So much to learn!

As a beginner -- maybe an advanced beginner, depending on one's definition -- I sometimes am overwhelmed by how much there is to learn about knitting. Every time I start a new project, I learn something (usually from my mistakes).

Over the weekend, I started a hat project 3 times, and I'm still not convinced it will turn out right. First pattern seemed like the sizing was off, despite my correct gauge. Second pattern (I tried it twice) had an error in it that I couldn't figure out. At least, that's what I told myself! So on the third try, I used a book I have that's supposed to be pretty foolproof if you follow the directions for any yarn, any hat, any size.

I started working on a tam. Made a few errors while making the increases (tried an M1 technique that I hadn't used before) that I just decided to leave in -- not terribly noticeable, and I really just want to see if the sizing calculations actually work. I'll complete it, and if it doesn't work out, I'll try to see where I goofed. There's also a new "double decrease" stitch I'll need to use when I reach that point, so even if the hat isn't wearable, at least I'll have learned a couple of new techniques for increasing and decreasing. Definitely not a waste of time.

Meanwhile, I'm waiting for the yarn samples to arrive. Then I'll make a decision on a simple, basic sweater pattern and what yarn to use. I mean B-A-S-I-C: like, four rectangles that I sew together! Sometime in January, I will be the proud wearer of a hand-knitted pullover!