I do. I only allow myself 5 projects at a time. One easy knit one, one where i'm learning a new technique or a challenging knit. One crochet project, one tunisian project (different crafts help me to prevent injuries). And I nearly always have one pair of socks for travel knitting. I used to cast on whenever the mood hit me but then I'd be overwhelmed by the amount of WIPS. I also particpate in Finish it February for things that have been languishing in my knitting basket.
One knitting rule that I am starting to develop is to not have any more yarn than I have projects for, and never having more than 3 projects going on at the same time. This also means that I am not getting more overwhelmed with my spinning either, as I have to use the yarn that I have already finished before I ply more spinning.
I don't because I'm so new to knitting I'm trying to figure out a balance. I really liked your idea of the project bags and I think I will incorporate that. Between knitting, sewing and embroidery I have to figure out a system this year!
One rule/principle is to take care of my body while knitting. I can overdue it and my neck or hands become painful or stiff. Another principle is to limit the number of projects are comfortable. Too many projects means I start to feel anxious and guilty. As a life and spiritual coach, I stay focused on maintaining an equanimity with my knitting. Otherwise knitting doesn’t feel like self-care, but self-frustration!! 😊
I had taken a break from knitting and moved to sewing. Now I'm back to knitting, so TH-cam vids are now knitting again. I was looking around on amazon at knitting stuff when I heard you say my TH-cam handle. I did a double take and chuckled. I've never had a TH-camr read my comments before, brought a little smile to my face lol
Location, location, location. 1 TV project that is usually mindless , 1 mobile project for car, appts.. and 1 main project that requires thinking and paying attention. However, my main project can be demoted to TV if it’s the body or sleeves of a sweater in plain knitting. This frees up my main project for a new cast on. This way I never have more than 3 on the go.
I’ve found that I cannot be a monogamous knitter; it’s very stressful for me. I use a Gideon Method rotation of 5 items: one large, one socks, one colorwork (so I stay in practice), and two others. I keep a binder listing all my stash yarn and its intended projects, a weekly list for some clarity as to my projects' progress, and a (blank) year calendar for an overview. I love putting “DONE!” next to each project, and counting up the FO's at year's end.
As always I like your podcast and all the good ideas from you and your viewers. I learned several years ago to have one “brainless” knit, one with pattern and a more complicated like illusion knitting or so for which I need to concentrate and be alone. This year is different. I do not buy any yarn unless a specific one for a gift. Did that a few years ago and felt great! Right now I knit a sweater for a toddler and an illusion blanket for a baby. A toddler jacket has already been delivered. My other projects are hibernating. Each one (and a few more) are neatly each in a project bag tucked away in a special bin.
I have multiple circular needles of every size, 24” 32”, etc., a minimum of at least 4 of each size, get frustrated if I don’t have a needle in the right size if I want to start a project. I always have at least 3 or 4 socks going all at once and then maybe 2 or 3 other projects, but then I am retired, so I have all the time I want and need for sitting and knitting all day long if I want to. I usually spend a minimum of 8 plus hours per day. I don’t cook which is nice, my husband is a professional chef. So, after housekeeping and laundry is all done, I am knitting.
I started knitting & crochet 5 years ago & completely buying any project & all the pretty yarns. Last year was the change to this ( for me at least ) crazy craft head space. I worked most of my stash (very satisfying) & then started purchasing yarn for projects for 2024. I have completed currently 3 of those projects & will begin to slowly start purchasing for 2025. I have found time to work, complete & enjoy this so much more. Friends & family are my exceptions to this. So yea, goals, rules, exceptions, what a joy !
I do allow myself to cast on small projects whenever i feel like it because it keeps me motivated and interested. Its 100% ok to me to set aside a big project for a few days or even a week or 2. I go back to it refreshed energized and ready to tackle challenges.
Great video! As I watched, I realize my July clearing of needles is because I don't feel like knitting big projects in the summer. I don't have air conditioning since I live in Washington state. Once it gets cool enough I go project crazy to make up for it! Lol! Sewing is good in the summer because it's not sitting on my lap. Lots of love from the Pacific Northwest 🧡
I usually have a small project like Musselburgh hat or socks and then one big project like a sweater. I can’t function with too many projects going at the same time. ❤
Keeping a journal of future dream knitting projects is helpful to me. One large or more complicated project, one smaller or easier project and one charity project at a time is my comfortable limit.
21:50 I have put myself on a buying yarn freeze 🥶 I love silk yarns and cashmere and and and I have bought beautiful yarns on clearance. Now I have to figure out how to use the yarn I have. lol first world problems… right :/ And I’m still getting 2 skeins every other month from DestinationLane … not so frozen 😂😂😂 I need to knit faster
I don't really have rules but I try to make sure there's a variety of projects for me to work on. I love working with 4ply (fingering) but I sometimes get hand cramps, so I've learnt that it's best to have something in 4ply, something heavier like DK or aran, something in the round, something on DPNs, something on straight needles, a crochet project or two... That pretty much ensures I have a range of mindless or more complicated projects as well as different weights to give my hands a break. Oh, and I keep an emergency Musselburgh hat in my bag!
I’m also a master knitter and don’t feel comfortable with double knitting. When I was working on my DK swatch Leslie Gonzales gave me a tip for the edges. For the first 2 st from the edge wrap the yarn counter clockwise, and also at the end of the row. that really tighten up the edge stitches for me. Then of course, k tbl to keep them from twisting.
1. I only have one project at a time, doesn’t matter small or big one. I don’t like taking notes so I focused on one project only. 2. I don’t work on same pattern 3. I don’t knit based on request from other people. I knit what I want to knit. I do give my knit product for someone else occasionally but that because I want to knit it.
I'm frogging the ribbing on a bottom up sweater right now because I let the excitement of casting on take me after I did a swatch from stash yarn. Then I realised I wouldn't have enough yarn to finish that particular sweater pattern and the colorway I chose is discontinued. I mistook grams needed for yardage in my excitement. I'm making a new rule right now which is to slow down when I'm feeling excited and let my choice of pattern/yarn/color/etc marinate for a few days and double check my calculations instead of diving straight in as soon as the swatch is blocked and dry.
@@AntisocialAuntie I had to stop myself from buying a ton of patterns as well. I have a short waist so cropped garments are not flattering on me. Since realising this, it's easier to say 'no' to patterns that look great on others but would require a lot of modification to work on me.
I like to have at least one simple project that I can work on while talking or watching TV, regardless of what else I’m working on. I usually have 2 or 3 projects active, not counting my weaving. I have several sweaters in my queue and want to focus on using my stash yarn. I’ve recently been clearing some hibernating projects.
I am relatively new knitter and wanted to learn so I can knit socks. I found the Blue Mouse Site on yt and it is the best comprehensive first sock tutorial with free pattern. I did a sock which turned out ok but is a bit bulky but it accomplished me doing a first sock. The sock is a cuff down and I want to learn toe up and believe you at Nerdy Knitting are going to be the best to take that step with but I wish you would post a pattern and video of a basic vanilla toe up that you don't need to calculate a size such as a small Med and Lg ladies sock, it's all intimidating enough and until someone is proficient at keeping your gauge and counting them. I just get to much anxiety, so I hope that you do an Ultimate guide to first time toe up beginners sock tutorial perhaps in parts similar to Blue Mouse Knits. I think it would make sense to offer the pattern that has a premium pricing because it ties to the tutorial.
