We are many

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My darling knitters…I am astonished.

The Knitterly homage to the Olympics will now have more participants than the actual Olympics in Torino, There’s 2400 of them, and we’re already at more than 2500 (if the update isn’t there yet it will be soon) and you have no idea what kind of mess my inbox is. If it wasn’t for Emma and S. Kate – both of whom I completely owe my sanity to, I would be a gibbering idiot, instead of someone who actually thinks all of these knitters will eventually be entered on the list.) We can all thank Kat as well, as she’s the Official Librarian of the Knitting Olympics, and is doing a great job of keeping track of all the teams and groups. Leave her a note if she missed one. (Librarians love accuracy.)

What’s rocking my world is that each and every one of the knitters on the list are striving for their personal best. I’m impressed with each and every name on the list because every name, every one of them is a celebration of two things.

1. Excellence in knitting. Every knitter on the list is trying to stretch their skills. Not everyone is cut out for self improvement, and I’m sure even if you are not part of the olympics you are busy striving for excellence in another element of your life…but all of these names are knitters trying to do it better. That elevates the craft. That makes it personal art. I’m proud of you all.

2. Challenge. Nobody tries to do better without challenge. It is the elevating force of humanity, and at the risk of sounding like a motivational speaker…challenge is good for you. A chinese proverb reads:

The gem cannot be polished without friction, nor man perfected without trials.



I’m a long way from perfect, but I’m closer for trying, and so are you.

Knit on.

Tink-o-rama

All tinks sweaters, all the time around here. (Can you tell that my enthusiasm is weak at the moment? )

Sleevetnk34

This here is the first of two sleeves. When it is done I need another the same (Bored? Me? No way. I’m just ummm….waiting for the olympics.) then I cut six steeks (two fronts, four sleeves) knit button bands and neck bands and I, my friends, I am outa tinkville.

This needs to happen pretty quick, since I’m out of town all of this weekend and next week, and I wanted to finish the Tinks before I started Hardangervidda. Did I show you the yarn?

Hardangyrnp1

(What? You didn’t think I was going to knit it the way it is in the picture, did ya?) The choice of colours likely also tells you that I’m not knitting it for Joe. This ones for me. (The Olympic advantage of that is getting to do a 36″ chest instead of a 48″ one. I might be crazy, but I’m not stupid.)

Finally, go fill up Sandy’s inbox. It’s her bloggiversary.

Sandy is a consistent force for love and good in the blogosphere. I have the privilege of calling her friend in my private life, and I tell you this: If there is a gentle kindness leaking out around anyone, it is Sandy.

Sandy loves skies, so this ones for her.

Skyforsandybl

(Sorry about the weather Sandy.)

302 thoughts on “We are many”

  2. hey! I’m the one with the 48 inch bust in my family….this is gonna take forever…..

  6. What is the most impressive to you: so many knitters participating in the Knitting Olympics or knowing that even more knitters read your blog on a regular basis?
    Both are feakingly impressive to me! 😉
    Gorgeous colors for your Olympic sweater, by the way!

  7. We are a forced to be reckoned with. Imagine if we used our powers for evil instead of good…
    *world domination*
    It would be a pretty rockin’ world to live in though. I love the colors for your sweater, its going to be a beaut. And Gretchen? I hear ya sister!

  8. Those colors are gorgeous . . . and of COURSE you’re picking your own colors! Where’s the fun in just following the pattern colors?? I am absolutely amazed at the numbers of fellow-lunatics who have signed up for this. Are we really all crazy, though? Or just inspired?
    And–who gets to light the flame? Pity Elizabeth Zimmerman isn’t around anymore, but really, Stephanie, YOU should do it! Just be careful around the yarn. It’s flammable, you know. And fire can attact moths . . . all part of the danger and excitment of the Olympics, right??

  9. I was expecting to see 2000 knitting for the big Knit O. but now 2500. That’s amazing, I can’t even imagine all the work that goes behind the scene to organize all of this.
    If you need more help, please let me know. I’ve got more than time on my hands and my days aren’t all that busy. 😉

  10. Just one week to go! Thanks for starting this whole thing and inspiring me to move outside my comfort zone. I may be cursing you for this soon so enjoy the wave here.
    And you’re so right about librarians. We DO love accuracy! And rules, too.

  11. Great hardangervidda-colours! Much better than the original.
    It’s almost like the real Hardangervidda in fall 🙂
    I’ve been riding across Hardangervidda on horseback one summer, and it’s beautiful!

  12. Hi! I realize that you certainly don’t need any more work reguarding the Olympics data-entry, so you don’t need to update my info, but I just wanted to tell you — I’ve decided to knit my first sweater, instead of socks. It’ll be Picovoli, because I have an infant and toddler who keep me from knitting as much as I’d like, so I thought it best to stay away from piecing and sleeves. =) (BTW, I wonder if anyone’s made a “first sweater” button yet? If not, maybe I should…) So anyway, just letting you know, so that it’s “official”. =)

  13. Amazing that there are more of us. Someone needs to alert the networks that they should be following our teams and events.

  15. I need to take a picture of the sky today as we fnially have sun after two weeks of clouds and rain. The sun might not last long so I better hurry.
    Challenge is good for the character, that’s true. For some of us just relaxing and enjoying the moment is a challenge.

  17. Nonsense. Wool, far from being flammable, smolders and is reluctant to burn. Resists water, resists flame — perfect for Superknitter (who, in my memory, was the Crown Prince of Norway bringing in the flame skijumping, wearing the most fantastic sweater. In fact if there were a medal for Best Knitting In The Stands, Oslo would own it in perpetuity.)

  18. The Tink sweaters are beautiful. I can’t wait to see them finished and beig modelled.
    The colours for Hardangervidda spoke to me. Maybe because I have a sweater on the needles right now in the same ones. Scary.

  19. Teresa, if knitters did rule the world, the only time the word “victim” would be used would be right after the word “yarn”. The absolutely worst thing any person would ever do to another is knit them a sweater in a color that really doesn’t compliment their complexion.
    Steph, love the colors. The people who are doing sweaters for this project really amaze me. Fair Isle especially.
    I may have to change my project for the Olympics. My shoalwater shawl kit hasn’t shown up yet and I’m really hoping next week. Otherwise it will still be a shawl, but I don’t know which of two yet. I already have the yarn and pattern for both.

