This has been a tough year. We all search for ways to escape from our worries and anxiety. When you are knitting, do you find yourself sitting and focusing on something such as your breathing or the pattern? You enter a space where your problems disappear as you focus on something outside yourself. Sounds like meditating, right?
Recently, my good friend and fellow knitting teacher (one of our Affiknity Retreat teachers), Kate Atherley, wrote an article for The New York Times about knitting’s meditative nature, entitled, “Pick Up the Knitting Needles for a Mood Booster.” No matter the reason we choose to knit, there are many positive benefits such as creating something warm for yourself or others or participating in a supportive community. Kate also mentions that knitting can improve one’s mood, cognitive function, and chronic pain.
In my experience, there are two types of knitters, and here are some patterns for both types:
01. Simple, Meditative Knitting Patterns
The first type are those knitters who find comfort in repetitive, meditative knitting. This is simple knitting that is used to calm your spirit, especially during stressful times. There’s something about choosing the right yarn and clicking together my knitting needles that always soothes my nerves. If you’re a knitter who likes to focus on the act of knitting, here are a few patterns that you might enjoy.
Jetson
Looking for a sweater with a design that’s relaxing to knit and flattering to wear? Try my popular Jetson sweater. Featuring classic stockinette stitch, it’s straightforward to knit, allowing you to float away in your thoughts.
Geneva Vest
The talented Fiona Ellis designed this simple, reverse-stockinette vest called the “Geneva Vest.” Named after Geneva Misener, the first female professor at the University of Alberta and a vocal spokesperson for women’s rights in the province, it features a beautiful cable detail at the bottom.
Dandelion Slouchy Cap
Tired of wearing the same hat every day? Want to make something different? The one and only Carol J. Sulcoski has a pattern for a fun, easy-to-knit hat called the “Dandelion Slouchy Cap.”
02. Patterns to Learn New Skills and Focus Your Energy
The second type of knitters are those who love the challenge of devoting their minds to complex knitting as a distraction. Here are some complex patterns to dive into and focus on learning new skills.
Brioche Bandido
It’s time to grab a couple of skeins and create this multi-colored cowl. The “Brioche Bandido” crafted by my friend, Laura Nelkin, will keep you warm and in style. It is the perfect touch if you want to add a pop of color to your outfit. Using the brioche stockinette stitch and other stitches will help you achieve this look.
Castaway Tam
The “Castaway Tam” is a cute hat made by Mary Jane Mucklestone. The colors and different patterns, such as the border and peerie, combined give this hat a fun, unique look for outdoor festivities. Try this pattern if you want to add a little something extra to your next hat.
Chambourein
Looking for something elegant? The “Chambourein” is a beautiful shawl made by Brooke Nico. The sequence of twisted rib stitches shows its texture and grace.
Affiknity
If you’re ready to knit sweaters for you and your whole family, check out my Affiknity pattern which is on sale through January 24, 2021. You will have access to hours of video tutorials to learn how to create cardigans and pullovers for anyone in your family.
Whether you are one type of knitter or the other, we all find joy and comfort in the hobby. Leave a comment below and let me know which type of knitter you are!