As a fairly new knitter, I find I can only have 1 new technique project plus 1 pair of vanilla socks. Socks are my palate cleanser when the other project is frustrating me. Crochet has no limits as it works up so quickly. I also use crochet as a palate cleanser for knitting. I have a set of interchangeable plus a couple of circulars for socks. This limits me, too. however, with crochet, it is very tempting to pull out a removable stitch marker + move on to another project. I like the idea of finish it February!
I just don't have the mental capacity to do two things at the same time. I've a scarf that I am working on but I've put it away and started doing my "sock fix", if it don't have a heel, it ain't worth spending time on"! 😉💨 But I really enjoy this video. I can't get over the needle collectors.... Buy sets of interchangeable sets because they are "gorgeous". I couldn't afford the sets, and I find that I like to knit with the US3-US8. For socks I use Paton's Classic Worsted and I find that they are the best for my feet and my knit-worthy friends love them as well. These gossamer thread yarns just make my hands hurt! ( 40 stitches is my limit for a sock and a US5. This makes a beautifully warm sock and the tight knit keeps the sock from pilling out of control).
I started knitting when I was 8, looooong before the internet existed. I don't really know anyone IRL who also knits so I was absolutely flabbergasted when the internet happened and I learned that many knitters have more than one project at a time. That had never even occurred to me!! I have considered abandoning my monogamous ways but I have never been able to actually do it! LOL!
I don't really have rules, but I keep learning about what motivates me to finish things, what works for me, what doesn't... it's a process! I was diagnosed with ADHD in my late 30's and only when I started with meds was I able to actually follow patterns, before that it was a matter of "I want to understand the principle and then just go and do it", which is also a useful skill. I get very bored by stockinette or generally projects that are too easy and take too long. Currently I have the perfect project - it is bright yellow, sparkly, fluffy, mostly stockinette but a cable down the front of the sweater and down the sleeves, which breaks up the monotomy and keeps me engaged. It also has a very flattering shape and neckline. My brain loves bright colours, glitter, and learning stuff. My hands love nice yarns and having projects with different needle sizes. I can knit an all over colourwork sweater in a week, whereas a single colour stockinette one can take me YEARS... So I try to play to my strengths! I also started doing WIP round-ups at least once per year, and trying to finish some older projects in between the new and shiny ones.
I'm moving out of my apartment in 12 days, so project management has been top of mind. A few days ago, I finished my longest languishing crochet WIP, a blanket I started sophmore year of high school with my school colors. Senior year, I decided to continue it with my university colors when i decided where i was going. Long story short, I just graduated college!!! And now, I have a beautiful heirloom blanket even though it took 1/3 of my 22 years on earth. I'm also working on a purl soho half and half shawl made with yarn I got when i studied abroad in italy last summer. All this to say, I dont have time-based rules for my projects because the time spent with them is what makes it special. If I've casted it on and want the item, I'll finish it soon enough!
What a great video!!! I NEED to start following some of these rules. I have three baby projects on the go, one which only needs making up, one I'm waiting for more yarn to arrive and one that I'm playing yarn chicken with. I hate the 'making up' process which annoys me because I so want to see the finished garment so I need to get over myself. I also need to finish them before my new grandbaby girl gets too big for them. You mentioned you want to learn the lever technique where you lock the working needle under your arm. This technique has been an absolute game changer for me and I settled into it straight away as it felt so natural. I have tried and tried to do continental, and no doubt will keep trying, but this lever style has made things so much easier and quicker for me. It has also significantly reduced the pain and fatigue in my right hand which is important for arthritic hands. My arm holds the needle steady and securely which means I'm not having to use my hand to hold a needle which carries an ever increasing weight. Because my right hand is freed up I find it's much easier to work right at the tips of the needles, reducing movement and thus pain and fatigue. This also has be benefit of helping my speed increase. It's a real win win for me. I know everyone has their preferred method and I'm always up for trying different ways but I do love this method and I hope you enjoy learning it and feel the benefits as I have. Good luck and thank you for sharing your knowledge and insight.
Thanks for the info on lever knitting - I hadn't considered the ergonomics of it but that's another great reason to give it a try! I'm glad to hear that it's working for you.
I never have more than 3 projects. 1 project downstairs for evening knitting while my husband and I watch TV; 1 upstairs project for daytime knitting; and then 1 project for the cottage from May to Oct (always something small i,e, socks, mitts, or hats). The cottage is where I start my Christmas knitting.
Yes, I have rules. I only have two hands. 1 large long term project, usually too complex and large to carry around! currently a fair isle vest. Small portable that is simple enough for out and about, like a simple shawl or socks. I usually have to finish a project before casting on.
I have 2 yarn related projects going at the same time: one challenging/long term project, and one simple/quick one. Sometimes, I might add an extra simple one at times. I try not to have more than 3 in the queue.
I have 2 LARGER project bags , one shawl (2 yrs in , for times when husband is away) , one for a sweater (haven't started it after finishing my franken- flax-lite) 1 MEDIUM BAG a Musselburgh hat this time ( I donate hats in Nov, wanted to try making this one) One small/medium draw string bag with handles (from etsy) because I wanted to learn brioche, (good news / bad news ) Started with bioche flat not knowing it is more difficult , it will be s scarf . Good news , in the round should come easier :) A cute tin that looks like a front loading washer including a viewing window to see inside , is for a pair of socks that is always on going. I have enough socks , at this point they are for trying out different knitting patterns on a small scale. (sock yarn is a stash ahead item , family would think that the shoe rack in my closet is for an extensive shoe collection that they never see me wear...haha close enough IT IS foot related ) Finally , one of the online stores included a small /med sized zipper rectangular pouch as a gift. It is perfect for keeping small amounts of yarn and some extra fixed circulars . Not a true project bag but instead for , what people call chasing butterflies or having a squirrel moment . I see something , grab the bag , try a cast on, cast off , increase, decrease , like getting familiar with a technique before I actually will use it.
I am always happiest only having one project at a time, but there are some reasons I might have more. If I want to knit something more complicated I also need to have a basic stockinette in the round project going at the same time for times when I need some mindless knitting, I also started a scrap blanket to use up some yarn, but obviously I can't just work on that straight through, and I also need something portable to take around with me. If one project was able to fit for all theses categories, or combine categories together somehow to have less projects, then great! but if I have 4, as long as they have different purposes then that's okay too
I used to be a very monogamous one-project-at-a-time person, but that changed about a decade ago when I realized that my skin is super sensitive to all petrochemical based synthetic fibers. I suddenly had to replace almost all of my wardrobe with all natural fiber garments very quickly, or else have nothing that I could safely wear. So, by necessity, I had to have several projects going at the same time for a few years. Basics, like underwear, shirts, pants and socks took first priority. Then came seasonal things as I needed them, like hats, scarves and mitts, etc. I'm now at the point where I can slow down and work on some things that I want, rather than just things that I need, and I'm finding that 2 or 3 things at a time is what I'm most comfortable with. Right now I'm working on a big crocheted blanket for my bed, and something I call a sleep shrug. You mentioned Miss Marple and her bed jackets for reading in bed. My sleep shrugs are sort of like that, but I wear them back to front so that they drape over my shoulders and chest.
