Three Ways to Stop Knitting Start-itis

This entry was written on Jan 09, 2009 by our Knitting Guru L'Tanya Durante

I know of only a few knitters who knit a project to completion before starting another. I wish I knew more. Maybe I could learn a few things. It seems that the majority of us suffer from "knitting attention deficit disorder" or what the Yarn Harlot calls "start-itis." We juggle between several projects; knitting a little bit here and a little bit there. If managed well, it's understandable.

Small portable projects, like a pair of socks, can be worked on while in waiting rooms or in the car. Larger projects or those that require more intense concentration are worked on at home. Makes sense. But...we're over-stimulated. We search online communities, buy knitting magazines, electronically download patterns and frequent the local yarn shop, drawing our attention to the next piece to knit.

For those who'd like to curb this craving, there is hope. Based on the principles and strategies from the book, "ADD-Friendly Ways to Organize Your Life" by Judith Kolberg and Kathleen Nadeau, Ph.D., here are three ways to manage "start-itis":

* Reduce the stimulation -- Limit yourself to reading knitting magazines, visiting yarn shops, or pattern "window shopping" until you've completed a project.

* Use your stimulation hunger to become a better knitter -- Knit projects that use several types of stitches or incorporate patterns you've never tried to counteract boredom.

* Make it a game -- Create a challenge that rewards you along the way from start to finish. These kinds of challenges are often more fun if played with a group.

By developing a few simple routines and strategies, you'll be able to reduce the number of works-in-progress and create excitement about finishing.

Patterns on File

Knitters will never tire of knitting books and magazines, however, the number of patterns available as electronic downloads continues to increase. Downloading patterns right onto your computer, usually as a pdf, is quick, and usually less expensive than it would be if mailed. Keep electronic clutter to a minimum by organizing your electronically downloaded patterns. For easy reference, create and categorize folders, for example, accessories, mittens and gloves, etc. File each pattern in the appropriate folder.

Swatch Library

It's a good idea to knit a swatch or sample piece before you begin any project. Usually knitters create swatches that are about 4 x 4 inches; just large enough to be able to count stitches and rows. Instead of unraveling your swatch when you're finished, why not save it? Create a swatch library using a 3-ring binder. Print out pages to use as a template that includes information about the yarn. If it feels rough on your hands, jot it down. If you used particular stitches, make a note of it. Be sure to leave space on the page to pin on the swatch. This book will be an invaluable reference and will come in handy when your memory fails you.

Measuring Up

Use a ruler instead of measuring tape when measuring your knitting. Whether you're measuring a knitted piece or counting rows and stitches, you want to have an accurate count. Measuring tape can stretch as it wears. So an inch may not be an inch, which means if you're making something wearable, it may not fit.