When I get stuck on a project that doesn't feel like it's getting anywhere, I make myself do it first when I sit down to knit for the evening. And I only work on it for half an hour or one episode of a show. Then I reward myself by working on whatever I really want to work on.
This is what I do too. Just a short time before I move on to something else. Makes it feel a lot faster. And as it gets closer to finishing, just powering through the last bit.
I make those projects my 5am projects and work on them during the golden hour I have with my coffee in silence until the world wakes up. Feels like a task done before starting the busy day. 😇
I think the general idea is exactly what you said on the episode, as long as we/you make a plan for how to continue and make progress that's what matters. Smaller chunks daily or more often is probably better;more manageable and enjoyable. Good luck 💙
Natalie from Knitty Natty always helps herself prioritize projects by giving them a specific 30 minute slot in her day. This way it's just whatever progress you can make on it during that time and then you can move on to other projects. And giving it 30 minutes a day can actually make a lot of progress over the course of a week!
Something that I’ve taken from my cross stitching life is what’s called 24/7. Is for those larger projects that you are burnt out on or don’t want to get burnt out on but still want to make progress on, you set aside a specific amount of time, in this case 24 mins, before you start your normal knitting time for said project. This way you’re still making steady progress daily but not feeling like you have to only work on that one project.
I was thinking the same thing about picking up stitches for the skirt waistband, Nora! That's how I would do it, especially because then it's easier to change the fit to suit you, because you can pick up fewer or more stitches as needed--rather than knitting the whole thing and realizing it doesn't fit. Hope your dad is on the mend x
I'm leaning toward sewing on the waistband for the added stability, but the inserted elastic will also give you more stability and can be adjusted over time if the skirt "grows" too much. I missed you last week but im glad you were there for your dad. I love the new Beatrix cardigan and i can really see it becoming a wardrobe staple. Welcome back!
I think it's worth considering sewing on the waistband if it wont hold me back from doing it altogether 😅 even just talking about it is so helpful to realize that I should consider how to create the most structural integrity. Always happy to be there for Papa Knits 💛 Happy to be back and love that you're loving the Beatrix Cardigan too! 💛
I’m loving the chocolate brown projects! For the waistband: I would definitely pick up stitches to work it. It will give it so much more stability since I’m assuming the project will be heavy. Since you will be working in the opposite direction, pick up between every stitch and your knitting will look pretty seamless since it will be half a stitch off. Does that make sense? For the DK button band, it’s something you need to power through. Rewards work, or timing yourself for 15 minutes at a time or something. It feels like you aren’t making any progress, then it’s almost done! You can do it!! You are going to love the finished project.
I think just picking up the stitches at the waist is a great idea! I hope PapaKnits' recovery improves and he's back to regularly scheduled programming very soon! 😊
Hi Nora, nice to see you back and hope you are feeling refreshed x When I have a begrudging wip, I wait till I am going away for a few days somewhere and only take that project with me. It's amazing how you can enjoy it when it is your only knitting option, and then you come home with most of it done.
Hiiii. Nice to see you back. I get how you feel with the button band. I don’t think I could ever make a cardigan that long! My system to power through is to race myself, so I’ll start a time and do 3 rows and see how long it takes and then I’ll restart the timer and try to beat my time. I just keep doing that until I can’t get any faster and call it a day. I do this with work tasks too, especially for boring data entry or code checking 😂.
"I couldn't resist" watching your episode. 😅 I usually watch knitting related videos while knitting. I'm far from home for several days and was not able to bring anything with me knitting related but as soon as I saw your notification, I couldn't resist just watching it. I think that after you finish the double band around the neck the progress might be more visible. you can do it!
I know a lot of people do the 1/2 hour a day thing when they have a project that they’re not inspired to work on but want it done. Then work on something you’re inspired to work on. You may be able to cover those purl stitches by stitching over top of it in the knit stitch shape
For me, I try to set a daily goal. It also helps to put on a podcast or audiobook or show. Posting a story of my progress (even if it is just a row) and then adding it to highlights also helps because then I can see the progress overtime and it keeps me accountable to do it everyday.
I did the double knit band on the levitate wrap ( which is a wrap with lots of double knit). I found it helpful to put a stitch marker something like 20 rows down, and then try to knit to it while watching a comfort show. I found it more motivating to break it up into small bits, and it feels almost like stripes with just a few rows more ❤
I love the Alpaca Cloud Lace from KnitPicks! I have made the Keep It Warm Slipover with it together with Drops Cotton Merino and it turned out so soft and cozy 😊
Oh boy! You took a week off and I am just now getting to watch you! So excited! Starting new project that will be done times three! Two nephews and one niece to knit scarves for! But boy did I miss my Nora time!
When I get stuck on doing tasks (even non knitting ones) i use body doubling as a way of getting it done. So for your button band, catch up with a knitting friend with the sole purpose of working on the knitting task you need to get done. You'll be excited to see the friend and then you get the task done ❤
I found myself in the same situation (the edge of a blanket), I worked 10 rows before going on to another project, the fact that after the 10 rows an interesting project awaited me made it almost fun 😅❤❤thank you Nora for your time dedicated to us❤❤❤❤
When I’m having a hard time finishing a project I make myself devote 30 minutes a day to work on it. I work on it first then move on to WIP’s that I’m enjoying.
There's also seamless saddle shoulder designs which don't involve picking up stitches 🙂 For example the TTTHIN sweater - I can highly recommend it as I don't like picking up stitches as I always struggle with the pickup ratio 😂
My jaw dropped when you said double knit button band for an ankle length cardigan! I'm doing one for a hip length cardigan and that's more than enough for me! It will be totally worth it when it is done so push through! The sewn on waist band for the skirt may be a structural thing as seamed garments tend not to stretch in the same way a seamless does. I would personally seam it - the weight of the skirt may need the extra reinforcement to not stretch and pull down :)
It is such a beast! I never minded doing the double knitting for a standard button band, but now it's laughing at me! 😂 Good point! I wonder if I should even consider reinforcing the waist band with a ribbon or something to help it hold it's structure... 🤔
Oh, you’re soooo close on the Sand cardigan! Think of how far you’ve already come on this huge project! I must give myself a deadline &/or daily schedule in these situations. Also, I think of future me as a motivator. Future me, next month me, will be so happy to wear this thing because current me decided to get ‘er done!