  20. I most definitely will be challenged during the Olympics……..and my stomach hurts just thinking of it……….just kidding. I’m looking forward to the thrill of victory or the agony of defeat….hopefully the former……

  22. Oh, and where did you get the pattern for those fantastic Tinks sweaters? Did you write it yourself? If so, will you post it? They are glorious! You’ve inspired me to try Fair Isle.

  23. Wow. That’s incredible. I wonder if this has generated any media coverage outside of the knitting community. I tried to google for it, but, well, with 2500 knitletes, that’s an awful lot of blogs to wade through.

  26. Note to Jess: Yes, the media has picked up on it. A couple weeks ago it was mentioned on MSNBC.com under the blogs. The guy that does the, “My Name is Will. This is What I Blogged.” article had a link to the athletes page.

  27. I think I need a lie down. And perhaps a touch of Irish mother’s milk (but not at work).
    Wow. 2500? That’s absolutely incredible. And you started it all Stephanie.

  28. 2500!!!!!!!! The world needs to know this. And to think it started with “I had an idea”……

  29. Even in size 36″ Hard-anger-vidda is a very challenging project. I suspected you were going do it in a child’s size. In the meanwhile I got my yarn for my project and I am not in love with it (it is harsh), or the size 0 needles I am supposed to use. I have a hard time finding them in the local stores.
    Your tink sweaters inspired me to do these Estonian socks. The number of participants is staggering. vj

  31. The tinks sweaters are looking great. Good luck in getting them finished before the Olympics, I’m sure you can do it. Just think of it as your prequalifying event before the Olympics! I do like the colors you’ve selected for Hvidda. And making it in a 36″ bust is much better than for Joe in 16 days.

  32. Hey Stephanie — I can’t belive I’m commenting somewhere before 100… Olympic Fever has your blog more popular than a x-c skier in tight pants. I’ve searched around for an opening ceremony party on Long Island, but no luck… maybe I’ll check with the librarian. Such good friends you have!

  33. Hey Stephanie — I can’t belive I’m commenting somewhere before 100… Olympic Fever has your blog more popular than a x-c skier in tight pants. I’ve searched around for an opening ceremony party on Long Island, but no luck… maybe I’ll check with the librarian. Such good friends you have!

  34. The tinks are so cute, surely they’re worth a bit of boredom. 2500 knitters??!! Holy crap, that’s amazing. And I really like the Dale – and the colors.

  35. Now that we have the numbers, I think we should get the village and the media coverage, don’t you think? Except our Olympics should be held somewhere like Scotland or Estonia.
    Just think of how dedicated we could be if we had no distractions!

  36. Oh gosh, I feel bad to add to the Olympic burden…but I need to change my event.
    I was going to make fine gauge alpaca gloves for myself. Ha! It took me three days to make a tiny swatch. It’s one thing to challenge yourself, another to set yourself up for disappointment.
    So, I’m going to knit bunny ears every day, and sew up all the squares I knit in June to make the Heartstrings bunny. A bunny a day. Then, I’m donating them to the ambulance service in town. Right now, that’s enough of a challenge for me–getting something finished!
    TracyKM

  39. I hope it isn’t too late to sign up for the Knitting Olympics. My entry will be mittens. I am a new knitter. Now my mom has to buy me some yarn and needles!

  41. “I’m a long way from perfect, but I’m closer for trying, and so are you.” You rock, Steph! I LOVE this. I quoted you in my sig line on one of my boards. Is that okay? I gave you props, of course!
    I’m knitting my dh’s sweater in the Olympics for the same reason – his chest is the smaller one. Yet another reason to get in shape, smaller sweaters take less time and leave more yarn $$ for other yarn!

  42. Out of curiousity, I googled ‘olympics 2006’, and your knitting olympics site shows up on the first page. Hit number 9 I think.

  43. I have a late entry for the challenge: to design and knit my mother’s birthday cardigan! Now to hope the yarn gets here before the flame is lit.

  44. Oh, so THAT’s why I’m getting so many comments all of a sudden. Hah. I was wondering. 🙂
    The Tinks sweaters are lovely. I hope we get a picture of them in them!

  45. I’m almost inspired to start my own blog, just so I can document progress. This is truly amazing, and worthy of press coverage. I’m so proud to be a part of this group! Thank you for starting it.

  46. hi! Just a word to tell you that I’m willing to help you if you need, with the Olympic(even though my english in not very good), it seems to become so big! In france, the information is running from blog to blog, and you might have more frenchy to come. Thank you so much anyway, It makes me really happy to be a part of it!

  47. Don’t mind me over here in the corner, having an attack. I’m just absolutely flabbergasted that there are 4, count ’em, 4 Evas on the list. Wow! Not a usual occurrence.

  50. OK Today I figured out how to get the pictures from the camera into my computer and transferred from Kodak to a program that will work with my printer. Can a blog be far behind? The things Olympic fever gets me into! Thanks for the push (and not just in knitting )

  51. Stephanie:
    Can you imagine at the end of the Olympics if we all sent you pix of our projects?!! That would be so cool to see 2500 projects. All started by your idea. Knitters are without a doubt the best, coolest people!!!

  52. You made me cry! Not sob, just happy tears. Okay, 2 tears, but still more than one!
    xo
    Thank you, Dear Steph. Right back at ya! And well, the sky? Still beautiful!

  53. 2500! I hope we’re not getting testing for any performance enhancers! Just kidding. I’m going away for the opening weekend, but I’m using thick yarn for a child’s sweater so I hope I have a chance.

  54. By the way, I am 6 feet tall and have one of those larger chest measurements. I am knitting an instarsia sweater, where, oh where can I add a few extra rows of length? Just all part of the challenge:<o

  55. I just heard about you and the knitting olympics on NPR-fabulous!!! ok sign me up. I will complete a Hanne Faulkenberg sweater in 16 days- size large on size 3mm needles. I have the kit for over a year and It is time to DO IT.
    Madelynn Schwarz

  56. Ye gads, Steph, you’ve got the power!!! Between the Knitting Olympics and Tricoteuses Sans Frontieres, you are seriously a force to be reckoned with. If I were a politician, right about now I’d be sweating and trying to find the LYS to learn to knit. Gotta have something in common with such a large constituency, eh?
    Too bad world domination isn’t on your agenda (or is it?). It would be a MUCH better world if knitters ran it.

