YoungFolk Knits: Process vs Product Knitter - Why It Matters
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- Опубліковано 1 жов 2024
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Today I’m chatting all about Process vs Product knitters. Which are you? And why does it matter? Let me know what you think!
What I’m wearing ranunculus sweater www.ravelry.co...
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I've been a maker in multiple textile arts since I was 5 which is almost 65 years now, and since most of that time there was no UA-cam or Ravelry or Instagram, this question has only rather recently emerged via my viewing. I believe we all change all the time, and that's what I would personally choose to strive for anyway. I avoid being typed and categorized, but that's me. We sepia;d a;; be ;loving ourselves as much as we can, no matter what. I always look forward to your episodes, Kaci!
I agree ! I do understand the difference between the 2 concepts but it does not matter to me
I’m a product knitter/sewist. My challenge is falling in love with how the end product looks on a model, but it may not fit my body in a similar manner. I have to slow down and assess if I’ll be happy with the finished product for me before I jump and purchase patterns / supplies
This was a very interesting podcast. You made some points I had not considered in terms of how to use the information when making project choices. I love having a finished object but also rarely knit the same thing twice and frequently look for a challenge or something new to learn from. You have a lovely home and I definitely like your aesthetic. I love that you keep bees!🫶🏻
I feel like I’m both. I always want the product and I enjoy the process. There may be aspects to a certain project that I don’t enjoy but the sum of it brings me happiness.
Thanks, Kaci... another fun podcast. :) I am 1000% a process knitter, but of late I'm working on a lot of product knits (I have so many grandbabies coming this summer - all girls) because I have moms-to-be with requests... In fact, I'm working on my 4th Baby Babar blanket. It's beautiful and I love it, but I won't care if I never see this pattern again! Also working on some little rompers. They're great and speedy, but after about 10 of them, I'm over them. Gotta find some new favorites. :) For myself, I love the new techniques, fun construction, and new yarns. Don't care if I ever wear them. Sometimes don't finish - but not so much anymore... I just give them away. The joy is in the making. Thanks, Kaci! Happy Summer!
I think it's funny that you mentioned sewing is a "product" craft for you... I have to agree, and there are other things where I am 100% in product mode. COOKING - product. I will suffer being in the kitchen to cook something special, or if I have someone to cook for other than myself. Eating is the process craft haha 😂 Driving? process, I love it, make me grand chauffer of road trips forever! day job... product 🤑
Thanks Kaci - lovely to listen to you discuss this. I am knitting on a combo product/process. I am a beginner yarn dyer 🥰. Dyed up some merino dk for my adult son in a deep dark green with black tonality which he describes as "perfect" ❤💥, and knitting a Hanstholm sweater up for our winter - NZ. Half way down 2nd sleeve island....boat approaching to take me off the island 🤓. Love your aesthetic and the way you share your creativity with us. Sewing....totally agree....product only, not process hahaha. Your pants looks great! 🙏🥰
Very interesting self-inquiry Kaci!! I Used to knit more for the process, the wonderful, soothing experience with gorgeous colors. Now I notice I’m focusing more on products, actually flattering garments I’ll want to wear. I think this shift is a result of the growth of my skills, so I’m upping my goals!
I also notice my knitting mojo has been nil for several months…and I see now that it may be precisely because I’ve increased my expectations. Hmmm. 🤔 🧐. (I also organized and catalogued all my queue projects and that is overwhelming! I was more hung up when I was disorganized and only focused on the present knit. Hmmm. 🤔 🤔
Such great food for thought Kaci! I'm 97% product knitter + 3% process knitter. I choose patterns and project solely because I am HIGHLY motivated by my desire for the finished object. But ohhhh how I love it when the stars align and both the product AND process are pure joy! This week I've been contemplating "slogging" through using a 50% wool/50% cotton yarn that I do not enjoy knitting with because I want the FO so bad... Summerwood Tee. I might lean into the process part of my knitting personality and find something else!
Good morning , Absolutely love your ranunculus sweater in the slate color. I looks spruce green on my computer and it looks exceptional on you! I am both a process and product knitter. But I think I lean more towards product. Learning to knit socks via the University of UA-cam unleashed something in me that made me confront my knitting fears and start including more styles that went beyond basic stuff. Its a journey I really enjoy. But I truly love how a beautiful hand knitted sweater looks and far exceeds store bought sweaters!!!! I love to sew, I focus on tailored jackets and garments because I love doing the construction and seeing it thru the process to achieve a beautiful garment. Love fine wools to sew on- they are the best! Just the same as high quality wool yarn for a sweater- you can feel the difference! Carrie from Northern San Francisco Bay Area 😘❤🐕🐑☕🧵🪡🧶
What excellent timing! When I was first introduced to the knitting community, I was process knitting. I wanted to experiment with textures, patterns, yarn, color. However, this past year, I have become far more of a product knitter while being aware of my need for an enjoyable process. That process still feeds my soul. I meditate for a few minutes every morning, however, was feeling very scattered and edgy as I prepared to walk the dogs afterwards. So what did I do to settle myself before that walk? Pulled out my Sari Nordlund Melpomene socks for 30 minutes and watched this episode, then felt more centered. I’ve definitely evolved into a purposeful product knitter who has to enjoy the process. Otherwise, I’ll do without the project.