All the best wishes to Papa Knits and your family! Attaching a separately knit waistband could be more stable than picking up and knitting it, especially with a fiber than tends to stretch with wear. However, if you plan to use a folded band (I can't remember what the construction is), it will probably work out similarly. I just used Wonderfluff in a test knit of the Amiata Sweater 2.0 for Sophie aka The Knit Purl Girl. I held it double with a silk mohair. I haven't had much of a chance to wear it yet due to weather, but I didn't get the pilling or shedding while using it that some users report. We shall see if the mohair helps keep the pilling down.
I just recently finished a pullover that was on my needles for 364 days. That's right...one day shy of an entire year. It's a beautiful pattern, lovely wool, I was keen to have the finished garment, but I hit the wall after the color work yoke was completed. Here's how I broke the spell: I laid out the project on the bed in a spare bedroom and shut the door because seeing it every day amongst my other, active WIP's made me feel guilty and defeated. Then, each day I would go to the spare bedroom with my first cup of morning tea, sit on the bed, and knit on it until the mug of tea was gone. Some days I left the room AS I was sipping the final drop of tea. Some days I knit a few rows even after the last drop of tea. Either way, leave the room, shut the door. Repeat. The sweater finally got done. 🙂
I agree with everyone who has chimed in. Break that buttonband into smaller chunks. It could even be two rounds on days when you’re especially resistant to working on it. Just keep going. It will eventually get done.
My advice for the Sand Cardigan is to maybe commit yourself to 10-ish rows every evening before you start on the Beatrix. I've done that with a few projects. I just finished the Stockholm vest from PetitKnits and added full twisted ribbing at the hem and that was the slog for me. So before I would work on my mom's Christmas shawl, I told myself I had to do one row of the ribbing. It really helped me knock out the one I didn't have enthusiasm for. Although now that it's finished and drying I'm super excited to have it!! Also, I love KP's Alpaca Cloud! It's my go to for adding a lace weight. I can't really do mohair so if I need to add a lace it's the Alpaca cloud or Fyberspates Cumulus (which is amazing!!!) I know that cascade now has an alpaca lace weight and really want to try that out too
Yes, if you are anything like me, you get dopamine from *new* things 😂. Try adding something new into the button band experience, even if it is just something little, like a new stitch marker, or a length tracker with a sticker for every new inch you knit. Also a bit of challenge, as others suggest, like ‘how many rows in 30minutes?’ can really help. Or some body doubling where you knit with someone else, either real or virtual. Kat Weaver did a delightful little fairy inspired silent knit with me podcast a while back, which I love. Or maybe you could do a live broadcast on TH-cam where you work on your button band for half an hour with viewers in real time to encourage you. Good luck! We are cheering you to the finish line 🏁🎉🥳🙌🏼xxx
Missed you Nora! So glad you got a nice break, though! On knitting a slog: I set a time goal and knit that first thing in the morning, then all day I knit whatever else I would like without feeling guilty. That being said, I do not force it. If that day I don't hit the time goal or don't knit at all, I don't make myself feel bad about that. On picking up stitches for the waistband: I feel like this is a better idea than sewing on a premade waistband. I think controlling the pickup rate will make for a better fit. Though I have to say, I also hate picking up HUGE amounts of stitches, it always takes me a few tries to get it right.
Just want to say that the Sand cardigan is just stunning and I think that having the finished object will be so satisfying. Setting aside a certain amount of time to work on it will work well. Especially because you are halfway through the button band. The set time or amount of rows can transition from the button band into the pockets. Also wanted to congratulate you on a year of podcasting! Your upload schedule is unmatched. i appreciate your break coinciding with my brothers wedding last weekend. Cheers!
I've been wanting to add knit undershirts/tank tops to my wardrobe too. I started a camisole no 9 for this. I have that pattern to though and can't wait to try it. You need undershirts for Maine winters.
Wonderful episode Nora! Chocolate matches your hair perfectly BTW, at least on screen. Probably part of why it looks so good on you. 😊 You are doing great with these episodes - really interesting and compelling content, well delivered. I'd love to see an episode dedicated entirely to your thoughts on undertones in make up, garments and yarn. You could weave in some bridal world anecdotes - after all, you see people dressed at their best all the time! Overall, I think you are really on to something. While I've been recovering from an illnrss, I've been checking out a lot of vlogs, and yours is already at one year, one of the best. If you were so inclined, this could develop into a significant business endeavor. You're kind of like the Rachel Ray of the yarn world, aren't you!! Useful info, interesting projects, entertainment and fun, all professionally shot and delivered. Well done, Nora! 👏👏👏 And I oughta know, I used to be in that world. 😉 One request - when you mention needles, could you please include mention of the US size as well? Anyway, keep up the good work!
Well now you've gone and made me cry! 🥺 That is so so so incredibly sweet of you to say. Really--you don't know how much your kindness means to me. Rachael Ray of the yarn world!! 😂 I love it--thank you!!! I will most definitely consider everything that you've said here! I will admit that one of my greatest pet peeves in knitting is needle size specification lol. I will at the very least try to include the US size in the info paper from now on! Thank you 🥰
I'm so sorry your time off wasn't peaceful. Sending prayers and healing energy to your dad. I'm in love with that deep brown, I have winter knits lined up with this beautiful color. It’s in unspun so now I'm off to see the alpaca you held your yarn double with. I’m not sure of the lace weight or fingering for I nice sturdy jacket. Happy knitting 💚🧶💚
Thank you so much! I am so so loving the Knit Picks Alpaca Cloud Lace with the Lamb's Pride! I will definitely be looking towards it for future projects!! Happy knitting to you!!
