The term “school nights” has taken on a whole new meaning now that my children are away.
Before, it meant long evenings with my two juggling their homework between the litany of leadership classes, soccer practices, strength-and-core classes, swimming, lacrosse … etc. My part in this endless sea of extracurricular fun was to act as steadfast chauffeur. While I wasn’t personally spinning about on the soccer pitch or splashing about in the pool, I was always part of the mix; ever ready to cart them off to their next delight.
Today, in my new world of the empty nest, the term “school nights” means an activity – sporting or educational – of MY choosing. Positively refreshing.
The return of Fall always rekindles my passion for knitting. When I recently popped into my favourite yarn store to get enthused about a new project, I was delighted to see a one night course on offer. Emily Wessel of “Tin Can Knits” was teaching the techniques of her unique “Pop” blankets. In her own words they are inspired “by the bright, exciting and high – contrast graphics of comic books and American Pop Art, and my love of polka dots in general.”
She had me at polka dots.
Class began on the dot of 6:30 PM. At the outset, I didn’t know a soul there, however by the end of the night I’d pretty much connected with everyone. At least they knew me. You see, I’m not a natural knitter. If something is bound to go wrong – look no further than me.
This class was a tutorial on how to fashion the round “pop” squares. They are created one at a time, from the centre point outward. Once blocked, the squares are then sewn together to form the blanket. Perfect. Or so I thought.
Because these “pops” are round, they are either knit on cables or double-pointed needles. Fool me, I began with double-pointed needles despite Emily’s assurances that the magic cable technique was the best method.
The pattern called for a gradual increase of up to 48 stitches. My fumbly fingers rose to the occasion by refusing to allow even 12. With the majority of other students squealing in delight as they effortlessly mastered the technique I soon fell woefully behind. They were on row 14 and preparing for “set up” while I was still struggling to cast on. The only saving grace was Elizabeth – the gal to my left. She, too, was struggling with the double-pointed needles. Mind you, this was her first time knitting in the round; it was at least my tenth…
After 20 minutes of pure frustration Elizabeth and I spoke up and expressed our desire to join the world of cable. It meant great things for her. She zipped along with the skills of a natural. I, on the other hand, was consistently dropping the round, doughnut shaped stitch markers (used to alert me of the start of a new row) onto the floor or requesting yet another reminder of the technique. With Emily busy helping the others with yet-for-me-to-learn stitches, I was grateful for the sudden steadfast attention of the shop’s stellar knitter that is Donna.
Donna was the soul of patience. She quietly and calmly walked me through the process and before I knew it I’d created this:
The final hour zipped by without too many mistakes incurred by me. However, I did feel compelled to announce to the group that had I been living a hundred years ago I’d be the girl in the knitting bee who was always a couple of projects behind. No one contradicted me.
In fairness, I have to show you the basic knitting ability of my fellow knitters (except of course darling Elizabeth). This gal managed to finish not just the meagre half a square like me but completed two squares. That jacket she’s wearing? Designed and knit by her.
How about you? Are you a natural knitter or does it come a bit more slowly like me? If you don’t knit, what do your “school nights” look like? I’d love to hear.
14 Responses
First, I’m not at all surprised that everyone knew you (and I’m sure loved you) by the end of class. What you may have lacked in successful stitches, I know that you more than made up for in infectious enthusiasm. I, myself, have never progressed beyond the basic knit stitch. I’ve made a lot of simple (aka boring) scarves in my day but nothing more. That gal’s jacket is amazing!
Yes, isn’t the jacket amazing? That was just the tip of the iceberg regarding the calibre of knitting around the table. As I chugged along, I was delighted to listen to the enthusiastic discussions regarding my classmates successful experimentation with designing patterns. Holy moly! I’m still deciphering the art of reading a pattern.
I knit. Not sure if I’m a natural or not, but I’ve done it for so long, it now feels natural. I’m with you on double points and stitch markers. I switched from double points to using two cable needles to knit in the round (like socks and mittens) several years ago. Magic Loop still eludes me. As for those pesky markers, let’s just say that at least once a month, I pull out my knitting chair from its usual place to retrieve the runaways from their hiding place beneath. Pays to have plenty on hand.
Ah Linda what a lovely, refreshing comment. Yes those pesky markers. I find them all over the house, too. Like dog hair. But I digress. I am loving, yes loving, the sound of a knitting chair. How wonderful.
I am really impressed!! It is on my life’s bucket list to learn how to knit. My stepmother attempted to teach me briefly and then realized that I should probably try a different hobby! ;)-Ashley
Ashley I can so relate. My grandmother was fond of creating her own garters. Yes garters. Those jobbies to which you attached your stockings. She once asked me to simply join the two ends of the garter elastic together. By sewing. After my futile, blundered attempt she remarked the now immortal “Not to worry dear. You have other talents.”
Love to see the blanket when you are finished Kelly, I am sure it will be a treat for the new baby ! I can relate to the class, as I have taken them at that lovely spot in North Vancouver. I am such a novice knitter, cannot follow a pattern if my life depended on it. My Mum so patiently tried to teach me, but my basic scarves always ended up very badly shaped. I took a class after she passed away, and finally got the whole tension thing, so actually made a couple of lovely scarves. I found knitting very restful and therapeutic, and felt my Mum sitting on my shoulder , helping me out !
Jane – such a lovely image of your Mum sitting on your shoulder, helping you out. We must do a class there together. Confidence in chaos, I mean numbers. Yes, numbers.
I love how you’ve redefined this part of your life and really being so open to redefining your life as a whole. You are in an exciting chapter and I can’t see where the journey leads you!
Thanks Michele. I’m having a lot of fun. Your efforts have certainly eased the blogging journey. Thank you.
I almost missed this post! I’ve never knitted, but I remember my aunt (not the “otter”, another aunt) teaching me to crochet when I was in my teens. We used to make blankets in the summers. It used one needle. I don’t remember anymore, but I wish I did sometimes! I should ask her….
My school night are filled with my favorite shows, IF I get the kids to bed on time!
Yes you otter ask her. Crochet blankets are a huge mystery to me. One day I’ll needle my way into that world.
Hahaha! (You’re drinking aren’t you?)
Yep – caught. Coffee x 2. Gotta love that early mornnnning fuel.