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I have knit scarves and felted bags (see here and here and here) since as long as I can remember, but I really don’t know how to follow a pattern. Our local independent bookstore (where my current one woman show is until Valentine’s Day!) has a knitting group, so I’ve been going once a month.

My motives for going to this are: to try to use up some yarn I had, to be social with some local folks who are not in either my art or church networks, and hopefully to learn something. I really enjoy these people, and this is a pleasant, occasional escape into some rare private time for me.

They have been encouraging me to branch out from safe ruts with my knitting. Unlike in so much of my life, where I feel clarity and certainty and aptitude, knitting from a pattern makes me feel like I am at sea without a paddle.

Your fellow blog reader Gloria graciously and patiently shepherded me through making these, my first pair of mittens. How long did it take? A year of a couple hours a month. She thinks I’m ready to move on to a harder pair now that changes color. I’m not so sure, but I’m game to give it a try.

I have to say it was pretty exciting to finish these. They are not too fancy, but are knit out of the Madeline Tosh Super-wash Wool they recommended which is dreamy, and they match my coat. But more than that, it is empowering to do something you REALLY do not know how to do. There is a euphoria that comes out of seeing it through to a successful completion.

So I recommend it. Go out and join in with folks you don’t know to do something you don’t know how to do. It is a wonderful catalyst for the spirit.

So thank you Gloria for taking me on! Check her out in the first photo below taking out my unacceptable (too pointy) mitten tip  and making me do it again. And thank you Bryds Books for hosting!

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