5 Popular Patterns I Won't Knit
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- Опубликовано: 2 июл 2024
- Tell me if you’ve had this experience - it seems like EVERBODY is knitting a pattern and you feel left out. I know I get a twinge of FOMO every time I see someone talk about a KAL. EVERY TIME. But, there may be some really good reasons not to caught up in knitty peer pressure.
Today, we're diving into the world of popular knitting patterns - specifically, the top 5 everyone seems to love... but I just can't bring myself to cast on (and one that’s zooming up the hot right now this week that I WILL cast on). And more importantly, how you can choose the right patterns that speak to your personal style and not just the trends. So grab your knitting, maybe a cheeky cocktail (I've got my trusty martini right here), and let's get into it!
🌐 Connect with Me:
Instagram: Knicoleknits
Ravelry: www.ravelry.com/people/Knicol...
Email: knicoleknitsdesign@gmail.com
Show notes:
What I'm wearing: Grace Notes by Joji Locatelli
www.ravelry.com/patterns/libr...
Emotional Support Chicken
www.ravelry.com/patterns/libr...
Crossed Bucket Hat (crochet)
www.ravelry.com/patterns/libr...
00:00 Introduction
01:41 Pattern 1
04:51 Pattern 2
08:13 Pattern 3
09:42 Pattern 4
15:22 Pattern 5
21:23 Bonus Pattern 
Хобби
Thanks for joining this pattern discussion party! I expected controversy over my thoughts on these patterns, but it never occurred to me that the Chicken would be a point of contention...🤣 I'm loving all your thoughts and stories - keep 'em coming!
I 100% agree with you on ALL counts! These are the exact reasons I have never and will never make these same items.
It has NEVER occurred to me to knit something simply because it is popular.
my biggest factor in knitting anything is, will i actually use/wear this? 😅 i don't think about much else!! i think the only other major factor is, will i enjoy knitting it?
I think an extra reason that I like to knit the Stephen West patterns is that I learn a lot of interesting techniques. So I feel like a more proficient knitter when I’m done with one of his fun projects.
He really does have great techniques. He’s so fearless!! 😋🤩
Oh my gosh 100% on all of these!!!!!!! Yarn is too expensive and my time is too priceless to make just to make! I have to be super thoughtful and strategic to fit this dilapidated temple 🤣😂🤣
Dilapidated temple 🤣🤣🤣
I usually choose something that appeals to me. I don't care if it is popular or not. Some very popular things out there I have chosen not to knit because they don't appeal to me for one reason or another. We should all choose our knitting based on our personal preferences. Glad to see this. Good info.
I have found what I love about Steven west is the photography. I love to look at his photos and patterns but I don’t want to wear any of it.
Yes! He is amazingly talented, but the majority of his patterns are too avant garde for me to wear in real life.
I saw someone wearing one of his patterns (can't remember which one exactly) in more toned down colours, and it looked a lot better irl than I expected. The thing for me is I don't wear shawls so most of his patterns is not for me.
I have thought about using some of his patterns as inspiration for a blanket... But it would probably take forever to knit~~
Hello from Toronto. I could not agree more with your choices. As an experienced and prolific knitter with limited time, I have learned to be discriminating as I want my creations to be elegant.
Hello Toronto! I will be there in early May for a few days. I have friends and family in the area :D I, too, aim for elegant knitted items :D
I agree with you about almost everything in this video except the hats. I don't wear hats to be flattering or look good. I live in Minnesota. I wear hats to stay warm and not lose my ears to frost bite. As long as it's in colors I like and does that job? It's a great hat.
Fair point. When keeping your head warm is priority #1, esthetics can take a hike! Is it still super cold there?
@@Knicoleknits This winter has been so warm I've only worn my "fall" hats (I have lighter/heavier ones based on the temp outside). It's crazy this year.
I live in Canada..I have hats for 4 seasons. Deep winter, shoulder seasons spring and fall, and summer.
As a fellow cold person, I concur. Hats are functional items, not fashion pieces
I might knit the Sophie. I remember wearing a red bandana and a Harley T shirt as a teen. I feel like I want those vibes again. But alas, I'm old now so I Need to adjust my look. The Sophie might work.
The first pattern that came to my mind was your number one. The Sofie scarf. I cannot figure out why it became so popular. I hate it, too…✅
I would hate wearing it, for sure! I guess there are lots of folks who like a close fit neck cozy ;-)
Don't actually think it looks good unless the wearer is extremely thin.
I loooove it. I have knitted AND worn several.
@@cradock38 Well, guess I'm okay with not looking good then. 😂
@@LindaJoyBKumwenda I wear mine all the time and need to make more!! (Great for a hair band, too!)
I knitted The Simple Thing instead of the Sophie scarf. Similar and free pattern.