I have 2 projects on the go. One on smaller needles like socks, and one on larger needles, like a sweater. This way my hands don't get achy working on the smaller needles all the time.
I only have 2 projects, and usually just one, at once. I can get too many very easily, so I developed this as a way to control my sewing projects and never-completed projects. I find it keeps me on track, and not feeling overwhelmed by the uncountable number of WIP's laying around. I do, if I have a trip upcoming (we travel, as retired) usually have supplies to cast on socks for traveling, if I don't have another mindless project to work on. Otherwise, I just carry BOTH projects with me and work on those! 🤣
Just wanna say - you always read my comments, and I really LOVE that! I appreciate it when anyone producing a video pays attention or responds to our comments. It means we're important, or what we're saying is important, to them. THIS is why I support YOU! I've had, only one time, someone to delete my question/comment on a pattern I bought from them, with a video - and I've never forgotten it! I retyped it several time, and every one was deleted! That was the end of my support, and it's just rude. I'm sure that probably makes me appreciate those who do pay attention SO MUCH MORE. So, Thank You! I've noticed this is consistent practice for you, as I usually do have some comment to make! :)
Loved this episode! I always have a pair of socks on the needles for TV knitting in the evening and car knitting. I currently am almost done with a sweater for me and have yarn for a sweater for my husband. It's too stressful for me to have more than three in the present and future. I love knitting and only want to love my time knitting.
When I had a lot of yarn, I had 2 or 3 projects but I found I was confusing techniques (slip first, ktbl, etc) so it’s 1 complex lace and 1 hat, maybe a gift. I also like learning new techniques. The past years, I was knitting through stash so this year I’m only buying yarn to knit a certain project but that sometimes changes after starting swatch.
I try to keep it to 2 or 3 projects. Right now, a long time project crochet a blanket; a short time, socks; a sweater, probably won't be able to wear it, so no rush; starting a sweater class. That is really just a little too many.
I Always have two daily projects. One big and/or difficult one and one small and/or easy one. For my small amount of true WIPS (usually Just one 😇) before i cast on a new daily project I force myself to complete or at least work a ton on these WIPS
Great discussion. I don’t really have any rules but I do know I get overwhelmed if I have too much going on. Typically one crochet project (usually a top or shawl), one learn new thing knitting project, one watch TV project, one pair of socks or a hat for grab and go, and a years long knit blanket project. And a small cowl that apparently just lives in my purse and never gets touched. Lol. My biggest struggle is resisting MALs. I need to do the twice a year thing and not go through WIPs but go through all the bagged up “plan to knit” projects with yarn and needles and hooks in them and see if I really still want/need to make that thing.
I appreciate your methods, as I do similar projects. I’ve had to steer clear of KALs and especially MKALs, as they usually get me off track and often leave me with yarn l don’t need.
The number of wips and ufos doesnt bother me as much as the mess of having too many things going . Tools lost in too many bags, bits of yarn left out because i still need to sew that pocket on, and the worst is swatches and 10 balls of yarn and 20 needles to find the perfect combination. I tend to leave all that mess out because i am so excited to work on the project and because my yarn is stored where its hard to get to so when i get an idea i dive in and pull out 30 options and wind bunches all at once and then put off putting it all away.
I attempt to finish on Friday. I pick the project that would be able to finish, possibly. Then if I don’t finish it then I a more apt to focus on finishing.
I use ravelry to sort my knitting. Once it is hibernating, it is out of mind (and not spread out in front of me). There are a lot of projects that move back and forth from hibernating and Wip. Especially during Finish it February, which I try to use to reduce my unfinished projects. I did a huge FIF about 5 years ago, and now it is just stuff I really want to finish
I stopped joining or being in a monthly yarn club. I loved the yarn but I never use them. I have them all in a single storage container from the container store) labeled and photographed. Being in CA I don’t need anything warm, so I only knit for other people. Right now I am trying to knit a color work sock for my daughter that has kittens on them. Since we just got 2 kittens. I am new to stranded knitting and my first sock was so tight she couldn’t get it on her foot. So I am going to try outside knitting, and rather having many cats on the whole sock by Charlotte Stone, I will only do one row. And do it as a shorty sock by Earthtones Girl.
Back when I crocheted, it was one project at a time and I didn't have a stash. All my stuff fit in the crochet hook case and I had a single bag. It REALLY bothers me that I have a ton of WIPS and a ton of yarn and very few finished items. What generally happens is that that I go through my WIPs once a year and unless I have made significant progress, I frog them. Then I go through my yarn and yarn I really don't like or have no clue why I bought goes in the donation box. I really need rules.
One detailed project and one easy project at a time- they have to be ends woven in and washed done before starting the next one, and only buy yarn or patterns I have immediate plans for. Those are my rules
I only have two projects at a time, socks or mittens and a main project- like a sweater or shawl. My budget is what limits me the most, but I need quick wins so I always have something small like socks going.
I have ADHD, so I have to do multiple projects, because one just doesn't hold my attention for long periods of time. But I do have a limit. Two involved projects (sweaters, blankets, or complicated patterns), and up to three simple projects. I was tempted to increase that limit since I now know how to crochet, but I try to keep it to five or less total projects at a time, and rotate through them.
I just work on one project at a time and I get so 🥱 bored. I think I will try 1 easy and 1 hard. I’ve got probably 10 project bags. But I still stick to one at a time ugh..
I usually only have 3 projects maybe 4. I just don’t start unless I’m done with a project. I usually have a pair of socks, and then another project or two. Right now I have socks and a Sophie scarf while I determine my next big project to do.
I collect yarn and since I’m a slow knitter, I have a stash that grows and this is what stresses me most. I do have numerous projects that languish, but I do try and keep the # of WIP down to less than 5. My WIP are usually due to me coming to a crossroads on whether I should adapt the pattern or just Frog. If I decide that I will Frog, that is less stressful, as I’m just waiting for my spouse to assist, especially if it involves mohair. I occasionally will have the goal that I have to use the yarn I bought locally, before I return and buy more. Even if I meet that goal only 50%, I feel I have succeeded, especially since I have promised myself that I purchase locally once a month. A new yarn store opened locally, so a bit more pressure. Ha.
I don't have any rules, but maybe I SHOULD! I have 2-boxes full of projects only needing to be laundered. UGH!!!! I do try to limit my wips to one-knitting project requiring my full attention, a mindless one & one crochet project.
I have been knitting socks almost exclusively at this time. I have a little rule that I finish the first sock and cast on the second in the same session. I think this may help me avoid second sock syndrome.
I also do 2@at socks. I know I wouldn’t complete the second otherwise, so I persevered in learning the technique. I had to laugh at your “shorter socks,” as I find myself gravitating towards shorter patterns.
Just one rule: max three wips at a time. It's the right number considering I manage to complete only a handful of projects per year and I like switching between different things. I can swatch, of course, so I can take my time to figure out my next cast-on, but I must completely finish one project (block, seam, weave in ends...) before I can start a new one. I find that it is a powerful motivation to plough through the last stages of a project.