I have a "begrudgingly knit" project. A half fishermans rib zip-up for my husband. He's tall (6'6") so it's a LOT of knitting. When I sit down to knit, I do 30 minutes on that first, and then switch to something else. Sometimes I find I've found a groove with my husband's sweater and I go past the 30 minutes.
I enjoy your podcasts very much. For the Sand Cardigan measure how much longer you have to go and divide it by 3 or 4 inches, marked off by stitch markers. Do that much every other day--NO EXCUSES. It will be done before you know it. I love it. You've done a great job so far, just like with all of your projects.
I hope Papa Knits is healing comfortably ❤. When a project becomes a slog to finish, I give it 30 minutes a day, the first thing I pick up to work on. It will move it along at a slow, even pace. For me, there is a point where I become determined to fnish and marathon knit to complete it.
Hi! Love your podcast ❤. Have you considered going down a couple of needle sizes to pick up the waistband? Then you can pick up all the stitches for a seamless look.
Hi Nora, welcome back! In a previous episode you mentioned the length of the dpns you’re using for the button band makes them kind of stabby. Perhaps a small investment in longer dpns would make working on the cardigan a less tedious experience and therefore something you’re more motivated to do?
When I've had a project that I'm struggling to finish, I figure out what a reasonable finish date would be for me and then I divide it by how many days I have until then and just do that little bit each day. I try not to make it more than 5 to 10 rows and if it's a bigger project where each row takes longer, I might only do one or two rows a day. ❤️
I just finished my very first double-knit button band (with many many thanks to your "pick up as you go" tutorial after a DISASTER pick-up rate issue on my first attempt). What really helped me get through it was that my cardigan has very visible increases down the V-neck front, so I could reach a milestone regularly. It gave me satisfaction and motivation to keep going. I also had a hard deadline on when I wanted to wear it, so that gave me a push, as well. Perhaps you could divide and place stitch markers regularly down the rest of the band in achievable intervals? And/or set yourself a deadline and divide the button band based on that date. Best of luck, and I believe in you!
I like the comment below. I do the same thing. I usually commit to four rows. Something meaningful without being onerous. Also, as much as I want to only knit what brings me joy, if I didn't slog through the miserable parts, I would never have finished a project in my life...
I picked up stitches for the waistband of my fancypepitaskirt and I think it turned out really well so you should be fine. Would recommend adding a lifeline to the pickup edge so it’s a bit easier to see as I struggled to keep my line straight when attacking the waistband together at the end.
Thank you so much for sharing your experience! I was just admiring your skirt and how beautifully it came out! I hope I remember to add a lifeline!!! Thank you 🥰
I am in my first week of MY total knee replacement surgery & I think you mentioned your dad had the same procedure, was that accurate? Nor sure if pain meds made me hallucinate that! Only on day 6 did I finally feel okay to knit a line or 2 (fell asleep while mid-row) but couldn't believe I heard you mention your relative & how you didn't knit as much as you thought. I was like, "me too, sis, me too"! Anyway, loved having your podcast back on my 1st day back knitting! Tell your dad to do his rehab, keep on top of pain & let ppl help him (bc it's hard to be a patient, imo). Finish that long cardigan duster bc it's perfect! TY for being a long-distance knitting friend- the calming vibe & positivity in vids really helps w/dealing w recovery!
You are indeed right and I can't help but chuckle at the familiarity of your hallucination thought! 😅 I'm so sorry that you've had to undergo such an intense procedure, but I hope you are on the mend! I told dad it was a good time to take up knitting! That definitely gave us both a good laugh. I am glad you have yours--even for just the row when you can! Thank you so much and happy knitting!!! 💛
TY for nice thoughts...intense is most apt descriptor. As soon as your dad is ready, may I suggest you get him wool-ease & size 11 wooden needles to make a "recovery" scarf. You cld cast on stitches (& bind off) but it would make a great beginning knit, knit, knit project (lasting the first big, bad, bored 6 weeks of rehab). He'll get hooked (bc what else can he do rt now, rt? You've got him rt where you want him)!😉🫶
When you were talking about your new cast on and that it was a cardigan, I was crossing my fingers that is was the Beatrix card. I'm planning on knitting it myself later in the year, so I will be checking your progress and feedback on it!!
Yayy! I love that you're planning to knit a Beatrix as well! As of now, I can do nothing but URGE you to cast on as soon as possible!!! I am just adoring this project 🥰
Seams provide stability and structure, so if you pick up stitches instead it may stretch more over time and whatnot. I’d be weary and probably stick with sewing the waistband on for that extra structure.
Trust me, it felt bizarre to wake up and not worry about the podcast popping up in the timeline! Happy to be back and grateful to those of you who have returned with me! 🥰
I totally issue you a challenge to work on the Sand for 15min per day....before you know it, it'll be done! The Beatrix is beautiful, and my brain is sorting through my stash wondering if I have something that'll do!
When I have a project I just need to work through I'll usually decide to work on it for the length of a video, or tv show or podcast. Something that is entertaining so I'm not just thinking about how repetitive the project currently is and also has a time limit so I let myself know there's an end
I usually decide on a number of rows per day. Lots of stitches - fewer rows, few stitches - more rows. For the double knit button band, I would do 10 rows per day, it will be done before you know it and your joy will return. For the skirt, Sewing the waste band on, vs picking up stitches, would give more stability and strength at the waist. That waist band will be holding the weight of the skirt on it, a seam at that point would be much stronger and reduce stretch.
I think the waistband is sewn on so that you have a seam which will be much more stable. If you just pick up stitches you may find that your skirt begins to droop as all the weight is pulling on those stitches
Here's a tip for button bands - I'll put stitch markers at every inch around the neckline so I have progress keepers built in to try to reach when I start knitting. That way, I get a little dopamine hit whenever I reach the next stitch marker!
