I am very happy to say that I have taught myself how to knit. When I say taught myself, that means I've learned some basics from watching some videos on YouTube. I have to say that I did not expect there to be so much to knitting. All the needles, different types of yarn, different types of stitching patterns and all these terms that made me feel like knitters have their own language. I still have a lot to learn but I am excited that I have made something already.
For my first project I decided to make a coffee cozy. There are tons of free patterns online. I found some of the patterns confusing though since I didn't understand any of the basic knitting terms. I went to Hobby Lobby and just bought the things that the pattern called for. The first pattern I attempted I purchased some thick yarn and circular needles.
Can you say FAIL? hahaha I tried following the pattern but had no idea what the person was talking about. I attempted looking at the photos of "what to do" but they were confusing and not getting me anywhere. That first night of knitting I was doing everything wrong and became very frustrated. That is when I resorted to YouTube. I needed actual directions I could understand. I needed to see the motions of knitting. A picture did me no good at all. Also starting out with circular needles and thick yarn was a mistake. I learned really fast that I needed a yarn that was thin and that would not unravel easily. Back to Hobby Lobby to get different supplies...
I ended up finding a different pattern that did not use circular needles. It was way easier for a beginner. I did cheat and only used knit stitches and not pearl stitches. Knit stitches look more like rows (see below picture for an example) and pearl stitches have more of a zig-zag pattern. I plan to make my next cozy in only pearl stitches. Baby steps! I figured this way I could really learn each style.
I have to say I am loving how relaxing knitting is. I really hoped that I was going to enjoy it. Every time I saw someone knitting I thought they looked so peaceful. I've just been knitting in bed at night while we watch TV. The cats are loving it because they get to play with the yarn and apparently it's a good pillow.
I am really happy with the results of my cozy. I can't wait to keep making more of them and try new projects as well. It feels so good to learn a new hobby and to create things. Now I won't have to use a cardboard sleeve from Starbucks ever again. Of course Cody wants a cozy as well, but has requested less girly yarn. ;)
If you are interested in watching them go HERE.
