Utilitarian Knitting

I subscribe to many knitting blogs and knitting magazines that feature finished objects with intricate stitches and patterns. While I admire the lovely lace shawls, cabled gloves and hats, and the airy scarves and the skill that it takes to make them, I prefer to spend my time on what I call "Utilitarian Knitting."

I knit for charities with yarn that was either given to me or recycled. This yarn is a distant cousin of the fibers, used by so many other bloggers, but I doubt that someone in need of a hat, slippers, or blanket is going to examine the fiber content of the items that they receive. Using my resources and simple patterns, the quantity of items produced can be increased.

The need for warm items is far too great to spend time on what I call a fussy pattern. Even the socks that I make for myself are plain, ribbed cuffed socks because I like the fit and the warmth. Have I ever knit any lovely laces patterns? Yes. I've knit lace socks, but I do not like to wear them. I have knit a lace doily and may make more another time, but doilies do little to keep people warm. Presently, my knitting is focused on the basic needs of others.

The finished objects posted on this blog may not be fancy, but they are functional and, hopefully, fill a need somewhere in the world. For now, I will continue working on my Utilitarian Knitting and admire the lovely projects made by other bloggers.

Comments

  1. I know many people benefit fron and appreciate your Utilitarian approach. Keep it up!!!

    ReplyDelete
  2. I think what you do is great, Nancy! I believe people don't analyze how it was made, but they probably focus on who has made such wonderful and much needed items!

    ReplyDelete
  3. Like you, I tend to knit more basic items. The fanciest I seem to get happens usually on the skirts of the baby gowns I knit and crochet. And also like you, I do appreciate looking at fancy knitting. It just isn't me to create it.

    ReplyDelete
  4. I STICK TO THE SIMPLE THINGS TO, YOU CAN GIVE SO MUCH MORE THAT WAY. KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK, YOU TOUCH SO MANY PEOPLE.

    ReplyDelete
  5. Sometimes it is great to define our knitting identity and goals. I love that you knit for charity. I have a friend who is making the same switch this year. Im proud of you both

    ReplyDelete
  6. What can I say that others haven't already. It's great to think of others first. What do they do with the squares you make - join them together to make a blanket?

    I saw the neck coolers you made for our soliders. You continue to do awesome things for others. Is there a certificate for the work you do? I'd send you one myself.

    ReplyDelete
  7. i can only do easy crochet patterns...I love doing baby hats for all the babies..
    hugs,

    ReplyDelete
  8. Utilitarian knitting is just as fun as fancy knitting to me. I don't mind a little fuss, but too much turns knitting into a chore. I always enjoy seeing what you create!

    ReplyDelete

Post a Comment

I love comments!

If you are going to ask a question make sure you have your profile set to allow me to respond back by email or email me directly - my address is in upper right hand column.