A technique that works for me is to figure out WHEN I want to be done - so let's say 10 days from now. I calculate how much needs to be done - ie: number of rows, or number of stripes, or number of motifs, or in your case number of inches left on the band- let's say 20 in. Then I divide by the number of days and that's how many I need to complete each day to finish by my deadline. It feels more tangible to me than just knitting for a certain number of minutes on it each day because I can't conceptualize when it will actually be done. Whereas with my method, I know that if I want to complete it within 10 days and I knit 2 inches per day, I'm done.
So excited to have you back! I'm loving the idea of year-round tanks/shells with jackets and sweaters, so a few of those are on my to-knit list now! Aww, my papa (over many years) has had both hips and both knees done. You're a wonderful daughter for helping out! His "secret" to the success of those surgeries is to do EVERYTHING the medical professionals say. All the nighttime exercises and stretches etc. It's still so much, and I'm sure Papa Knits was/is grateful to have your support
Referring to knitting the button band have you tried “30 minutes of knitting” style? This is what Knitty Natty and The Crazy Sock Lady does. They would knit on a certain project for 30 minutes a day to break up a larger task. I try to make it into a game, knit in one project while watching a TH-cam episode and change projects for another one. This can be substituted for a tv show. Another option is to time yourself for one inch and figure out how long it would take you to knit the remaining button band, then you could calculate how many inches you could knit in each day to break it up. I hope this helps! Or
For the Cordelia skirt, I would totally just pick up stitches, and then decrease evenly in the next row to the number required. Seem like it would be neater and more stable (and less sewing!) than sewing it on later. And then you can sew the case off edge to the original edge. I want to make a long cardigan, like the Sand cardigan or the No Frills Cardigan, but I don't know if I have the strength to get through such a long project! >.
Great suggestion! Thank you!!! As for making a long cardigan, my best suggestion is to choose one that has all of the details integrated into the making process! Anything to avoid having to go back and add those little details would make it so much more bearable!
What if you get a really exciting domestic thriller audiobook and only listen to it when you work on the button band? Wanting to know what happens next might be motivating enough to keep coming back to it!
Thank you so much!! It is a fun little combo I've been living in lately! NYX Lip Pencil in the colorway Nude Pink, NYX Liquid Suede in the colorway Soft Spoken (just a little bit applied and patted into the lips), and Maybelline Lifter Gloss in the colorway Gummy Bear. It seems like an ordeal, but it takes a minute-- I swear!
Set some doable goals first your button band and promise yourself some much deserved rewards…… Calculate how many sessions you want to devote, fill a jar either Hershey kisses and have one at each completed goal. You can see your band increase and the kisses decrease.
If you pick up stitches, wouldn't gravity and the weight of the skirt pull at the waist of the skirt when you wear it? I think sewing the waist helps to secure the waist from the rest of the skirt.
It would tell you to see the waist band on so that you have the seam which will support the weight of the skirt. I would not pic up the stitches or it may continue to grow and stretch when wearing it.
... For why not just pick up stitches for the waistband of your skirt... I think the seam of sewing the waistband on is more stable to hold the weight of the skirt than picking up live stitches... is the only thing I can think of, but I'm new to knitting but not to sewing. Plus you can make a smaller waist and a gathered skirt.
Please do not pick up stitches for the button band. Follow the pattern and sew it on. Sewing is much stronger and the skirt’s weight hanging on one knit row is much more inclined to stretch and pull out of shape than if you sew it on. Think of the difference between knitting in the round for a sweater versus knitting flat and seaming. The seamed sweater is a million times more sturdy. I know flat and seamed is not the fashion now and knitting in the round is everything now.
When I get stuck on a project that doesn't feel like it's getting anywhere, I make myself do it first when I sit down to knit for the evening. And I only work on it for half an hour or one episode of a show. Then I reward myself by working on whatever I really want to work on.
This is what I do too. Just a short time before I move on to something else. Makes it feel a lot faster. And as it gets closer to finishing, just powering through the last bit.
I make those projects my 5am projects and work on them during the golden hour I have with my coffee in silence until the world wakes up. Feels like a task done before starting the busy day. 😇
Same, I have a rule to work X amount per week or a row per day or something so it gets regular movement to the project.
I was going to say the exact same thing.
I think the general idea is exactly what you said on the episode, as long as we/you make a plan for how to continue and make progress that's what matters. Smaller chunks daily or more often is probably better;more manageable and enjoyable. Good luck 💙
Natalie from Knitty Natty always helps herself prioritize projects by giving them a specific 30 minute slot in her day. This way it's just whatever progress you can make on it during that time and then you can move on to other projects. And giving it 30 minutes a day can actually make a lot of progress over the course of a week!
That is so true!! I definitely need to implement a 10min/day schedule if nothing else!
Something that I’ve taken from my cross stitching life is what’s called 24/7. Is for those larger projects that you are burnt out on or don’t want to get burnt out on but still want to make progress on, you set aside a specific amount of time, in this case 24 mins, before you start your normal knitting time for said project. This way you’re still making steady progress daily but not feeling like you have to only work on that one project.
I was thinking the same thing about picking up stitches for the skirt waistband, Nora! That's how I would do it, especially because then it's easier to change the fit to suit you, because you can pick up fewer or more stitches as needed--rather than knitting the whole thing and realizing it doesn't fit. Hope your dad is on the mend x
Exactly!!! Thank you so much for validating that for me! Thanks for the well-wishes for dad as well! 🥰
I'm leaning toward sewing on the waistband for the added stability, but the inserted elastic will also give you more stability and can be adjusted over time if the skirt "grows" too much. I missed you last week but im glad you were there for your dad. I love the new Beatrix cardigan and i can really see it becoming a wardrobe staple. Welcome back!
