Cherubino knits: Letting Go

I often find myself holding on to the yarn in my stash until I have searched far and wide for the best project I can find for it. I'm not just talking about large quantities of yarn for big projects, but also random single skeins that I want to put to a good use, and end up obsessing over it.

There is nothing inherently wrong with this practice, and it allows me to find many beautiful and interesting patterns, especially now that Ravelry makes it so easy. But, I'm sure I'd get a lot more knitting done if I would make a decision and cast on before I had a chance to waffle. So, in the interest of trying to be more decisive, getting more knitting done and using up my stash, I have decided to do an experiment.

I bought a few baskets in various sizes and then chose patterns and corresponding yarns and needles to go with them. Before the materials were placed in the basket, I cast on and knit a few rows. I am hoping that if the yarn is already being used, it will make it much less likely for me to change my mind.

Here are the projects I have started so far. The ones that are gifts will be getting the most attention.

Cobblestone Pullover for G in Cascade 220 Heathers

Wedgewood Blouse for my MIL in Lion Brand Cotton-Ease

Lace Ribbon Scarf in Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock Multi.

Koolhaas in Laines du Nord Cashsilk

I have organized but not cast on yet for these projects.

Fast Favorite Vest in Patons Merino for my FIL

Backyard Leaves in Blue Face Leicester Aran

Noro Striped Scarf in Kureyon

Bobbled Tam in Jaeger Matchmaker Merino DK

Montego Bay Scarf in SWTC Bamboo

Cozy V-Neck Pullover in Brown Sheep Prairie Silks

I have also furthered my effort by adding stash yarns to projects in my Ravelry queue, but I know it will be harder to stick to them if I have not physically put yarn and pattern together.

We'll see how it goes....

Before I forget, here are two FOs from October.

Kitty Hat, as part of Abe's cat costume, modeled here by Abe sitting with his brother the vampire.

I knit this in just a few hours using Caron Simply Soft Eco, which is partially made of recycled plastic bottles. According to the label, 10 skeins=6 plastic bottles saved from landfills. I'll need to see how the hat wears before making a larger project, but the alleged environmentally-friendliness of this yarn may just make me less of an acrylic snob.

Here is a better shot of the ears and the mischievous expression.

and Cable Beret from Debbie Bliss Knitting Magazine

I made this from Elsebeth Lavold Angora which I was surprised to find for a great price at Tuesday Morning. It is extremely soft, but I am glad I did a hat instead of a scarf. I think the fuzziness would be annoying near the mouth, whereas it feels cozy and warm on the head.