It’s much better, with an Icord that goes all the way around the ends, better increases.
Thank you
I spent so much money on the MKAL in 2022. I hated it so much. I couldn't event undo it to save the yarn so I flushed over $100 in the toilet.
As far as the ranunculus, I felt exactly like you. Then I was on vacation and wanted something to do and started a ranunculus with what I had on hand.
I have now knit 3. BUT, I use a size 8 needle and I stop my armhole raglans when they fit me and do waist shaping. I have done striped and solid. I absolutely love it. And I can knit it in 2 weeks. l
Hmmm...you Ranunculus lovers have really got me thinking...;-)
Modifications make the (knitting) world go round!
I love changing things up in a knitting pattern - it’s a big part of the fun of it for me. I’m currently on a bit of a sock kick - pun intended.😜
I’ll do my favorite ribbing (usually for longer than the pattern states), the heel flap from Hermione’s Everyday Sock (which I adore!), sometimes a different heel turn, and whatever toe I feel like. So in the end it’s only the actual stitch pattern that’s the same as the original pattern, with the occasional heel turn/toe.
Yes to everything - EXCEPT the Ranunculus! The first half of my first one took a year, I don't know why. I hated the counting and made 1000 mistakes. Then, about last Xmas, I started again, knitted a sleevless one in ine week and another one straight after. I knitted the smallest size although I'm by no means petite😂. Both are simply gorgeous and I'll definitely keep on knitting this pattern. It's easy, it's customisable and can be made with just about any yarn. I love wearing them so much.
Love your thoughts on popular patterns. I do not knit patterns that are popular, and for me I’m personally sick of the craze around Petite Knits , and a few other designers as well. While the designs are nice a few are knock offs of vintage patterns and designs. I knit things that I know I will wear and not because of the popularity of the pattern.
Your channel just popped up on my feed. I really enjoyed and appreciated this video. I especially enjoyed your section on hats and was amazed at how great the bucket hat looked on you as it’s a style I never think about. However, after seeing how complimentary it looked on your, I just may need to try. ☺️
Also, thank you for not playing background music. I find it distracting and unnecessary when channels add during their narration.
You look “at me”.
You don’t add “filler words”.
No background music.
Plus…great info.
All reasons why I just added you to my subs. ☺️
Thanks so much! I'm new at this and still learning to edit effectively, but cutting out distraction is the name of my game. I appreciate the sub 😊
I hate background music, thank you for not haven't it
@@Redvixen511 I tried it in one video. I understand that it creates issues for some people, so I won’t use it again. 😊
I feel you are missing out on the Ranunculus. I have made many, never in fingering weight. I made it in DK and worsted, I love the fit, I only allowed 6 inches or less in ease. I am 5’3”, size 14-16 and don’t like my knits to be too loose. Happy knitting.
Thanks for this! I may take on the challenge of making the Ranunculus work for me. There could be a lesson for others in it 😋
I agree! I think the Ranunculus is so endlessly customizable and looks great on almost everyone. (I have my first on the needles!)
I'm knitting the Ranunculous right now. Being an experienced beginner, I'm learning a lot. I feel it's a good learning project, if nothing else. Actually, I'm knitting in a light pink linen. It's cute so far!🩷
You were honest AND kind. Plus great advice. Thank you.
Sophie pattern, very simple as you said, novel so it went viral. Let’s see, roughly $8/pattern x 15k (min) purchases = $120,000. Good gig if you can get it.
Yup. She's one of those rare birds who can make a full time living at the self-publishing gig. Thanks for watching!
She developed a reputation from her previous patterns and multi-year portfolio so her success was not overnight. I wouldn't say that this one pattern is indicative of her work.
If everyone else is knitting a pattern, I don’t want to. I want my work to be a little different from others.
Ravelry has many bucket hats but the one I’ve made over and over is a felted bucket hat that is knitted flat and seamed, this allows me maximum manipulation of the shape - and some cute little flowers look sweet on the brim.
Nice. I modify almost every project I knit. It makes me feel smart ;-)
Thanks for this - I'll check it out. :)
@@Knicoleknits - I call mine Frankenstein knits because I’ll take ideas from multiple pattern.
Ha ha! Perfect.
❤ This is a really good video. You handled the subject very well. I have knit some of the uber popular patterns and I have really enjoyed knitting some much less popular patterns, too. I agree it is perfectly fine for us all to like and need to do different things. All the best, Joyce
Great comments - thanks for watching!
I appreciate your comments about Stephen West’s mystery KAL’s. I can see that he’s an extremely talented designer/knitter and I am in awe of his creativity. But… his designs, the avant-garde ones you mentioned, are just not Me either. So that’s me, not him, and does in no way diminish how absolutely stunning his designs are.
