Amongst knitters, it is commonly understood that there are "process knitters" and there are "product knitters". As mature people, we try not to attribute more value to one approach over the other. That said, when it comes time to get stuff done (gift items, for example), I sure do wish I were a product knitter!
The difference, as I understand it, lies in the attitude toward the work. As a process knitter, I love to learn new techniques, work with a variety of fibers - just to see how they knit up I begin a project not because I might actually wear it (I can give it away, after all) but because the pattern intrigues me. I get giddy over the ever-developing pattern in self-patterning sock yarn. I am soothed by a simple, repetitive stitch pattern and awed (and often befuddled) by difficult, disciplined lace work. I'll often have multiple projects going at once (which makes the going quite slow) so that I can satisfy my curiosity and love of variety without having to wait to finish one project first.
From what I have read, product knitters tend to get more joy out of the finished product and its wearing than out of the process of knitting itself. I'm sure that they enjoy the craft, the fibers, the feel of the needles in their hands, etc., but it is the end result that keeps them coming back for more. I don't know if this translates to more finished items or not. After all, if a product knitter has their eye on five products this month, their going could be rather slow, just like mine. Still, I have a hunch that some product knitters are able to get more done than, well, me.
Right now, I have the following items on the needles:
Simple, lacy mohair scarf that was meant to go in a care package for a spring-appropriate scarf, but not it's too warm where the intended recipient lives. For that reason, it now lives in the knitting basket.
Clapotis, of course! I only have three more rounds of "section 3", which means I'm just a little over halfway done. Last night while knitting on it, I actually fantasized that I'd have it done by the weekend. Simply. Not. Happening.
This is the third go at a "Jaywalker Sock". I have to keep downsizing the number of stitches in the cuff so that it will actually "grip" on the intended recipient's calf. I don't get it. Why is a small listed to cast on 76 stitches? Hmmmm.
This is the second attempt at getting gauge for "Green Gables", a Zephyr Knits pattern I'm hoping to actually be able to wear this summer. Yep. This summer!
Not included in this pictorial essay - only because I haven't officially cast on yet - is the second pair of this sock
which is all cast off, with no where to go (until I get the second one done)! :-)
I also have multiple projects I'd like to start: I've swatched for Rob's sweater (4 sts to the inch, not terrible but I'll probably be knitting it for the rest of my life). I'm in Sockapalooza 4, and must complete socks for my pal by August. Spring has sprung and so have the babies! I have a couple of "due any minute" friends, and just received an announcement from old military friends living in Japan. At least the baby items are quick. :-) This is my line-up for the summer (plus, I really do want to make the skirt from Spring Interweave Knits, which I saw here.
I'm certainnly loving the process, but I have noticed that my output is rather, ummmm, skimpy. I guess it's a lot like life: enjoy the process, and try not to get caught up in the results.
Are you a process knitter, a product knitter, or a hybird of the two? How's your output looking these days?
In my experience, Jaywalkers once knitted up are quite a stiff knit, and until you hit a few inches into it, seems quite big and loose. It isn't too hard to adapt it though to make it smaller :)
You have some lovely plans as well as that! Should be a good read on here :D
Posted by: Sockymiaowmiaow | May 11, 2007 at 01:12 PM