I knit everywhere! My friends know I bring my projects with me, and are curious about my current item. And I usually hear “I wish I could do that.” I always say, ‘You can!” I think that is why The Knitting In Public Day is a thing. To spread the joy, the craft, and get others to knit.
As a teacher, I used to recommend that my students read "around the edges"; that is, take a book along and read wherever and whenever they have a free moment. Now I knit "around the edges!"
Where I have knitted: Dr. Office, in the Car, at the gym, in a sauna, in a swimming pool, watching u-tube, camping, restaurants, beach, church, over people's houses, parties, while play games. My knitting goes everywhere. Most people do not even notice I am knitting, flying, airports, haircut, dentist. Of course home in my craftroom. I LOVE the cat caffe
😂😂😂 church! I can’t tell you how many times I have sat in church wishing I had my knitting with me. Thanks for the post, I’m not as crazy as I thought 🤣😂
I think taking your yarn out in public helps with the 'I feel awkward alone " feeling that many people these days full with their phones. Knitting or crocheting is more productive and mentally healthier.
Hi Mark, You are very naughty! No-one as talented and lovely as you should be permitted to even think of themselves as a loser! I am loving the outside knitting and I thought the sound was great; no lawnmower that I could detect anyway. I knit in public all the time. I do try not to overstay my welcome in restaurants and coffee ships, only knitting until I have finished eating/ drinking. I really like your idea of knitting in museums and will give that a try over the summer. Knitting on the beach here in the Isle of Man can be tricky due to generally windy weather even on sunny days, but maybe I'll risk it. I also plan to pack a chair in my car from now on. Great episode, with all the glimpses of Chattanooga in the background only adding to my enjoyment.
Hi Mark, thank you for this beautiful video. I love that you’re so close to your family and also that you like knitting in public! I’m 63 and live in a rural area in the high desert of SW New Mexico on 26 acres. I care for the public, as a nurse, so when I’m not working I enjoy time at my home. I really enjoy knitting at home, surrounded by my pets and my huge garden. I can’t knit in the car anymore since my husband has had seizures. I now have to drive wherever we go. It’s ok though, I love him so much. You are NOT a loser. You are being a productive, creative human and that’s an honorable thing. Carry on dear! ❤
I do prefer to knit at home while I'm watching something or chatting with my friends in discord, but I also knit very often in doctor's offices. I have a chronic illness and am in doctor's offices multiple times a week, so I make sure to always carry my little sock project bag around with me. I also knit at parks when I take my nephews out. People don't typically notice I'm knitting, but I've had a few awkward situations where someone will say they can't knit but they can crochet and then tell me knitters turn their noses up at crochet all the time. I started crocheting first!! I have so many crochet projects too, I just find it easier to knit in public than crochet haha.
It's definitely a little harder for me to crochet in public because I have to look at the work. I don't have to look at my knitting. I've learned to crochet(age 8/9) first and you would think I could do it without looking at my work.
@@redaleta Nah, having done both, knitting you can do by touch because the stitch is always at the end of the needle, but with crochet you have to find where you are attaching your stitch. There is a reason why knitting machines exist but crochet machines don't.
I am a new knitter but a life long crocheter. I crochet (& now knit) everywhere…. Out in my backyard, the beach, parks, doctors office, hospital, stores, restaurants, airports, planes, coffee shops, car…. It’s endless. The times I find I didn’t bring something with me , I feel lost ( & slightly panicked!😮) you never know when you will have a spare moment or two to knit (or craft) Have a great day Mark! Knit on! 🧶
I work from home full time since the pandemic. So it’s true that I knit most often at home but I never leave the house without my knitting, and this has always been the case since I’ve been a knitter, starting in 2003. I have a knitting group that meets every Saturday. We started in 2008 at a bookstore, and moved over the years to a restaurant and then people’s homes. When the pandemic hit we transitioned to Zoom, and now we are hybrid, but still together. Happy. Worldwide Knit in Public Day!
We did a repositioning cruise in 2013 from Southampton to (I think) Miami. I took a load of yarn (multi-coloured) to knit mittens for grandkids and their friends and I was astounded by the number of older Americans who would stop to see what I was making. I think it was due to the non plain yarn! I've just discovered dpns (I don't mean that literally) and they are so easy to knit with. I've been knitting for 67 years now and can't understand why I've never tried them before. I must say that I can't believe how proficient you have become in such a relatively short time. I love watching you knit!
Ever since the first sock I knit - march 2024 - I've always taken them with me, so I could knit more where ever I am. And 4 pairs of socks further I'm still doing it! And I love knitting, it's a rediscovery from very many moons ago when I learned to deeply dislike it in school. Now I love it and am knitting as much as I can as often as I can! Not very fast yet but hey, I'm learning! And Mark, thank you so much for your wonderful videos - I really enjoy them so much!
LOL - with something like 12000 knitting podcasts, it is certainly NOT a dying art. LOL. Yes, the color and type of yarn really does allow the stitches to 'pop'! It's gorgeous. I'm looking forward to seeing it complete.
I find that crocheting seems to be my emotional security blanket. I tend to keep my projects on the small side and get absolutely obsessive about how to carry everything I need with me. The comfort it gives me is priceless! Even if I don’t take it out and work, I love having it with me so if the spirit moves me, I’m ready. Love seeing and hearing about your roots, Mark!
Like the other commenters, below, I knit in public a lot (shuttle buses, airports, airplanes, Lyfty, Uber, at my weekly French conversation group, doctor / dentist offices) and even when attending concerts. Most halls do not completely turn off the house lights, so there's always just enough light to knit while absorbing the beauty of the performance. In fact, I am convinced I am a more focused listener when knitting than I would otherwise be.
No, you're not a loser! I knit everywhere & meet all kinds of folks. Really fun. The Mets just had a Stitch & Pitch night at their stadium. Hundreds of crafters knitting & watching baseball. How fun is that?
I love crafting in public. I used to crocket more than knit, but I took it everywhere. I found a vintage pattern for a wristlet with an eyelet in the middle that allowed me to crochet while walking. My husband has called me a "granny" since we were in our 20s, but sitting here pushing 50 I have hobbies and he is realizing he doesn't. Taking my crafts everwhere helps dispell anxiety, especially when you are in a stressful situation. Keep knitting everywhere!😊
I love the idea of reframing a delay as a "gift of time". Also, it is very normal to do crafting in public. I've met many wonderful people this way. So no, you are a winner, not a loser.
I have been knitting since I was 5. So at 75 I am celebrating my 70th year of knitting! Yes, I take my knitting on drives with my husband, meetings in my community, dentist & doctor s’ offices. I enjoy knitting before my T’ai Chi class each week. It’s a part of my life and has been for most of it.💜🧶
When I know or suspect there will be some "dead time" I always bring a small knitting or crochet project with me, usually a sock- or shawl project or a granny square project). I craft when commuting (3 - 4 hours a day by bus), in the doctor's or dentist's office and the other day while my car was in the motor vehicle inspection. I take daily walks and if I can find the right bag I will knit and walk (I walk where there's no traffic and the path is even).
