I once knit a sweater. Notice the “once” in the preceding statement! When I lived in Toronto, I took knitting classes above a dentist’s office. Once a week, our group would gather, with an extremely patient instructor, to work on our projects. It was grueling. I would take the knitting home, rip out most of the stitches I had done on my own, then head back to class where my patient instructor would help me out. I’m very proud of that sweater. I finished it. Then, I gave it away, vowing that I would never attempt one again! But, during the pandemic, with time on my hands, I was shown how to knit toe-up socks. How hard could that be? Well, I finished ONE pair of socks and have tried and given up many times since then!
I’m amazed and inspired by knitters. When we had a new baby in the family, a 90+ year-old knitter made a hat for the new arrival. Young people are asking the older knitters in their families for the “old” patterns and putting a modern spin on the art. Knitting is a year-round hobby and knitters often stock up early with mittens for the winter ahead.
Thunder Bay is home to many talented knitters. Some are members of the Thunder Bay Weavers & Spinners Guild who host a booth every Wednesday and Saturday at the Thunder Bay Country Market. In February, they launched a new initiative called The Knitten Mitten Challenge. “This challenge was born out of a desire to feature the breadth of style and talent among our guild members,” says Miriam Hearn, knitter and organizer of the Challenge. “I am constantly inspired and thrilled by the diversity of ideas and the experience shared so generously by everyone who belongs.” The knitters who participated in the Challenge were charged with creating mittens limited to colours of gray, red, pink or white/off-white. The results were imaginative and in the spirit of Valentine’s Day, LOVELY!
If you ever want to take up the hobby, start small, find a mentor in-person or online and go for it. Drop by the Thunder Bay Country Market for inspiration. The opportunities are endless and the results, remarkable. Knitting is a life-long hobby. Who knows, I just may pick up my needles again for another try!