I know I'm a bit extra but I currently have more than 40 projects on the needles 😅 and I don't feel anxious at all about it 😊 sometimes I think aloud that I SHOULD be knitting on a WIP rather than starting a new project, but then my mom always reminds me that knitting is my hobby and it should be FUN - and then I cast on another enjoyable project ❤
Oh boy, am i a newbie. I once learned to knit and purl. Immediately forgot purl. I knitted most of a ...cant think of it. Like a short wrap with sleeves. Im not sure where i put it. I need to learn all over again its been years. Im just not going back to crocheting after years. Never did anything but old fashioned style granny square. I am going to do one or two if thise first since i saw a tutorial in some gorgeous Ice yarn. That will get me going. Then i can do one new stitch in crochet and learn to knit and purl a small project. But im doing that blanket before anything else. Im limited on funds and know how so that will keep me tame. I have stopped drawing and painting and mixed media. Its time to do something useful for me and others. I have a set of bamboo knitting needles. Is that good enough? And do you have tutorials on how to knit? 😊 Im wirking toward getting old so i need to get busy. If these severe storms we are supposed to have later and tomorrow dont do us in. Pray for us. I want to do some silk or baby alpaca etc for babies. I can afford a hank at a time for small projects. So many fibers i have never felt. This is going to be wonderful! I can listen to the bible or books or movies while i work. Ohhhh the thing i knitted is a shrug ! No excess yarn in my front. Yak yak yak. Sorry. Im a talker and im really excited to learn. Have a great day. Im in NE Texas in the path for the eclipse. I hope we only get rain . I dont want to lose my house nor my hubby ,critters nor new Ice yarn!!!❤😊
I usually have 2 or 3 projects: a garment, a charity child’s garment or accessory, a pair of socks. BUT, I’m finding I often need a mindless project for my regular pub knitting sessions, especially if my socks are at the heel. I really prefer only 1 or 2 projects because I love the rush that comes from completing things.
I wish I had something like second sock/sleeve syndrome. I loooove the second sock because there aren't anymore decisions to make. My problem is with casting on 😅 So while knitting the second sock, I have to cast on a knew pair, otherwise I don't start at all... Aaand most of my knitting time is on public transport, so I need small and mindless projects to take with me. I'm a really fast knitter and am always running out of WIPs. Sometimes I do actual "cast on days" where I cast on three or four projects, so that I have something to work on. I get anxious if I have only two or three WIPs. I think something's wrong with me 🤣
Ha! I had to laugh when the topic of “X” amount of project bags or needles. I have CG interchangeable set, oops, bought more needles in size/s I used more. I WILL limit myself to 2 sets per size. Different length cords don’t count. And I have some older circs from way back when. Project bags. Ummm, small & med sized mostly. Some came w a kit, or “So Pretty”, or … I “could” say floor space in my small apartment would be a factor, but…. fabric bags are Great for piling up (evil grin)… Am I doomed? Glad to see others in same boat. I’m leaning toward the F.I.F. plan, but I sometimes get frustrated (meaning irritated w myself) and finish a project in a bag w needles attached (…seee?!?!…) without prompting. Maybe. Occasionally. Once in a while. Thank you for very helpful tips! Right now, several bags are giving me the “stink eye”.
I break mine out by project complexity and craft. 1 mindless project (usually socks or swatching) 1 technical project (complex cables or colorwork, lace) 1 crochet project 1 singles spin 1 ply spin Finishing of the category project must be complete before I start the next project in a category.
I should have added that the kitten I am trying to knit for is grey with silver stripes and white whiskers, and naturally enough I have all this yarn, but no sock yarn and no grey at all, so even so my new rule is no more buying any new yarn, I tell myself well this will be a birthday present which was in November and now is February and I now I need to start the stranded cats part. So does it count to label it a gift knit?
I may have two projects going, but I have a rule. If there's not enough natural light for me to sew/finish off one project, then I will knit a second project. When the lighting is better is when that first project gets completed. I only knit in front of TV, after I'm done finished with dinner/and post dinner cleaning, and I work 3 nights a week so I only knit 4 nights a week. If the weather is nice i will also knit on my porch waiting for my son to come home from his workshop. And the only other exception to the above scenario is if I'm flying and I feel like it, then I; do some grandma's dishcloths because those are quick.
Only rules I follow- I have a coat rack that has 6 hooks , so no more than 6 projects. I have 1 large project (scrappy blanket), 1 garment or shawl (Loved Festival of Stitches) and 1 small project(socks or cowl)
@@NerdyKnitting oh that's awesome! I love special little traditions between two people. I buy my sister a children's storybook about knitting every year for her birthday. It was on a whim the first time, but now it's a tradition. There's so many more knitting storybooks than you'd think!
That's such a sweet tradition - I remember a few picture books with mentions of knitting from my daughter's childhood years. What a lovely way to connect with your sister.
Erhm, how many pairs of socks is too much? Like how many pairs of woolly socks do a girl need? Or shawls for that matter. Asking for a friend..... At the moment my unfinished projects has just gotten out of hand, so I have the rule finish 2 before casting on new. It work for now.
Haha - I can't provide guidance on how many is too many - that's too personal! 😁 But I like your rule for getting the unfinished projects back under control!
Finishing one project at a time results in a more even tension but the lure of casting on a new project is real. If uneven tension is not going to be noticeable I will cast on another project. Overall I will knit one project in a these categories but no more (socks, sweater/cardi, shawl).
How to ruin the enjoyable time of knitting? Make rules……! nope. 35 years of knitting and there will never be any rule…too many in the rest of existence and this is a reprieve from that and the ability to be creative…..
Do you have any knitting rules?
I do. I only allow myself 5 projects at a time. One easy knit one, one where i'm learning a new technique or a challenging knit. One crochet project, one tunisian project (different crafts help me to prevent injuries). And I nearly always have one pair of socks for travel knitting. I used to cast on whenever the mood hit me but then I'd be overwhelmed by the amount of WIPS. I also particpate in Finish it February for things that have been languishing in my knitting basket.
One knitting rule that I am starting to develop is to not have any more yarn than I have projects for, and never having more than 3 projects going on at the same time. This also means that I am not getting more overwhelmed with my spinning either, as I have to use the yarn that I have already finished before I ply more spinning.
@@abihebb6720 That's a good one as I spin as well.
I don't because I'm so new to knitting I'm trying to figure out a balance. I really liked your idea of the project bags and I think I will incorporate that. Between knitting, sewing and embroidery I have to figure out a system this year!
One rule/principle is to take care of my body while knitting. I can overdue it and my neck or hands become painful or stiff. Another principle is to limit the number of projects are comfortable. Too many projects means I start to feel anxious and guilty. As a life and spiritual coach, I stay focused on maintaining an equanimity with my knitting. Otherwise knitting doesn’t feel like self-care, but self-frustration!! 😊
I had taken a break from knitting and moved to sewing. Now I'm back to knitting, so TH-cam vids are now knitting again. I was looking around on amazon at knitting stuff when I heard you say my TH-cam handle. I did a double take and chuckled. I've never had a TH-camr read my comments before, brought a little smile to my face lol
Well, thank you for leaving your comment! I love to share the great and insightful things everyone says!