Way closer to product knitter. I dont swatch for fun lol. But I am not monogamous with my wips. I will get bored , I will get sick of colors etc. But I am totally ok with wips that get long breaks. But my favorite part of knitting is planning the project, choosing yarn and colors and pattern and imagining the finished item and what modifications I need, finding the yarn in my stash that "wants" to become that particular thing with certainly is what really really motivates me to start and finish.
I hope I come to enjoy the process of choosing the yarn for a specific project more! I’m still quite new and though I’m
enjoying learning about different materials, swatching for gauge etc. part of me still lives in fear of making very expensive mistakes by purchasing the wrong yarn for my project 😂
@sarahkelly4095 the nice thing about yarn is if it's wrong you can always unravel and use again
I enjoyed hearing your thoughts on this topic. Like most knitters, I believe, I fall into either category depending on the project, and sometimes I even switch between identities on the same project. For example, right now I’m knitting Natasja Hornby’s Nila, which involves a construction that was unfamiliar to me and thereby engaged my inner process knitter. But now that I’m finished with the challenging stuff, all I care about is finishing this sucker and showing it off. Once I finish this, I’ll go back to working on a cardigan which was fascinating when I had to struggle (process), but has now turned into a slog, even though I know I’ll wear it a lot (product). I can see how some folks might say “ so what?” to these distinctions, but I think it’s interesting to occasionally contemplate just what it is that I’m getting out of my hobby. Am I getting a cool experience, something pretty to wear, both in the same project? Fun thoughts!
Thanks for the lovely video!
I'm a product knitter, for sure, but I'm also a distractable knitter, so when I got to a boring part of my current knit (a wooly cardi, not at all appropriate for the 80 degree days we have had lately) I cast on a new project for summer.
It's a second Tegna, and I know the exact outfit I will wear with it. I am using Kelbourne Woolens Mojave, which is cotton/linen, and so far it's much nicer on my hands than a straight cotton.
Morning Kaci, I definitely have a foot in the camp of both P's... but I can't get past the amazing knit you posted an image of at approximately 10.30 on your video. Can you please share the name of this piece of ruffled gorgeousness? thanks so much.
Hi Kaci - I hear you on that holy-grail pattern/project that marries process and product perfectly. I consider myself a 100% process knitter - if I don't enjoy knitting it I'm not doing it and if it's too familiar same-same I don't enjoy it! Also not-many crafting deadlines and many WIPs in this house. However I'm also quite a selfish maker (I'm a non-zero gift knitter but you have to be pretty special and want something I want to make to stand a chance). I also have a value that I want to make things that are useful and use resources wisely - this can be a tension. I resolve this by looking for the venn diagram centre of what I want to make (not a small list) and what I might actually use. Also (and I don't hear this said often and I hear it advocated less) I think I've adapted my personal style over time to be more allied to my making interests - more evolution than revolution but me-made-me is more colourful, ornate and slightly 'out there' than store-bought-me ever was. We're often encoraged to do the opposite - manouver our making towards our personal style - but maybe our asthetic and tactile preferences in making are telling us something about where we could go in dressing. Love you videos x
Thank you!!! I really enjoyed this video. In a similar vein, I have started talking myself through my pattern choices. I found I used to select a pattern because I liked the color, or the way it looked in the model’s body (which may or may not be like my own body!) or honestly, even just how beautiful the photo shoot background was!!! I knit quite a few items that were not right for me and I feel it was my poor decision making from the pattern selection process. Thanks again!!! Always enjoy your content.
Great episode! I definitely fall more in the product knitter camp. I need the finished item to be something I'll use. I also cannot stand UFOs, if I'm not enjoying the process or realize I'm never going to use whatever I'm making, I frog it. I limit myself to 3-4 wips at any given time but I tend to only actively work on 2 at a time, and I like to finish everything before casting-on anything new. I don't rigidly follow "these rules" but I have noticed to this to be my trend the past few years in my knitting practice.
Loved this chat! I’m working on the Mila pullover and I’m loving everything about it, the construction which is new to me and the cables as well as the antisipation of finally wearing it! I feel I’m both process and product and I’m making better choices which is a win win 😊 love your podcast
I had to laugh while you were talking about product knitters making the same item over and over- I was unintentionally working on my fourth of my favorite hat pattern! 😂 I also appreciate being able to see my shawl making-but-never-wearing habit as process making was very refreshing
I’m late to the discussion but I am 100% a process knitter. As someone who is “neurospicy” I love the stimulation and I love projects that I can just zone out and use it as a tool to calm my surroundings when it becomes a little too much to handle.