I knit in public a lot. I live in a tourist area near Southern Utah. My favorite place to knit in public is a little restaurant up the highway about twenty miles from my home. I love to sit with a cup of coffee, a piece of pie and my kniing, and just people watch. I have never had a rude comment. Most people either ignore me or are intrigued. Enjoy your craft wherever you are! Thank you for spending your time with us!
I'm a "loser" who knits in public as well. I just spent my Sunday morning knitting in my local coffeeshop while enjoying my morning watching your video. There's nothing better!
Not a loser, more of a mindful time spender. I've knit in line at the zoo, in the keukenhof, the bus, the train, the ferry, plane, between courses in restaurants. It always leads to nice conversations.
I knit wherever I am...I try to do it by myself because I am very ADHD and talking to ppl causes me to stop. If I see ppl out in the wild I usually don't ask them about their WIP until they are leaving said place so as NOT to disturb them. I take my mom places since she isn't driving at the moment and I ALWAYS remind her to pack a project...
I started carrying my projects when I was pregnant with my first child, way back in 1985! I was high risk and spent what felt like half my pregnancy in a doctor/hospital waiting room so I would take a project with me, mittens hats and booties were favourite as I did not really need a pattern, then I started taking larger projects and the contents of the nappy bag allowed for more room. I knit, crochet and Tunisian crochet and I don't really care what people think of me sitting and working on my projects on buses, trains, planes boats, you name it. Most of the time people will ask a question or compliment the work, it is a great ice breaker as people are curious, especially for about something new to them. It is surprising how much you can achieve from what can be seen as wasted time.
I always have my knitting with me and have had for the past 50 years. Others identify me as, “you know, the lady who knits or is always wearing one of her shawls”. 😂
I knit where I'll be waiting awhile. I.e. Dr appts, long meetings or lectures, DMV, long traffic "stops", and my local library. Kids have curiosity and adults just stare or ignor. What fun!
I can’t leave the house without my knitting or crochet, even if i know that i probably won’t be able to pick it up. I am completely addicted to my craft and i love all the project possibilities. Love the video. Thank you. 😊
Definitely taking knitting or crochet every where on my beach vacation! It’s a phenomena in my family that the food is always delivered to our restaurant table as soon as I pull out my knitting! Every time!
Mark, love your stuff! To the point at hand: I'd say that you can knit wherever you want without any guilt within reason. Specifically: if your presence somewhere is preventing someone else from doing something (e.g., restaurant when there's a line), you should prolly consider those consequences.
I am currently working on a knit project while on a bus trip (with about 40 strangers) to a winery and cigar shop…while watching your video. #unapologetically knitting
Sometimes I knit while I walk. Just need a project that’s not too big or complicated and somewhere to keep the yarn =) If I’m in a knitting mood I knit wherever I am as long as it’s safe and not too dirty =)
I knit everywhere and anywhere I can. As a mum of a young kiddo, my knitting time isn’t particularly plentiful so I squeeze in stitches where I can. I mostly knit socks, so they are super portable and can be picked up and put down as needed. I keep a Musselburgh hat project permanently in the car incase I run into a situation where I suddenly have lots of time to spare.
We had our fibercraft guild meeting yesterday and cut it short in order to go out and participate in WWKIPD. I sat with a friend for about 2.5 hours in a riverside park, winding yarn and knitting. We brought spare needles and yarn in case someone wanted to learn. Unfortunately no one approached us. Next year we will have a sign, “Ask me about my knitting “.
I knit in public all the time, even at sportsball gamers. ;-) It is too hot to be outside today, though, with the high getting over 100. I am finishing a balaclava to give to a homeless shelter next fall.
I knit everywhere. The objectively weirdest place I've ever knit at so far was my sisters wedding. She was fine with it, and coincidentally those sanquhar gloves fit her so much better. I think the photographer must have snapped a hundred pics of me knitting
In official transport, in trains, S-U-Bahn and Busses. At the dentist. In the park. In waiting lines. At a hike. While walking through the streets of Berlin! People are shocked-and its not easy to shok people in Berlin ;)
Oh! Your sweater is just stunning! Thank you for the reminder! I forgot it was WWKIPD! This weekend is very special for me! My dear husband had a stroke almost 2 years ago. To say the least this was life changing! This weekend will be the first weekend I will be spending the weekend with my friends knitting the weekend away! Enjoy your day! You always pick the prettiest places to knit! I have knit everywhere you can imagine! My family knows I take it with me everywhere! I take it with me every Sunday when my husband and I go to breakfast!
If I am not mistaken, the last time I “seriously” crafted in public was the year I got married. Back then I was in France finishing college and commuting every weekend back to my parents’ by train. I decided to make use of the time by crocheting a bedspread. It took me six months to make twenty squares in wool. I assembled the whole thing at home though, as it was obviously too bulky to carry around. The yarn was top quality, and forty-four years later my husband and I still use it in winter. I don’t remember anyone commenting or asking questions on the ride home - but that was last century, in France, and what I was doing was I guess very ordinary to most people over there. Thank you for this video, Mark. I love how you turn around what could be an annoying situation by calling it “the gift of time”. And, just between you and me, the music at the beginning and at the end of your talk gets me dancing every single time 🤫!
Hi Mark, the CATS are so great. I knitted and did a little drop spindling with a group of friends yesterday in public! Thanks for more ideas where and when to do it!
Hi Mark: What an uber awesome cat cafe! I love it, is a great cause! Did not know that cat cafe/adoption theme exists! There should more of them. It is so sad that cats are stuck in rescue shelters waiting a long time to be adopted. We have stray cats sheltering in my backyard from rain and the cold snow/ice for years! I feel so bad for them. I’m glad my backyard awning shelters them from heavy downpours and outdoor and sofa provide them with some warmth as the ice and heavy snow melts. My neighbors feed them, and I provide them with water and food sometimes. Thanks for showing parts of Chattanooga and North Carolina. I would love to go visit, but my financial limitation does not permit me to. I really appreciate you featuring them on your podcast. Thanks for sharing! Wishing you a restful, relaxing, and awesome summer! ❤
I live in the Middle East and take my knitting with me when I have appointments or just going for coffee. Ive never been one to sit on my phone, and I love how many wonderful folks I have met and initiated conversation with simply because Im knitting. I also find knitting whilst out calming
Right now I have a lovely sock project in a bag from a yarn store. It goes where I go. I’ve decided I need to have a sock project available at all times . So I have two wip now. ❤. Mark I love your videos. When you record and all you see is your camera keep in mind it feels like your looking right at me. So thank you for being you and sharing with us
I love the color and think will look great on your coloring - cardigans are always great for on/off warmth. Knitting day is celebrated everywhere - (I’m in SC)beautiful weather for you and birds in background. A perfect day to be outside - enjoy your family visit with your hubby.❤️
I crochet. Knitting feels daunting to me. lol. But I’ve definitely crocheted at plenty of tennis matches, drills and practices that my daughter participates in! Nobody really notices me because they’re focused on tennis !🎾
I’ve had people say “you knit? That’s a dying art, isn’t it?” They’re amazed when I tell them that it is growing, maybe even booming and there are many men who knit, too.
