Thursday, December 4, 2008

Holiday Knitting Guilt w/ a Swig of Nog

It seems like my knitting productivity actually slows down during the holidays. I am overwhelmed by everything else that's going on at the end of the year that knitting gifts ceases to be pleasurable and starts feeling like an additional chore. I've been trying to streamline my Ravelry queue to reflect some semblance of reality but as the holidays approach and I start thinking of small gifts to buy for people I immediately think: "Hey I could knit something up." Now that so many people know about my knitting obsession, I cringe at the thought of handing someone a store-bought scarf or mittens. I just feel guilty about not producing more gifts but there just aren't enough hours in the day. If I can make something for my son and husband by Three King's Day (Jan. 6th) I will be thrilled. Good luck to all of you who are gift knitting. Please share your time/project management tips.

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Maybe, instead of making the knitted item the 'main' present, you make it the accessory to a different project. So instead of a scarf, knit a mug cozy and give them a nice mug with some kind of drink packet enclosed, or maybe a nice set of soap and fragrance with a knitted scrubby or dishcloth wrapped around the soap. That way, you're still knitting for them, but it takes much less time.

Anonymous said...

I used to have the most uber organized Christmas ever- I started in September- but I really believe you should do what makes you happy at Christmas and not let it make you feel guilty.

Ceci said...

Save up year round knits. IE Don't even try after Thanksgiving. There's just no time and there's excuse adding stress to such a relaxing hobby.

Rosie said...

Thank you for the great suggestions. Genuine you inspired an idea. I'm going to knit up small gift card holders for my nieces. They love small purses/pouches for lip gloss and "stuff." The nephews are tougher. I may have to give up on knitting for them this year and start fresh this summer knitting up gifts and stowing them away as Ceci has suggested. Thank you all.