So fun to hear about your knitting and sewing. I also don't like sewing but love the finished items. With knitting in for sure a process knitter, but I don't like to make things I won't use. But being a process knitter I have no problems frogging half a garment to be able to get to fit right, so it works out very well for me.
This was super helpful! I've never heard it described so clearly; I am definitely more of a process knitter but there are, of course, exceptions!
What timing. I just finished a ranunculus out of cot/lin. I could not find my wooden needles so it was a grueling knit. I want it to take on vacation next week so had to finish.
Great job, Kaci! This was super helpful❤️
I'm a definite product knitter. But I do it because I love the idea of spending as much time as it takes to get the exact thing I want, without too much compromise. I love knitting, I love learning new techniques but what I knit has to be worth my time, since I would be putting off other things in order to do it. I choose patterns that I love, that I think will look good on me or others and I take alot of time choosing the right yarn. I don't care how long it takes or how many errors I have to correct. It is the perfect way to spend my time.
As a daughter of a yarn store owner, I am constantly rotating between process and product knitting. I have a few crochet summer tops, I can make a thousand different ones in a few days. But I'm knitting a really cool cardigan, based on this awesome lycocell and virgin wool blend yarn. I wanted to do something that will actually use my skills, playing with techniques, new shapes, and something I would wear. I wear a ton of black, but I find it difficult to buy black yarn, because i want people to see the work I put in, so that is reserved for simple projects. This is a beautiful dusty rose with a sheen. A colour I rarely use, but I know my partner LOVES me in. But I NEED this sweater, I want it to encompass everything. I want it to be my only project, in this moment, but also to have it be a comfortable yarn, using technique i can be proud of. This is the perfect project to me. The Dream.
ThistleAndTwig's
Womans Ladies Aran Cardigan Shawl Collar Pointy Cuff Celtic Buttons Frog Closures 32"-40" ~ Aran Knitting Pattern is what i'm working on at the moment
I must be both because I have a bazillion things going! I just love to knit different things to wear, different patterns, different sized needles, different yarns! But I can't WAIT to get things done either. And I get so much joy from the finished objects, too. What a comfort and joy the whole process is to me! Love it.
Thanks for this fun video!
I believe I fall into both categories. I started off as process while learning new techniques such as shawls, but discovered I would only wear once. Now I am a product knitter,carefully chosen patterns that I will wear. So it will be sock knitting and sweaters which I still struggle getting the perfect fit. I find myself hurrying through to get it finished, ( often times leaving the mistakes in, Lol. I'm currently knitting the Salty Air Tee.
I'm a process knitter. I enjoy the actbof knitting and learning new things. For example, I love the magic of knitting socks but detest the feel of knitted socks on my feet. So I give away most of my socks to my best friend and her mom. I also have a ton of WIPs and am not concerned too often with finishing items most of the time. On occassion, I will work to finish projects but I rarely wear my knitted item.
Eta: I don't like to label myself but I do in this instance because it helps alleviate my WIP guilt. It's the way I've operated most of my 20 ywars of knitting. My main knitting friends are product knitters/crocheters. I am a product crocheter, though. I tend to crochet blankets and I want the blankets. Lol!
So I usually don't comment on things but I feel like I'm still a newbie knitter and I'm enjoying the process like crazy. I'm also picking patterns to challenge myself, and things I desperately need to fill in holes in my closet. The goal for 2024 is a me made closet with as little bought items as possible... But I might wear my favorite until they're worn out. Which might take longer 😂
Hi! First of all, love your podcasts! Second, that off-white tank is sooo pretty! Where can I find the pattern?
What is the time stamp in the video and I will Checj
I am both. However, I lean towards the knitting process. I love trying new techniques and I give almost all of my knitting as gifts. I always have at least two knits in progress, one simple and one complex.
I have just discovered a new technique, illusion knitting. This is my next project (my daughter has already named herself the owner of the knitting once it's finished).
Have a nice day and take care of yourself and your family 😀🤗
Hello from Swansea, Illinois. I am just a knitter, I enjoy knitting and am in no hurry to finish.
I love that this concept exists, it’s such a helpful framing to apply to different areas of life. And has certainly helped me slow down and appreciate each stage of something as well as appreciating the end result ❤
Personally, I am both, some projects I pick for the process (and different things appeal at different times, sometimes you want some mindless stockinette in the round, other times some lace is really appealing and I always enjoy learning new techniques). Other times I see a product I would really like and make with that in mind.