I was today for a short time in a mall knitting on my socks. Still need to feel more comfortable to do it, because I can be a bit shy, but today I did it! and I'm happy for that. Mark, I would like to say that your voice is so nice, I really like to watch your videos and listen to your voice that gives me calm and tranquility. Greetings from a Mexican living in Budapet, Hungary.
I often knit at an outdoor concert or gathering. Today, my small local knitters group held a "Worldwide Knit in Public" event on the lawn of one of our museums, We are in a small midwest town with a Landmark Historical District. (Marshall, Michigan. In case you might be familiar)
HI, Mark….I thoroughly enjoyed this video….You would definitely find me at the Cat Cafe with my knitting…Heaven! As usual, thank you for always bringing a smile to my face with your personality and videos. You are the most pleasant guy….AND I love your knitting project….Bee’s Knees. See you next time…. 🤗❤️🙋 Sue
I always have a project going and knit everywhere, any time I have a few minutes, Growing up in the '60s, many women didn't work outside of the home and it was common to visit in the afternoons. As soon as someone walked into the house, greetings over, they'd settle down to chat and craft. There was embroidery, knitting, crochet (mostly doilies), darning, mending. Maybe because this is what I grew up with, it didn't feel awkward when I started doing it. My husband grew up in a city where more women worked so he wasn't used to it and at first thought that it was rude to work on a project because I wasn't focusing on the people around me. He's learned!
I crochet. And have done it at home, airports, doctors office, car waiting to pick up kids from school, while they do extra curricular activities ( when they were kids). Any place where I had free time to wait and I had remembered/planned in advance to bring project. Too scared to bring it to side of pool or beach but maybe I’ll give it a try someday
I do 80- 90% of my crafting in public. Local yarn stores, concerts in the park, my local brewery. During Covid shutdown I rented a kayak & my outfitter put it in a lake of my choosing and I kayak into the middle of the lake . I put my project in a waterproof bag and enjoyed a peaceful time out in a lake. when I need to piece up a project together I go to a library, where I can use a large work table. And of course Knit in Public Day! I am mainly a crocheter & I join knitters all the time. If they are unfriendly I will finish that visit but never join again. I am in control of where I go, and the time I dedicate to my project to do my art, not others. Enjoy, enjoy the freedom to create wherever it pleases you.
I have taken my crochet (and more recently knit) projects when I travel for many years. Like you, it was a good way to pass the time waiting in the terminal. I never thought to take my craft into other public places until I started learning to knitting a year ago and saw TH-cam creators talk about knitting in restaurants or sports events. Now I have a dedicated "will travel" project that is always ready.
I only started crocheting less than a year ago and bring it everywhere. I never thought of it as something you can’t do anywhere other than at home. As a kid I has sometimes an aunt or family friend working on something. The thing is, I do ask, when I am with others if it bothers them. Same as when I get a message on my phone, I am asking if it is okay to check. The thing is, people became way more individualistic since the smartphones. Less people seem to see others. I recently travelled for work and crocheted all the time. It lead to an a-ma-zing conversation with the guy next to me on the plane. 3 minutes about crochet, rest of the hour his life story which was incredible. A book, a movie. Had we both been on our phones we would have missed this interaction. I am sort of understanding the “lost” art comment maybe. You used to see it a lot (at least I did, as a kid) then not so much anymore. Fast fashion replaced the need for creating and repairing. But with youtube, at least for me, it came back. Whatever I want to learn, YT has a teacher. I fix my bike, cook meals, get inspired, and learned how to crochet. Like I learned how to write. I am blown away by the things I now know how to do compared to less than a year ago. As always, loved your video, thank you for sharing these snippets of your life. And the cat café… how loud is it if they all purr 🙂 That seemed like such a place of fluffy love. Happy crafting Mark
I love knitting at restaurants since the wait time is usually pretty long I have a “go bag” with a garter stitch throw in it , so easy to knit and still focus on my family. I also love cats and at the moment I have 6 indoor rescue cats and I love to sit and knit with them as well. I really enjoy your podcasts. Thank you
If I know I'm going to have a wait I'll bring along my knitting. I have knit in coffee shops with friends who also knit and crochet. I've knit in my Drs office waiting room, Indian Casino lobbies, local national and city parks, at the DMV, my home, my friend's home, on a plane, on a bus, in a car and I have knit at work. Basically, if I can sit... I can knit. ✌️💜🧶🧦🧣
When I visit Chattanooga, I like going to the river park and downtown. When I grew up that area was run down and not so nice, but now it’s a beautiful place. It’s nice to see how the area got revitalized over the decades.
I love knitting and crocheting out in the wild. I live in SC, and haven't been brave enough to take my knitting to the beach yet. I don't want my yarn getting wet. My favorite place to go knit is the botanical gardens, state parks, restaurants, and taking my kids to the bus (walking and knitting). I couldn't really participate in World Knit in Public day, this time around, but I hope to be ready next year!
My crochet backpack goes everywhere with me. I plan to crochet while in line at Disney. The craziest place I have crocheted is on the beach and in the pool. I was crocheting plastic bags into a beach bag so getting wet wasn’t an issue. The bag ended up being great! The sand just shakes off and it lasted for years!
Like many others here, I always have a project with me wherever I go. My favourite place to craft in public has always been at pubs/bars. I am often going to watch a footy match and have to laugh at the reactions I get from (usually older) men who get challenged by a woman knitting/ crocheting in ‘their’ space. Sometimes it’s sparked funny conversations (mostly happy memories of their mum or grandmother who used to knit too) and almost every time at least one ‘could you knit me a…’ to which I’ll offer to teach them so they can knit their own beanie/jumper 😂 and they tend to leave me alone after that!! Loved this video and am now buying myself a folding rocking chair!!
I always craft in public whenever I can, so important to keep crafts alive, knitting always in the bag and spinning wheel, lace making, weaving etc often present as well. The most comments come from men relaate to how a spinning wheel works and others usually comment about the five knitting needles that I knit most things on.
Absolutely Adore the cat Cafe idea in general, so great to get potential adoptors aquainted with cats suitable for them, and its socializing for them as well
What a coincidence! I began knitting in the 90s, but I took it up again over the same scarf!!! My daughter’s friend really loved the hufflepuff scarf, and my daughter wanted to get her one. The price on Amazon was insane, so I said I’d “just make one myself”. Omg it took my rusty hands so long to knit!!!
I just finished a class and learned to spin on a drop spindle. Perfect for carrying along and spin in public. Most people are not familiar with this method of spinning, so it can draw some attention! Last year I attended the first International Crochet at Ikea day! I hope to attend again this year.
I’m actually meeting friends for lunch today and one of them reminded me it’s knitting public day so I’m taking a new project ( still swatching ) with my brand new chia goo needles thanks for sending me down the rabbit hole 😁 I love them!
I knit in public almost every Sunday! I am part of a knitting group that meets at a local coffee shop on Sunday afternoons. Sometimes there are 2 of us, other weeks we have had almost 20! People usually stop by to see what everyone is working on, ask questions about what kind of yarn is being used. I also have a “car sock” at the ready incase I am stuck somewhere.
