Blog posts last week were light for two reasons. One, I wanted to focus your eyes on my first blog reader survey. The feedback I collected was thoughtful, honest, and detailed. Thanks to everyone who participated.
And a special congratulations to the winner of the $20 Starbucks gift card: Laura Shelton of The LBeau Room!
The other reason? In a word: knitting. Around the holidays I asked my mother-in-law to teach me the ins and outs of knitting. And since then, with plenty of practice, patience, and YouTube videos, I have mastered the basics! My first piece, a simple gray scarf, was quickly followed by scarves and coasters for family and friends.
The traditional knit stitch is what I now know best; however, the more intricate purl stitch is next on my list to tackle. Along with an eternity scarf and, if I’m lucky, a small throw.
I continue collecting and following knitting blogs, including The Purl Bee, Maxwell Handmade, Madalynne, Cherry Heart, Craftsy, and, of course, Ravelry. These varied blogs not only offer ideas and inspiration but the motivation I need to knit every day, improving this little craft of mine that has evolved into quite the hobby.
What’s more: knitting is relaxing and creative. And as someone who loves showing my appreciation to others, it has become a very handmade effort for thanking (and surprising!) family and friends both near and far.
Editor’s note: Photo courtesy of Michael Connors.
Beautiful knits Wendy! I love knitting because it often results in a finished product in a relatively short period of time – it’s a great craft for those of us that travel a lot and have idle time in airports, on planes, or in cars.
[Reply]
Wendy Townley Reply:
March 18th, 2013 at 4:09 pm
Adina, thank you very much! You bring up such an important point about knitting and travel. I travel frequently and easily lose track of time when I’m away from home, knitting needles in tow.
[Reply]
Hey thanks for the mention Wendy!! Your scarf looks lovely, such even stitches! Knitting comes and goes for me, every time I pick it back up I think “Wow, I forgot how great this is! Why did I ever stop?” Knitting is such a calming and meditative practice, it helps me unwind after a long day. And as a bonus I end up with a great scarf/hat/sock to show for it. But life gets so busy it’s easy to get distracted and forget to make time for things like knitting. I just moved to Portland and joined my first knitting group. The group meets a different breweries around the city to share a beers and trade knitting tips. I’ve found it really inspiring to keep my knitting practice going!
[Reply]
Wendy Townley Reply:
March 19th, 2013 at 5:42 am
Ah, a knitting group! Megan, that sounds like so much fun. I know churches typically have knitting/quilting/crocheting groups, but I never thought of a stand-alone group. I’ll have to look into that. Thanks for your comment and for your blog. I love it!
[Reply]
Thanks so much for the mention. You’ve done wonderfully well so far, so stick with it! I love the scarf you’re wearing, the colour is gorgeous!
S x
[Reply]
Wendy Townley Reply:
March 19th, 2013 at 3:38 pm
Sandra, you are very welcome for the mention! My knitting improves with each and every stitch, each and every project. It’s great :-)
[Reply]