Location, location, location. 1 TV project that is usually mindless , 1 mobile project for car, appts.. and 1 main project that requires thinking and paying attention. However, my main project can be demoted to TV if it’s the body or sleeves of a sweater in plain knitting. This frees up my main project for a new cast on. This way I never have more than 3 on the go.
Great idea! I’m going to do this!!
I’ve found that I cannot be a monogamous knitter; it’s very stressful for me. I use a Gideon Method rotation of 5 items: one large, one socks, one colorwork (so I stay in practice), and two others. I keep a binder listing all my stash yarn and its intended projects, a weekly list for some clarity as to my projects' progress, and a (blank) year calendar for an overview. I love putting “DONE!” next to each project, and counting up the FO's at year's end.
Wow! I love your organizational method!
@@NerdyKnitting My ADHD can be tough to rein in; there’d be 76 WIP's all over the house without *some* organization.
As always I like your podcast and all the good ideas from you and your viewers. I learned several years ago to have one “brainless” knit, one with pattern and a more complicated like illusion knitting or so for which I need to concentrate and be alone. This year is different. I do not buy any yarn unless a specific one for a gift. Did that a few years ago and felt great! Right now I knit a sweater for a toddler and an illusion blanket for a baby. A toddler jacket has already been delivered. My other projects are hibernating. Each one (and a few more) are neatly each in a project bag tucked away in a special bin.
I have multiple circular needles of every size, 24” 32”, etc., a minimum of at least 4 of each size, get frustrated if I don’t have a needle in the right size if I want to start a project. I always have at least 3 or 4 socks going all at once and then maybe 2 or 3 other projects, but then I am retired, so I have all the time I want and need for sitting and knitting all day long if I want to. I usually spend a minimum of 8 plus hours per day.
I don’t cook which is nice, my husband is a professional chef.
So, after housekeeping and laundry is all done, I am knitting.
I started knitting & crochet 5 years ago & completely buying any project & all the pretty yarns. Last year was the change to this ( for me at least ) crazy craft head space. I worked most of my stash (very satisfying) & then started purchasing yarn for projects for 2024. I have completed currently 3 of those projects & will begin to slowly start purchasing for 2025. I have found time to work, complete & enjoy this so much more. Friends & family are my exceptions to this. So yea, goals, rules, exceptions, what a joy !
I do allow myself to cast on small projects whenever i feel like it because it keeps me motivated and interested. Its 100% ok to me to set aside a big project for a few days or even a week or 2. I go back to it refreshed energized and ready to tackle challenges.
Great video! As I watched, I realize my July clearing of needles is because I don't feel like knitting big projects in the summer. I don't have air conditioning since I live in Washington state. Once it gets cool enough I go project crazy to make up for it! Lol! Sewing is good in the summer because it's not sitting on my lap. Lots of love from the Pacific Northwest 🧡
I like the idea of swatching the next sweater, whilst finishing up the current one. 😊
Great podcast thank you
Glad you enjoyed it!
I usually have a small project like Musselburgh hat or socks and then one big project like a sweater. I can’t function with too many projects going at the same time. ❤
Keeping a journal of future dream knitting projects is helpful to me. One large or more complicated project, one smaller or easier project and one charity project at a time is my comfortable limit.
I only work on one full project at a time, but I allow myself to plan and swatch other projects while working on that one.
21:50 I have put myself on a buying yarn freeze 🥶 I love silk yarns and cashmere and and and I have bought beautiful yarns on clearance. Now I have to figure out how to use the yarn I have. lol first world problems… right :/
And I’m still getting 2 skeins every other month from DestinationLane … not so frozen 😂😂😂
I need to knit faster
As they say, “Knit fast, die warm.”
I don't really have rules but I try to make sure there's a variety of projects for me to work on. I love working with 4ply (fingering) but I sometimes get hand cramps, so I've learnt that it's best to have something in 4ply, something heavier like DK or aran, something in the round, something on DPNs, something on straight needles, a crochet project or two... That pretty much ensures I have a range of mindless or more complicated projects as well as different weights to give my hands a break.
Oh, and I keep an emergency Musselburgh hat in my bag!
I’m also a master knitter and don’t feel comfortable with double knitting. When I was working on my DK swatch Leslie Gonzales gave me a tip for the edges. For the first 2 st from the edge wrap the yarn counter clockwise, and also at the end of the row. that really tighten up the edge stitches for me. Then of course, k tbl to keep them from twisting.
Good tip - thank you!
1. I only have one project at a time, doesn’t matter small or big one. I don’t like taking notes so I focused on one project only.
2. I don’t work on same pattern
3. I don’t knit based on request from other people. I knit what I want to knit. I do give my knit product for someone else occasionally but that because I want to knit it.
Those are great rules!
I'm frogging the ribbing on a bottom up sweater right now because I let the excitement of casting on take me after I did a swatch from stash yarn. Then I realised I wouldn't have enough yarn to finish that particular sweater pattern and the colorway I chose is discontinued. I mistook grams needed for yardage in my excitement. I'm making a new rule right now which is to slow down when I'm feeling excited and let my choice of pattern/yarn/color/etc marinate for a few days and double check my calculations instead of diving straight in as soon as the swatch is blocked and dry.
That's a really good rule to have - it's so easy to get excited and not think things through.
I had to do a "slow down" of patterns I buy as I see a TH-camr making it. Too exciting and then realize I am not going to make it for years.
@@AntisocialAuntie I had to stop myself from buying a ton of patterns as well. I have a short waist so cropped garments are not flattering on me. Since realising this, it's easier to say 'no' to patterns that look great on others but would require a lot of modification to work on me.
I like to have at least one simple project that I can work on while talking or watching TV, regardless of what else I’m working on. I usually have 2 or 3 projects active, not counting my weaving. I have several sweaters in my queue and want to focus on using my stash yarn. I’ve recently been clearing some hibernating projects.
I am relatively new knitter and wanted to learn so I can knit socks. I found the Blue Mouse Site on yt and it is the best comprehensive first sock tutorial with free pattern. I did a sock which turned out ok but is a bit bulky but it accomplished me doing a first sock. The sock is a cuff down and I want to learn toe up and believe you at Nerdy Knitting are going to be the best to take that step with but I wish you would post a pattern and video of a basic vanilla toe up that you don't need to calculate a size such as a small Med and Lg ladies sock, it's all intimidating enough and until someone is proficient at keeping your gauge and counting them. I just get to much anxiety, so I hope that you do an Ultimate guide to first time toe up beginners sock tutorial perhaps in parts similar to Blue Mouse Knits. I think it would make sense to offer the pattern that has a premium pricing because it ties to the tutorial.
As a fairly new knitter, I find I can only have 1 new technique project plus 1 pair of vanilla socks. Socks are my palate cleanser when the other project is frustrating me.
Crochet has no limits as it works up so quickly. I also use crochet as a palate cleanser for knitting.
I have a set of interchangeable plus a couple of circulars for socks. This limits me, too. however, with crochet, it is very tempting to pull out a removable stitch marker + move on to another project.
I like the idea of finish it February!
