I have not been knitting too much lately. I only have patience for small, quickly finished projects like this towel. It still needs blocking, this is fresh off the needles. I think I should immediately start another since it took me so long to finally get into the rhythm of the pattern.
I knit a lot of hats in the round. That involves pretty mindless knit stitch and some counting. I usually start from the top and work down. That's not how most of the instruction I have say to do it, but I find it easier for some reason. I have convinced myself I don't have to worry about gauge so much that way. Also in a hat, the occasional extra stitch doesn't become a big worry. Knitting along almost becomes a meditative state.
Not so with a fussy pattern. I kept ending a row with an extra stitch or a missing stitch. Then I would have to undo and try again. That kind of knitting has the opposite effect of a meditative state. My muscles tense, my blood pressure spikes, my mind is no longer empty but filled with negative thoughts about knitting ability and my very worth as a human being. I work myself right into a spiritual crisis.
But if nothing else, I can be persistent. Eventually the pattern gets in my head--or maybe into my fingers--and I get a feeling of having completed a task and of having made something with my own hands.
These little towels are decorative and they make a nice hostess gift. They may have some aggravation factor, but they knit up quickly. I'll make some more. I have convinced myself that I only need one lace shawl in this lifetime.
Your emotional process sort of matches my own when I tackle a tricky sewing project. But satisfactory completion brings a great sense of accomplishment.
ReplyDeleteYour knit towel is beautiful. You could easily take orders for them-they's sell well.
ReplyDeleteI wish I had your talent. It would be nice to curl up and knit on a wintery day.
The towel is beautiful. What a nice hostess gift it would be. I am glad the pattern in embedded, it is a beautiful pattern. Have a wonderful upcoming week.
ReplyDeleteThe towel is beautiful. I've been thinking of taking up knitting or going back to crochet as I heal from my head injury, but I will need something mindless to work on. I don't need any aggravation or stress.
ReplyDeletePlease tell me you're teasing about using this piece as a towel. I'm about to finish a feather and fan patterned scarf and would fight anybody who came near to use it as a towel.
ReplyDeleteThat's very pretty. It resembles a pattern of an afghan I made once . . . the only thing I ever knitted that was PERFECTLY DONE.
ReplyDeleteAmong the stitches were blood, sweat and tears.
A friend just told me about a group of local women who get together and knit and she invited me to join them. I am excited about learning, but also worried that it may be beyond my skill level. I look forward to the day I can make a hat. Your project is beautiful and I agree with the other comments that it is much too nice for a towel!
ReplyDeleteThe towels are decorative? Not to be used for drying hands or dishes?
ReplyDeleteAnd here I recently thought of taking up knitting as a relaxing hobby. If I do, I will remember to stay simple. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteHow exquisite! That is a heirloom gift! I can't even imagine knitting something so intricate (or something easy for that matter).
ReplyDeleteWell done. Maybe as valuable as the item in your previous post!!
ReplyDeleteCheers from Cottage Country!
It's beautiful. I knit purely for that meditative state, so no patterns for me. I make a lot of rectangles.l
ReplyDeleteSo beautiful! I wish I could knit or crochet. I'd certainly produce a pile of those and put them away to hand out to the grandkids when they can appreciate them. Your ability is enviable (count me as one of the envious!).
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Oh how I would love to be able to knit anything. I envy you and your talent. This towel does not look easy but it is very pretty.
ReplyDeleteI managed years ago to crochet a few pieces but have never been lucky enough to learn the art of knitting.
Glad I am over here visiting tonight. I must catch up with you
Love
Maggie
The towel is lovely and would make a precious hostess gift, as well as a bridal shower gift, housewarming gift, birthday gift. . . You may never have to buy a gift again!
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