewing classes for a living? I also have a beautiful as yet untouched Tunisian crochet hook set just waiting for me to fire it up and make something cool 😃
@ yay! I love your videos. Good to know there is someone else as nerdy as me about my knitting/crochet/dressmaking etc etc! My friends just don’t get it.
I am looking at the Tunisian crochet patterns in a book I’ve got (there are a lot of shawls, yawn) and I’m thinking I will swatch and design my own jumper or cardigan using the stitches shown in the book (very well, I have to say). I used to write for a magazine called Machine Knitting News from 1994-2000, and designed something every month for it, so I do love designing my own stuff, or adapting commercial patterns.
Fancy you doing dressmaking for a living. Was it aversion therapy? I couldn’t knit for 10 years after I packed MKN in…..! And I sold all my 7 knitting machines!
@%98%9C%F0%9F%98%9Channel/UCWds963h8mVz3Fw5xxlgPzQ Ha ha! I guess it was aversion therapy because the only sewing I do now are alterations 😋 And FYI - I'm thinking about getting a knitting machine...sounds like you'd have some thoughts about that. If you'd like to connect, feel free to email me at knicoleknitsdesign@gmail.com 😊
I have at any time least a small, portable project and a big one I can work on while watching TV. And I'm 50/50 on the process vs project scale, with a part of "I'm working my stash" on the side.
I feel like being on a (forced) buying diet helps a lot with my cast-onite. Whatever catch my eye, I need to make sure I can do it with what I already have. I still spend too much time on Ravelry checking what's new and putting patterns on my bundles. But the urge to cast something goes pretty fast.
So true. I get super excited about a pattern in the moment, but if I make myself wait even a short period, I find that initial urge can pass more often than not. 😊
I’m sort of a monagamous knitter…sort off. Always have a pair of socks on the needles as well as a larger project. I do have some project bags with little swatches for future projects which keeps me motivated to finish the one I’m working one. ❤
It sounds like you've got a great balance going! 💖
Yes. Yes. and Yes. 😂 I want to do it all. I liken it to a buffet where my eyes are bigger than my stomach. I agree with everything you said.
Great analogy! I might steal that 😉
I’m both a process and project knitter. Currently I’m knitting birthday socks monogamously. I need to get the done. I also keep a project notebook and I want t now how long these are taking start to finish with no other project distractions.
Fun video, as always, made even better by Oscar's interjections. 👍🏻😄 Not a monogamous knitter, but I do limit how many projects I have going at one time. Three is about the limit. Currently, I have a crochet blanket that is a giant granny square that I've been working on sporadically for several years. Also, I have a knitted blanket for a neighbor's son on the needles. About half-way through that. That's two big projects, but I also need "instant gratification" projects to keep me motivated. Usually, those take the form of an accessory or a charity hat. Currently, the motivator is a Friendship Bracelet Cowl by Stephanie Lotven. So, process or project knitter? Like you, a bit of both.
Oh, almost forgot that I always keep a dishcloth project in my purse...just in case. 🙄
I think that's a great system! 👌 That cowl looks like a fantastic stash-buster project. I've bookmarked it for a future video 😀
Knitting one yes one project at a time, now sewing 2 or more quilts, machine embroidery project, and always some type of hand sewing is ready to be worked on.
Hi Nicole, I am facinated by your knitting journey! ❤❤I'm not monogamous either. I'm definitely looking for dopamine in knitting as well. I'm also anxious that I might not live long enough to try all the knitting ideas out there! You're awesome!
It's such a rush, isn't it? 😍
I caught your brief mention of converting Interval Training from a stranded project to a slip stitch project. My heart skipped a beat! This is on the top of my explore/figure out/invent list right. Would it be easy enough to explain here how you did that, or maybe include it in at near😉- future video? I'm really excited to try this out. Thanks!
I'm excited to show you how! A video on converting stranded colorwork to slip stitch is in the works 😃
@@Knicoleknits yippee!
I love starting new projects!! I do only have 1 or maybe 2 going at the same time. I have 2 sock projects that only have one sock finished because I wanted to start something else. I have to learn how to knit 2 together.
I don't knit socks often, but when I do, I always knit them two at a time. If I didn't I'd have a lovely pile of single socks 😋🙄
Enjoyable video to listen to while knitting!
Your cowl is lovely. I bought this pattern to knit along, but I have Christmas knitting I just have to finish
It's a fun knit! You'll love doing it when you get there 😊
Hi Nicole! I'm a new subscriber and LOVE your channel. I'm a very seasoned knitter and learning new things from you all the time!