I just don't have the mental capacity to do two things at the same time. I've a scarf that I am working on but I've put it away and started doing my "sock fix", if it don't have a heel, it ain't worth spending time on"! 😉💨 But I really enjoy this video. I can't get over the needle collectors.... Buy sets of interchangeable sets because they are "gorgeous". I couldn't afford the sets, and I find that I like to knit with the US3-US8. For socks I use Paton's Classic Worsted and I find that they are the best for my feet and my knit-worthy friends love them as well. These gossamer thread yarns just make my hands hurt! ( 40 stitches is my limit for a sock and a US5. This makes a beautifully warm sock and the tight knit keeps the sock from pilling out of control).
I started knitting when I was 8, looooong before the internet existed. I don't really know anyone IRL who also knits so I was absolutely flabbergasted when the internet happened and I learned that many knitters have more than one project at a time. That had never even occurred to me!! I have considered abandoning my monogamous ways but I have never been able to actually do it! LOL!
I don't really have rules, but I keep learning about what motivates me to finish things, what works for me, what doesn't... it's a process!
I was diagnosed with ADHD in my late 30's and only when I started with meds was I able to actually follow patterns, before that it was a matter of "I want to understand the principle and then just go and do it", which is also a useful skill. I get very bored by stockinette or generally projects that are too easy and take too long. Currently I have the perfect project - it is bright yellow, sparkly, fluffy, mostly stockinette but a cable down the front of the sweater and down the sleeves, which breaks up the monotomy and keeps me engaged. It also has a very flattering shape and neckline.
My brain loves bright colours, glitter, and learning stuff.
My hands love nice yarns and having projects with different needle sizes.
I can knit an all over colourwork sweater in a week, whereas a single colour stockinette one can take me YEARS... So I try to play to my strengths!
I also started doing WIP round-ups at least once per year, and trying to finish some older projects in between the new and shiny ones.
I'm moving out of my apartment in 12 days, so project management has been top of mind. A few days ago, I finished my longest languishing crochet WIP, a blanket I started sophmore year of high school with my school colors. Senior year, I decided to continue it with my university colors when i decided where i was going. Long story short, I just graduated college!!! And now, I have a beautiful heirloom blanket even though it took 1/3 of my 22 years on earth. I'm also working on a purl soho half and half shawl made with yarn I got when i studied abroad in italy last summer. All this to say, I dont have time-based rules for my projects because the time spent with them is what makes it special. If I've casted it on and want the item, I'll finish it soon enough!
And those items will always have such beautiful memories attached to them too! ❤️
What a great video!!! I NEED to start following some of these rules. I have three baby projects on the go, one which only needs making up, one I'm waiting for more yarn to arrive and one that I'm playing yarn chicken with. I hate the 'making up' process which annoys me because I so want to see the finished garment so I need to get over myself. I also need to finish them before my new grandbaby girl gets too big for them.
You mentioned you want to learn the lever technique where you lock the working needle under your arm. This technique has been an absolute game changer for me and I settled into it straight away as it felt so natural. I have tried and tried to do continental, and no doubt will keep trying, but this lever style has made things so much easier and quicker for me. It has also significantly reduced the pain and fatigue in my right hand which is important for arthritic hands. My arm holds the needle steady and securely which means I'm not having to use my hand to hold a needle which carries an ever increasing weight. Because my right hand is freed up I find it's much easier to work right at the tips of the needles, reducing movement and thus pain and fatigue. This also has be benefit of helping my speed increase. It's a real win win for me. I know everyone has their preferred method and I'm always up for trying different ways but I do love this method and I hope you enjoy learning it and feel the benefits as I have. Good luck and thank you for sharing your knowledge and insight.
Thanks for the info on lever knitting - I hadn't considered the ergonomics of it but that's another great reason to give it a try! I'm glad to hear that it's working for you.
I never have more than 3 projects. 1 project downstairs for evening knitting while my husband and I watch TV; 1 upstairs project for daytime knitting; and then 1 project for the cottage from May to Oct (always something small i,e, socks, mitts, or hats). The cottage is where I start my Christmas knitting.
Yes, I have rules. I only have two hands. 1 large long term project, usually too complex and large to carry around! currently a fair isle vest. Small portable that is simple enough for out and about, like a simple shawl or socks. I usually have to finish a project before casting on.
I have 2 yarn related projects going at the same time: one challenging/long term project, and one simple/quick one. Sometimes, I might add an extra simple one at times. I try not to have more than 3 in the queue.
The only pattern that I have NEVER been bored for one second is the Papllion Shawl! I’m making one now and it’s such a wonderful experience. !
I think I'm going to put that on my to-knit list - it's so pretty!
@@NerdyKnitting I highly recommend it. It’s a wearable work of art !
I have 2 LARGER project bags , one shawl (2 yrs in , for times when husband is away) , one for a sweater (haven't started it after finishing my franken- flax-lite)
1 MEDIUM BAG a Musselburgh hat this time ( I donate hats in Nov, wanted to try making this one)
One small/medium draw string bag with handles (from etsy) because I wanted to learn brioche, (good news / bad news ) Started with bioche flat not knowing it is more difficult , it will be s scarf . Good news , in the round should come easier :)
A cute tin that looks like a front loading washer including a viewing window to see inside , is for a pair of socks that is always on going. I have enough socks , at this point they are for trying out different knitting patterns on a small scale. (sock yarn is a stash ahead item , family would think that the shoe rack in my closet is for an extensive shoe collection that they never see me wear...haha close enough IT IS foot related )
Finally , one of the online stores included a small /med sized zipper rectangular pouch as a gift. It is perfect for keeping small amounts of yarn and some extra fixed circulars .
Not a true project bag but instead for , what people call chasing butterflies or having a squirrel moment . I see something , grab the bag , try a cast on, cast off , increase, decrease , like getting familiar with a technique before I actually will use it.
I am always happiest only having one project at a time, but there are some reasons I might have more. If I want to knit something more complicated I also need to have a basic stockinette in the round project going at the same time for times when I need some mindless knitting, I also started a scrap blanket to use up some yarn, but obviously I can't just work on that straight through, and I also need something portable to take around with me. If one project was able to fit for all theses categories, or combine categories together somehow to have less projects, then great! but if I have 4, as long as they have different purposes then that's okay too
I used to be a very monogamous one-project-at-a-time person, but that changed about a decade ago when I realized that my skin is super sensitive to all petrochemical based synthetic fibers. I suddenly had to replace almost all of my wardrobe with all natural fiber garments very quickly, or else have nothing that I could safely wear. So, by necessity, I had to have several projects going at the same time for a few years. Basics, like underwear, shirts, pants and socks took first priority. Then came seasonal things as I needed them, like hats, scarves and mitts, etc. I'm now at the point where I can slow down and work on some things that I want, rather than just things that I need, and I'm finding that 2 or 3 things at a time is what I'm most comfortable with. Right now I'm working on a big crocheted blanket for my bed, and something I call a sleep shrug. You mentioned Miss Marple and her bed jackets for reading in bed. My sleep shrugs are sort of like that, but I wear them back to front so that they drape over my shoulders and chest.
Creating your whole wardrobe from scratch sounds like a big task! And your sleep shrug sounds really nice!
I’m pretty much a monogamous knitter but in addition to my one project I always have a gift for charity project on the needles.
I have 2 projects on the go. One on smaller needles like socks, and one on larger needles, like a sweater. This way my hands don't get achy working on the smaller needles all the time.