  57. Wow . . . 2500 strong. The Olympic Villiage to house us and our yarn would have to be huge!

  58. Heard about the Knitting Olympics on Public Radio International… how did you manage that? I need to do that for my Project Spectrum.
    One can still strive for excellence in knitting without the Olympics too! Just a little reminder! 😉

  59. hi! Just a word to tell you that I’m willing to help you if you need, with the Olympic(even though my english in not very good), it seems to become so big! In france, the information is running from blog to blog, and you might have more frenchy to come. Thank you so much anyway, It makes me really happy to be a part of it!

  60. 2500 and counting-that’s beyond words. You are a force to be reckoned with. Even the news organizations are picking this up? Get out. I have to tell dh about this…

  61. I am going to take a leap and sign up for the knitting Olympics. I am a full time music major who knits in her spare time, so my project, a baby sweater, is going to be a stretch for me! I enjoy your blog and two books a lot�It makes me feel better that I’m not the only person in the world who gets beaten by some fibers and sticks!

  62. Thanks for the inspiration. Beginning knitter, gonna try an alpaca lace scarf in a yummy chocolate color (the better to hide the finger prints, my dear….) yikes!

  63. Commenting on Lene’s blog I referred to myself as a Harlotista. She said I made knitters sound like some kind of guerrilla force preparing to take over the world. Little did she know. Gently, gently, we will wrap the world in wool…

  64. *cries* I’m knitting a 54″ chest TALL for husband… I may need to give up sleep.
    Thank you Handy Harlot Helpers!!!

  65. I think we’ve also seen a Celebration of Community Spirit come up big and strong here. I love that part. It’s one of the reasons I chose to join up – the chance to get together with other knitters for an opening ceremony um, ceremony; to have people cheering me on as I’ll be cheering them. The way that people from all over the world have gotten involved and have the chance to meet and get to know new knitters is unparalleled. Really.
    Dude, you have the BEST insane ideas. I’m very proud to know you. I mean that.

  66. Hey Stephanie! First of all, thank you for being such a great writer, knitter, and all-around groovy person!
    Just wanted to add my name to the seemingly endless list of Knitting Olympics participants. I am going to tackle the Chinese Charm Bag from the first Stitch ‘n Bitch book. I have never knitted on circular needles before, or made a purse, so this will definitely be a challenge for me. I’m a relatively new knitter, and am trying to get beyond the scarf-and-dishcloth stage. I have every confidence in myself and know that this bag is going to ROCK six ways to Sunday.
    Thanks again for all that you do for the knitting community!!
    Your fellow yarn ho’,
    Marisa Young
    Portland OR

  67. OMG! Harlot is on NPR! They are announcing the Olympic Knitting and I am hearing her voice right now!! Way cool!!

  68. Now I know what you sound like! You were great on The World. I have been thinking about suggesting that ESPN do a story on the Knitting Olympics. Seems The World beat them. Great job.

  69. Googling “knitting olympics” (with quotes for exact phrase) gets over 88,200 hits. Wow.

  72. oooohhh, NPR? I do hope you mentioned each & every one of us by name!! 😉
    Report back, please, madame! We want the scoop!

  73. My first sock(s). I want to be able to finish so my first goal is 1 sock. if all goes well, I’ll finish the pair. I have a great coach so am getting some training in.
    Good luck to all!
    valerie

  75. Don’t hate me… but…
    the link for my name is wrong on the Olympic page. I know, small thing in the big picture and I feel even smaller for asking for it to be corrected, but if you should happen to ever finishing entering in names, maybe you could make that little change…
    So sorry, really… 🙂 🙂 🙂

  76. You *do* know the Arabic word for what you describe? That battle with the self, the internal struggle for self-improvement and personal achievement?
    Jihad.
    You have created a multi-person, international knitters Jihad. With, I might add, Team Wales right inside it.
    “Jihad means to strive to the utmost. In the Quran and Sunna terminology, this utmost exertion, which is undertaken for the sake of truth rather than personal ends, is indicated by the word jihad. This effort could be with one’s life, or property, or expenditure of time, or by bearing labour and hardship, or fighting the enemy and shedding blood.” Mas’ala Khilafat, [found on the Web, I am not a scholar of Islam]
    Here’s to no bloodshed or enemies in the world’s very first International Jihad of Knitters…

  77. I was going to knit a 48″ sweater too, but was unable to get to the yarn — this may be a sign. I’m knitting White Mage instead. Because really, if you can’t find yarn for a perfectly good Jenna Wilson pattern, why not just write your own? … Hmm. That sounded smarter in my head? Will I survive this? What will we do with the bodies of those who fall short of the goal? String them up with Red Heart and poke them with cheap, bent dpns?
    I better go swatch some more to prevent pokey, acrylic death.

  78. I hope it’s not too late to join the Kniting Olympics. I’ve only been knitting for a year and am completely and utterly hooked. I learned of your blog during a business trip from hell from a fellow passenger whilst stranded at LaGuardia. For the Olympics, I would like to try my first lace project, a scarf from knitty.com (“branch out” pattern). I’ve bought the yarn, a stunning baby mohair and silk (doceur et soie). Let the games begin. THANKS Stephanie!

  79. And it’s still getting bigger! Please add another one to the roster. I will be knitting the Bog Shirt from Spincraft. I’m a beginner, so it’s a rectangle, but for me it’s the most complicated rectangle yet!

  80. wow… 2500 knitters all poised with their needles waiting for the torch to be lit. Awesome. trying to visualize that is …. wow…
    Happy knitting to all of us totally awesome knitters!

  81. I’m listening to “The World” on NPR and they just asked on the nightly Geo-Quiz–Which Canadian city will host the Knitting Olympics? I’m not a participant in the Olympics, but I read your blog every day–of course, I knew the answer! I’m listening to you now, Stephanie, as I type . . .

  82. I’m on the list, but without a declared project. Finally declaring – the Hourglass Sweater. Ta-da!
    Wow, um, it’s a little scary that Steph is on NPR. Won’t that, like, quadruple the interest?!