On the other hand, the Emotional Support Chicken is simple, fun, and adorable. I came across it on someone’s blog about a month ago, having no idea it was so popular. I just knew I had to make one, clicked on their link, and purchased the pattern. Just about finished the second chicken.
Thanks for your explanations of why you didn’t just jump in other popular pattern band-wagons.
Thanks so much for watching! I really do love Stephen and appreciate his incredible talent and completely agree about not diminishing his talent. :D
I have knit all his patterns.❤🎉
@@marshalucky Wow! That’s an incredible accomplishment! Which one is your favourite?
For me Stephen west is a great designer l don't agree with you it's no nice critics
@@adrianawilliams9633 I do agree that Stephen is a wonderful designer; but I can appreciate him without liking everything he designs. So, that’s not being critical.
So after watching this video, you actually convinced me that I might like to knit the renunculous yet I’ve been very against it for years and didn’t think I liked it but it turns out it has the fit I like. Thanks for a great video.
What a great episode! I have been waiting for someone to address the 'Why is everyone knitting the Ranunculus?' Your reasoning speaks to me. 😊
Thanks so much for watching! :D
I just love your energy!! You radiate such positivity and ease ❤
🤗Thank you!
As a fairly new knitter, I was intrigued by Ranunculus and all its outcomes. I wanted to go to that party! As a 72 year old I look for new challenges and new shapes so I'm just blocking my second Ranunculus! I love it, the yoke is so pretty. I made modifications so that it's not too wide and the sleeves have more ease. I agree with you 100% on beanies. Slippy hair, big head, they just look awful on me but I need a hat for winter. The turned back brim is the answer to frame the face. I have some Drops Air left over from Ranunculus that I think will do just fine.
I loved this video. I'm a new knitter so I thought maybe it was just me. It was nice to hear your explanations as to why you don't like the patterns. So helpful thank you!!
You are so welcome! Thanks for watching :)
Fantastic topic! It syncs so well with the recent stash editing videos.
I was born with a short neck. As much as I LOVE blouses with ties and cunningly arranged scarves... I can't wear them.
Hats are very much the same kind of thing. Some make me look terrible. Cloches are a good example. Love them, but must pass them by.
This video was such a great reminder to take a hard editorial line when it comes to choosing both yarn AND patterns.
One more thing: I guess you knit during your off hours from the diplomatic corps. You handled a difficult presentation very well.
Ha ha! Thanks so much. I used to work in Labour Relations, so I do have a few diplomatic tools in my kit ;-)
Loved this episode, and I totally agree with all 5! I have determined I’m best doing the Stephen West MKALs after they are over so I can decide for myself where I want to place each color.
Thanks so much for watching!
Just discovered your channel when it popped up in my feed. Instantly subscribed! I love everything you said and agree , Knowing yourself and what you like and look good in is essential! I think that everyone in my knitting group has knit at least one sophie scarf but, like you hate anything around my neck like that. I'd also expand the West KAL to any KAL - as I've gotten older and defined my style, I find that I don't really like most of the KAL shawls that I've done. Great video and I'm looking forward to watching more.
Thanks so much for watching! 😊
I think that turquoise-y blue hat with the cabled brim looked great on you! It makes your eyes shine! Good tip about the black and white pics.
Thank you :D I do love the color - I just feel like I need more brim. It's not the worst, for sure.
I agree! Your eyes popped when you put it on, and it looked really cute!
@@julietbutlersmith Thank you! Okay, maybe I need to give a chance 😋
I agree with you . I am tempted sometimes to make the popular patterns out there, but don't want to be wearing what everyone else is. I want to be unique and wear what looks flattering on me. It is hard to not buy a pattern when you look at how terrific the garment looks on the model- you have to know what style looks good on you, and be realistic. Thanks for your comments on this topic.
Thanks for watching! 😊
I totally agree with your choices. Not into trends
Love your honesty!!! Really tired of seeing FOMO knits.
Appreciate your analysis.
Loved your episode and needed to hear it. Really love the look of shawls on others but not on me and no one I knit for wears them either
I know, right? I knew it wasn't just me!
I am SO with you on the headbands!!!! Took me decades to realize that the back of my head is flat flat flat. Calorimetry was one of the first patterns I knit when I discovered Knitty Magazine, but I just can’t wear them. They did make lots of nice gifts - come to think of it, they may be back in my rotation for “barista” gifts at Christmas time. Great video!
Hi Nicole - it's Theresa from the Jasper retreat. Great job on your podcast. I really enjoyed your video! Thanks for sharing. I look forward to watching more.
Hi Theresa! Thanks for watching 😊
Definitely knit the Emotional Support Chicken! Such a fun knit ~ not to mention that your happy/giggle mood will be enhanced with every stitch. Finally, the way it's knit...the structural form...is fascinating to watch unfold. Did mine in Noro Silk Garden LO from previous projects with beautiful results. 'Tis true that knitting one is pretty much an impossibility!