I think it's worth considering sewing on the waistband if it wont hold me back from doing it altogether 😅 even just talking about it is so helpful to realize that I should consider how to create the most structural integrity. Always happy to be there for Papa Knits 💛 Happy to be back and love that you're loving the Beatrix Cardigan too! 💛
I’m loving the chocolate brown projects! For the waistband: I would definitely pick up stitches to work it. It will give it so much more stability since I’m assuming the project will be heavy. Since you will be working in the opposite direction, pick up between every stitch and your knitting will look pretty seamless since it will be half a stitch off. Does that make sense? For the DK button band, it’s something you need to power through. Rewards work, or timing yourself for 15 minutes at a time or something. It feels like you aren’t making any progress, then it’s almost done! You can do it!! You are going to love the finished project.
I think just picking up the stitches at the waist is a great idea! I hope PapaKnits' recovery improves and he's back to regularly scheduled programming very soon! 😊
Right? I'd do anything to avoid having to sew it on 😅 Thank you so much!!! I'm happy to send the extra well wishes his way!!!
Hi Nora, nice to see you back and hope you are feeling refreshed x When I have a begrudging wip, I wait till I am going away for a few days somewhere and only take that project with me. It's amazing how you can enjoy it when it is your only knitting option, and then you come home with most of it done.
Thank you!! I definitely need to start doing this--even just bringing it as my "pre-work" WIP would help I'm sure!
OMG!!! Thank you Nora 🎉🎉🎉
Congratulations!!!
Hiiii. Nice to see you back. I get how you feel with the button band. I don’t think I could ever make a cardigan that long! My system to power through is to race myself, so I’ll start a time and do 3 rows and see how long it takes and then I’ll restart the timer and try to beat my time. I just keep doing that until I can’t get any faster and call it a day. I do this with work tasks too, especially for boring data entry or code checking 😂.
I like this idea!
"I couldn't resist" watching your episode. 😅 I usually watch knitting related videos while knitting. I'm far from home for several days and was not able to bring anything with me knitting related but as soon as I saw your notification, I couldn't resist just watching it.
I think that after you finish the double band around the neck the progress might be more visible. you can do it!
I know a lot of people do the 1/2 hour a day thing when they have a project that they’re not inspired to work on but want it done. Then work on something you’re inspired to work on.
You may be able to cover those purl stitches by stitching over top of it in the knit stitch shape
The Beatrix looks Fantastic in that chocolate colour it’s going to look amazing
For me, I try to set a daily goal. It also helps to put on a podcast or audiobook or show. Posting a story of my progress (even if it is just a row) and then adding it to highlights also helps because then I can see the progress overtime and it keeps me accountable to do it everyday.
That is such a clever idea! Thank you!!
Good to see you back Nora. Missed you. Hope you enjoyed some off. See you next time. ❤
I did the double knit band on the levitate wrap ( which is a wrap with lots of double knit). I found it helpful to put a stitch marker something like 20 rows down, and then try to knit to it while watching a comfort show. I found it more motivating to break it up into small bits, and it feels almost like stripes with just a few rows more ❤
I'd try picking it up the button band every morning at coffee time as a habit
Yay! A podcast from Nora!
Love the texture of that cardigan 😍
I love the Alpaca Cloud Lace from KnitPicks! I have made the Keep It Warm Slipover with it together with Drops Cotton Merino and it turned out so soft and cozy 😊
I am loving it so much!! I'm eager to try adding it to other projects!
The Beatrix Cardigan is stunning! Love your videos. Looking forward to your fall plans.
Thank you so much!! 🥰
Sounds like a scary few weeks. Glad you and Papa Knits are on the mend ❤
We're certainly happy to be past them! Thank you so much! 🥰
From a sewing perspective sewing in a band will be more sturdy then a band where you picked up stitches and knit it in
Oh boy! You took a week off and I am just now getting to watch you! So excited! Starting new project that will be done times three! Two nephews and one niece to knit scarves for! But boy did I miss my Nora time!
When I get stuck on doing tasks (even non knitting ones) i use body doubling as a way of getting it done. So for your button band, catch up with a knitting friend with the sole purpose of working on the knitting task you need to get done. You'll be excited to see the friend and then you get the task done ❤
I have never heard of this before, but it sounds like my best friend is going to be hearing from me a lot from now on 😂 thank you for the suggestion!
I found myself in the same situation (the edge of a blanket), I worked 10 rows before going on to another project, the fact that after the 10 rows an interesting project awaited me made it almost fun 😅❤❤thank you Nora for your time dedicated to us❤❤❤❤
I’m glad you’re back! ❤
When I’m having a hard time finishing a project I make myself devote 30 minutes a day to work on it. I work on it first then move on to WIP’s that I’m enjoying.
There's also seamless saddle shoulder designs which don't involve picking up stitches 🙂 For example the TTTHIN sweater - I can highly recommend it as I don't like picking up stitches as I always struggle with the pickup ratio 😂
I had no idea! That may make saddle shoulder my official favorite construction!
@@akaNoraKnits Yesss! And the fit is also incredible
I really like your “picture frame” on the right of the frame that gives the project details. It’s so much easier to read. 👍
My jaw dropped when you said double knit button band for an ankle length cardigan! I'm doing one for a hip length cardigan and that's more than enough for me! It will be totally worth it when it is done so push through!
The sewn on waist band for the skirt may be a structural thing as seamed garments tend not to stretch in the same way a seamless does. I would personally seam it - the weight of the skirt may need the extra reinforcement to not stretch and pull down :)
It is such a beast! I never minded doing the double knitting for a standard button band, but now it's laughing at me! 😂
Good point! I wonder if I should even consider reinforcing the waist band with a ribbon or something to help it hold it's structure... 🤔
Oh, you’re soooo close on the Sand cardigan! Think of how far you’ve already come on this huge project! I must give myself a deadline &/or daily schedule in these situations. Also, I think of future me as a motivator. Future me, next month me, will be so happy to wear this thing because current me decided to get ‘er done!