As for WIPs...no shaming here! I currently have around 23 to 25 and that's not counting my crochet 😂
Wow! You just made everyone feel better 😄😉
I am mostly a process knitter and a non monogamous knitter/ crafter. The only time I am monogamous is when I do a sample knit for a dyer or a test knit for a designer.
I currently have only 4 'active' WIPs - there are 2 or 3 (or possibly more) hibernating WIPs, that I'm sure I'll get to one day.
Right now, I'm trying to focus on getting 2 projects finished, as they are Christmas presents for my granddaughters, but I am still getting seduced by new ideas. Oh look, Stephen West is promoting his Hiberknitalong. Oh, there's that yarn I go from a friend to knit something for DH. Oh, thanks Nicole, for showing me those two Thea Colman sweaters - now I want them too. And there's Munich Knits coming up at the end of the month, and I'm taking an Estonian knitting class with the wonderful Aleks Bird, and there will be soo much yummy yarn.
I'm doomed!
Ha ha! Welcome to the club. 😋😂
This is very timely for me. I have been monogamously knitting on a blanket and I am almost done. I have been "cheating" in my mind with another project. I think this week will be my time to veer away from this monogamy with another blanket. 😲🤭 I think I can do it. 🙂🤔💡
Go for it! (said the master enabler...😉)
Ok. I have a backup of projects I have decided to frog back and reuse the yarn for other projects. I have too many items that I was excited to knit but were really never a good fit. Once I have done that I may need some help in figuring out how to reuse the yarn. 😅
You know I'll be happy to help you with that! Have you watched my video on "refreshing" used yarn? 😘💖
Hi Nicole! My problem is that unless I have a specific project in mind with a deadline (Christmas! New Baby! Birthday!), I find it very hard to finish things. I have a bunch of stuff I've started, and never finished, tucked away in various places that I have no idea if I'll *ever* finish. Examples: a shawl I started 6 years ago on vacation, tucked away when I got home and never completed and I don't know if I still have the pattern for, nor do I know where all the yarn for it is; an asymmetric triangular shawl I started for car knitting three years ago that is straight stockinette that I thought would keep my interest because of the gradient yarn, that's 2/3rds finished but it's soooooo boring that I can't bear to knit more than a row before I have to stop; a mohair lace jabot that I thought looked so elegant that I laid out for the very spendy Aussie yarn, only to find working with it incredibly frustrating; a loop scarf whose stitch pattern was so extremely complex that I had to frog so often that I put it away hoping to try again when I'm a better knitter. Just yesterday I rediscovered a silk crochet lace shawl I'd finished about a third of that I can't even remember starting, nor do I know where the pattern is, but I'm going to have to make into a scarf because it's simply too beautiful to leave languish.
Just recounting this litany makes me feel like I have ADD. So now I try to keep to things I know I'll have to finish by a certain time, like my 4 year old nephew's Christmas sweater. Like you, I NEVER miss a deadline. I just wish I could make things that I don't have a particular deadline for and finish them, because Lord knows my list of "make in the future" projects is a mile long. So, how, with that many projects going on at once, do you ever get any of them finished in a reasonable amount of time?
You are not alone! As for finishing things, I've been much better lately about staying mostly focused on one or two projects at a time. For instance, the Pina Colada is my current TV knitting so I'm working on that almost every day, and the baby blanket is my office knitting, so that's getting regular attention too. And of course, I have an on-the-go project which is also getting regular progress. When one of those is finished, I'll bring one of my newer WIPS into one of those "focused" slots until it gets done. That's kinda my process...more or less...lol 😋
OMG, so glad I found your channel.
Me too! 😁
I have as many as three WIPs on the needles at any given time. Usually a pair of socks, another small project, and one major stranded sweater. More than three and I get overwhelmed and put everything down and go into my mental cave, where nothing gets accomplished. Just me? I’m ok with that.
As for MKALs, I don’t like mystery projects. I rarely like them.
I'd be delighted if I could keep my WIPs to three at a time! We all have our threshold of overwhelmedness (not a word? should be). This was my first and last MKAL. There's a reason for that. Sigh.
I am definitely not a monogamous knitter, nor a monogamous crafter. I like to be able to have a few projects to choose from based on my mood or what im doing (knit night group better be knit stitches only or ill get all messed up!) but i also flit from hobby to hobby. With ADHD ive found that its best for my mental well being to be able to move as the wind blows me. If im bored of a projevt i pick up something else. Eventually ill circle back. Since my hobby is for my own enjoyment theres no pressure!