I have a finite amount of time to knit, this makes it important to me to pick the right pattern. I agree with your analysis and I think it’s an important reminder to knit things that we will love when they’re done.
Thanks so much for watching! 😊
Wow, I love fabric around my neck, makes me feel safe. Always had a long neck and now that I developed doublechin with age, I can also kinda hide that with a scarf or turtleneck. I do not like plain knitting with nothing going on, but I may want that first scarf. We are not the same and that is the beauty of discussion, so we can get a broader wiev of the topic! Great video!
Yes - we are not the same! That was really my point of the whole video. Just because a pattern is popular, doesn't mean it's the right knit for everyone. Thanks for watching! 😊
I think I’m with you on just about all of these and for similar reasons!
I think you have come up with a great idea & material for a book. I have, let’s say, at least several of the design challenges you described. We all have some element that we are working around. Your ideas on making a fun style better for you are just great!!! This is what I need & look for. Nicole you are quite a stylist!!! Thanks❤
Thanks so much! I’ll keep that book idea in mind 😊
I really enjoyed your explanations for why things do and don't appeal to you. I have a similarly shaped, proportioned and fringed head so hats can be tricky. I tend to wear them further back on my head like a snood and pin them into place.
I’m watching this while knitting my sophie scarf 😂 it’s my go to gift tbh
Ha ha! Perfect 😋
I love the cable neckline on your teal sweater……I wish I had the pattern because I would love to knit this sweater 😊
So many good advice in this video! As a yarn collector, loooong time crocheter and beginner knitter I see trends in yarns, patterns and designers. Fortunately I have never been one to bow down to peer pressure, so I tend to only go for things I like (the "I" is extra much in caps). I considered the Sophie scarf since it seemed like a good beginner pattern, but I couldn't see myself wear it, in any way, so I qickly decided it was not for me.
You talk about a thing I find hard to do myself: know my style and know what looks good/flattering on me when it comes to head shape, body shape etc. I would like to get better at that because I think that will make it a lot easier to consider the next thing: wearability. I crochet and knit a lof of things that are fun to make, has fun colors, that inspires me in the moment, but the thought of "how much am I going to wear this thing" seldom crosses my mind before starting. I would love to make more things that become staples in my wardrobe, like that sweater you are wearing in the video.
Thank you for the inspiring video!
I spent too many years knitting projects just because they looked interesting (not that there’s anything wrong with that), but I grew tired of watching them languish on a shelf in my closet. It’s really just in the last year or so that I’ve been focusing on a “knit what you wear” philosophy. I started to pay close attention to the clothes I wore most often and felt best in. It’s worked well for me. You can still knit the fun things, but consider gifting them to a worthy recipient 😊
I just found you this morning and I will be back. The sweater you are wearing is wonderful! I ordinarily hate drop shoulder with all the bulk under the arm. But the fit the designer built in makes all the difference and looks so good on you. I agree with all your comments. And I have to say I have pictures of my mother in her day dress in the 50’s (that’s what moms did then) with the head band in a twist. She wore it house cleaning. It was cloth but essentially the same.Thank god those days are gone.
Thanks for watching! I used to avoid drop shoulders until Amy Herzog explained how a fitted sleeve makes all the difference. The Grace Notes Pullover is a great design 😊
So true! And you look great! Thanks for showing us the beanies - I love them but have to agree with everything you said about them. I like a beanie with a fold-up rib, too. And the dark teal one did look good on you. I might try the 2 bucket patterns you put up. And the lovely olive one. I love the colour and style of your jumper today but on me I need a set-in sleeve. You are very right to stress the importance of choosing carefully. I find most people who make their own clothes soon work out what style suits best. Too much work when it doesn't look super-cute. It becomes even more important as time goes by. I like some of the ones you said you wouldn[t do, such as that first scarf. subscribed.
Thanks so much for watching and subscribing! I'm glad you enjoyed this 😊
So, why are you keeping all those beanies that you don't wear/like? Gift them forward!!
Like your cheerful positive attitude to knitting. Thanks from U.K. 😊
You are so welcome! Thanks for watching 😊
Hi. First time viewer. I totally agree with you about Steven West's mystery shawls. They just aren't my style. I learned 15-20 years ago that mystery knits are not my thing. The pattern I was working started out beautiful and in synch with my style. The last clue totally blew it. The designer threw a major curveball. I ended up ripping out the whole thing. In hindsight, I could have come up with my own ending, but I wasn't that confident of a knitter yet. Now, concerning the Ranunculus. I too am a shortish, curvy woman. Based on your picture we may be very similar, me just an inch or so shorter. I had my doubts about Ranunculus but decided to give it a try in some stash yarn. Because of the pattern's generous ease and my curves, I ended up with a sweater that fits me just how I like, about 4 inches of ease. I get compliments every time I wear it. I have knit Ranunculus 3 times now and have plans for more. It is a fast knit and works with any yarn weight. Since the latest update to the pattern has more sizes, you can play with needle sizes and yarn weight to get many types of fabric. Being a confident knitter now, I don't hesitate to length the body or sleeves to suit my style. Don't be worried about a boxy sweater with big bat wings. The photos are deceiving because the model probably doesn't weigh over 100 pounds.