  84. WOW This whole Olympic knitting event has even over taken the Superbowl and Survivor!!!
    There is a chance for our world yet. Now if we could only replace Weapons of Destruction with Needles, Wool and Instructions..
    I’ve been inspired to start a blog just to have a place to put my “Gold Medal” I’m taking 4 days of vacation to insure my completion. That isn’t considered Performance Enhancement is it???

  86. I would like to join the Knitting Olympics too please. I’m going to be knitting a lacy, rectangular shawl of my own design from recycled yarn. Guess I’m off to find some sweaters to recycle…
    Thanks,
    Donna

  88. Please enter me in the knitting Olympics. I’ve been knitting since I was 8 years old and after 42 years of knitting, I just keep getting more obsessed.
    My project will be to design and knit a sweater for myself. I very rarely knit for myself. I love to spread knitted love around to others. This will be a challenge to do something for myself.
    Great idea! Great site!
    Sherry

  89. Wonderful blurb on NPR and thanks to Sally in PDX for the info so I could go and listen. Fun to hear you, Steph.

  91. OK..I’m going to do this. Nothing as elaborate as some, but I’m going to finally knit a booga bag using the Kureyon. I’ve wanted to do this forever but didn’t think my fairly simple knitting skills were good enough to use on really good yarn. Hey…I’m an Olympian..I deserve it! Next goal will be to make a blog so I can show off my button.

  92. Wow. All I can say is wow, and it feels great to be a little part of such a big event, even if I never personally come into contact with any other Olympic Knitter!

  93. Congrats on the shout out in the ECONOMIST!!! (2/4-10 p. 29)
    I am an avid fan of your books. My husband (also a knitter) and I enjoy them for bedtime reading (out loud!). Was uber excited to see your mention in The Economist.
    Cheers!

  94. Holy crap! nearly 2500 of us??? No wonder why I cna’t keep up with all the new blogs…. (and I am not commenting much cos I figure you’ve enough on your plate /inbox as it is!)

  95. I heard you on the radio today. 🙂 You sound so tall on the radio…so now I’m curious. I’d thought from some of the pictures I’d seen that you’d be about 5’4 or so. How tall are you?
    Btw you also sounded so professional and together. 🙂

  96. Stephanie,
    I don’t know how to reach you except via the blog, but wanted to invite you to lunch next Sunday (in Tacoma). I expect that the Madrona people have already contacted you, but if not, my friend and I, both attending the event, would love to have you join us after the Komi mitts. I’m looking forward to meeting you on Sat.

  98. Where is the tinks pattern? I’m sure you gave it and I missed it as I’m new to site. But oo la la my baby would look good in it!

  99. You were on NPR and didn’t TELL us?!?!?!
    Anyway, if anyone tried to go to the list of teams/links and found the site down, sorry about that! Forces beyond my control. It’s back now. I’m also going to collect links to media coverage there, so let me know if you see any.

  100. Nice yarn! I can’t do fairisle for the life of me, but I’m planningon trying it out with a pair of mittens out of Interweave Knits. Good Luck with your sweater! Go team!

  101. Okay, I can’t stand not joining any longer. It will certainly be a challenge, but I’m going to try and knit myself a shawl-collared vest from “Handknitting with Meg Swansen”.
    Thank you Stephanie for being crazy enough to put this challenge out there. Thank you fellow knitters for being just as crazy. And double thank yous to Emma and S. Kate for what I think should be considered an olympic challenge in its own right!

  102. I already signed up for the Olympics, but I hadn’t yet decided what I would be doing. I’ve finally settled on making the Voodoo wrist warmers, from knitty.com. This would be a) the first thing that I’ve knit in the round b) the first thing I’ve knit that had to bit fitted and c) the first thing I’ve knit for myself. (This is what happens when you learn how to knit right before Christmas.)

  103. I knew we would be moving into our newly remodeled home sometime in FEB, but didn’t know when, so I had to wait to commit. Now that I know it won’t be during Olympic time, I wanna join. My challenge is going to be to complete a whole sweater. I’m still deciding on which one!

  105. I love the colors you’ve chosen for your olympic challenge.
    I’ve finally decided that I would like to join in. I’ve been planning and designing in my head a Hogwarts inspired hat for some time now. I even bought the yarn awhile back – but I keep chickening out when it comes to starting it. It’s all in my head and I’m nervous that what comes out won’t actually be what is in my head. So I think this might be just the thing to give me that kick in the tail to start it.
    I hope it’s not too late.
    This is such a great idea.
    Thanks!
    Ann

  106. I love the challenge…this is just nutty and grass-rootsy enough to appeal. I pledge to do my utter best at my very FIRST knitting project ever: a 8″ x 60″ garter stitch chenille scarf with fringe! Wicked cool — knit on! P.S. heard you on NPR tonite.

  107. I want to join the Knitting Olympics (finally!)
    I plan to knit some child-sized scarves for The Dulaan Project – the challenge for me will be designing and charting my own stitch patterns –
    Just listened to The World interview – delightful!

  111. Heard you on NPR today (in San Francisco) – world news on PRI, I think? Anyway, how fantastic that knitting Olympics made the Geo Quiz!

  112. Heard you on NPR today (in San Francisco) – world news on PRI, I think? Anyway, how fantastic that knitting Olympics made the Geo Quiz!

  113. Heard you on NPR today (in San Francisco) – world news on PRI, I think? Anyway, how fantastic that knitting Olympics made the Geo Quiz!

  114. Heard you on NPR today (in San Francisco) – world news on PRI, I think? Anyway, how fantastic that knitting Olympics made the Geo Quiz!

  115. Heard you on NPR today (in San Francisco) – world news on PRI, I think? Anyway, how fantastic that knitting Olympics made the Geo Quiz!

  117. I will be representing P-town (portland,oregon) along with many other athletes here in the pacific northwest stitch n bitch community – I will be attempting to create a circa 1920’s striped bathing suit style jumper for my ever-sassy 2-yr old from scratch. I’ll say 50 hail marys – mary thomas that is – and see what happens come feb 26th!!
    rock on!
    k
    you can see my prelimanary “sketch” at my url http://www.kimmanchester.org

  118. 2500 knitters? Sooooo cool! How can I get in touch with other knitters in Vancouver during the opening ceremonies so we can simultaneously cast on our projects together??? I am unfortunately not very “blog-literate”….