I once heard that one way to know if one is a product v. Process knitting is to imagine being stranded on an island. You happen to have a skein of yarn and two needles. I decided I would make something and unravel it to knit again. Therefore, I’m a process knitter. And I often will rip back if I find errors so that the end product is just so. Great topic!
Hello to all the PRODESS knitters! Lol...I am a PRODuct knitter who loves the procESS...the yarn, the act of knitting, looking at the knitting, but I definitely want an actual product that is usable. :)
Definitely both. For example I needed some fingerless gloves but I've always wanted to try lacework. Combined both the need for the product and the want for lacework process and I'm working on cloudburst gloves. ❤
I’m a mix, but probably because I’m still fairly new to knitting (18 mos). It’s easy for me to find a product I want that has techniques that interest me. I’ve only done cables once, lace once, stranded color work twice. Zero brioche or fisherman’s rib or double knit. I’m totally polygamous, too. The ADD is strong in me. I’m also lucky to have knit worthy family members in various sizes: something I want gets a size 5/xl. Some technique that looks like a brain drain?-my daughter’s girlfriend is a tiny petite XS. Something that’s a yarn hog but I still want to give a try?-my daughter has super sensitive skin so in come the bargain acrylic blends. Something with bold patterns or colors?-my son and his girlfriend love bold and bright. I think it will be interesting to see where I land after a few more years of experience. This was a great topic, Kaci! Thanks
I'm more of a process knitter who loves the knitting process so much but knitting only pieces I will be wearing/using 100%. I always have a few WIPs: one easy-breezy, one more complex, and one that requires full attention (otherwise I will be ripping back several rows which is no good) :)
Firmly in the product camp. I enjoy the process, but I WANT the product. I think this is why I only have a couple WIPS going at a time.
This week I am making a Norvegian sweater by Sandness Garn in 100% Alpakka… all over colourwork… in the heat … I guess I am a process and a product cause I love both the floats … and want the finished product for Newfoundland trip in August…
I would say most of the time I'm a process knitter... However someone's I pick a project for the skill building/finished product... Last December I picked the field sweater (Camilla vadd) got through the yoke/challenge and it's been on hold ever since... At some point I need to adjust the number of stitches for body vs arms and then stockinette in the round... I'm the fall it's too warm now 😬
I am mostly a process knitter. However, I make sure that I don’t have more than three WIPs and that it is wearable. I love learning new techniques and trying different yarns/fabrics. Although I love a FO, I will frog it if it is not going to work out. I love to gift knit. What is important to me that knitting helps me balances my mental health. This weekend, I am treating myself to Knitopia Philadelphia for a weekend full of lessons with Sari Nordland so I can learn colorwork and cables. While I am traveling I am knitting 2aat basic socks from one pattern by Summer Lee and basic vanilla DK socks from the Crazy Socks Lady and the Saturday Shrug - easy knits for my two weeks away from home.
Interesting topic. I'm beginning to knit Andrea Mowry's Brume sweater. It began as a product knit -- I wanted the style/look, I wanted luscious fluffy yarn and fun color. But once I cast on, the yarn was too fluffy, I hated/fought the knitting experience, and I just wanted to be done with it. I made a mistake, ripped it out, and started over. Now I'm taking my time, paying attention to my stitches, taking it slow, and I'm enjoying the knitting. It's moved into a process knit; getting pleasure from the experience is necessary if I'm going to finish the project.
I definitely flow between process and product, and at any given time I have projects that fulfill both! Socks are definitely my go-to product knit, but there are also a few shawl patterns that I keep in mind for product crafting too. These primarily serve to fill my gifting basket, as I try and have a small stash of ready made gift-ables. My process creations are all over the place, from tunisian crochet blankets to intriguing lacework tops. But I also have some hybrid projects as well. For example, right now I am working on Samantha Stadter's Lavaca top. It's a basic top down raglan that I know will serve my wardrobe in a very practical way. However, I've incorporated Sam's lace panel from her linen top to add some interest and keep my brain tickled through the process of knitting.
I chose my current knit 100% based on the process. I don't need a mini scarf, I don't need any scarf at the moment, but I wanted to have a repetitive pattern which I can memorize but exciting enough to focus on and knit through my last weeks of pregnancy & early labor & postnatal days. And I wanted to use up my single skein. I'm not even sure I'm going to keep the final product (Augusta Lace Scarf)
I'm definitely a process knitter. I must have lots of projects in multiple genres on the go all the time. I think I will make multiple products from the same pattern but I have to keep moving forward with other projects! I MIGHT have a problem. LOL
I'm much happier as a product knitter. If I approach a project as a product knitter I'm always much happier and more satisfied. When I get swayed by gorgeous yarn I don't have a plan for and end up process knitting I always feel a bit like I've wasted my time 🤷🏼♀️
This is a very interesting discussion. I believe I am both. But, for me, when using the term "product", I'm also defining it from a merchandising perspective. That "product" created for selling, rather than just for me. I want to branch into making some kind of income from my craft, but have not quite got there.