Thanks for watching! I just might experiment with Ranunculus…mostly out of curiosity. Thanks for the encouragement 😁
Nicole, I really enjoyed this video! I'm with you on the chicken. It's one of those viral patterns that I'd like to join in on 😊
And from one delicate RUclipsr to another, thank you for speaking with such kindness--and for asking the same of your viewers!
Thanks so much for checking me out, Mark! I’ve got your back 😁
I'm thrilled you put the Sophie scarf first. I literally cheered 😂! I tried it, lost count, it was so wonky... I frogged it. To be fair, I've had a TBI and ever since some aspects of counting are very hard for me.
I also don't find headbands work for me, either. Love how you stressed this ass your opinion. ❤
Love this channel. The voice and pacing, chef’s kiss. I have tried so hard to learn knitting. I’ve taken classes and 😭 I HATE it. To me it’s tying my shoes over and over again but same time I LOVE sweaters and knitted/crocheted vests and shawls 😭. I think I’ve spent more on Etsy buying knitted and crocheted pieces this past year than I spent on housing 😭 For all you yarn artists, thank you ❤❤❤ Please keep feeding my addiction 😂
Thanks so much! I'm delighted to keep feeding you all-you-can-eat 😜
Hello from New Zealand 😊 I just found your channel, looks great. I like to knit what i like to knit, which is usually not what everyone else is knitting! I would rather do what makes me happy and suits my body.
Hey, New Zealand! Someday I'll come visit you. Thanks for watching! 😊
Thanks for your honest opinions. I agree with almost everything you say. Someone also once told me not to make something unless I could think of at least two occasions on which I would want to wear the garment. One popular pattern I definitely won't be knitting is the Beekeeper's Quilt where you knit little hexagons, stuff them and then sew them together.
Oof. I bet that quilt is beautiful, but after the first two stuffed hexagons, I'd be done! 😂
I love how people make these popular patterns their own and make them truly unique. In the Stephen West mkals, there's usually a couple of people who will knit them in one colour which leaves the texture to do all the heavy lifting. Others use their handspun which makes them SUPER unique and many, many people modify them to their own taste. Don't like the shape? Change it! Don't like a feature? Swap it for something else? Know you'll never wear it? Gift it to a loved one or charity. The joy of a Westknits MKAL is always learning something new, feeling like an absolute knitting boss when I cast off and the total permission from Stephen to do whatever I want with his pattern. It really is knitting freedom.
But the best thing of all is the camaraderie and support within the group. Newbies are welcomed and encouraged to try it, the videos make finishing it a realistic proposition for newish knitters and the help and hints and tips from people all around the world in every timezone is what is so wonderful about the internet and the human spirit. Go on, try one, just one. You know you want to! See you in September?? 😉
Great sales pitch! I’m getting tempted now to take on the challenge 😉❤️
oh my goodness! I agree with you on all these patterns. That trick with Stephen West's Shawls (switching them to monotone) is a great one. I like that you also present options. Thanks!
Thanks for sharing!!
I’m sooo surprised…I agreed with you about every one of your picks !!!! I was glad you didn’t put any shade on my sock patterns !!!! 😊 it’s ok , we should learn to trust our instincts ❤️ you gave a very balanced critique. Thank you for your insights.
I agree with you on all your pattern choices! And… er, I’m on my third Emotional Support Chicken. It’s such an easy and fun to knit pattern 😊 You will enjoy it 😊
See you at Fibres West!
So good to have at least one Chicken fan - lol. I'm so excited for Fibres West - I'll definitely see you there!
I agree with each one that you spoke about. I have picked some other ones that are popular, like the ones from the Creabea. Also, I like the patterns from Kutovakika and Ozetta, but I recognize that the styles they have are ones I like. That makes such a difference.
Thank you from Norway for lots of good tipsfor what to be awear of when we fall in love with beautiful patterns. 🎉
Hello, Norway! Thank you for watching 😀
"I'm delicate" made me smile so big! same.
Thanks for some new project ideas! LOL! Sophie Scarf here I come! I also appreciate the bucket hat pattern you shared!
Ha ha!