Nice! I have lots of other craft projects too, but lately they've taken a back seat to my knitting 😉
Loved this! Yes, I can totally relate as a lifetime crafter. But since I started knitting, I have forced myself to finish everything before starting another to keep the amount of money, and stash to a minimum. Question for you: You said when talking about the interval training project that you converted the two stranded colour work to slip stitch. Is this fairly straightforward to do? My next project (when I finish this one!) is slip stitched colour work and I am hoping to be able to use this technique for other two stranded colour work. My current project is two coloured stranded knitting mittens. My tension is terrible!! I know what I'm supposed to do, but somehow not achieving it. Thanks again, love your videos. You have great presence!
Thanks so much! I'm actually working on a video about converting stranded knitting charts to slip stitch knitting, so stay tuned! 😃
I only have 3 wips right now. Socks, a marlogram scarf and a lacy shawl. I’m hoping to not end up with more!!
That sounds like an excellent mix of projects! Are you enjoying the marlogram scarf? 😊
Once upon a time, I could stay with one project until I finished, but no longer can. Not sure why. Currently I have socks and three sweaters and just cast on a new sweater last night. I've been knitting Christmas socks and I'm currently at 6.5 pairs knit over the past 3-4 weeks and I just needed a break and something new. I have 1.5 pair to go but plenty of time before Christmas.
Yup. I remember the days when I was knitting one project at a time. That was back when I was a relatively new knitter and wasn't confident enough to flip back and forth between projects. I guess that means I'm super confident now? 😂
Happy Christmas knitting!
Very Good Video.
Thanks for watching! 😄
I work on multiple projects because I’m looking for the dopamine when I FINISH a project. If I’m not finished quickly enough, Socks! I cast on socks.
I have so many projects on the needles that I have to keep buying more needles.
If I cast on a project on every needle I have, I'd be in REAL trouble 😂😂😂
@ 😂💙😂
Exactly why I never join a MYSTERY knit along. I may not like the end product. It's gorgeous what you knit, but it's not for me either.
Oh I understand that new project rush, but I can't understand a few things: like where you get all those needles (surely the needle size must overlap on 10 plus projects?) , how do you remember all the modifications you might have made and how do you store all these projects? I have to speak strongly to myself to finish my current wip(s) (I have 2 to 3 normally) before I start a new one.
I'm happy to answer all these questions!
1. I have a HUGE needle collection. But you don't need a huge collection like mine to have several projects on the go if you're using an interchangeable needle set. You can often "borrow" the tips from one project and put them on a new cable to use on another project.
2. For modifications, I will record them on the pattern itself and/or on my project page in Ravelry. I use running markers in my projects so I always know exactly where I am no matter how long it's been since I last picked it up. (I have a video about running markers, if you're not familiar)
3. I am fortunate to have a whole room dedicated to my crafting. I'm also a project bag collector, so each project gets to "rest" in its own pretty bag until I get back to it 😊
Now, having said all that - I am sort of kind of a semi-professional knitter, so I don't consider myself at all "average" in terms of resources. 😉
Thanks for your detailed reply. It all makes sense! Lucky you to have so much space. Enjoy
hi i always enjoy watching you
I'm so glad you do! 💖
Nooooo! I try to do one at a time otherwise it seems.to go.on forever. If im knitting very dark colour then I might have a light one for evening knitting.
Right - I hadn't even thought about that knitting dark yarn at night issue - great point! 😊
I am not, definitely not, a monogamous knitter. I tend to like five or less on the go, a simple/small project (vanilla socks), a medium (in size or difficulty), and a large/challenging project. I had a weird thing happen to me a few weeks ago. I finished all my projects at once. I felt absolutely lost. I now have only one on the go, but there will be socks shortly. (There should always be socks!). I am 75 and have decided I can just do what I please. I also spin, so there is always that.
You can absolutely do what you please! 😊💖
Hi Nicole, maybe because I’m a newly knitter, I’m monogamous. But… my list for future projects is immense 😂. I’d like to let you know that your tip to Combination knitting to fix rowing out is working pretty well. TY for that. I’m working the Artwork by Hinterm Stein, it has a really nice construction, check it out! Greetings from Switzerland ❤
I love Hinterm Stein's designs - so stylish. Well done for tackling that one. It's now on my list too.
That’s so great! I’m planning to check out Artwork soon! 😀
I chuckled at today’s topic…!
I am a monogamous knitter - I lack the discipline to come back and finish something once I’ve put it down. I know it will just languish until it ends up stuffing an emotional support chicken (does that seem like a rest story to you? I’m not admitting to anything.).