Many times, the motivation for single focus on the completed product comes when I'm knitting something of my own design. The past two springs, I knitted two cotton summer tee sweaters borrowing specs from a pattern, but altering the design to create something unique. I'm much more motivated to stay on that WIP til completion. But, I also did a KAL last July which, after starting the cuff of one sleeve, got set aside for months. I just pulled it out and finished it last week.
So, I guess I'm also a bit of both. And times I find I lack motivation to knit at all, a new pattern or project can help.
I tried to start a Ranunculus sweater, but got fully confused by the yoke pattern, so I tinked it and started the 2nd tee.
Thanks for a fun convo! I am def on the product side of this spectrum - I only have 2 knits on at a time (one big and one small project) and I am totally motivated by the finished object. But I love the process too, and trying new techniques. Maybe there is another convo to have about Pressure vs Non-Pressure knitters? Pressure = people who like a deadline or obligation to knit under, like a KAL or test knits. That is def not me, I prefer no pressure! Thank again Kaci, love the channel!
I am both a product and process knitter, but the number of abandoned WIPS would say I am more process - gotta bring me joy or bye bye. Right now I am knitting o e of my baby hoodies ( over 1500 and counting- lol-) so that would be a lot of product, but I make each one different with the baby and family in mind. I am also knitting on a pair of socks -new to sock knitting since COVID and find they are nice to have on the go. Dreaming about knitting a Paloma cardi for my daughter for her 50th in squishy yarn and a summer tank for me in a summer linen yarn.
I’m definitely a mix of both. If I don’t enjoy the process, I won’t finish it. If I don’t enjoy how it looks and sits on me, how it feels and wears, I won’t enjoy making or having it. I do have favourite patterns I end up making over and over but… I do tremendously enjoy a challenge, learning a pattern repeat, getting to grips with it.
Definitely both. Process and product go hand in hand for me. I’ve never questioned it or thought to categorise myself.
Being a spinner as well, I’m familiar with the question: “Do you spin for specific projects or simply for the joy of spinning?” Erm… both. I can start with a project in mind… and change my mind along the way. I can start with absolutely no idea what my yarn is going to turn into… and end up knowing exactly what I’m going to make with that yarn even before I’m done. I might change my mind even before casting on.
That being said, I do spin with the express intention of not stashing those skeins in my yarn box and have it languish there. That yarn took way too much effort to just sit there. I will however make sure I enjoy spinning the fibre and knitting with that yarn. I am incapable of knitting or spinning something I hate knitting or spinning, knowing I’ll love wearing it. Please don’t make me do colourwork knits. I just won’t. It drives me around the bend.
I’m kind of both, but mainly process knitter. There is an aspect of a process knitter than is key for me and you didn’t mention and it the touch. Feeling the softness of the yarn while I’m just knitting (nothing fancy, just st st) gives me so much pleasure! For example , the project I’m knitting just now, the yarn is cachemire with merino, it’s incredible soft. The pattern is the simplest cardigan in st st and I’m enjoying a lot every single stitch (also I’ll enjoy wearing it!!)
I'm a mix of product and process knitter. If a project doesn't seem like it will satisfy the requirements of both being enjoyable to knit and beautiful to wear then I won't knit it. I'm currently knitting a short sleeve Ranunculus in Malabrigo Sock in the shade Fiona.
I’m constantly searching for the perfect combination of process and product! When I first started knitting, I was such a process knitter and made so many things I now never wear. Now, I think a lot about product but I also struggle to really see what’s practical for me and not be allured by a pretty pattern and something that looks fun. Or just something that’s well marketed and makes me feel like it would be practical for me! So I feel like I’m constantly battling my process knitting side to have knits I will actually wear. I’ve knit so many things but rarely wear my knits and that makes me feel like an imposter knitter sometimes!
It's funny because I was a process knitter until I started ADHD medication, and now that I'm able to focus on one thing at a time for the first time in 28 years, I've become more of a product knitter lol. I still enjoy a good interesting color work, but I'm finally able to knit some plain stockinette basics for myself.
I'm more of a process knitter, I love fun texture stitches and colours, but I almost only wear black ; the perfect project for me right now is the Alvar Pullover by Sari Nordlund, it has texture but I'm making it in black to be sure I'll be wearing it !
For me it’s always about the creative process of making an ideas come to life - depending on the idea it can be a process or a project knit. ☺️
I usually fall in love with a part of the project, sometimes the pattern, sometimes a detail, but sometimes also a fabric or yarn, both for sewing and knitting.