What a good idea to keep a chair in your car! I'm going to my granddaughter's soccer game later today and bringing my knitting, as usual. It's a cabled sweater like yours, but for a baby. My favorite place to knit is in the car, on the rare occasions I'm not driving. I also love knitting in airports and on planes, particularly since my 2 hour trip to New York to see my daughter has turned into a 4 or 6 hour one now that I can't get a direct flight. I enjoyed looking at all the places you knit!
I take honor as one who carries on this “dying art”. I knit walking around the track, at coffee shops, church, the DMV, Doctor’s office, friend gatherings, I used to knit on my commute (used to take the train so I could knit), at traffic lights…(the long ones, and safely!), on lunch breaks in comfy sofas or at cafe tables. Cracks me up how your crafting in public sights didn’t seem to have much public in it 😂. Love the cat cafe, I’ll be going to my park, and looking for other knitters to meet today. Best part is walking around with my sock on needles and a strand of yarn coming out of a bag (or the sock) allows me to startup conversations. I always have some project in the basic stitches phase for taking along. Or I’ll start another pair of socks…top down (mindless knitting for me). Loved Ned’s kitty pal… it was fun to see more of Chattanooga in your vid. Sounds of nature were minimal and I loved them. Have fun on vacay, and thanks for all you do.
Great to hear about your knit in public time. As a man, I sometimes get shy about it but I try to do more in all sorts of places. I always have a folding chair in the car. The cat cafe is fantastic. That kitten with the blue eyes. How do you not now have four cats? Best wishes for more June. Your Bees Knees sweater looks fantastic!
I had no idea yesterday was WKIP. I did coincidentally bring my yellow sock WIP on a train trip yesterday. I got some questions from some people, but everyone was nice and impressed by it. Can definitely recommend knitting in the train if you have the space to do so!
I knit/crafted in public before it was a thing. Yes, sometimes you get ignorant people commenting stupid statements, but I take those opportunities to educate them so they are no longer ignorant. People need to be brave and just go for it. I have knit/crafted in all kinds of places: church conferences, doctor offices, hospitals, Zoom calls, school events/auditoriums, my car... You all get the idea. I say, be brave and go for it! 😊
I don't get out much but I never do without yarn😊 Nice people always come talk to me, the latest asked what he could do to shorten the length of a sweater he loved. I suggested a hem and he looked at me like I was the light incarnate😂. In general, I've noticed people are a lot more friendly when I have my needles out. I don't know if it's just that yarn is soothing or if nasty people are scared of them pointy pokers😅
My favorite place to knit is every Sunday in a cafe with a local men’s knitting group! I also enjoy knitting on public transit as a way to enjoy my trip and also take breaks to look out the window at the rolling scenery.
My husband and I often go to pubs and restaurants for brunch, and I learned to always take small projects to knit with me. You see, I get angry when I'm hungry and knitting soothes me and waiting for our food feels not as horrible while I knit 😂 my husband doesn't mind, especially if the project I have is for him 😂 (UK)
I always have a sock to take along wherever I go, but sometimes I'll take a sweater along. That's lovely sweater you're working on. I'm almost done with a Thea Colman cardigan called Bitterscotch. I love her cables! But I need to concentrate on the pattern, so it's a home project.
My husband had to attend a work event at casino/ resort, and I decided to tag along for the weekend. Well, I took all of ten minutes to walk around the casino and decided it wasn't for me! So I sat in the lobby and knitted and people watched! I got a lot of strange looks, I've knitted watching my kids at their games, I've knitted in hospital rooms and doctor offices.
I was knitting at Cleveland Museum of Natural History today, completely forgetting it's Knit in Public Day, lol. It's just something I do. I have in fact knit at sportsball games. Usually beep baseball (softball for the blind), and kids' soccer. Also knit at the playground, the doctor's office, in meetings with my kids' teachers, at uni lectures where I thought I could get away with it, in cafes and cafeterias, on the bus, at the symphony, in the movies, you name it and I've probably knit there.. I even knit stockinette in the round while reading music aloud for my blindboi to transcribe. It's kind of my fidget spinner
I used to have an hour daily commute with public transport and I always brought my knitting. I'd rather knit than sit with my nose in the phone. It feel more productive and after a long day at work I don't need the stimulus I need calm process time.
I knit at sporting events! My son is an avid sports fan so I bring a sock project and knit away. He's grown up with me knitting in pretty much every spare moment so I think he's not even aware enough to find it embarrassing which is kind of amazing, LOL.
That's so cool about the art museum in Cleveland having free admission. We will be in Avon Lake at the end of the month ❤ I adore your channel, Mark. I feel like we could be distant cousins lol
During lockdown in the uk, there was a time when you could only go out for a daily walk or essentials! I used to sit in one of the walled gardens that was next to the road. There I sat spinning wool, the amount of people that stopped to chat was amazing, it’s very social and lovely for both them and myself as it made me feel less isolated and hopefully them too but they also asked loads of questions about the craft and found it fascinating. One good memory from that awful time. ❤
So nice to have found your channel, love to listen to your stories, tips, seeing our projects, etc. You have a very soothing voice and can’t stop watching your videos! Didn’t even know that it was knitting in public day but did knit in public because I always do! I do not leave my house without a project as it helps my anxiety and keeps me busy making things. I do get a lot of attention from people or even just looks but don’t mind that. Especially when I knit in the dark like in a movie theater, or knit without looking at my work. Have so many stories of knitting while flying, similar to yours…but never had someone pet my yard on their face, lol! Wow! I’ve even gifted a finished project while traveling overseas when someone engaged with me and expressed a huge interest in my work. Love to make cowls on a plane as they knit up fast and don’t take up space, they also help with dehydration if you wear one on a long flight and can help send a message to others that you aren’t willing to converse too much if you place them over your face, hope this is a tip for you to help preserve your voice 😉😊
Mmm, the Sportses. I know about them, too. 😅 Yay, Knit in Public Day! 🎉 I'm mid travel this year, but there is a decent gathering of knitters and crocheters at a local museum in my town each year. 😻
Travel…what a great way to meet new knitting friends. In new places. Plus, you gotta eat when you travel…take your project with you. Maybe you’ll be lucky enough to find someone to say something “goofy” or “dumb” about knitting. Then tell us all about it.
Just like most of us, I knit everywhere. Only not at church, which is a request of the pastor, and I can do that. But otherwise I always have something on the needles ready for some attention. Thanks for the tsa updates for flying.
I knit everywhere! My friends know I bring my projects with me, and are curious about my current item. And I usually hear “I wish I could do that.” I always say, ‘You can!” I think that is why The Knitting In Public Day is a thing. To spread the joy, the craft, and get others to knit.
Absolutely 💯
As a teacher, I used to recommend that my students read "around the edges"; that is, take a book along and read wherever and whenever they have a free moment. Now I knit "around the edges!"
Where I have knitted: Dr. Office, in the Car, at the gym, in a sauna, in a swimming pool, watching u-tube, camping, restaurants, beach, church, over people's houses, parties, while play games. My knitting goes everywhere. Most people do not even notice I am knitting, flying, airports, haircut, dentist. Of course home in my craftroom. I LOVE the cat caffe
About same
😂😂😂 church! I can’t tell you how many times I have sat in church wishing I had my knitting with me. Thanks for the post, I’m not as crazy as I thought 🤣😂
@@conniegranado7943 I said I did the same but reading it again, swimming pool? Meh... I wouldn't. For sensory reasons mostly.