I only have 2 projects, and usually just one, at once. I can get too many very easily, so I developed this as a way to control my sewing projects and never-completed projects. I find it keeps me on track, and not feeling overwhelmed by the uncountable number of WIP's laying around. I do, if I have a trip upcoming (we travel, as retired) usually have supplies to cast on socks for traveling, if I don't have another mindless project to work on. Otherwise, I just carry BOTH projects with me and work on those! 🤣
Just wanna say - you always read my comments, and I really LOVE that! I appreciate it when anyone producing a video pays attention or responds to our comments. It means we're important, or what we're saying is important, to them. THIS is why I support YOU! I've had, only one time, someone to delete my question/comment on a pattern I bought from them, with a video - and I've never forgotten it! I retyped it several time, and every one was deleted! That was the end of my support, and it's just rude. I'm sure that probably makes me appreciate those who do pay attention SO MUCH MORE. So, Thank You! I've noticed this is consistent practice for you, as I usually do have some comment to make! :)
Loved this episode! I always have a pair of socks on the needles for TV knitting in the evening and car knitting. I currently am almost done with a sweater for me and have yarn for a sweater for my husband. It's too stressful for me to have more than three in the present and future. I love knitting and only want to love my time knitting.
Thanks again 👌🏽
When I had a lot of yarn, I had 2 or 3 projects but I found I was confusing techniques (slip first, ktbl, etc) so it’s 1 complex lace and 1 hat, maybe a gift. I also like learning new techniques. The past years, I was knitting through stash so this year I’m only buying yarn to knit a certain project but that sometimes changes after starting swatch.
I try to keep it to 2 or 3 projects. Right now, a long time project crochet a blanket; a short time, socks; a sweater, probably won't be able to wear it, so no rush; starting a sweater class. That is really just a little too many.
I Always have two daily projects. One big and/or difficult one and one small and/or easy one. For my small amount of true WIPS (usually Just one 😇) before i cast on a new daily project I force myself to complete or at least work a ton on these WIPS
Great discussion. I don’t really have any rules but I do know I get overwhelmed if I have too much going on. Typically one crochet project (usually a top or shawl), one learn new thing knitting project, one watch TV project, one pair of socks or a hat for grab and go, and a years long knit blanket project. And a small cowl that apparently just lives in my purse and never gets touched. Lol. My biggest struggle is resisting MALs. I need to do the twice a year thing and not go through WIPs but go through all the bagged up “plan to knit” projects with yarn and needles and hooks in them and see if I really still want/need to make that thing.
I appreciate your methods, as I do similar projects. I’ve had to steer clear of KALs and especially MKALs, as they usually get me off track and often leave me with yarn l don’t need.
The number of wips and ufos doesnt bother me as much as the mess of having too many things going . Tools lost in too many bags, bits of yarn left out because i still need to sew that pocket on, and the worst is swatches and 10 balls of yarn and 20 needles to find the perfect combination. I tend to leave all that mess out because i am so excited to work on the project and because my yarn is stored where its hard to get to so when i get an idea i dive in and pull out 30 options and wind bunches all at once and then put off putting it all away.
I attempt to finish on Friday. I pick the project that would be able to finish, possibly. Then if I don’t finish it then I a more apt to focus on finishing.
I use ravelry to sort my knitting. Once it is hibernating, it is out of mind (and not spread out in front of me). There are a lot of projects that move back and forth from hibernating and Wip. Especially during Finish it February, which I try to use to reduce my unfinished projects. I did a huge FIF about 5 years ago, and now it is just stuff I really want to finish
I stopped joining or being in a monthly yarn club. I loved the yarn but I never use them. I have them all in a single storage container from the container store) labeled and photographed. Being in CA I don’t need anything warm, so I only knit for other people. Right now I am trying to knit a color work sock for my daughter that has kittens on them. Since we just got 2 kittens. I am new to stranded knitting and my first sock was so tight she couldn’t get it on her foot. So I am going to try outside knitting, and rather having many cats on the whole sock by Charlotte Stone, I will only do one row. And do it as a shorty sock by Earthtones Girl.
I limit to 1 knitting and 1 crochet. It keeps my shoulder from pain and my fingers strengthened. 😊
Back when I crocheted, it was one project at a time and I didn't have a stash. All my stuff fit in the crochet hook case and I had a single bag. It REALLY bothers me that I have a ton of WIPS and a ton of yarn and very few finished items. What generally happens is that that I go through my WIPs once a year and unless I have made significant progress, I frog them. Then I go through my yarn and yarn I really don't like or have no clue why I bought goes in the donation box. I really need rules.
“I Thought I Knew How” (Ann Frost) has a Face the Music Mondays which prompts me to look each week at my WIPs
One detailed project and one easy project at a time- they have to be ends woven in and washed done before starting the next one, and only buy yarn or patterns I have immediate plans for. Those are my rules
My knitting group has "finish it or frog it February". (FIOFI)
I only have two projects at a time, socks or mittens and a main project- like a sweater or shawl. My budget is what limits me the most, but I need quick wins so I always have something small like socks going.
I have ADHD, so I have to do multiple projects, because one just doesn't hold my attention for long periods of time. But I do have a limit. Two involved projects (sweaters, blankets, or complicated patterns), and up to three simple projects. I was tempted to increase that limit since I now know how to crochet, but I try to keep it to five or less total projects at a time, and rotate through them.
I just work on one project at a time and I get so 🥱 bored. I think I will try 1 easy and 1 hard. I’ve got probably 10 project bags. But I still stick to one at a time ugh..
I usually only have 3 projects maybe 4. I just don’t start unless I’m done with a project. I usually have a pair of socks, and then another project or two. Right now I have socks and a Sophie scarf while I determine my next big project to do.
I collect yarn and since I’m a slow knitter, I have a stash that grows and this is what stresses me most. I do have numerous projects that languish, but I do try and keep the # of WIP down to less than 5. My WIP are usually due to me coming to a crossroads on whether I should adapt the pattern or just Frog. If I decide that I will Frog, that is less stressful, as I’m just waiting for my spouse to assist, especially if it involves mohair. I occasionally will have the goal that I have to use the yarn I bought locally, before I return and buy more. Even if I meet that goal only 50%, I feel I have succeeded, especially since I have promised myself that I purchase locally once a month. A new yarn store opened locally, so a bit more pressure. Ha.
I don't have any rules, but maybe I SHOULD! I have 2-boxes full of projects only needing to be laundered. UGH!!!! I do try to limit my wips to one-knitting project requiring my full attention, a mindless one & one crochet project.
I have been knitting socks almost exclusively at this time. I have a little rule that I finish the first sock and cast on the second in the same session. I think this may help me avoid second sock syndrome.
3/4 way done with long sweater coat.
I knit my socks 2 at a time. No second sock syndrome. However, my socks seem to be getting shorter.
Haha, yes! I'm glad I like shortie socks - so much quicker to knit!
I also do 2@at socks. I know I wouldn’t complete the second otherwise, so I persevered in learning the technique. I had to laugh at your “shorter socks,” as I find myself gravitating towards shorter patterns.