All the best wishes to Papa Knits and your family! Attaching a separately knit waistband could be more stable than picking up and knitting it, especially with a fiber than tends to stretch with wear. However, if you plan to use a folded band (I can't remember what the construction is), it will probably work out similarly.
I just used Wonderfluff in a test knit of the Amiata Sweater 2.0 for Sophie aka The Knit Purl Girl. I held it double with a silk mohair. I haven't had much of a chance to wear it yet due to weather, but I didn't get the pilling or shedding while using it that some users report. We shall see if the mohair helps keep the pilling down.
Can’t wait to see your fall knitting plans ❤
When I don't want to finish a project, but I want it done, I make it a rule to knit 1" before I work on the fun project.
I just recently finished a pullover that was on my needles for 364 days. That's right...one day shy of an entire year. It's a beautiful pattern, lovely wool, I was keen to have the finished garment, but I hit the wall after the color work yoke was completed. Here's how I broke the spell: I laid out the project on the bed in a spare bedroom and shut the door because seeing it every day amongst my other, active WIP's made me feel guilty and defeated. Then, each day I would go to the spare bedroom with my first cup of morning tea, sit on the bed, and knit on it until the mug of tea was gone. Some days I left the room AS I was sipping the final drop of tea. Some days I knit a few rows even after the last drop of tea. Either way, leave the room, shut the door. Repeat. The sweater finally got done. 🙂
I agree with everyone who has chimed in. Break that buttonband into smaller chunks. It could even be two rounds on days when you’re especially resistant to working on it. Just keep going. It will eventually get done.
My advice for the Sand Cardigan is to maybe commit yourself to 10-ish rows every evening before you start on the Beatrix. I've done that with a few projects. I just finished the Stockholm vest from PetitKnits and added full twisted ribbing at the hem and that was the slog for me. So before I would work on my mom's Christmas shawl, I told myself I had to do one row of the ribbing. It really helped me knock out the one I didn't have enthusiasm for. Although now that it's finished and drying I'm super excited to have it!!
Also, I love KP's Alpaca Cloud! It's my go to for adding a lace weight. I can't really do mohair so if I need to add a lace it's the Alpaca cloud or Fyberspates Cumulus (which is amazing!!!) I know that cascade now has an alpaca lace weight and really want to try that out too
Yes, if you are anything like me, you get dopamine from *new* things 😂. Try adding something new into the button band experience, even if it is just something little, like a new stitch marker, or a length tracker with a sticker for every new inch you knit. Also a bit of challenge, as others suggest, like ‘how many rows in 30minutes?’ can really help. Or some body doubling where you knit with someone else, either real or virtual. Kat Weaver did a delightful little fairy inspired silent knit with me podcast a while back, which I love. Or maybe you could do a live broadcast on TH-cam where you work on your button band for half an hour with viewers in real time to encourage you. Good luck! We are cheering you to the finish line 🏁🎉🥳🙌🏼xxx
These are such helpful suggestions!!! I will 100% be borrowing from your list of ideas when I can!!! Thank you so much!! 🥰
Missed you Nora! So glad you got a nice break, though! On knitting a slog: I set a time goal and knit that first thing in the morning, then all day I knit whatever else I would like without feeling guilty. That being said, I do not force it. If that day I don't hit the time goal or don't knit at all, I don't make myself feel bad about that. On picking up stitches for the waistband: I feel like this is a better idea than sewing on a premade waistband. I think controlling the pickup rate will make for a better fit. Though I have to say, I also hate picking up HUGE amounts of stitches, it always takes me a few tries to get it right.
Just want to say that the Sand cardigan is just stunning and I think that having the finished object will be so satisfying. Setting aside a certain amount of time to work on it will work well. Especially because you are halfway through the button band. The set time or amount of rows can transition from the button band into the pockets.
Also wanted to congratulate you on a year of podcasting! Your upload schedule is unmatched. i appreciate your break coinciding with my brothers wedding last weekend. Cheers!
I've been wanting to add knit undershirts/tank tops to my wardrobe too. I started a camisole no 9 for this. I have that pattern to though and can't wait to try it. You need undershirts for Maine winters.
Wonderful episode Nora! Chocolate matches your hair perfectly BTW, at least on screen. Probably part of why it looks so good on you. 😊
You are doing great with these episodes - really interesting and compelling content, well delivered. I'd love to see an episode dedicated entirely to your thoughts on undertones in make up, garments and yarn. You could weave in some bridal world anecdotes - after all, you see people dressed at their best all the time!
Overall, I think you are really on to something. While I've been recovering from an illnrss, I've been checking out a lot of vlogs, and yours is already at one year, one of the best. If you were so inclined, this could develop into a significant business endeavor. You're kind of like the Rachel Ray of the yarn world, aren't you!! Useful info, interesting projects, entertainment and fun, all professionally shot and delivered. Well done, Nora! 👏👏👏 And I oughta know, I used to be in that world. 😉
One request - when you mention needles, could you please include mention of the US size as well? Anyway, keep up the good work!
Well now you've gone and made me cry! 🥺 That is so so so incredibly sweet of you to say. Really--you don't know how much your kindness means to me. Rachael Ray of the yarn world!! 😂 I love it--thank you!!! I will most definitely consider everything that you've said here!
I will admit that one of my greatest pet peeves in knitting is needle size specification lol. I will at the very least try to include the US size in the info paper from now on! Thank you 🥰
I'm so sorry your time off wasn't peaceful. Sending prayers and healing energy to your dad. I'm in love with that deep brown, I have winter knits lined up with this beautiful color. It’s in unspun so now I'm off to see the alpaca you held your yarn double with. I’m not sure of the lace weight or fingering for I nice sturdy jacket. Happy knitting 💚🧶💚
Thank you so much! I am so so loving the Knit Picks Alpaca Cloud Lace with the Lamb's Pride! I will definitely be looking towards it for future projects!! Happy knitting to you!!