I think taking your yarn out in public helps with the 'I feel awkward alone " feeling that many people these days full with their phones. Knitting or crocheting is more productive and mentally healthier.
Hi Mark, You are very naughty! No-one as talented and lovely as you should be permitted to even think of themselves as a loser!
I am loving the outside knitting and I thought the sound was great; no lawnmower that I could detect anyway.
I knit in public all the time. I do try not to overstay my welcome in restaurants and coffee ships, only knitting until I have finished eating/ drinking.
I really like your idea of knitting in museums and will give that a try over the summer. Knitting on the beach here in the Isle of Man can be tricky due to generally windy weather even on sunny days, but maybe I'll risk it. I also plan to pack a chair in my car from now on. Great episode, with all the glimpses of Chattanooga in the background only adding to my enjoyment.
Hi Mark, thank you for this beautiful video. I love that you’re so close to your family and also that you like knitting in public! I’m 63 and live in a rural area in the high desert of SW New Mexico on 26 acres. I care for the public, as a nurse, so when I’m not working I enjoy time at my home. I really enjoy knitting at home, surrounded by my pets and my huge garden. I can’t knit in the car anymore since my husband has had seizures. I now have to drive wherever we go. It’s ok though, I love him so much.
You are NOT a loser. You are being a productive, creative human and that’s an honorable thing. Carry on dear! ❤
Wishing you and you husband many more happy years together, and more health as well ❤
I do prefer to knit at home while I'm watching something or chatting with my friends in discord, but I also knit very often in doctor's offices. I have a chronic illness and am in doctor's offices multiple times a week, so I make sure to always carry my little sock project bag around with me. I also knit at parks when I take my nephews out.
People don't typically notice I'm knitting, but I've had a few awkward situations where someone will say they can't knit but they can crochet and then tell me knitters turn their noses up at crochet all the time. I started crocheting first!! I have so many crochet projects too, I just find it easier to knit in public than crochet haha.
It's definitely a little harder for me to crochet in public because I have to look at the work. I don't have to look at my knitting. I've learned to crochet(age 8/9) first and you would think I could do it without looking at my work.
@@redaleta Nah, having done both, knitting you can do by touch because the stitch is always at the end of the needle, but with crochet you have to find where you are attaching your stitch. There is a reason why knitting machines exist but crochet machines don't.
I am a new knitter but a life long crocheter. I crochet (& now knit) everywhere…. Out in my backyard, the beach, parks, doctors office, hospital, stores, restaurants, airports, planes, coffee shops, car…. It’s endless.
The times I find I didn’t bring something with me , I feel lost ( & slightly panicked!😮) you never know when you will have a spare moment or two to knit (or craft)
Have a great day Mark! Knit on! 🧶
I work from home full time since the pandemic. So it’s true that I knit most often at home but I never leave the house without my knitting, and this has always been the case since I’ve been a knitter, starting in 2003. I have a knitting group that meets every Saturday. We started in 2008 at a bookstore, and moved over the years to a restaurant and then people’s homes. When the pandemic hit we transitioned to Zoom, and now we are hybrid, but still together. Happy. Worldwide Knit in Public Day!
We did a repositioning cruise in 2013 from Southampton to (I think) Miami. I took a load of yarn (multi-coloured) to knit mittens for grandkids and their friends and I was astounded by the number of older Americans who would stop to see what I was making. I think it was due to the non plain yarn! I've just discovered dpns (I don't mean that literally) and they are so easy to knit with. I've been knitting for 67 years now and can't understand why I've never tried them before. I must say that I can't believe how proficient you have become in such a relatively short time. I love watching you knit!
Ever since the first sock I knit - march 2024 - I've always taken them with me, so I could knit more where ever I am. And 4 pairs of socks further I'm still doing it! And I love knitting, it's a rediscovery from very many moons ago when I learned to deeply dislike it in school. Now I love it and am knitting as much as I can as often as I can! Not very fast yet but hey, I'm learning! And Mark, thank you so much for your wonderful videos - I really enjoy them so much!
I love my hand-knit socks. They are my usual on-the-go projects.
LOL - with something like 12000 knitting podcasts, it is certainly NOT a dying art. LOL. Yes, the color and type of yarn really does allow the stitches to 'pop'! It's gorgeous. I'm looking forward to seeing it complete.
I find that crocheting seems to be my emotional security blanket. I tend to keep my projects on the small side and get absolutely obsessive about how to carry everything I need with me. The comfort it gives me is priceless! Even if I don’t take it out and work, I love having it with me so if the spirit moves me, I’m ready. Love seeing and hearing about your roots, Mark!
Like the other commenters, below, I knit in public a lot (shuttle buses, airports, airplanes, Lyfty, Uber, at my weekly French conversation group, doctor / dentist offices) and even when attending concerts. Most halls do not completely turn off the house lights, so there's always just enough light to knit while absorbing the beauty of the performance. In fact, I am convinced I am a more focused listener when knitting than I would otherwise be.
No, you're not a loser! I knit everywhere & meet all kinds of folks. Really fun. The Mets just had a Stitch & Pitch night at their stadium. Hundreds of crafters knitting & watching baseball. How fun is that?
I love knitting in public or, at minimum, wearing something I have made. Wild colored crazy pattern sock will always attack another sock knitter! 😂
I love crafting in public. I used to crocket more than knit, but I took it everywhere. I found a vintage pattern for a wristlet with an eyelet in the middle that allowed me to crochet while walking. My husband has called me a "granny" since we were in our 20s, but sitting here pushing 50 I have hobbies and he is realizing he doesn't. Taking my crafts everwhere helps dispell anxiety, especially when you are in a stressful situation. Keep knitting everywhere!😊
I love the idea of reframing a delay as a "gift of time". Also, it is very normal to do crafting in public. I've met many wonderful people this way. So no, you are a winner, not a loser.
I have been knitting since I was 5. So at 75 I am celebrating my 70th year of knitting!
Yes, I take my knitting on drives with my husband, meetings in my community, dentist & doctor s’ offices. I enjoy knitting before my T’ai Chi class each week. It’s a part of my life and has been for most of it.💜🧶
When I know or suspect there will be some "dead time" I always bring a small knitting or crochet project with me, usually a sock- or shawl project or a granny square project).
I craft when commuting (3 - 4 hours a day by bus), in the doctor's or dentist's office and the other day while my car was in the motor vehicle inspection. I take daily walks and if I can find the right bag I will knit and walk (I walk where there's no traffic and the path is even).
I knit in public a lot. I live in a tourist area near Southern Utah. My favorite place to knit in public is a little restaurant up the highway about twenty miles from my home. I love to sit with a cup of coffee, a piece of pie and my kniing, and just people watch. I have never had a rude comment. Most people either ignore me or are intrigued. Enjoy your craft wherever you are! Thank you for spending your time with us!
I knit on the bus every day when I go to work. it gives me peace before I have to work
I'm a "loser" who knits in public as well. I just spent my Sunday morning knitting in my local coffeeshop while enjoying my morning watching your video. There's nothing better!
Not a loser, more of a mindful time spender.