But then I don’t start right away, but the idea takes a while to mature in my head: what colour(s) do I want it in (also to combine it with other pieces in my wardrobe)? what yarn/fabric would be pretty, give a nice making experience, but also suit the garment (e.g. something light in summer)? Is it easy to care for (mainly relevant for every day items) ?do I want to make any modifications so it fits my style and body better? can I try to make it up or reverse engineer it from garments or patterns I own (so I can learn to make my own patterns one day) ?or is the pattern written in a way that will teach me something new?
This process can be lengthy, but sometimes inspiration strikes and it goes very quickly!
For knitting I enjoy the process more than for sewing, also because it’s easier to rip back. For sewing sometimes undoing is so hard or not even possible, which makes it mentally harder. Also usually I end up with things I enjoy (recently I had some sewing fails though 😢). I’m currently in the process about thinking of ways to make them (more) wearable 🙂.
I am 97% a product knitter (with 5-10 wips on the go because I want all the things). But as I am nearing the end of the second year of garment knitting I am starting to be interested in more complex patterns. The problem is my style is very plain and simple and I know I will not wear theses garments. And to be honest I already don't wear half of my knits even though they are 100% my style. But they don't fit into my life. I told myself next year I can only knit at fingering gauge so my knitting output slows down. Otherwise I need to find a bigger house 🤣
I am a mostly product knitter who wants to become a mostly process knitter because I get really…stressed? Hard on myself? I (mentally) beat myself up over unfinished projects, I just am very unkind to myself and being a process knitter (or crafter) I’d be in a better place.
What an interesting topic. I think I’m a mixture of both. I jumped from knitting a simple blanket to making gloves as a beginner knitter but it was because my husband needed gloves and I thought it would be fun to try making them. I have so many WIPs going I can’t keep track. I probably have at least 10 in the works with a good 10+ more planned and ready to go (have the patterns and yarn gathered. Just haven’t started). I love finding projects that look fun to knit and part of the fun is gifting those things to people I love. 😊
Ok so I’m definitely a product knitter. Thank you for explaining, I’ve always wondered the definition and where I fit. 😅 So I’ll keep knitting and cast on again soon when I’m finished with my socks
I am a very high on the process knitter scale for sure, it’s all about the yarn, colour, technique and the ‘fun factor’ for me…….but like most of us sometimes I have to do product knit because I really want/need an item in my wardrobe…….perfect example is that I am currently knitting a pair of socks with the most beautiful, colourful yarn from the amazing Gauge Dye Works…….these are really helping me get through knitting a plain stockinette and ribbing tank in pale caramel to wear with all my summer dresses and linen trousers …….i know I will love the tank and will wear it a lot, but heavens it’s been as dull as ditch water to knit 😂
Hi
I am a product knitter when I am following someone else pattern. If I am designing my own garment then I am process knitter.
My main problem is if i stop knitting ( whatever the reason) and I leave the project for awhile then I find it very difficult to get into the project again.
I loving looking at new projects and thinking about it especially if it’s Lacy knitting which I find very difficult but absolutely love.
My creative (process) knitter is always arguing with my practical (product) knitter. Yes I am both. She’s happiest when I find a pattern that gives both, but sometimes I have to force myself to knit on something (10 rows a day or something) I’m getting ready to cast on the alpine bloom tee and can’t wait!
I fall into both camps. Love the process and learning new techniques but really want a wearable finished product. Ranunculus was my favourite - some amazing techniques that I carry over to other projects and a fabulous fitting final garment. I will make it again but not yet as there are too many things in my Ravelry favourites tab. I looked back recently at the favourites tab and ended up deleting a lot of things I had previously added as I realized I love the item but not for me and I only knit for me (except socks and those are always just stockinette). Does that make me lean towards the product side? Maybe for today but who knows about tomorrow!
I'm primarily a process maker! All types of art and craft. I like a good challenge or 'puzzle', but I also like some repetition. I can knit garter stitch for miles, watching a show, or while relaxing. I am currently on the road of discovering how to adapt or design really good fitting sweaters for me. That's mostly because it's a bonus if I do make something that I can use. However, it doesn't bother me to make stuff and give it away. I do that with most things. I think I'm mostly a process maker because I am the person that can also spend hours just shading a drawing. I lose time when I get hyperfocused and that's my goal. I want to deep dive into my projects. I've always known this about myself. I think this is why I actually like test knitting/crochet. I will make whatever size someone wants and enjoy helping the designer make the most enjoyable pattern possible. Take care and have a great day!
I'm a bit of both. At the moment I am doing a shawl test knit for 111Windmills and I loved the colours and the various stitches in the design, so definitely a process knit as I am loving it, I also have Flax DK sweater which is a product knit.