  119. Am I the only one who thinks organizing this . . . er, event? jihad? knitterly explosion? is an olympic – even herculanean – event in itself? Congrats, Stephanie, on not throwing your hands (or, especially, dpns) up in the air at the frenzy. I would’ve been sorely tempted to change my email address by now. 😛
    Oh, on the list of random places to find mention of the knitting olympics – SCA Today, a reenactment/medieval studies newsletter linked to it a couple of days ago.

  120. Hey 🙂 I’d like to sign up for the Knitting Olympics – It’s the only one I might have a shot at.
    I’ve never done socks before (or round knitting on double pointed needles), so my project will be – one sock!

  121. How about a first edition real life pin or button to purchase if you participated in the knitting olympics with the proceeds going to knitters without frontiers? Maybe a company that makes those pins would be willing to donate them for a cause?

  122. Ohh, I feel like a heel for even mentioning this, because I know how busy y’all are, but I’ve changed my project (for the last time, I promise!). I’ve been a knitting fool for the last few weeks, so the ribbed scarf no longer really presents a challenge to me. I’ve never done cables before, though, so my scarf has warped from ribbed into the Irish Hiking Scarf, which is beautiful, and I’m making it out of Catalina Alpaca & Silk, in a gorgeous shade of burgundy. I’ve already bought the yarn & joined the KAL & everything, so I swear I won’t change it again! My apologies, and God bless y’all for keeping all this stuff straight! I have no idea how you do it… (If it were me, it would involve large quanities of really fine merlot…)

  123. I want to join the felted “French Market Bag” team. Was going to try the “the clogs” but very likely there would be ‘pitiful whining, sobbing and ACTUAL stabbing of family members with pointy sticks’!
    Started sock lessons 12.23.05 – knew the basics of Knit/Purl BUT haven’t knit since the 80’s. Have never knit in the round with 5 needles.

  124. Steek – what is this steek of which you speak? After phaffing for quite a few weeks, I’ve finally done the necessary web searching and found illustrations and of the steeking technique. Steph, are you a hand-stitch steeker or a machine steeker?

  125. Steek – what is this steek of which you speak?
    After phaffing for quite a few weeks, I’ve finally done the necessary web searching and found illustrations of the steeking technique. Steph, are you a hand-stitch steeker or a machine steeker?

  126. I am in (adding to your burden…)! I am knitting Twist from Chicknits and I am very excited to get started. I only worry that i don�t have enough of the yarn, but if that is the case, it�ll be Twist without the collar.
    Thank you for starting this, it�s amazing!

  127. Wow 2500 participants is amazing. Thank you steph for organizing this event, you have managed to join knitters around the world. I have sent you an email yesterday to join and I am knitting my first cardigan for my son. I have also started a blog to document this wip and all future ones. BTW I am from Malta Europe any other participants from Malta?. Maybe we can find a way to create a gallery of all the projects worked on during the olympics. xxx

  128. Hi Stephanie, congratulations on the success of the knitting olympics! It looks pretty overwhelming!
    I sent you an e-mail a few weeks ago and have been stalking the entry list to see if I’m in!
    Alas no sign of me yet!
    I am going to knit in French, having studued it to ‘O’ level some 22 years ago it should be fun.
    I’m going to make this:
    http://www.bergeredefrance.fr/document/upload/tricotheque/bloc/92662.pdf
    in what I think is Debbie Bliss cotton cashmere (I can’t find the ebay receipt!)
    Hope this does’nt cause you ant problems and many thanks for your efforts, we knitters REALLY appreciate it!
    Sue
    xxx

  129. Hi Stephanie, congratulations on the success of the knitting olympics! It looks pretty overwhelming!
    I sent you an e-mail a few weeks ago and have been stalking the entry list to see if I’m in!
    Alas no sign of me yet!
    I am going to knit in French, having studued it to ‘O’ level some 22 years ago it should be fun.
    I’m going to make this:
    http://www.bergeredefrance.fr/document/upload/tricotheque/bloc/92662.pdf
    in what I think is Debbie Bliss cotton cashmere (I can’t find the ebay receipt!)
    Hope this does’nt cause you ant problems and many thanks for your efforts, we knitters REALLY appreciate it!
    Sue
    xxx

  130. I wonder if all of us starting to cast on simultaneously will alter the cosmic balance in some very positive way? I remember hearing stories (probably an urban myth) about what would happen if everyone in a city turned off their running faucet at the exact same moment – so we will be sort of the opposite of that. The Olympic Opening Cermonies are always an amazing, uplifting moment in our planetary life, and we are going to be adding to that momentum. I’m very excited! And a little anxious about the figure-eight cast on for my endeavor. Did you say that a little practice is within the rules – sort of like a training exercise? Also, it would be great to be able to purchase a “real” button, especially since I don’t keep a blog.

  131. Please add me to your Knitting Olympics list. I’ll be knitting baby booties and cap (I’m a beginner). Thanks!!

  132. Please add me to your Knitting Olympics list. I’ll be knitting baby booties and cap (I’m a beginner). Thanks!!

  133. I am so impressed that there are more knitters in the Olympics than athletes! And I’m glad that you’re getting some media attention, Stephanie. I’ll have to go listen to the World podcast. Let’s see if we can get the Olympic TV coverage to cover us, too! Congratulations on a terrific idea!

  134. Thank you for posting that! I was about to “chicken out” and change my Olympics project to something I know I can finish… but I’m not going to! I’m going to push myself to do this sweater, and be totally proud of myself when I finish it! 🙂
    The colors for yours are just beautiful! Can’t wait to see the finished product!

  135. Stephanie, thank you for being a force to be reckoned with. I’ve been in self-imposed exile from the knitting blogosphere in the name of Getting Things Done. But one can’t bury one’s head completely under the sand, so news of the Knitting Olympics has reached the shores of the Isle of Reb. Three times in fact, which is indeed the charm. I’ve finally been motivated off my gi-normous arse. Thank you! (And you know I wasn’t really Getting Things Done anyway.)
    I am going to participate in the Finishing event. I’m a notorious Project Languisher. So I’m thinking about completing an average of one project for each day of the Olympics. Many have less than one day’s work. Some have more. I thought, no, it’s cheating, I’ve already cast on. I thought of everyone excitedly starting their projects during the Opening Olympics, and me sitting there frowning at some project I threw down long ago. Cheating be damned! This will be an immense challenge. This will take endurance. This will test my knitting spirit. I have an Olympic Dream: to finish up 16 projects in 16 days. Every end woven in! Fasteners attached! Wearable! Usable! Mailed to its recipient! Judges’ panel, I bring you the Finishing Olympics.

