The Best Project Isn't Always the Most Exciting One

When a new pattern is released, it's easy to get caught up in all the excitement. Beautiful photos, interesting stitch patterns, clever construction... before long we find ourselves thinking, "I need to cast that on right away!"

Sometimes that's exactly what we should do.

But sometimes the best project isn't the newest or the fanciest one. Sometimes it's simply the project that fits where we are in life right now.

Lately I've noticed that people come into the shop looking for very different things. Some are ready to tackle a sweater. Others are searching for something they can finish over a weekend. Some want a project that keeps their hands busy while they sit at the lake or enjoy a quiet evening on the porch.

There really isn't a wrong answer.

I think we sometimes put unnecessary pressure on ourselves to always be learning a new technique or making something impressive. The truth is, there is something wonderfully satisfying about knitting a simple pair of socks, another favorite hat, or a relaxing shawl with an easy repeat.

Those are often the projects that become our favorites.

There is a rhythm to simple knitting. Once you've settled into the pattern, your hands know what to do, your mind gets a chance to slow down, and before you know it you've knit several inches without even realizing it.

Those are the projects that travel with us.

They wait in the car while we're early for an appointment. They come along on vacations, camping trips, and weekends at the cabin. They sit beside our favorite chair in the evening, ready whenever we have twenty quiet minutes.

I think that's one of the things I love most about knitting. It doesn't always ask for our full attention. Sometimes it simply keeps us company.

I've learned over the years that I don't have to be knitting the most complicated pattern to enjoy the process. Some seasons are meant for learning something new. Other seasons are meant for relaxing into stitches we've knit a hundred times before.

Both are valuable.

So if you've been feeling guilty because your current project isn't "challenging enough," let that thought go. If you're enjoying it, that's reason enough to keep knitting.

Life gives us plenty of challenges already.

This week, I'd love to know: What project keeps calling you back? Is there a pattern you've made more than once because you simply enjoy knitting it? Or do you prefer chasing something completely new every time?

I'd love to hear your thoughts the next time you're in the shop or share them with us on Facebook. One of my favorite parts of owning Serenity Now is hearing what everyone has on their needles and why they're enjoying it.

Until next week, happy knitting—and remember, the best project is the one you're excited to pick up again tomorrow.

Betty Jo