Great episode. I am most definitely more a process knitter. I have begun many projects and enjoyed the making only to stop at some point because I really didn´t care about finishing (the product). And then there are lots of patterns and knits that I would love to have, that I know I would use and wear a lot, but the process involved (the design elements to work up) makes it impossible for me to do them. I am currently just finishing a heel on a second sock and it is a joy. I love socks primarily because of the yarns and the designs. Then they are also fairly quick knits, so while I am working on a pair I am already looking forward to starting another. You are correct about how valuable our time is, and I wholeheartedly believe that we should not spend any of it making anything that is not a pleasure to work on.... or that will give a result we will love. (And I am surprised that you don´t like sewing as you do it so well. To the point that you have almost inspired me to get a sewing machine to make some staple pieces! I have sewn before and liked it, but really... I don´t need another craft or tool at this point.) Thanks for sharing your thoughts... and all your lovely makes!
I’m mainly a process knitter, love big complex shawls but most days I wear simple cowls😊 I definitely work on multiple projects some takes years to finish, but I will pick them up when the mood strikes. That said at my knitting circle last week I brought 2 project knits, one a cardigan for my kid because she is so knit worthy ❤ and one in linen it is awful to knit but in use the fabric is wonderful… so definitely agree you can be both!
Little bit of both, but mostly a Product knitter. Currently working on the SommerKnus tee which for me is the best of both worlds. Im enjoying the process but definitely want the finished product. Thanks for the content
I am certainly both 😅 I am a spinner, weaver, knitter and do crochet so I always have multiple projects that can take months to finish. I just finished a lace weight lace sweater that took me three months to finish that I hated knitting...but it looks amazing on me 😂. Now I am finishing up a Lilac Leaf shawl that I am doing purely to practice new knitting techniques. Thanks for the interesting topic
I believe I am both, leaning to the process side. The past two months. I have been knitting Tee’s. I am going on an Alaskan cruise and I have a goal. lol I am on the third top. It was not fun anymore. So I pulled out my Stephen West MKAL Geogradiant I am on the last clue. The dip stitch. It really brings me joy to learn a new technique. Just what I needed. Great episode
Im a little confused bc your explanation of product vs process knitters is almost opposite of what Ive heard haha (cant remember my source unfortunately tho.) But their explanation was that a process knitter is completely content as long as they are knitting and may more likely be monogamous or knit the same thing over and over again because they dont need variety of unqiue projects. Also more likely to want plain stockinette because just knitting isnt boring to a process knitter. Whereas a product knitter is motivated by the idea of different projects and looks and techniques so casting on and finishing is super motivating while the middle can be a slog because just knitting isnt always quite enough for us - its the product and its unique qualities that motivates us. So then we move on to thr next shiny product = lots of wips. It isnt so much whether you wear the finished product but whether youre most motivated by the idea of different projects that look fun / the adrenaline rush and fix of a new pattern, yarn, technique. I suppose it doesnt matter that much which term we use as long as we understand ourselves! ETA: I agree with you about trying to have best of both worlds!
I’m both. I just finished a pair of socks mainly to learn a different way. And I done a top of a cardigan for a little girl knowing I would rip it out once I understood that process. But I definitely love the process and the finished product. I usually have 2 or sometimes 3 different things going to cover all my bases.
I'm a big gift maker but also totally a product maker. I crochet or knit because I want the finished product, but I don't necessarily want it for me. I think 70% of what I make is gifted. But I also tend to do sweaters for me and everything else for anyone. I don't enjoy having more than 3-4 project going at the same time cause I want the finished project at the end ! But I also want a little bit of variety, so not monogamous.
Maybe that's why so many of us get stuck on sleeve-island or with one sock: the first one was an interesting process, but the second? Boring 😂 (I say this as I'm halfway through a second sock)
I'm typically strong on the product knit side. I pretty much enjoy knitting anything, so I don't really have to think about the process part of it. But if I do have a knit that's particularly sloggish, then I will probably have something that's more of a process knit on the side for when I need a break
I'm a crocheter who is learning to knit. I like both the process and the finished product, lean more toward finished product. I'm interested in your new Partyline scarf, it's so cute! I'm not interested in joining Ravelry. Is there another way I can buy your pattern?
I am mostly a process knitter but at times I am product knitter. Currently, I am making some socks and I think they would qualify as being a product knit. I enjoyed this video a lot. It makes you think about what you’re doing.
I don't enjoy sewing either but would like to make simple elastic or drawstring type pants in linen or cotton. What pattern do you use to make yours? Thanks! Love your podcast
Weirdly I'm a little bit scattered here! I might start out as one and sometimes the project lands in timeout because I might be bored of it or suddenly dont like it for whatever reason. I rarely frog because I just hate the thought of all that work being wasted. I also worked long hours and graded essays or corrected math papers for 10 months of the year and had to take workshops during the month and a half I had off and so I became a yarn and pattern collector with so many WIPS started in July, but now are languishing. I just retired a few years ago and I will die before I can ever do it all, but I don't care lol, I'll leave those problems for my kids!