Thanks for your very generous and kind version of the 5 you wouldn't knit, it's fascinating! Very fun, but more importantly, interesting views, some of which I totally get! Similarly in my age group there's a tendency toward having a curvier and wider shape than one used to, as well as I also cannot do headbands. Hats are also very specific... I cannot do fingering weight pieces, I cannot do complicated stitch sequences or lace... so I will never be making a lightweight shawl, that tiny neck wrap, or the beanies that hang off the head (except for other people) Nor will I make socks. I love color change yarns, and have found myself using ravelry to check on how they look when knitted up. So many of these end up being mixed with a solid color which mutes them down, or make a shawl that must have been the most popular one the year it came out (Nightshift, for Noro).. in which the colors combine in such a way to fully obscure the lovely colorways the yarn designer puts together! UGH! Hahahaha, yes, oh well.... Thanks again! I will certainly see what else you have on your channel here!
Thanks so much for watching! 😁
Great ideas for your scarf and wraparounds.
I so agree with on the things that wrap close around my neck!!!
Excellent points about hats! I have similar reservations about toques/beanies, but seeing the bucket style on you made it clear what I was missing. It's the extra brim width that keeps those of us with wider glasses frames from feeling like a turtle struggling out of its shell 😂
Right! The glasses are definitely an issue. I feel like the brim gives good balance 😊
I have an emotional support pickle. Love it. Keeps me calm.
Ha ha ha! Awesome 😎
I have a tiny amigurimi teddy bear I love to carry in a pocket - he’s a little wonky, which reminds me that life isn’t perfect but that’s what makes things beautiful and interesting. 😁😍
I made it with two different sized eyes. Why? My friend gave me some safety eyes b/c I don’t usually do amigurimi, and neither of us realized they weren’t the same size. The horizontal section of the mouth looks unfortunately like a toothbrush mustache aka hitler stache. Oh and did I mention the crochet popcorn stitches to represent the arms and legs are in slightly different places?? He looks like he’s twisting his torso. 😜 He’s unique but a nice EDC lil bear. I even came up w/ a quirky (but not PC) name for him!
I love your honesty, it's so tempting to knit the in thing, I've fallen into that trap more than once. I have knitted 2 Emotional Support Chickens, and I love them. I knitted the Hitofude Cardigan because everyone was a few years ago, it was so beautiful, but I looked dreadful in it. Such a shame!
Oooo…that Hifotude. I KNOW it’s not a style I would wear, and yet it’s so beautiful, it takes all my willpower to resist its charms 😋
Not sure why the RUclips algorithm recommended this (i don't even knit lol) but I'm glad it did. You are hilarious and fun to watch!
Ha ha! Maybe the algorithm ran out of knitters to show it to? 😋😉 Thanks for watching anyway!
I just finished .Mr Wests glittering snowscape shawl. I chose my own colors, and the complexity of the patterns was wonderful. I love complex patterns and the finished product was stunning. A gradual color change from Snow White through three graduating blues ending up with navy blue. All that said it took me nearly 100 hrs. to complete.
Interesting! I'm going to take a look at that one :D
I LOVE this! All of this is me. Except for the twist headband. It makes a great neckwarmer. I often like a mindless knit, and the Sophie scarf would be great for that, but I would never wear it for all the same reasons as you. I look awful in beanies but hats are fun to make. I have a whole tub full I don't wear. Some larger sized berets work for me and bucket hats are absolutely my best bet. Not sure where I found the pattern, but look for Brickwork Sumer Sun Hat from the Lavender Chair. Great Crochet Bucket Hat to work up and to wear. I don't wear sweaters at all, I just get too warm. I LOVE making shawls, don't wear them very often, but still what I enjoy making the most. But have yet to make a Stephen West.
Thanks so much for watching!
You had me at martini, and then at beanies/buckets. So happy your channel came up in my feed.
Yay! I'm so happy you're here 😀🍸
I have to agree with you on some of this. Especially Steven west. I always think I dodged a bullet there. I’d just not wear it even though I’d enjoy knitting it.
I truly enjoyed this video.
Love your sweater, beautiful design and perfect fit! Your podcast topic was really good and appreciated that you showed some in grayscale for taking color out of selections! 😊
Thank you so much! 😊
100% agree with your five things. 😂 Nice to know someone else feels the same way.
Thanks for watching! 😁
Just found your site.
And thoroughly enjoy your presentations. I agree with all of your five choices and the reasons for these. Too much effort and money to knit something just for the sake of being one of the masses! Look forward to your future podcasts!
Thanks for watching!
Your video podcast was just suggested to my feed. I loved it and have subscribed! I agree with you about Stephen Wests MKALs. I’ve made one of his shawls, the Bolting, twice and have loved both. I’m also on my third Parachutey. I get so many compliments on my first two and folks are just amazed when I tell them it’s a Steven West pattern. They look up the pattern and say I can’t believe how good it looks when it’s not in crazy colors! Now to go check out some of your other videos.