So I stick to just one project, start to finish, because I don’t trust myself to come back to it and know where I was up to.
I’m NOT a disciplined note-taker, so therefore I’d never be able to figure out where I am on a pattern. Either way, for me it’s a matter of choosing where to be disciplined.
Ha ha! It's so great that you know yourself and your boundaries so well. Now, exactly what did you do to that emotional support chicken...? 😘
@ look, it was yarn that was not well suited for the project I was using it for… but it was perfect as the guts of a chicken… It gave Plum Chicken a good heft - very realistic.
@@jodydcrawford5470 Ha ha ha! Awesomesauce 🤣
I have 8 active WIPs and 10 that are hibernating
Yay! I'm so happy to hear that 😋😂
Huh. I only have 4 wips going on at present, with two more that are “hibernating.” But I intend to do at least one or two little projects-a pair of warm booties in bulky yarn and a hat-for gifts before Christmas. Maybe.
But I’m grinding on this Stephen West MKAL shawl just because, dammit, I feel like I’m behind. Talk about imaginary peer pressure! My friend who is also working on it would never judge. 😅
I generally have one large and a couple of small and maybe a shawl. Because I get bored with just one pattern. Right now I have three shawls and a sweater…well, YMMV. 😉 This Go Go Dynamo shawl is anything but boring.
I've been watching the Stephen West MKAL fun this year. I really like what he came up with this time. Can't wait to see yours finished! 💖
I know I'm weird (hey, I live in a city that has the slogan "Keep Austin Weird") but, I am very much a monogamous knitter. I freak out that I'll never get back to one project if I set it down to start another. Also, because I tend to not go exactly by any pattern, if I'm using a pattern at all, I'm concerned (although I document what I'm doing) that I'll forget what I was doing or intended to do if I lay one thing down in favor of another. I sometimes wish I could work on multiple projects at once, but it's just not who I am.
There is no weird in knitting - It's all about finding what works best for you - you do you! 😊💖
I have another reason to not be a monogomous knitter -- I likebto have projects on different sized needles, andvefen sojetijes a crochet project. If my hands startvto get tired or sore I switch projrcts. Right now I am working on Autumn League sweater, briggsc&,little socks for my husband, sask rough rider socks for my daughter in law, a crochet stegasaurus stack8jg toy for chartiy and bearly bonnet also for charity ( our healthcare cauxiliary)
I love the idea of switching projects to give your hands a break! 😊
the speed at which my polyamorous heart clicked this video ,,, then realized thats not the kind of non monogamy you meant bahahahaha
Ha ha ha! Sorry about that...I guess it was inevitable 😋
only 10? I have 18....I think....3 blankets, 3 cardigans, 3 sweaters, 1 sock, 2 tee shirts, and 1 shawl - oh, so I lied, only 13 actually...lol
Ha ha! Welcome to the WIP Wagon 😂
Oh dear - I am a monogamous knitter - does that make me a bad person? I rarely have more than one project on the go because I want it - ie I want to finish it. I tried a yearlong KAL this year for a Christmas sweater - I was supposed to start in February and finish at the end of November - I divided the pattern into 10 roughly equal sections - one for each 'knitting month' - and bought my yarn. But in February and March I was trying, ie wanting, desperately to finish something else so it got put aside - I'd start a bit late and catch up, right? I started late in April and knitted the first 3 months' sections and then carried on with May's section. Phew - I'd caught up. Then the same thing happened ie I got asbsorbed in other projects (and it was summer!) and suddenly it was the end of August. I was 3 months behind again! I'd just finished another project so I picked up the Christmas sweater and it was done by the end of September. I feel so relieved. The whole thing made me anxious and I was starting to wonder which Christmas I would actually finish it, 2027 maybe?
Luckily this was a KAL where I could choose my own project, yarn etc. MKALs and, while we're on the subject of unpleasant surprises, mystery advent calendars are NOT for me either. I enjoyed your video, Nicole, as I always do, but thank goodness there are lots of different people in the knitting community who do things different ways and yet we can all still be friends. Good luck to all you non-monogamous knitters - you do you and I'll do me, OK?
My thoughts exactly!
Oh my goodness! You DEFINITELY do you 😀 I'm in complete awe of those who can stick to one project at a time! We all have our comfort zones. I've always liked the idea of having a structured project like your Christmas sweater, but I know I wouldn't stay on track. You're so right that we all have our own processes - ALL knitting is good knitting 😃