My first scarf!

Yesterday, while watching the Liberal leadership convention on TV, I finished my first scarf. Appropriately, it's red:
























Though mom tried teaching me how to knit a couple of times when I was a kid, I never took to it until this October, with the support of the Stitch and Bitch my friends are in. I bought some pretty yarn, found this pattern in a book, and finished it two months later. The basketweave pattern, though time-consuming and requiring attention, is not difficult—it's just a series of knit and purl stitches. I'm especially pleased with the fringe, which makes the scarf look more complete.


















And if you're wondering about the scarf's ultimate destination (Christmas is coming...), rest assured that it's not going to someone who reads this blog. I'm also working on a fluffy purple scarf for myself, and a really cool-looking one for Anna, which she knows is coming (she picked out the yarn and the pattern). Will post photos of those when I'm finished.

And why did I start knitting in the first place? It's theraputic. I enjoy the social aspect of the twice-a-month Stitch and Bitches. There's a great sense of accomplishment when I finish a project (even though I've only finished one). There's also something appealingly mathematical about the patterns, the way that different permutations of two basic stitches (knits and purls) and some techniques (increasing, decreasing) can yield a vast variety of results. Also, I like the challenge. There's still a lot to learn, including knitting on the round and with circular needles (the needles that are attached to each other), and I'm going to have to branch out from knitting only scarves eventually. Sweaters are my holy grail, but I'll have to learn hats, mitten, and socks, too.

So, yes. New hobby, new procrastinating tool. But at least I'll be warm.