  137. I have always believed in the power of one person or one voice to affect change.If anyone doubts that, the evidence of just that is here in your blog…Look at what a force you–the voice of one–has made by simply conveying a simple idea–a knitting olympics to mirror the sports one…there are people coming together through the forming of teams–people who may never have crossed paths otherwise..and there are even knit shops offering discounts and setting aside group time for this effort..People finding a sense of community–Pretty amazing..Thank you Steph for making a difference in this world.

  138. I have always believed in the power of one person or one voice to affect change.If anyone doubts that, the evidence of just that is here in your blog.Look at what a force you,the voice of one–has made by simply conveying a simple idea-a knitting olympics to mirror the sports one…there are people coming together through the forming of teams–people who may never have crossed paths otherwise..and there are even knit shops offering discounts and setting aside group time for this effort..People finding a sense of community–Pretty amazing..Thank you Steph for making a difference in this world.

  139. This seems like just as good a time to join up. Now it’s 2500 + 1 🙂
    I will be making a modified Lucy Neatby Baby Sweater. It my first real garment and it will be for my twin nephews. They can fight over it and whoever drools on it the most gets to wear it. All in the spirit of Olympic competition! 🙂

  140. Hello- I was “undecided” but have no committed to reknitting my Nothing-But-A-Tshirt that I tore apart last fall. I’ve been waxing my needles all week!
    thank you.

  141. Sign me up for the knitting olympics! I’ve been trying to stay away but after having some difficulty with the river stole I’m making, I’ve decided to start over during the olympics. Hopefully the moral supprt will be what I need to finish it!

  142. This is for Nancy with the Tall 54 inch chest husband. I have a kind of tall (6’2″) husband with a 54″ chest, and a really tall (6’6″) son with a kind of big (but not 54″) chest, and LOOOOONG arms. Can you share where you got that pattern? I wish someone would make a men’s sweater pattern book that included “real men’s” sizes. I have heard that one of the Seattle Seahawks knits. Do you think we can get him to work with a designer on a big guys sweater pattern book? I would love to knit my men sweaters, but they are all such big guys, that these silly little patterns just don’t work for my guys (where does Debbie Bliss get her sizing for everything BTW?)
    I am really impressed by the number of Olympic Knitters. Any chance we can be declared an official Olympic sport. I can see it now….Speed Socks (two circular and dpn divisions); Synchronized Steeking; Alpine Sweaters, and Estonian Marriage Mittens! Oh my gosh! And our own Biathalon – Spinning, dyeing and knitting socks!! We could have judging scandals; drug (coffee, wine and chocolate) testing; and career ending injuries (carpal tunnel – ick!) And then there will be the discussions of superior equipment….metal vs. wood needles, natural fibers vs. “fashion” yarns. But we would really have to have the Knitting Olympics more than every four years. I don’t think my stash closet would survive being cleaned out only every four years!

  143. What a fantastic idea. You are a gem! My daughter and I would like to sign up for the Olympics. She talked me into it and we bought the wool today.
    Rebekah is 9 and will be knitting a backpack. I’m Mary Beth and will be knitting a carrier for my cd player. It’s not a big project, but my first time using intarsia. I have a feeling that most of my time will be coaching–and that will be challenge enough!
    I’ll be knitting for Team Potter while Rebekah will be knitting for Team Wisconsin and the England squad when it’s up and running.

  144. The tinks sweaters are great. Luckily, they’re small. But, in looking through my collection of Dale patterns, I found the identical pattern for adults–so, you can start the mother’s matching candigan anytime you want! I can send you the pattern, just let me know when you want it!!

  145. 2500!?! *fans self in excitement* And my friends think I’m nuts ’cause I knit. Hah!
    Stephanie, I think you deserve Godiva and a nice red wine tonight. And so do the loyal helpers. My word, did any of you get any sleep in the last two weeks organizing this!? And no, I won’t add to the work by changing projects. Still doing Na Craga. I rolled up the yarn, pulled out the needles, swatched and promptly ran for the Merlot. I will *sighs* be doing the large size sweater, I think. I like baggy ones for winter — and if I’m gonna knit this beast, I’m gonna do it the way I want.
    Sleep is not an option anymore . . .

  146. I know how late I am, but how about Michelle Kwan,look how late she was! Anyway I will be casting on for a Tessellating Fish afghan. Don’t know there is a team for that but that’s what I am doing, wish there was a Team Florida, but see no evidence of that, could be a lot of closet Olympians ya know!
    Annette in FL
    sadly blogless

  147. I was on the fence since I’m going to be skiing in Telluride for 6 of the 16 days with 3 young children. But it’s time to grow and rise to the challenge…I will be knitting Miss Bea’s Bookworm Sweater (probably locked in the hotel bathroom).
    Let the Games begin!
    Beth in Evanston

  148. I was on the fence since I’m going to be skiing in Telluride for 6 of the 16 days with 3 young children. But it’s time to grow and rise to the challenge…I will be knitting Miss Bea’s Bookworm Sweater (probably locked in the hotel bathroom).
    Let the Games begin!
    Beth in Evanston

  149. That does it: count me in too, please. I’ll be busily knitting (and frogging and reknitting) my first-ever baby layette (no, not for me!)!

  150. My husband just forwarded me the article from the Economist. Congrats!!! I loved it. Now maybe he’ll take my addiction more seriously… okay, unlikely.

  151. Hi Stephanie, your sweaters are beautiful. I would like to be added to the Knitting Olympics, please. I plan to knit 8 hats for the Dulaan Project. The challenge for me is to complete 8 “anything” let alone in 16 days. On a side note, I am a displaced Pennsylvanian who now lives in Florida. I am an avid spinner of wool, and really don’t need to wear wool an longer. Since I do not intend to quit spinning, I should put some of my handspun to good use. I can’t think of a better charity off-hand than Dulaan. Do you know if they will accept wool items? Or does it have to be yucky acrylic? I have a lot of Merino and Alpaca roving I plan to spin for the hats. If I can’t use wool, I’ll be making a trip to the store to buy the softest acrylic I can find. Thanks for being a constant source of inspiration and brightening up the days of many an obsessed knitter. Kind Regards, Wendy

  152. I want to be in the Knitting Olympics! I’m going to make wrist warmers. My first foray into DPNs!!! It will definitely be a challenge, but I’ve got the yarn picked out and my gf is desperately waiting for me to start (and finish) them!