I've knit in line at the zoo, in the keukenhof, the bus, the train, the ferry, plane, between courses in restaurants. It always leads to nice conversations.
I knit wherever I am...I try to do it by myself because I am very ADHD and talking to ppl causes me to stop. If I see ppl out in the wild I usually don't ask them about their WIP until they are leaving said place so as NOT to disturb them. I take my mom places since she isn't driving at the moment and I ALWAYS remind her to pack a project...
I started carrying my projects when I was pregnant with my first child, way back in 1985! I was high risk and spent what felt like half my pregnancy in a doctor/hospital waiting room so I would take a project with me, mittens hats and booties were favourite as I did not really need a pattern, then I started taking larger projects and the contents of the nappy bag allowed for more room. I knit, crochet and Tunisian crochet and I don't really care what people think of me sitting and working on my projects on buses, trains, planes boats, you name it. Most of the time people will ask a question or compliment the work, it is a great ice breaker as people are curious, especially for about something new to them. It is surprising how much you can achieve from what can be seen as wasted time.
I always have my knitting with me and have had for the past 50 years. Others identify me as, “you know, the lady who knits or is always wearing one of her shawls”. 😂
I knit where I'll be waiting awhile. I.e. Dr appts, long meetings or lectures, DMV, long traffic "stops", and my local library. Kids have curiosity and adults just stare or ignor. What fun!
I can’t leave the house without my knitting or crochet, even if i know that i probably won’t be able to pick it up. I am completely addicted to my craft and i love all the project possibilities. Love the video. Thank you. 😊
Definitely taking knitting or crochet every where on my beach vacation! It’s a phenomena in my family that the food is always delivered to our restaurant table as soon as I pull out my knitting! Every time!
Mark, love your stuff!
To the point at hand: I'd say that you can knit wherever you want without any guilt within reason. Specifically: if your presence somewhere is preventing someone else from doing something (e.g., restaurant when there's a line), you should prolly consider those consequences.
I take my crochet to my office holiday parties. Usually because I'm behind on my christmas gifts lol but still... 😂
I am currently working on a knit project while on a bus trip (with about 40 strangers) to a winery and cigar shop…while watching your video. #unapologetically knitting
Sometimes I knit while I walk. Just need a project that’s not too big or complicated and somewhere to keep the yarn =)
If I’m in a knitting mood I knit wherever I am as long as it’s safe and not too dirty =)
I knit everywhere and anywhere I can. As a mum of a young kiddo, my knitting time isn’t particularly plentiful so I squeeze in stitches where I can. I mostly knit socks, so they are super portable and can be picked up and put down as needed. I keep a Musselburgh hat project permanently in the car incase I run into a situation where I suddenly have lots of time to spare.
We had our fibercraft guild meeting yesterday and cut it short in order to go out and participate in WWKIPD. I sat with a friend for about 2.5 hours in a riverside park, winding yarn and knitting. We brought spare needles and yarn in case someone wanted to learn. Unfortunately no one approached us. Next year we will have a sign, “Ask me about my knitting “.
I knit in public all the time, even at sportsball gamers. ;-) It is too hot to be outside today, though, with the high getting over 100. I am finishing a balaclava to give to a homeless shelter next fall.
I knit everywhere. The objectively weirdest place I've ever knit at so far was my sisters wedding. She was fine with it, and coincidentally those sanquhar gloves fit her so much better. I think the photographer must have snapped a hundred pics of me knitting
In official transport, in trains, S-U-Bahn and Busses. At the dentist. In the park. In waiting lines. At a hike. While walking through the streets of Berlin! People are shocked-and its not easy to shok people in Berlin ;)
Oh! Your sweater is just stunning! Thank you for the reminder! I forgot it was WWKIPD! This weekend is very special for me! My dear husband had a stroke almost 2 years ago. To say the least this was life changing! This weekend will be the first weekend I will be spending the weekend with my friends knitting the weekend away! Enjoy your day! You always pick the prettiest places to knit! I have knit everywhere you can imagine! My family knows I take it with me everywhere! I take it with me every Sunday when my husband and I go to breakfast!
If I am not mistaken, the last time I “seriously” crafted in public was the year I got married. Back then I was in France finishing college and commuting every weekend back to my parents’ by train. I decided to make use of the time by crocheting a bedspread. It took me six months to make twenty squares in wool. I assembled the whole thing at home though, as it was obviously too bulky to carry around. The yarn was top quality, and forty-four years later my husband and I still use it in winter. I don’t remember anyone commenting or asking questions on the ride home - but that was last century, in France, and what I was doing was I guess very ordinary to most people over there.
Thank you for this video, Mark. I love how you turn around what could be an annoying situation by calling it “the gift of time”. And, just between you and me, the music at the beginning and at the end of your talk gets me dancing every single time 🤫!
Hi Mark, the CATS are so great. I knitted and did a little drop spindling with a group of friends yesterday in public! Thanks for more ideas where and when to do it!
Hi Mark: What an uber awesome cat cafe! I love it, is a great cause! Did not know that cat cafe/adoption theme exists! There should more of them. It is so sad that cats are stuck in rescue shelters waiting a long time to be adopted. We have stray cats sheltering in my backyard from rain and the cold snow/ice for years! I feel so bad for them. I’m glad my backyard awning shelters them from heavy downpours and outdoor and sofa provide them with some warmth as the ice and heavy snow melts. My neighbors feed them, and I provide them with water and food sometimes.
Thanks for showing parts of Chattanooga and North Carolina. I would love to go visit, but my financial limitation does not permit me to. I really appreciate you featuring them on your podcast.
Thanks for sharing! Wishing you a restful, relaxing, and awesome summer! ❤
Hey, “uber”… you can knit in an Uber ride🤭
I live in the Middle East and take my knitting with me when I have appointments or just going for coffee. Ive never been one to sit on my phone, and I love how many wonderful folks I have met and initiated conversation with simply because Im knitting. I also find knitting whilst out calming
Right now I have a lovely sock project in a bag from a yarn store. It goes where I go. I’ve decided I need to have a sock project available at all times . So I have two wip now. ❤. Mark I love your videos. When you record and all you see is your camera keep in mind it feels like your looking right at me. So thank you for being you and sharing with us
I love the color and think will look great on your coloring - cardigans are always great for on/off warmth. Knitting day is celebrated everywhere - (I’m in SC)beautiful weather for you and birds in background. A perfect day to be outside - enjoy your family visit with your hubby.❤️
I crochet. Knitting feels daunting to me. lol. But I’ve definitely crocheted at plenty of tennis matches, drills and practices that my daughter participates in! Nobody really notices me because they’re focused on tennis !🎾
I’m a crocheter. Love crafting outdoors. The lighting is so much better!
I’ve had people say “you knit? That’s a dying art, isn’t it?” They’re amazed when I tell them that it is growing, maybe even booming and there are many men who knit, too.
Sooo fun when you say like Its not that I will take out my scrapbooking and glitter 😂
I knit a lot when I’m out and about and someone ALWAYS stops to talk to me. Love it xxx
I’m a new knitter and I think my favorite place thus far is on a plane. It makes me feel relaxed. Today I’m celebrating the day in Bryant Park NYC
I was today for a short time in a mall knitting on my socks. Still need to feel more comfortable to do it, because I can be a bit shy, but today I did it! and I'm happy for that.
