smit-ten [smit-n]

–adjective

1. struck, as with a hard blow.

2. grievously or disastrously stricken or afflicted.

3. very much in love.

I believe that accurately sums up my love-hate relationship with knitting. I'm totally jazzed because I finally completed my first knitting project. Take a look:

Vintage-Inspired Scarf

I feel that, for my first attempt, this vintage-inspired scarf is quite charming. However, I've made a lamentable discovery. My clumsiness doesn't solely reside in my feet (leading me straight into walls); it extends all the way up into my fingers. Trying to simultaneously hold both needles, keep consistent tension on the yarn, and secure stitches was a considerable challenge for me.

Though starting another knitting project is slightly intimidating, I am constantly encouraged by the gorgeous new knitted pieces that I see online and at craft fairs every day. I mean, heck—if they can do it, why can't I? There's a reason the old phrase "practice makes perfect" is so well known.

In the meantime, I'm giving crocheting a go. Nobody ever said that practice without respite is forbidden!

P.S. Have any tips that make knitting less arduous for the butterfingered? I'd love to hear them!