  153. hiya stephanie,
    lorie here in balmy norfolk va…
    i would like to join the knitting olimpics!
    i will be making an anouk from knitty.com.
    if by some amazing chance i finish early then i will attempt to complete a second one!
    good luck to all knitters!
    lorie

  154. hiya stephanie,
    lorie here in balmy norfolk va…
    i would like to join the knitting olimpics!
    i will be making an anouk from knitty.com.
    if by some amazing chance i finish early then i will attempt to complete a second one!
    good luck to all knitters!
    lorie

  155. Thanks so much for adding me. I promise to do the best I can. And with you cheering me on, how can I not?
    🙂

  156. I am already in the Olympics challenge but I have changed my project : I will make my first shawl (and not a cabled cardigan. I am so happy to participate… and so exciting to!
    2500 knitters : that’s great!

  157. Hello. I am planning to make legwarmers for the Olympics. This will be my first time working on round needles. Thank you for doing this!

  158. Hello. I am planning to make legwarmers for the Olympics. This will be my first time working on round needles. Thank you for doing this!

  159. Hello. I am planning to make legwarmers for the Olympics. This will be my first time working on round needles. Thank you for doing this!

  160. Hello. I am planning to make legwarmers for the Olympics. This will be my first time working on round needles. Thank you for doing this!

  161. I tried to post earlier, so I’m sorry if this is a repeat.
    I cannot believe there are more of us than athletes in the actual Games!! What an amazing testament to your wonderful writing! I shall have to listen to The World on the computer, too. Let’s see if we can get the TV coverage to cover us as well. We could take a little “Up Close and Personal!”
    Anyway, congratulations, Stephanie. I’m really looking forward to casting on (I have a terrible case of startitis, along with the flu, this week).

  162. My favorite lys, Twisted Yarns, is having a Knitting Olympic Ceremony kick-off at 2:00 next Friday – they even listed your site in the e-mail announcement that they sent out today.
    I’m so amused, I can’t stop giggling! Knitters taking over the WORLD!

  163. I’m entering the knitting olympics!!! I always wanting to be an Olympian. I’m going to make Bella, a cardigan from http://www.knitty.com. It will take a while, what with my 48 inch chest, but who cares!!!! I can do it!!!! At least if I give up everything else I’m knitting . . . .

  164. Count me in as one of the Canadian Knitting Olympic Challengers, please! My chosen entry: a pair of Lacy Scallops Socks from the Sockbug (http://sockbug.blog-city.com) in KPPPM. I’ve knit lace and socks, but only one pair of lacy socks before, so I figure this is still a challenge for me. 🙂 Let the games begin!

  165. Knitting Olympics…who knew
    I will be making mittens, patterned, from homespun wool. Must start spinning………..
    Mickey

  168. Thanks for the thoughts on #1 of today’s blog. I’m not entering the Knitting Olympics because the Knitting Bitches of Jacksonville just started a Knitalong of the Super Spiral Shawl–it’s my first lace attempt and I know my limitations. I’m with you guys in spirit and look forward to pics of the results on our many blogs!

  171. OK, I’m in. Knitting a colour block sweater from Sandra, to complete a set of four for my grandchildren.

  173. Hi. I would like to sign up myself and my two daughters for the Olympics. I will be knitting the Nicki Epstein leaf pullover from VK Fall 2004. My daughter Emma (age 12) will be knitting a purse (her first knitting project) and my daughter Leah (age 11) will be knitting a scarf (her first knitting project).
    We are really excited to be part of this.

  174. This will be my first time knitting in the knitting olympics. I’m excited! I’m new to sock knitting, so I’ll be pulling off a pair of “not entirely easy” socks.
    BTW, you’re a hoot.

  175. This will be my first time knitting in the knitting olympics. I’m excited! I’m new to sock knitting, so I’ll be pulling off a pair of “not entirely easy” socks.
    BTW, you’re a hoot.

  176. I decided to do an aran sweater for my daughter-in-law. I always make a sweater for a new member of the family but she and my son have been married almost 2 years and no sweater. I’m going to do the Future Forward aran from Aran Celtics
    thanks for giving me the get up and go to get up and go….

  177. I decided to do an aran sweater for my daughter-in-law. I always make a sweater for a new member of the family but she and my son have been married almost 2 years and no sweater. I’m going to do the Future Forward aran from Aran Celtics
    thanks for giving me the get up and go to get up and go….

  178. whoa! i had a personal goal of commenting on everyone’s blog when the olympic knitting comes to an end…. but wow – i don’t know if there will be enough time in the day, make that week!

  179. Is it too late to sign up for the Knitting Olympics? If not, please count me in. I’ll be knitting the Lady Eleanor Wrap in Scarf Style.

  180. Sign me up please. I always wanted to be an Olympian!!!!!!! I want to knit another lace smoke ring, possibly two since they are going to be my all purpose holiday gifts for 2006. Wish me luck. I love this idea.

  181. I signed up a few days after this all started. If it matters, I’ve changed my project. I intended to do convertible mittens, but my yarn isn’t going to arrive in time. Instead, I’m making a lapghan. Fewer new techniques, but enough acreage that it’ll be a challenge to finish in time. (To make things easier for you… I don’t see my name on the list yet, so my post is either MIA or it’s in the batch you haven’t processed yet.)

  183. Can I please sign up for the Knitting Olympics, I want either to make a scarf for my bf, he picked the stitch pattern for out of a book I found at the 2nd hand bookstore last week, I’ve never such a collection of stitch patterns in one book. Or I will be making the Crime of Fashion Scarf from http://www.magknits.com Thanks. Also I’m not that surprised that there are more in our Olympics than the real ones, I mean we are all obsessed knitters after all…

  184. I am finally entering in the knitting olympics!
    Project: My first pair of socks. I hope I am not too late. Also, I wish the best of luck to all the olympic participants. Woo Hoo!