Mark, I would like to say that your voice is so nice, I really like to watch your videos and listen to your voice that gives me calm and tranquility.
Greetings from a Mexican living in Budapet, Hungary.
YES I'll be knitting in public today and as usual any day/place it's not rude to do so. No nasty comments yet but some pretty funny ones.
I often knit at an outdoor concert or gathering. Today, my small local knitters group held a "Worldwide Knit in Public" event on the lawn of one of our museums, We are in a small midwest town with a Landmark Historical District. (Marshall, Michigan. In case you might be familiar)
HI, Mark….I thoroughly enjoyed this video….You would definitely find me at the Cat Cafe with my knitting…Heaven! As usual, thank you for always bringing a smile to my face with your personality and videos. You are the most pleasant guy….AND I love your knitting project….Bee’s Knees. See you next time….
🤗❤️🙋 Sue
I always have a project going and knit everywhere, any time I have a few minutes,
Growing up in the '60s, many women didn't work outside of the home and it was common to visit in the afternoons. As soon as someone walked into the house, greetings over, they'd settle down to chat and craft. There was embroidery, knitting, crochet (mostly doilies), darning, mending. Maybe because this is what I grew up with, it didn't feel awkward when I started doing it. My husband grew up in a city where more women worked so he wasn't used to it and at first thought that it was rude to work on a project because I wasn't focusing on the people around me. He's learned!
I crochet. And have done it at home, airports, doctors office, car waiting to pick up kids from school, while they do extra curricular activities ( when they were kids). Any place where I had free time to wait and I had remembered/planned in advance to bring project. Too scared to bring it to side of pool or beach but maybe I’ll give it a try someday
I do 80- 90% of my crafting in public. Local yarn stores, concerts in the park, my local brewery. During Covid shutdown I rented a kayak & my outfitter put it in a lake of my choosing and I kayak into the middle of the lake . I put my project in a waterproof bag and enjoyed a peaceful time out in a lake. when I need to piece up a project together I go to a library, where I can use a large work table. And of course Knit in Public Day! I am mainly a crocheter & I join knitters all the time. If they are unfriendly I will finish that visit but never join again. I am in control of where I go, and the time I dedicate to my project to do my art, not others. Enjoy, enjoy the freedom to create wherever it pleases you.
I have taken my crochet (and more recently knit) projects when I travel for many years. Like you, it was a good way to pass the time waiting in the terminal. I never thought to take my craft into other public places until I started learning to knitting a year ago and saw TH-cam creators talk about knitting in restaurants or sports events. Now I have a dedicated "will travel" project that is always ready.
I like to knit at Ross' Landing, Coolidge Park, Point Park and the Riverfront by The Boathouse restaurant. I take my knitting everywhere that I go.
I only started crocheting less than a year ago and bring it everywhere. I never thought of it as something you can’t do anywhere other than at home. As a kid I has sometimes an aunt or family friend working on something. The thing is, I do ask, when I am with others if it bothers them. Same as when I get a message on my phone, I am asking if it is okay to check.
The thing is, people became way more individualistic since the smartphones. Less people seem to see others.
I recently travelled for work and crocheted all the time. It lead to an a-ma-zing conversation with the guy next to me on the plane. 3 minutes about crochet, rest of the hour his life story which was incredible. A book, a movie.
Had we both been on our phones we would have missed this interaction.
I am sort of understanding the “lost” art comment maybe. You used to see it a lot (at least I did, as a kid) then not so much anymore. Fast fashion replaced the need for creating and repairing.
But with youtube, at least for me, it came back. Whatever I want to learn, YT has a teacher. I fix my bike, cook meals, get inspired, and learned how to crochet. Like I learned how to write. I am blown away by the things I now know how to do compared to less than a year ago.
As always, loved your video, thank you for sharing these snippets of your life. And the cat café… how loud is it if they all purr 🙂
That seemed like such a place of fluffy love.
Happy crafting Mark
I love knitting at restaurants since the wait time is usually pretty long I have a “go bag” with a garter stitch throw in it , so easy to knit and still focus on my family. I also love cats and at the moment I have 6 indoor rescue cats and I love to sit and knit with them as well. I really enjoy your podcasts. Thank you
If I know I'm going to have a wait I'll bring along my knitting. I have knit in coffee shops with friends who also knit and crochet. I've knit in my Drs office waiting room, Indian Casino lobbies, local national and city parks, at the DMV, my home, my friend's home, on a plane, on a bus, in a car and I have knit at work. Basically, if I can sit... I can knit.
✌️💜🧶🧦🧣
When I visit Chattanooga, I like going to the river park and downtown. When I grew up that area was run down and not so nice, but now it’s a beautiful place. It’s nice to see how the area got revitalized over the decades.
I love knitting and crocheting out in the wild. I live in SC, and haven't been brave enough to take my knitting to the beach yet. I don't want my yarn getting wet. My favorite place to go knit is the botanical gardens, state parks, restaurants, and taking my kids to the bus (walking and knitting). I couldn't really participate in World Knit in Public day, this time around, but I hope to be ready next year!
Wonderful Mark. I don't go many places, but do take my knitting everywhere I go.
My crochet backpack goes everywhere with me. I plan to crochet while in line at Disney. The craziest place I have crocheted is on the beach and in the pool. I was crocheting plastic bags into a beach bag so getting wet wasn’t an issue. The bag ended up being great! The sand just shakes off and it lasted for years!
Like many others here, I always have a project with me wherever I go. My favourite place to craft in public has always been at pubs/bars. I am often going to watch a footy match and have to laugh at the reactions I get from (usually older) men who get challenged by a woman knitting/ crocheting in ‘their’ space. Sometimes it’s sparked funny conversations (mostly happy memories of their mum or grandmother who used to knit too) and almost every time at least one ‘could you knit me a…’ to which I’ll offer to teach them so they can knit their own beanie/jumper 😂 and they tend to leave me alone after that!!
Loved this video and am now buying myself a folding rocking chair!!
I always craft in public whenever I can, so important to keep crafts alive, knitting always in the bag and spinning wheel, lace making, weaving etc often present as well. The most comments come from men relaate to how a spinning wheel works and others usually comment about the five knitting needles that I knit most things on.
Absolutely Adore the cat Cafe idea in general, so great to get potential adoptors aquainted with cats suitable for them, and its socializing for them as well
You got me outside knitting. I'm so happy.
What a coincidence! I began knitting in the 90s, but I took it up again over the same scarf!!! My daughter’s friend really loved the hufflepuff scarf, and my daughter wanted to get her one. The price on Amazon was insane, so I said I’d “just make one myself”. Omg it took my rusty hands so long to knit!!!
I just finished a class and learned to spin on a drop spindle. Perfect for carrying along and spin in public. Most people are not familiar with this method of spinning, so it can draw some attention!
Last year I attended the first International Crochet at Ikea day! I hope to attend again this year.
I’m actually meeting friends for lunch today and one of them reminded me it’s knitting public day so I’m taking a new project ( still swatching ) with my brand new chia goo needles thanks for sending me down the rabbit hole 😁 I love them!
