Knitting

Since my first struggles, I've finally "got" why people like to knit. I love the rhythmicity of it, producing long rows of more or less even stitches that produce more or less interesting patterns. Crochet is looking less and less interesting because a lot of it seems to be about fancy patterns. I love that I am making something. I love that I am making things for people who don't mind a few "extra features" (ahem). I love that I can be productive and active while relaxing in front of the TV or listening to the radio. I love that this is something I can do on the bus that will allow me to think about the day ahead. I have been spending far too much money on yarns and needles recently - all for projects I will make.

Finished: a scarf for my husband in rib stitch. I have two projects on the go, a scarf using a very fine wool and knit one purl one rib stitch for my mother, which will take me ages to get done, and a simple poncho for DD. The scarf is an adaptation (gasp) of a pattern from Stitch'n'Bitch, the poncho I found online. Once that's finished, I have a hat-cum-scarf pattern (extremely simple, just garter stitch) from John Lewis, and a simple teddy pattern that I would like to use for learning how to increase/decrease. And then there's a scarf for my dad ...

I just need to watch my hands. I tend to grip needles and yarn too tightly, resulting in pain and discomfort. I also find that I really prefer pieces that knit up fast on large needles. Overall, I'm really happy with my new hobby. Thank you y'all for your advice!