I’d love to see your SW shawls! Care to share your Ravelry handle? (If you have one) ☺️
@@Knicoleknits - It’s lightning!
Very interesting video- I love how you are thoughtfully considering how you personally would interact with these patterns. Which is why I think you’re totally missing out on Stephen West’s MKAL! One of the best things about the knit-along is seeing how other people change the pattern to suit them. You would love personalizing your pattern. I have a friend who knits them every year in worsted/DK yarn with half the stitches, and turned the latest one into a poncho. Someone usually does the pattern in one color. I turned my twists and turns (leaving off the chicken feathers) into a hap shawl by adding a button and loop on opposite ends of the bat wings. Just go into it with the attitude that you aren’t blindly following the pattern, you’re part of the design process, and have fun!
Thanks so much for your thoughts on the MKALs. I love the concept of being part of the design process. Definitely food for thought 😊👍
Excellent advice🎉
Glad it was helpful!
Yes this is a great topic! We get to pick what we knit and wear! I look best in set in sleeve patterns. I don't know that top down yoke designs are the best for me and there are SO many beautiful yokes. Sign
I designed a top down circular yoke sweater for myself and it does not fit well. I got some tips recently about ways I can potentially make it fit better, but I haven't tried it yet. If it works, I'll definitely make a video!
I agree on almost all of these! I do have Ranunculus in my favourites and I do hope to one day knit it (hope, because I am swimming in "maybe one day" patterns and the list is always growing) because I think I could pull it off, but it'll probably be a while yet before I cast it on. HARD agree on the scarf, though. I, too, cannot stand having things against my neck. Drives me nuts and sometimes even makes me gag, for some reason.
I have a loooooong maybe one day list too! 😋
I totally agree with you about the Sofi scarf. I have knitted 4 Ranunculus; in 4 different fabrics. I don’t like boxy either so I made them more fitted. I have made beanies and headbands for gifts but don’t like them on me. I did my first Steven West KAL in 2023! Boy, what a year to join! I agree many of his designs and color ways are out there😊
Wow! Four of them - that’s fantastic. 😁 I may have to accept the challenge of making a Knicoleknits version of Ranunculus. 😉
I love this video, even though I’ve knit both a Sophie Scarf and two ranunculus sweaters 😂 I did start the Mkal in 2022 but didn’t continue and have used my yarn for other glorious projects instead.
I am so happy about this! I can’t make something I won’t wear. I buy patterns but never make them. I end up making my own stuff up and calling it mine. Glad I am not the only one:)
Yup. I'm with you 100% :D
I watched a (very preachy) vlog recently that said, "You can't see something , get an idea, make something up, knit it, and call yourself a designer."
I'm calling "horse malarkey" (as Gran used to say) on that.
If that's not being a designer, I don't know what is! If someone writes a book, they are an author - regardless of whether or not the book is published. The same applies to pattern design, IMHO.
Kudos to you for making your vision into reality!
I told my knitting daughter that when I die, she needs to sort out which of my Ravelry patterns I have never used. She gets 1st dibs, then my knitting posse gets to arm wrestle over the rest of them. But only the unused ones - anything else would guarantee bad knitting karma. 😮
Ha ha! Interesting karma theory on the unused patterns. I couldn't agree more about when you get to call yourself a designer. If you made it up - you're a designer. Period. Full stop. The source of the inspiration is irrelevant, IMHO. (Now, full out copying is a diff animal) ;-)
First time watching and surprise! 5 out of 5 that I won't knit fire the same reasons! What?! Now I have a lot of catching up to do with your other videos.
Thanks so much for watching! I hope you enjoy the other content too 😋
Totally agree. Pointless knitting things that don't suit.
I have knitted three WestKnits KALs. And I have given them all away. I blame my inability to say no. 😂
But I won't be knitting another KAL with him. I'd much rather know in advance what I'm getting....
I'm with you on mystery knit-a-longs. My reason isn't about the color combos and designs themselves, necessarily, but I need to know how things will look like in the end. I might do some of Steven's older things and see if that might work. Also, I'm so wish-washy about the ranunculus too. You are not alone!
Ha ha! Thanks for watching. I’m more inclined to go for his early stuff too 😊
I love the designs you use on beenies-bucket shapes& berats!! I have problems with my silky, slinky hair!!! And my big ole head!!
Ha ha! I feel you ❤️
I am new to your channel. But, what a great idea for a video. Knitting time is so precious. We should be mindful of what we knit and not just joint the FOMO bandwagon. I really could relate to this video. I felt you were very fair in your analysis of the pattern.
