Kay's Korner - A Knitters Notes

December 17, 2007

Over the next weeks, most of us will be spending time with friends and family. Consider spending some time with someone you enjoy and teaching them your craft. It will be a gift that will enhance their lives and just might be one of those gifts that keeps on giving. I always enjoy watching a student progress, but recently I was able to see how the hours I spent with a student incubated into an unexpected clutch of new knitters.

A young woman was referred to me for lessons by a friend from my church. We became friends as she learned to cast on and knit and I was able to see how remarkable she is in many ways. A psychologist by profession, she recently took a position working with at risk teen girls, a job she finds both enjoyable and fulfilling. The last time we got together, she gave me some amazing news - not only had she taught two family members what she had learned, she had introduced several of her girls to knitting. In this day of i-phones and video games, these young women are enjoying the traditional craft that I so love. That my young friend has shared her craft with so many, all I can say is that I am humbled. Kudos, Lindsay!

You need not be a teacher to share the love of your craft. All it takes is a little time, patience, and a willing spirit in both you and the person you are teaching. A simple cast on, knit stitch, and bind off will set the foundation, allowing simple projects to be completed. Even though many novelty yarns are being discontinued, they can't be beat for a gratifying first project. They hide mistakes and look so fancy, even in garter stitch! Teach the beginning stitches on a smooth yarn, then dig through your stash and find a couple of skeins of novelty yarn for that important first scarf. With some nurturing, you will soon have a new knitter in your circle.

As I look forward to time with my loved ones, I am hoping that all of you will, as well, enjoy the holiday season. Already, I am planning many tips and tricks to share with you in 2008, from using a niddy noddy to understanding how the characteristics of the yarns you choose will effect your finished garments. It is going to be a great year!

Kay's needles have been quite busy this week. A turban in Cascade's Fixation, a wrap in DiVe Butterfly, and a scarf in GGH Modena will all be under our tree this Christmas. I designed a gorgeous scarf for my sister, knit in a mohair/wool/silk/cashmere blend of fibers on US #15 needles. It should be finished before our Christmas Eve family gathering. And with a little luck, my mohair, cabled sweater coat will get a yoke and I will have something smashing to wear when "to Grandmother's house we go!"

Copyright 2007 Karen Mather