I have a "begrudgingly knit" project. A half fishermans rib zip-up for my husband. He's tall (6'6") so it's a LOT of knitting. When I sit down to knit, I do 30 minutes on that first, and then switch to something else. Sometimes I find I've found a groove with my husband's sweater and I go past the 30 minutes.
so excited to see you cast on the beatrix cardigan. when i first saw it i thought it was so you! can’t wait to see how it turns out:)
Looking forward to seeing your knitting plan.
I am planning on knitting summer items being in New Zealand
I enjoy your podcasts very much. For the Sand Cardigan measure how much longer you have to go and divide it by 3 or 4 inches, marked off by stitch markers. Do that much every other day--NO EXCUSES. It will be done before you know it. I love it. You've done a great job so far, just like with all of your projects.
Button band- try a few inches or rows a day (M-F only). I love that cardigan -so beautiful!!
Love love love the having the project details listed on the side with a picture. PERFECTION chef’s kiss
I hope Papa Knits is healing comfortably ❤. When a project becomes a slog to finish, I give it 30 minutes a day, the first thing I pick up to work on. It will move it along at a slow, even pace. For me, there is a point where I become determined to fnish and marathon knit to complete it.
Hi! Love your podcast ❤. Have you considered going down a couple of needle sizes to pick up the waistband? Then you can pick up all the stitches for a seamless look.
Hi Nora, welcome back! In a previous episode you mentioned the length of the dpns you’re using for the button band makes them kind of stabby. Perhaps a small investment in longer dpns would make working on the cardigan a less tedious experience and therefore something you’re more motivated to do?
When I've had a project that I'm struggling to finish, I figure out what a reasonable finish date would be for me and then I divide it by how many days I have until then and just do that little bit each day. I try not to make it more than 5 to 10 rows and if it's a bigger project where each row takes longer, I might only do one or two rows a day. ❤️
I just finished my very first double-knit button band (with many many thanks to your "pick up as you go" tutorial after a DISASTER pick-up rate issue on my first attempt). What really helped me get through it was that my cardigan has very visible increases down the V-neck front, so I could reach a milestone regularly. It gave me satisfaction and motivation to keep going. I also had a hard deadline on when I wanted to wear it, so that gave me a push, as well. Perhaps you could divide and place stitch markers regularly down the rest of the band in achievable intervals? And/or set yourself a deadline and divide the button band based on that date. Best of luck, and I believe in you!
I like the comment below. I do the same thing. I usually commit to four rows. Something meaningful without being onerous. Also, as much as I want to only knit what brings me joy, if I didn't slog through the miserable parts, I would never have finished a project in my life...
Welcome back! You were missed! 😁 Hope you had a good break from filming.
I picked up stitches for the waistband of my fancypepitaskirt and I think it turned out really well so you should be fine. Would recommend adding a lifeline to the pickup edge so it’s a bit easier to see as I struggled to keep my line straight when attacking the waistband together at the end.
Thank you so much for sharing your experience! I was just admiring your skirt and how beautifully it came out! I hope I remember to add a lifeline!!! Thank you 🥰
I am in my first week of MY total knee replacement surgery & I think you mentioned your dad had the same procedure, was that accurate? Nor sure if pain meds made me hallucinate that! Only on day 6 did I finally feel okay to knit a line or 2 (fell asleep while mid-row) but couldn't believe I heard you mention your relative & how you didn't knit as much as you thought. I was like, "me too, sis, me too"! Anyway, loved having your podcast back on my 1st day back knitting! Tell your dad to do his rehab, keep on top of pain & let ppl help him (bc it's hard to be a patient, imo). Finish that long cardigan duster bc it's perfect! TY for being a long-distance knitting friend- the calming vibe & positivity in vids really helps w/dealing w recovery!
You are indeed right and I can't help but chuckle at the familiarity of your hallucination thought! 😅 I'm so sorry that you've had to undergo such an intense procedure, but I hope you are on the mend! I told dad it was a good time to take up knitting! That definitely gave us both a good laugh. I am glad you have yours--even for just the row when you can! Thank you so much and happy knitting!!! 💛
TY for nice thoughts...intense is most apt descriptor. As soon as your dad is ready, may I suggest you get him wool-ease & size 11 wooden needles to make a "recovery" scarf. You cld cast on stitches (& bind off) but it would make a great beginning knit, knit, knit project (lasting the first big, bad, bored 6 weeks of rehab). He'll get hooked (bc what else can he do rt now, rt? You've got him rt where you want him)!😉🫶
When you were talking about your new cast on and that it was a cardigan, I was crossing my fingers that is was the Beatrix card. I'm planning on knitting it myself later in the year, so I will be checking your progress and feedback on it!!
Yayy! I love that you're planning to knit a Beatrix as well! As of now, I can do nothing but URGE you to cast on as soon as possible!!! I am just adoring this project 🥰
You could knit the pockets now am sure it will re-inspire you 😊
If I do x inches day it will be done for *insert event im excited to go to* just a little math the mind set changes so much it's crazy
I just cast on the Beatrix as well. I'm at the same place as you are. Yours is beautiful!
Yayy! I hope you're loving it as much as I am!! Thank you!
Seams provide stability and structure, so if you pick up stitches instead it may stretch more over time and whatnot. I’d be weary and probably stick with sewing the waistband on for that extra structure.
So glad you had a week off but wow was last Saturday at 9:30 ruff 🐶 😂 Thanks for all you do for your podcast!
Trust me, it felt bizarre to wake up and not worry about the podcast popping up in the timeline! Happy to be back and grateful to those of you who have returned with me! 🥰
I totally issue you a challenge to work on the Sand for 15min per day....before you know it, it'll be done! The Beatrix is beautiful, and my brain is sorting through my stash wondering if I have something that'll do!