Thank you! I do try my best to "do no harm" while giving an honest opinion. :)
Popularity never occurred to me when picking patterns. I completely ignore “what’s hot”. When I knit from a pattern it’s either because I want the finished object or the pattern has something in it I can learn or do for the first time. If others like to knit what’s popular, good for them. It’s just something that never crossed my mind to consider. To each their own.
Part of my crochet journey has been paying attention to the details. There’s a difference between an item that looks good and an item that I will actually wear. I’m working on a cardigan now that I think will make me much happier than my first two sweater attempts- because I paid attention to what I actually wear.
And I’m with you on the weird shaped head and preferring v-necks. I have to keep headbands like those pinned down with just SO many pins otherwise swish! There they go off my head!
Ha ha! Thanks for watching!
I am totally with you on each of these patterns for the same reasons. In fact, I bought the ranunculus pattern and have been hesitating to make it because I’m not sure I would wear such a boxy sweater. And I also have the same issues with headbands and beanies. It’s refreshing to know that I am not alone in these things. However, I have absolutely no interest in an emotional support chicken! Lol.
Ha ha! Fair enough 😋. It’s taken me quite a while to realize Ranunculus is not for me and I shouldn’t try to force it. There are lots of other fish (patterns) in the sea! 😁
I just do not see how a chicken can be considered supportive in any way. Unless you consider the food side!
I am in agreement with you on most things, especially that, if knitting/crocheting for yourself, it is important to choose patterns you will love to wear. I can't wear headbands either and I have problems with beanies because of my bangs. Love bucket hats! I also agree about Stephen West's KALs. I would not wear his designs. This is a well thought out, polite, helpful video. Thanks!
Thanks so much for watching! 😊
Loved this video. Glad it came up in my feed. Agree with review of Sophie scarf, started it and never finished. Love Stephen west designs and use of color. Also not a big fan of the boxy sweaters i need some shaping to flatter my figure.
I'm glad you enjoyed it! 😊
So true, that not every pattern suits us or flatters us, though we like the color or the pattern itself. I've knitted a vest lately that I Iove for it's color and structure but I just don't like the way it looks on me. It's because I'm pear shaped and I should rethink the shape of that vest before knitting. I've got more knitted things that didn't suit my figure and I thought it was something wrong with my knitting. And after I've watched some YT videos about what style of clothes suited the pear shaped person, I've understood that it was not about the knitting, it was about a pattern, or shape of the cloth. Anyway I do agree 100% with you, Knickole, and I think it's good you point it out, that it's not the point to knit something just because it is trendy and we should ask ourselves how it would look on us first. I also think that more supporting for Oscar than knitted Emotional Support Chicken would be Emotional Support Chicken Soup. At least my dog Gucio would realy appreciate it more 😆 🥂 😉🙃 👍
You are 100% right - as an an extremely food-motivated dog, he'd much rather have soup 😋😂
❤🐶😁
This was great! Right off the bat, I also can't have anything around my neck. So never even considered making the Sophie scarf but realized there is the Sophie shawl. That I might make. I also have trouble with hats always sliding up off my head, no matter how I set it on my head. With that said, I made a Bisbis Beret by Sari Nordland. It stays put. I will make another in a bit firmer yarn with some body. And agree about the shawls though love Stephen. And finally, I bought the fiber fill the other day for the emotional support chicken. It's just fun and knitting absolutely can be a fun. I enjoyed your video and Oscar's thoughts. haha
I'll be sure to let Oscar know. I LOVE Sari Nordland - I'll go check out that hat!
I agree with you on all of these!
I didn't knit the Ranunculus for the longest time for similar reasons. I ended up holding 2 yarns together and knitting the smallest size, modifying the sleeves to be fitted, and I absolutely love the end result. If you look through the projects, you will see many mods that have produced a more tailored fit.
Thanks for the tips!
Interesting topic! And so funny, but one of your choices, the Sophie scarf, may actually be a solution to a problem I’m having finding the right pattern for a close neck item that won’t block the beautiful yokes on my sweaters but keep my always cold neck warm. So thanks! 😂 I’m interested to check out more of your videos. BTW I completely agree with you. I often love the look of something but know I won’t enjoy knitting it or wearing it.
Thanks for watching! Sounds like the Sophie is just the right thing for you 😊
You are absolutely spot on with each of your points! I just knew the Ranunculus and the Sophie Scarf had to be in there :D and while I also love Stephen West and SOME of his designs, I just don't want to risk joining an MKAL and finding out halfway through that I really don't like the design.
The chicken - I like it, it's super cute, I've seen it in several podcasts now, but I'm probably not going to knit it UNLESS I make a whole set and use them as couch cushions, in which case they would have to adhere to my colour scheme of blues, teals and turquoises....
Yes! I totally want my chicken to be blues, teals, and turquoises (aka - Totally Nicole Blue) ;-)