I am definitely both, but lean slightly more to the process side of it. I love to learn new techniques and to try new yarns. Oftentimes my choice of pattern is determined by the yarn I am itching to try. I always have multiple wipes and NEED to be knitting as much as I can.
Well, I think we are all Product Knitter first and then turned into Process Knitter. When I started knitting long ago, I just wanted to make a hat. Then very soon, I had multiple things going on simultaneously and would start a new project just because I wanted to learn someting new. I will definitely knit for someone else but mostly, I knit for me.
I think most of us are a wonderful combination of both though we occasionally go to the extremes. Mainly I am an intentional knitter. I knit what my wardrobed is missing and I knit one or two things at a time. That is, if I am knitting something complicated I will probably also have an easier project for zoom calls and tv knitting. I rarely knit something twice, unless for a gift or as part of community knitting. Usually socks are the backup knit because I can never have enough socks. There are a bazillion things I want to make and I have a well curated stash that is my treasure trove where I dive into when considering new projects. I have a large basket of sock yarn paired with a printed out sock pattern so some times I can rummage through and decide while others I just reach in and grab.
I am a process Crocher, and product knitter, I never wear any of my crocheted items however I love knitting, but because it takes so much time sometimes I feel forcing myself to finish the object so I consider myself is a product knitter. If I am Not interested in the finish object I will not finish my web.
Both product as well as process knitter even though I don’t entirely fit either category.
I never thought about applying this idea to my minimal sewing.
I guess I like the products more than the actual sewing (especially cutting out) but there is something about making a welt pocket. Still on a mission to create the perfect welt so yeah, product too.
TU for a great video ❤❤❤
omg thank you for saying you hate the process of sewing! 😂 I like having sewn clothes, but I find the process tedious and frustrating. Whereas with knitting, I could sit and knit all day and all night long and only get mildly frustrated at never finishing anything 😆
I was having a problem finding something to work on because I wanted to crochet with a specific yarn, but I wanted to want the product. That was very hard, so I’m glad you discussed this as it made me understand how i was feeling and I felt less frustrated with myself❤
Like the majority of people, I feel I am in the middle. However, in my youth I was more of a product knitter. Only wanting the finish object, then when I made a mistake I would stop the whole garment and eventually knitting entirely. I have recently gone back to knitting and now with more patience I am definitely more of a process knitter. If a mistake can be fixed, I will go back and do it, however I also let little mistakes go. Something that use to make me feel as if the item was now no good, now I realize it is these unique things that make the garment handmade. That all being said I still enjoy finishing an object because it means I can start on another....and I have so many more in the que.
I feel like I'm a bit of both, I think for spring and summer im definitely more on the product side and the atumn winter projects i am much more on the process side, I like to experiment more, enjoy the cozy aspect of the process and yes, preferrably wear what I make but not with such a "deadline" as with spring and summer
Hey. I am mainly a process knitter but I also like to have a finished object. I like adventures knitting that I still want to use afterwards. I find Jojis patterns ideal for this.
Right now I knit the traveler hat for a Buddhist monk.have a great weekend
I’m a new knitter so at this point I’d say I’m a process knitter. It’s all about learning and improving my technique. Down the road I think I’ll lean more toward a product knitter.
I'm both a process and product knitter. Sometimes I really want to try a new yarn or I'm excited about a popular design or I have stash that needs attention and just want to find something to match up. I'd say that I enjoy the process and hope that I"ll like the product-not ever wearing it is a bummer which means I may not knit that type of product often. I know what I wear easily since I don't like to fuss too much when dressing which means I have piles of sweaters!
I'm definitely both. I'm on the second sleeve right now and feeling more product oriented, but when I started the cardigan it was definitely process!
I am soooo definitely a product knitter, I have my favorite patterns and I love crafting them again and again ! But I really enjoy the process of knitting even though I definitely am a monogamous knitter 😁
I think what I enjoy the most in the process is to find the perfect yarn for my project, and what I hate the most is having to wave in all the ends, so I end up modifying the patterns to minimise sewing and not having to cut my yarn 😂
Now that I am writing this comment I realise I might be a little bit of a process knitter as well ! Thank you for this interesting video ❤️
I am more of a process knitter and crocheter. I just love making the stitches, loving the yarn and learning new techniques. I have sooo many WIPs all the time. That said I am very happy when I finish something. I am definitely not a monogamous crafter. I make all kinds of things and it is based on what is making me happy in the moment.
the project i was knitting on while watching this video is definitely more of a product knit: i've been thinking about a simple stockinette gray sweater in this very specific tonal yarn for almost 2 years and i'm finally knitting it. but i'm moreso a process knitter, given that i bring my knitting with me everywhere to keep my hands busy while I'm stuck in one place for a while. it's turned into the grown up version of doodling in the margins of my notes in class