A Year of Knitting

Year's End Knit-analysis

I am coming up on my one year knitting anniversary (I learned how to knit last year around Christmas) and I thought this was an appropriate questionnaire to reivew my year. Feel free to post this on your blog and answer the questions too! (I stole it from Lolly)

1. What is your absolute favorite project you've ever knit (one that fulfilled both process and product)?
I have to say it was the Clapotis.



I really enjoyed knitting this. I tried (and ripped) several different yarns before I finally found the one I liked. I enjoyed seeing the process of the dropped stitches – every time I dropped one – I still feared for the life of my scarf and was amazed each time that it stopped unraveling right where it should.


2. Which of your handknits do you wear the most often?
Clapotis (I wear it as my scarf almost every day) and this Buttonhole bag (which I use almost every day). I also wear my hand knits quite often.



3. Which of your handknits are you most proud of?
My first pair of socks. I guess I should say they were my first pair of socks that actually resembled socks...


4. What was your favorite gift to knit?
I love knitting bags and socks for my family. They are both fairly quick knits – but they can be customized for the person. Even my conservative father is getting knit socks this year – yes they are plain grey stockinette – but even with his reserved (read that as boring) clothing tastes – he too can enjoy hand knits.

5. Which of your handknits are gathering dust your closet?
The log cabin squares I started a while back. I need to finish the blanket!


6. Which of your handknits have you gotten rid of?
None… unless you count the multiple frogged Clapotis attempts...


and lace shawls I’ve started and then ripped when I made a mistake!


7. If you've knit socks, what is your favorite pattern?
My favorite pattern for a good basic sock is Perfectly Simple Socks. This pattern is easy to follow and a good jumping off point for adding customizations. I’ve memorized this pattern and can now whip out a plain sock without ever looking at a pattern.

8. What would you like to make in 2007?
hehehe – the list is long! I was bored in a meeting last week and actually started making a list. My first priority is to make a sweater for me! I’m thinking of this Sky Tweed pullover:

Or Ariann:

or maybe the Central Park Hoodie



I also want to make the Lady Eleanor, Eunny's Print 'O the Waves Shawl, and finish the Lace Leaf Shawl I started.

I’ve been a good little doobie and have been knitting holiday gifts for the past month – so I’m excited to start something for me!


9. What have you learned about your craft in 2006?
Don’t be afraid to try something new. I was totally intimidated by Fair Isle and any color/stranded knitting. When I finally tried it – it was so easy! I love the hats I made and can’t wait to try some more color knitting – maybe soon – I will try this…



10. What events/sites have you particularly enjoyed in the blogosphere in 2006?
I enjoyed Lolly's Project Spectrum. I also had fun with Secret pal where I was a hostess this round. I also enjoyed several knit alongs and swaps including Coffee Swap, Mason Dixon KAL, Fall Cable KAL, and the Noniknitalong.


Over this year - I've knit socks, purses, scarfs, hats, washcloths, baby items and even a hedgehog. I've tried Kool Aid dying and a little drop spindling.

I have met countless knitters and bloggers (both online and in person) and have made some absolutely wonderful friends (you know who you are!). I have taken my knitting with me on trips to Scotland, New Mexico, Arizona, New Orleans and many other mini road trips. I went to the MD Sheep and Wool, Stitches East, and the Taos Wool Festival. I have joined several knitting groups both here in Maryland and on business travel in Albuqueque.

I have to say that knitting has definitely become an important part of my life! Last year at this time - if you had told me I would be knitting every night I would not have believed you! now I can't imagine my life without it!


Happy holiday everyone! And happy knitting!!