The other night I sat at my daughter’s soccer practice in the beautiful, fading, fall sun freezing my buns off. And I kept thinking about the thick wool hat that I was in the process of knitting, wishing it was on my head. There’s something so satisfying about making something with my own two hands, something that will nicely and simply fill a little hole in my life.
I usually define slow fashion by using and taking care of what you already have, and responsibly made, contemplative purchases. But I would say the ultimate in slow fashion is when you make something yourself. Even better, when you can trace your supplies 100% back to their source. In this case: Peruvian Highland sheep (thanks guys!).
We Are Knitters:
The fewer times I have to make decisions, the happier I am. That’s part of the reason behind my lean closet strategy. If you were to take me into Jo-Ann’s and show me a wall of knitting magazines and patterns, I would certainly run away fast. But if I could simply order a kit with a pattern, yarn and needles already in it? Well that would make this busy mama very happy.
We Are Knitters wants you and me to slow down our busy selves and take time to make what we wear. Their kits include everything from shirts and cardigans to hats and snoods. Each kit comes with 100% natural fiber yarn: cotton, wool or alpaca. The kits even include a little needle for any seams you need to sew up.
My Process:
Prior to knitting this hat, I had “extensive” experience making scarves. Ha! I think I made a hat on one other occasion. When selecting my kit, I was careful to choose one rated ‘beginner’ so I wouldn’t get too hung up in the process. And this hat didn’t let me down; it was even easier than I expected! It’s been a few years since I’ve picked up knitting needles, and it was just like riding a bike!
Note: Please excuse the cell phone pictures here, the only time I have in my life for knitting is long after the kids and sun have gone down!
I am really surprised how quickly this pattern knitted up. (Yay, chunky yarn!) It only took me about six episodes of Gilmore Girls, over the course of a few days. This pattern is basically a flat rectangle that you sew up the sides on afterward. So simple, right? The sewing seams part is always tricky for me, but I just tried to follow the existing stitches, and it looks pretty good!
The End Result:
I could not be more pleased with how this turned out!! It is SO cute on. One big factor that holds me back from making very much clothing – I’m too afraid I’ll invest the time and effort only to be displeased with the end result. This time I am thrilled! I love the hat on, and it’s exceedingly warm! I wore it yesterday during a wind and rain storm, and I felt as cozy as if I were in my pajamas. But of course a lot more smart looking. ;) Maybe next time I’ll move on to a shirt.
Hey! I’m new to your blog and this whole slow fashion thing. I’m a long time knitter and love their patterns. Thanks so much for sharing all your goodness!
Hi! Welcome!! That’s so cool that you’re no stranger to their patterns! Do you have any favorites? I’m really interested in trying to do a shirt!
Fall always makes me want to knit. Tea and cozy weather are just so perfect for it. Your hat turned out great!
Thanks Tawny! I totally feel the same way about fall and knitting. I never seem to think about it during the summer, ha!
It’s so cute!! Well done.
Thanks girl! I feel sort of cool girl status when I wear it. ;)
Such beautiful timing, this post! Just yesterday I posed a question to members of a small business community I belong to, asking them about knitting – with much enthusiastic response!
I thought I’d never be interested in such a thing. But now, as one thing leads to another, I am. Mostly, I’m taken by the stories I’ve found…threading from minimalist fashion to ethical fashion to slow fashion. And, wow, are there some beautiful, inspiring stories out there. Feels as though knitting would take my minimalist, slow approach to clothing and belongings to another level in a way. But also feels like something I want to do with a beginner’s mind and no attachment to outcomes. Thank you for extra inspiration!
Yay Dana! Thank you for sharing. I think I feel exactly the same way, but about sewing!
Love this so much, it looks great! And I love your sweater too. I wanted to try a We are Knitters kit but tried Wool and the Gang instead because they had representatives who would help you with your knitting at my local department store. I needed that security blanket I think. Will definitely try this kit- and what lovely needles, too.
Thanks Ariana! I’m feeling ballsy and I want to try a cardigan next. It was really fun. And the needles are beautiful, part of the fun!
Is that your pup? More dog cameos please! :)
😆 Yep! That’s our dog Stella, she’s older than the kids. Will try to include her more. 😉
Hello!
I love knitting, and highly recommend Ravelry for finding patterns.
Out of curiosity, where is the white sweater you are wearing from? I’m new to your blog, so I apologize if I overlooked a link for it elsewhere.
Hi Sahara, thanks for the tip on Ravelry! I love it, but I also find it overwhelming at times. :)
The sweater in that pic is several years old, but I got it at Urban Outfitters and it’s by Silence + Noise. :)