I knit in public almost every Sunday! I am part of a knitting group that meets at a local coffee shop on Sunday afternoons. Sometimes there are 2 of us, other weeks we have had almost 20! People usually stop by to see what everyone is working on, ask questions about what kind of yarn is being used. I also have a “car sock” at the ready incase I am stuck somewhere.
What a good idea to keep a chair in your car! I'm going to my granddaughter's soccer game later today and bringing my knitting, as usual. It's a cabled sweater like yours, but for a baby. My favorite place to knit is in the car, on the rare occasions I'm not driving. I also love knitting in airports and on planes, particularly since my 2 hour trip to New York to see my daughter has turned into a 4 or 6 hour one now that I can't get a direct flight. I enjoyed looking at all the places you knit!
Mark, what a great episode! I have not viewed all of your episodes, but this is my favorite of the ones I have. So well done, my friend 🧶
I take honor as one who carries on this “dying art”. I knit walking around the track, at coffee shops, church, the DMV, Doctor’s office, friend gatherings, I used to knit on my commute (used to take the train so I could knit), at traffic lights…(the long ones, and safely!), on lunch breaks in comfy sofas or at cafe tables. Cracks me up how your crafting in public sights didn’t seem to have much public in it 😂. Love the cat cafe, I’ll be going to my park, and looking for other knitters to meet today. Best part is walking around with my sock on needles and a strand of yarn coming out of a bag (or the sock) allows me to startup conversations. I always have some project in the basic stitches phase for taking along. Or I’ll start another pair of socks…top down (mindless knitting for me). Loved Ned’s kitty pal… it was fun to see more of Chattanooga in your vid. Sounds of nature were minimal and I loved them. Have fun on vacay, and thanks for all you do.
Great to hear about your knit in public time. As a man, I sometimes get shy about it but I try to do more in all sorts of places. I always have a folding chair in the car.
The cat cafe is fantastic. That kitten with the blue eyes. How do you not now have four cats?
Best wishes for more June. Your Bees Knees sweater looks fantastic!
I had no idea yesterday was WKIP. I did coincidentally bring my yellow sock WIP on a train trip yesterday. I got some questions from some people, but everyone was nice and impressed by it. Can definitely recommend knitting in the train if you have the space to do so!
I knit/crafted in public before it was a thing. Yes, sometimes you get ignorant people commenting stupid statements, but I take those opportunities to educate them so they are no longer ignorant. People need to be brave and just go for it. I have knit/crafted in all kinds of places: church conferences, doctor offices, hospitals, Zoom calls, school events/auditoriums, my car... You all get the idea. I say, be brave and go for it! 😊
I don't get out much but I never do without yarn😊 Nice people always come talk to me, the latest asked what he could do to shorten the length of a sweater he loved. I suggested a hem and he looked at me like I was the light incarnate😂. In general, I've noticed people are a lot more friendly when I have my needles out. I don't know if it's just that yarn is soothing or if nasty people are scared of them pointy pokers😅
My favorite place to knit is every Sunday in a cafe with a local men’s knitting group! I also enjoy knitting on public transit as a way to enjoy my trip and also take breaks to look out the window at the rolling scenery.
My husband and I often go to pubs and restaurants for brunch, and I learned to always take small projects to knit with me. You see, I get angry when I'm hungry and knitting soothes me and waiting for our food feels not as horrible while I knit 😂 my husband doesn't mind, especially if the project I have is for him 😂 (UK)
I always have a sock to take along wherever I go, but sometimes I'll take a sweater along. That's lovely sweater you're working on. I'm almost done with a Thea Colman cardigan called Bitterscotch. I love her cables! But I need to concentrate on the pattern, so it's a home project.
My husband had to attend a work event at casino/ resort, and I decided to tag along for the weekend. Well, I took all of ten minutes to walk around the casino and decided it wasn't for me! So I sat in the lobby and knitted and people watched! I got a lot of strange looks, I've knitted watching my kids at their games, I've knitted in hospital rooms and doctor offices.
I was knitting at Cleveland Museum of Natural History today, completely forgetting it's Knit in Public Day, lol. It's just something I do.
I have in fact knit at sportsball games. Usually beep baseball (softball for the blind), and kids' soccer. Also knit at the playground, the doctor's office, in meetings with my kids' teachers, at uni lectures where I thought I could get away with it, in cafes and cafeterias, on the bus, at the symphony, in the movies, you name it and I've probably knit there.. I even knit stockinette in the round while reading music aloud for my blindboi to transcribe. It's kind of my fidget spinner
I used to have an hour daily commute with public transport and I always brought my knitting. I'd rather knit than sit with my nose in the phone. It feel more productive and after a long day at work I don't need the stimulus I need calm process time.
I knit at sporting events! My son is an avid sports fan so I bring a sock project and knit away. He's grown up with me knitting in pretty much every spare moment so I think he's not even aware enough to find it embarrassing which is kind of amazing, LOL.
That's so cool about the art museum in Cleveland having free admission. We will be in Avon Lake at the end of the month ❤ I adore your channel, Mark. I feel like we could be distant cousins lol
The gift of time - love this ❤
During lockdown in the uk, there was a time when you could only go out for a daily walk or essentials! I used to sit in one of the walled gardens that was next to the road. There I sat spinning wool, the amount of people that stopped to chat was amazing, it’s very social and lovely for both them and myself as it made me feel less isolated and hopefully them too but they also asked loads of questions about the craft and found it fascinating. One good memory from that awful time. ❤
So nice to have found your channel, love to listen to your stories, tips, seeing our projects, etc. You have a very soothing voice and can’t stop watching your videos! Didn’t even know that it was knitting in public day but did knit in public because I always do! I do not leave my house without a project as it helps my anxiety and keeps me busy making things. I do get a lot of attention from people or even just looks but don’t mind that. Especially when I knit in the dark like in a movie theater, or knit without looking at my work. Have so many stories of knitting while flying, similar to yours…but never had someone pet my yard on their face, lol! Wow! I’ve even gifted a finished project while traveling overseas when someone engaged with me and expressed a huge interest in my work. Love to make cowls on a plane as they knit up fast and don’t take up space, they also help with dehydration if you wear one on a long flight and can help send a message to others that you aren’t willing to converse too much if you place them over your face, hope this is a tip for you to help preserve your voice 😉😊
I went to the library to publicly knit today. Thanks for the inspiration
I knit, crochet or spin everywhere except funerals- out of respect. I’ll leave instructions for all my guild friends to knit at my own funeral!
Here you are two hours aways from me!! Im in the Charleston area! - Love HHI 💕
Mmm, the Sportses. I know about them, too. 😅
Yay, Knit in Public Day! 🎉
I'm mid travel this year, but there is a decent gathering of knitters and crocheters at a local museum in my town each year. 😻
Travel…what a great way to meet new knitting friends. In new places. Plus, you gotta eat when you travel…take your project with you. Maybe you’ll be lucky enough to find someone to say something “goofy” or “dumb” about knitting. Then tell us all about it.
Just like most of us, I knit everywhere. Only not at church, which is a request of the pastor, and I can do that. But otherwise I always have something on the needles ready for some attention. Thanks for the tsa updates for flying.
Home and the library!