Is a Goal a Resolution?

 New Year has arrived and I always get the same question… Made a resolution? I am not one for resolutions as such but last year I set myself a goal for 2023 - that I would knit six jumpers/sweaters or cardigans. I only knit for myself and usually a garment. I have no need for mitts, gloves, beanies, socks or  scarves, so much as I might like to make them I know that they will sit in the cupboard unworn. I knit all year round and just about every day even if just a row or two and try to make the most of spare moments, tv time or when a passenger in the car. This is my year of knits.

Knit number 7. My most recent knit was  challenge. I used a worsted weight yarn instead of the suggested double knit and did some scaling down of the pattern, this was mostly successful except for the sleeves which were looser than I like so I unpicked and scaled the sleeves down to the style and shape that I prefer. I like this pattern a lot so am considering knitting it again in the weight of yarn specified in the pattern. The pattern is by Tomomi Yoshimoto and knit in Nua worsted from Stolen Stitches. These photos were taken on a road trip before it was fully finished and blocked. Now blocked but put away for Winter.

There are times when the garment does not suit me or doesn’t fit as it should, when this happens I usually gift it to someone rather than undo it and reknit. The exception to this would be if the yarn was extra special. This was the case with my first knit for the year. I really loved the pattern and was a little disappointed when it was finished, the style and drape was just not suitable for my busty/curvaceous body. Fortunately my friend and neighbour Patsy thought it would be perfect for her early morning walks with the dogs.

Pattern is the Twisted Loop Sweater by Otherloops and knit in double knit from Bendigo Woolen Mills.

Knit number two.  Another that I didn’t like on me. My friend Tina likes it and is happy to wear it. Adapted from the Waterlands pattern by Lotta Lothgren and knit in double knit from Bendigo Woollen Mills.

Knit number Three. A variation of one of my favourite patterns , Doocot by Kate Davies and knit in double knit from Bendigo Woollen Mills. I wanted a sweater that I could wear over a dress so opted for a cropped version and a split in the front. I finished the bands with an Icord edge.

Knit number 4. Another version of Doocot and using up odds and ends from my stash.

Knit number 5. Oscail cardigan from Stolen Stitches. I love all the different cables. Both the pattern and yarn were part of the Celtic Knits Club purchased from Stolen Stitches. I will be participating again this year.

Knit number 6  Another from Stolen Stitches. Galanta Sweater. Pattern and yarn from Stolen Stitches as a Knit Along.

I also knit the yoke for this sweater. This was my original knit number 2 but I knew it would be too open in the neck for me. I was happy to gift the yolk rather than pull it out.

And started but will not be finished for awhile. All the crafting, cooking and celebrating for December has slowed my progress. I managed seven finished knits for 2023 so well and truly achieved my goal. My goal for 2024 is to knit with no specific number of garments planned but to use up some of my (extensive) yarn stash including this fabulous collection of yarns.

My Advent Calendar from Kate Davies Designs, 24 mini skeins of Millarochy Tweed, all different colours and an e book of patterns. Good fun and something I will do again if it is offered.