When I have a project I just need to work through I'll usually decide to work on it for the length of a video, or tv show or podcast. Something that is entertaining so I'm not just thinking about how repetitive the project currently is and also has a time limit so I let myself know there's an end
I usually decide on a number of rows per day. Lots of stitches - fewer rows, few stitches - more rows. For the double knit button band, I would do 10 rows per day, it will be done before you know it and your joy will return. For the skirt, Sewing the waste band on, vs picking up stitches, would give more stability and strength at the waist. That waist band will be holding the weight of the skirt on it, a seam at that point would be much stronger and reduce stretch.
I think the waistband is sewn on so that you have a seam which will be much more stable. If you just pick up stitches you may find that your skirt begins to droop as all the weight is pulling on those stitches
Here's a tip for button bands - I'll put stitch markers at every inch around the neckline so I have progress keepers built in to try to reach when I start knitting. That way, I get a little dopamine hit whenever I reach the next stitch marker!
That's so smart!!! Thank you!
Sand cardigan: Maybe give yourself a rule that you must knit on it for at least 10 minutes before you can pick up another project.
Picking up the stitches would create a nicer finish than sewing the waistband on. Hmm, interesting choice and pattern design
A technique that works for me is to figure out WHEN I want to be done - so let's say 10 days from now. I calculate how much needs to be done - ie: number of rows, or number of stripes, or number of motifs, or in your case number of inches left on the band- let's say 20 in. Then I divide by the number of days and that's how many I need to complete each day to finish by my deadline. It feels more tangible to me than just knitting for a certain number of minutes on it each day because I can't conceptualize when it will actually be done. Whereas with my method, I know that if I want to complete it within 10 days and I knit 2 inches per day, I'm done.
So excited to have you back! I'm loving the idea of year-round tanks/shells with jackets and sweaters, so a few of those are on my to-knit list now! Aww, my papa (over many years) has had both hips and both knees done. You're a wonderful daughter for helping out! His "secret" to the success of those surgeries is to do EVERYTHING the medical professionals say. All the nighttime exercises and stretches etc. It's still so much, and I'm sure Papa Knits was/is grateful to have your support
If your saddle shoulder stitches are still on hold, you could easily ladder down and fix those two purl stitches 🙂
You are so right!! Here's hoping I remember to do that! 😅
Yay here so early ❤ missed you last week!
You're back!!!
I should say I'm glad you got a little "break" but I missed you
I do the 30 minutes most days technique with things I'm struggling with.
Referring to knitting the button band have you tried “30 minutes of knitting” style? This is what Knitty Natty and The Crazy Sock Lady does. They would knit on a certain project for 30 minutes a day to break up a larger task.
I try to make it into a game, knit in one project while watching a TH-cam episode and change projects for another one. This can be substituted for a tv show.
Another option is to time yourself for one inch and figure out how long it would take you to knit the remaining button band, then you could calculate how many inches you could knit in each day to break it up. I hope this helps!
Or
I do love the idea of knitting on it during a particular show or podcast!! Thank you for the suggestion!!
For the Cordelia skirt, I would totally just pick up stitches, and then decrease evenly in the next row to the number required. Seem like it would be neater and more stable (and less sewing!) than sewing it on later. And then you can sew the case off edge to the original edge.
I want to make a long cardigan, like the Sand cardigan or the No Frills Cardigan, but I don't know if I have the strength to get through such a long project! >.
Great suggestion! Thank you!!! As for making a long cardigan, my best suggestion is to choose one that has all of the details integrated into the making process! Anything to avoid having to go back and add those little details would make it so much more bearable!
I noticed u were gone, and said, Where’s my sweet Nora? But realllllly glad u took a break for yourself
Definitely work on the pockets next! Then when you are tired of them go back to the band. 😊
Twenty minutes a day!!
What if you get a really exciting domestic thriller audiobook and only listen to it when you work on the button band? Wanting to know what happens next might be motivating enough to keep coming back to it!
Andrea Mowry said she blocks in hot water and lets it cool to room temp before removing.
Ooooh--that sounds like EXACTLY what this garment needs! Thank you!
Random question, what lipstick/lipgloss are you wearing? And color? It’s so pretty!
Thank you so much!! It is a fun little combo I've been living in lately! NYX Lip Pencil in the colorway Nude Pink, NYX Liquid Suede in the colorway Soft Spoken (just a little bit applied and patted into the lips), and Maybelline Lifter Gloss in the colorway Gummy Bear. It seems like an ordeal, but it takes a minute-- I swear!
I worked only on one project at a time. I have tried to knit on more then one but then i feel like it not getting done fast enough
Set some doable goals first your button band and promise yourself some much deserved rewards……
Calculate how many sessions you want to devote, fill a jar either Hershey kisses and have one at each completed goal. You can see your band increase and the kisses decrease.
OMG chocolate motivation!! Now we're talking!!!
If you pick up stitches, wouldn't gravity and the weight of the skirt pull at the waist of the skirt when you wear it? I think sewing the waist helps to secure the waist from the rest of the skirt.
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It would tell you to see the waist band on so that you have the seam which will support the weight of the skirt. I would not pic up the stitches or it may continue to grow and stretch when wearing it.
Hope your Dad's doing better. 😊
Thank you so much!! 🥰 He's getting better everyday!
... For why not just pick up stitches for the waistband of your skirt...
I think the seam of sewing the waistband on is more stable to hold the weight of the skirt than picking up live stitches... is the only thing I can think of, but I'm new to knitting but not to sewing.
Plus you can make a smaller waist and a gathered skirt.
That's definitely a good point! I appreciate it! Thank you!
DKBB - 30 minutes a day
Please do not pick up stitches for the button band. Follow the pattern and sew it on. Sewing is much stronger and the skirt’s weight hanging on one knit row is much more inclined to stretch and pull out of shape than if you sew it on. Think of the difference between knitting in the round for a sweater versus knitting flat and seaming. The seamed sweater is a million times more sturdy. I know flat and seamed is not the fashion now and knitting in the round is everything now.
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