How to be a Fabulous Knitter / Crocheter: Guidelines for 2012

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How to be a Fabulous Knitter / Crocheter: Guidelines for 2012

Vera says:

Some years ago, I made a resolution not to make any resolutions, and it has been the easiest one to keep, but the freshness of the new year combined with the temptation to list has finally gotten to me, and I'm ready to make a break with tradition. This time around, though, I want to be gentle about it.

In that, spirit, I present my crafting resolutions guidelines for 2012. No pressure, no stress, just some I can achieve them–or not–things to do.

Remain "Stash Conscious":

I have enough yarn to open a small shop–or be the focus of an episode of the show Hoarders. Still, I don't want to place an outright ban on yarn purchases. When I see a project I want to make, I will try to think of the yarn I already have rather than just running out the door to the nearest shop or jumping online to buy it. It worked out pretty well last year, so I'll continue.

Finish up Some UFOs:

I can easily spend 2012 working on my UNfinished Objects without starting a single new one, but I know that's setting myself up for failure, so I will endeavor to thin the herd.

Two of the biggest offenders in my UFO Hall of Shame wouldn't take long to complete.

This is the Penina Bolero from Cool Crochet that has been stewing in my closet since 2005!!! I ran out of yarn, had to buy more, and just "got out of the notion" while waiting for the yarn to arrive.

I just need to finish the second sleeve and sew her up.

This is the Funky Funnel-Neck Fun sweater from one of my first knitting books, The Yarn Girl's Guide to Simple Knits. I probably started this in 2003.

Had I finished it, she would have had distinction of being my first knitted sweater. Like Penina, I just need to finish the second sleeve and assemble (sensing a theme here).

I also need to locate the other needle and the book.

Acquire Some New Skills:

I love to learn something new. I taught myself to knit continental, but couldn't purl, so when I returned to knitting, I relearned English style. Now I want to try continental again to make my fair isle knitting faster.

I learned to knit socks top down with double pointed needles, and that while that will always be my preferred technique, I know how knit them toe up, on, two circular needles, and using the magic loop method. Since I suffer from second sock syndrome, maybe it's time to try two socks on circulars. However, instead of having one sock done, I might end up with two socks half done.

Sighs.

I also would like to knit a pair of gloves. I knitted mittens, and and fingerless mitts, so while gloves isn't that much of a step up, I just never been there.

More, More, More:

I'd would also like to blog more, teach more (virtually and in person), and, organize more.

What are some things you'd you'd like to accomplish in your crafting life for 2012? Please share in the comments.

Have a Happy and Fabulous New Year!

Vera Hannaford lives and crafts in Charleston, South Carolina. She plans to do some instructional videos, but needs a manicure first. You can follow her adventures in needlework on Vera's Crafty Blog and on occasion, get some helpful hints at KnittingTips on Twitter.