Reflecting on a Year of Crafting
So many highlights to choose…
As the year comes to a close, I’ve been reflecting on my year of crafting, those special projects, the challenges, and the joyful moments that have made up the last twelve months of knitting and crochet - and spinning. Each stitch, every row, and all the completed (and not-so-completed) projects tell a story of creativity and learning.
A Year of Projects
This year has been filled with a variety of makes—some small and quick, others detailed and time-consuming - and the less said about Mark’s jumper the better… I’ve explored new techniques and may have even gotten comfortable with brioche! There were inevitable mistakes and lots of frogging sessions but those moments only made the final results that much more rewarding.
Of all the projects I’ve worked on, a few stand out as particular favourites. There are also the WIPs that didn’t quite make it to the finish line—each with its own story and lesson. (Hello again, Mark’s jumper!)
Year of socks?
I really enjoyed getting my ‘sock on’ this year, I feel like I finally understand what size I need to make for the perfect fit and these two patterns by Stephen West stand out for me. I’ve got a few pairs on the needles still that are close to being finished so they’re definitely coming up the to-do list for 2025.
The blue sock is the Spiral Splash made using yarn from Cool Woolings, and the grey sock is this years Mystery Sock using yarn from Twisted Ambitions.
I’m a spinner now (?)…
In 2024 I finally learnt how to spin. My first skeins are not going to win any beauty prizes, but they’re skeins I made myself on a drop spindle. Fiddly and awkward, but ultimately quite rewarding so I’m really happy that I dedicated some time this year to have a go and learn a new skill.
Santa was very generous and I had a e-spinner for Christmas so stay tuned in 2025 for more spinning adventures!
Community campaign!
In June I ran a fundraiser during Pride month with the the initial aim of raising £750 for Terrence Higgins Trust - well, you all turned up for this campaign and we ended up raising over £5,600 - WOW!
One thing I’ve loved this year is how we’ve continued to build on the community vibe for Knit365, and once again, thank you to everyone who contributed to the prize draw and raising a fantastic amount of money for a really worthy cause.
Martyn the Tibetan Blue Bear
Regular readers of this blog and viewers of my YouTube channel will have met Martyn the Tibetan Blue Bear in August. I’ve been a huge fan of Toft for many years and to be able to join the menagerie was a dream come true.
I ran a Bear-a-long over the summer and it was wonderful (and a bit surreal!) to see all the Martyn’s come to life. Thank you as always to Kerry and #TeamToft for this opportunity.
When two obsessions align…
And finally of course we had the West Knits Mystery Knit-a-long in October. Of course this is another huge community event and I love collaborating with Irina from FiberChats.
This year’s MKAL though saw me merge my love of knitting with my obsession for Wicked. Mark suggested pink and green as we needed to choose two contrasting colours, and being able to wear my Wicked inspired shawl to see the Wicked movie was a lovely moment combining my two loves.
Thank You for Joining Me
To everyone who’s followed along this year, shared your projects, asked a question, just liked a video or blog post - THANK YOU!
My #Knit365 community is a continued source of inspiration and support, and it’s a joy to share this crafting journey with you all.
As we head into a new year, I’d love to hear about your highlights and plans. What was your favourite project this year? Did you learn something new or try a pattern you’ve been dreaming about? And what’s on your list for next year?
I’ve got a really busy year planned, including some exciting news (I think!) in January to share about a new type of project for me… more to be revealed… I also can’t wait to get my e-spinner set-up and I’m going to do Spinuary again and teach myself to spin on my e-spinner throughout January - anyone else joining me?
Here’s to another year of creativity and plenty of yarn. Wishing you all a peaceful and joyful New Year! 🎉
I've loved watching your blogs again this year. I am always in awe of how you manage your time and prioritise the things you enjoy, when you can, of course. Looking forward to seeing what 2025 brings in your crafty world. Happy New Year to you and Mark xxx
I learned brioche knitting this summer and knitted the Shusui Shrug. My plans for the coming year include finishing off the Over It Slipover, knitting a 2ply shawl that my friend has asked me to do for her first grandchild (due in the spring) and then hopefully a Love Note Sweater for myself. I am also planning to sew a coat/jacket for myself.
Wishing you and Mark all the best for the coming year.