It took me 4 years to finish project using crochet pineapple pattern table cloth
Just one rule: max three wips at a time. It's the right number considering I manage to complete only a handful of projects per year and I like switching between different things. I can swatch, of course, so I can take my time to figure out my next cast-on, but I must completely finish one project (block, seam, weave in ends...) before I can start a new one. I find that it is a powerful motivation to plough through the last stages of a project.
I know I'm a bit extra but I currently have more than 40 projects on the needles 😅 and I don't feel anxious at all about it 😊 sometimes I think aloud that I SHOULD be knitting on a WIP rather than starting a new project, but then my mom always reminds me that knitting is my hobby and it should be FUN - and then I cast on another enjoyable project ❤
If it isn't causing you any stress (and you have the space!) I don't see a problem. Your mom is right - it's your hobby so enjoy!
Oh boy, am i a newbie. I once learned to knit and purl. Immediately forgot purl. I knitted most of a ...cant think of it. Like a short wrap with sleeves. Im not sure where i put it. I need to learn all over again its been years. Im just not going back to crocheting after years. Never did anything but old fashioned style granny square. I am going to do one or two if thise first since i saw a tutorial in some gorgeous Ice yarn. That will get me going. Then i can do one new stitch in crochet and learn to knit and purl a small project. But im doing that blanket before anything else. Im limited on funds and know how so that will keep me tame. I have stopped drawing and painting and mixed media. Its time to do something useful for me and others. I have a set of bamboo knitting needles. Is that good enough? And do you have tutorials on how to knit? 😊 Im wirking toward getting old so i need to get busy. If these severe storms we are supposed to have later and tomorrow dont do us in. Pray for us. I want to do some silk or baby alpaca etc for babies. I can afford a hank at a time for small projects. So many fibers i have never felt. This is going to be wonderful! I can listen to the bible or books or movies while i work. Ohhhh the thing i knitted is a shrug ! No excess yarn in my front. Yak yak yak. Sorry. Im a talker and im really excited to learn. Have a great day. Im in NE Texas in the path for the eclipse. I hope we only get rain . I dont want to lose my house nor my hubby ,critters nor new Ice yarn!!!❤😊
I usually have 2 or 3 projects: a garment, a charity child’s garment or accessory, a pair of socks. BUT, I’m finding I often need a mindless project for my regular pub knitting sessions, especially if my socks are at the heel. I really prefer only 1 or 2 projects because I love the rush that comes from completing things.
I wish I had something like second sock/sleeve syndrome. I loooove the second sock because there aren't anymore decisions to make. My problem is with casting on 😅 So while knitting the second sock, I have to cast on a knew pair, otherwise I don't start at all...
Aaand most of my knitting time is on public transport, so I need small and mindless projects to take with me. I'm a really fast knitter and am always running out of WIPs.
Sometimes I do actual "cast on days" where I cast on three or four projects, so that I have something to work on. I get anxious if I have only two or three WIPs. I think something's wrong with me 🤣
Ha! I had to laugh when the topic of “X” amount of project bags or needles. I have CG interchangeable set, oops, bought more needles in size/s I used more. I WILL limit myself to 2 sets per size. Different length cords don’t count. And I have some older circs from way back when. Project bags. Ummm, small & med sized mostly. Some came w a kit, or “So Pretty”, or …
I “could” say floor space in my small apartment would be a factor, but…. fabric bags are Great for piling up (evil grin)…
Am I doomed?
Glad to see others in same boat. I’m leaning toward the F.I.F. plan, but I sometimes get frustrated (meaning irritated w myself) and finish a project in a bag w needles attached (…seee?!?!…) without prompting. Maybe. Occasionally. Once in a while.
Thank you for very helpful tips! Right now, several bags are giving me the “stink eye”.
Hello! I’m a beginner knitter. I enjoy your videos. Do you happen to have a beginner shawl pattern you could recommend? Thank you!
I have a few shawl videos - you could do a search and find them!
@@NerdyKnitting Awesome! Thank you! I appreciate all of your videos.
I break mine out by project complexity and craft.
1 mindless project (usually socks or swatching)
1 technical project (complex cables or colorwork, lace)
1 crochet project
1 singles spin
1 ply spin
Finishing of the category project must be complete before I start the next project in a category.
I should have added that the kitten I am trying to knit for is grey with silver stripes and white whiskers, and naturally enough I have all this yarn, but no sock yarn and no grey at all, so even so my new rule is no more buying any new yarn, I tell myself well this will be a birthday present which was in November and now is February and I now I need to start the stranded cats part. So does it count to label it a gift knit?
I really think I'm hooked on knitting. If I don't have something on the needles, I get panicky.
I may have two projects going, but I have a rule. If there's not enough natural light for me to sew/finish off one project, then I will knit a second project. When the lighting is better is when that first project gets completed. I only knit in front of TV, after I'm done finished with dinner/and post dinner cleaning, and I work 3 nights a week so I only knit 4 nights a week. If the weather is nice i will also knit on my porch waiting for my son to come home from his workshop. And the only other exception to the above scenario is if I'm flying and I feel like it, then I; do some grandma's dishcloths because those are quick.
How many notions bags do you have? Do you have one for each project bag or only one you have to grab and transfer from bag to bag?
I have a Finish Friday. Work on only one project that is closest to being completed.
I like that rule!
Only rules I follow- I have a coat rack that has 6 hooks , so no more than 6 projects. I have 1 large project (scrappy blanket), 1 garment or shawl (Loved Festival of Stitches) and 1 small project(socks or cowl)
I try to have 2 or so… one easy mindless knit and one challenging
I have one rule this year. No more gift knits. That stressed me out so much.
I love your 10th Doctor Funko! 😍
Me too! My daughter buys me a new Funko every Christmas - usually related to something we've watched together that year.
@@NerdyKnitting oh that's awesome! I love special little traditions between two people. I buy my sister a children's storybook about knitting every year for her birthday. It was on a whim the first time, but now it's a tradition. There's so many more knitting storybooks than you'd think!
That's such a sweet tradition - I remember a few picture books with mentions of knitting from my daughter's childhood years. What a lovely way to connect with your sister.
I lost your link to your class. I know you have one without zoom just go as you want. Can I sign up for that one anytime ?
Yes, that one is open all the time now. Here's the link: toniaknits.com/workshop/
I'm knitting a blanket making 12" squares.
Erhm, how many pairs of socks is too much? Like how many pairs of woolly socks do a girl need? Or shawls for that matter. Asking for a friend.....
At the moment my unfinished projects has just gotten out of hand, so I have the rule finish 2 before casting on new. It work for now.
Haha - I can't provide guidance on how many is too many - that's too personal! 😁 But I like your rule for getting the unfinished projects back under control!
@@NerdyKnitting there might be a pair of socks or two in there 🤔 I don't suffer from second sock syndrome, it's more of begin the heel syndrome
(testing). I added comments before and they disappear
Finishing one project at a time results in a more even tension but the lure of casting on a new project is real. If uneven tension is not going to be noticeable I will cast on another project. Overall I will knit one project in a these categories but no more (socks, sweater/cardi, shawl).
If the knit is going to show tension changes I will try to finish it first. The lure to cast-on new project is hard to resist though.
How to ruin the enjoyable time of knitting? Make rules……! nope. 35 years of knitting and there will never be any rule…too many in the rest of existence and this is a reprieve from that and the ability to be creative…..