  185. A late entry—I’m having so much fun reading about the Knitting Olympics and all the creative buttons and blogs that it has generated, that I would like to join in. Anne K endevoring to knit a pair of gloves.
    Thanks for the fun and the challenge, Stephanie.

  186. A late entry—I’m having so much fun reading about the Knitting Olympics and all the creative buttons and blogs that it has generated, that I would like to join in. Anne K endevoring to knit a pair of gloves.
    Thanks for the fun and the challenge, Stephanie.

  187. I’m having so much fun reading about the Knitting Olympics and all the creativity it has generated.
    I would like to participate—-Anne K. endevoring to knit a pair of gloves.
    Thanks for the fun, Stephanie.

  188. Steff, that Hardangervidda is gonna be gorgeous. It’s a good thing you’re only 36 inches around cuz I’d be trying to steal it!
    But that’s not the Olympian’s way. The Olympian’s way is to do the right thing.
    And right now, for me, the right thing is to take myself out of the competition. I was going to do the Whisper Scarf Two, but I have an old promise that’s just been called in.
    I volunteered to knit a pair of socks for my bi-annual church auction in April. The buyer is the wife of a gentleman with diabetes. He gets cold feet. She came forward just today. I can’t in any concience put off a pair of warm feet for someone else, just to see if I can survive finishing and blocking out a (lovely, soft) frilly. *sigh*
    I’ll be cheering for all 2500 of you on the sidelines as I knit my socks.
    Go Knit Olympians of the World!

  189. OK. I have been debating as to whether I should join or not. And I caved. I am going to knit a Clapotis in grey heather Wool-Ease.

  190. Have you seen your mention in “The Economist”?
    Feb 4-10 issue, page 29. Kind of condescending bit on “The Stitch ‘n Bitch Niche”, but you’ve made it into “The Economist”!

  192. Please sign me up for the Knitting Olympics. My project is to complete the back of my sweater so that I can wear it this Spring. The front is done to the armholes and the Olympics is inspiring me to finish my sweater (so I can start something else!)

  193. Hi Stephanie,
    I’m going to join Team Chicago and Team Wales (been to Abergavenny, love daffodils)and knit as many 2-color brioche stitch hats for Afghans for Afghans as I can.
    Best of luck to all Olympians!

  194. As we said on Friday, while we at Storey are looking around for promotion ideas, you’re already getting interviewed on BBC and getting mentioned in The Economist! Way ahead of us….!
    Sign me up for the Olympics — my goal: finish everything I have on needles (one felted Lucy Bag for Bonnie’s cancer walk fundraising, one Aran baby sweater, one pair Opal yarn socks, and one baby sweater in Morehouse merino yarn! Post-Olympics I’ll have a clean slate!
    See you tomorrow!

  197. Please sign me up. I need to start and finish a Prayer Shawl. I have the yarn and have decided on the stitch. Will start at the lighting of the torch. And hope to finish in 16 days. (I’ll finish up my other stuff beforehand).

  198. AAARRRGGGHHH!!! Talk about the knitting challenged! I’m in “training” working on a baby socklette in preparation for the big event and I’m wondering where my pretty pattern went to — it’s INSIDE the baby sock! I’m knitting inside out! How on earth did that happen?
    Hey, great colors for your sweater, Miss Steph. I’m looking forward to seeing it’s progress throughout the competition.

  199. I just want to say that your sweater looks amazing, and you’ve definitely inspired me to join up. I’ll be doing the eyelet skirt from knitty.com for the olympics, and good luck to us all!

  200. I’m signing on for the knitting challenge, here’s hoping my order gets here in time!
    I’m knitting the somewhat cowl out of karabella aurora 4, in colour 09. I might be casting on a few days late, but I bet I can knit up a storm and catch up 😀

  203. Sorry to add to the Olympic madness, but I’ve finally given in to the Olympic knitting fever. I’ll be knitting (or attempting to…) grumperina’s Odessa hat. This will be a big challenge, first hat, first project involving dp needles, first beading project, AND i have very little time with work and school! Whew!
    Thanks for the inspiration!
    Laura S.

  204. I’d like to join the knitting olympics too. I’ll be working on my second Tubey sweater from Knitty. I finished the first in about three weeks, so this time it’s all about speed—>!

  205. I wanna join the knitting olympics! I think I’ll try my first sweater and tackle the Ron Sweater from Harry Potter =) It should be fun!!

  207. Congrats on the NPR time! I’m out at my tech conference, and one of my coworkers asked if I had heard of the Knitting Olympics!!!
    I can resist no longer. I will knit Tubey from Knitty and NOTHING ELSE. (that NOTHING ELSE is the big challenge, actually. I’m a fickle knitter…)

  208. I can’t stand it .. I want to be an Olympian too! Put me down for one pair of Jaywalker socks, please. I think this is the coolest idea .. Thanks, Stephanie.
    kathyY
    ps Is there a Team Alaska happening?

  209. Excited about the Knitting Olympics…trying …and completing..the Infant Cardigan Jacket by Peace Fleece size 12 months…

  210. Hello. I would like to join team USA in the knit olympics. GO TEAM! I am notifying the librarian as well of this. Names Heidi and I am from Virginia. Glad to be aboard.
    I also wanted to say I love your book its a great read for when ever I need a good laugh, a good quote , or a break from knitting.

  211. opps I forgot to post what I’ll be knitting. hmm… I choose the bike bag from Vogue knitting winter 2004/2005 (page 93). Let the games begin!

  212. I want your purple needles!!! No – I need your purple needles.
    Please will them to me – your kids won’t miss them!!
    Knit on

  213. Hi! I’ve been looking for my 1st post but it may not have shown up since I hadn’t chosen a project yet….here it is…Marimekko domino poncho kit by Vivian Hoxbro. Does it matter if I don’t have my own blog?
    Sara

  214. Hi there, Stephanie
    It has been suggested that an Internatinal Olympic Village group is set up. I would be glad to help do it, but I don’t want to tread on anyone’s toes. Would it be more appropriate for Sandy to have a hand in it? And is there any way that your list of Olympians could have automatic membership of the group? I am blissfully ignorant of how these things work!
    Back to my knitting…

  215. You’ve inspired me to join. 🙂 I’ll be knitting my first pair of socks, from the book “Knitting Socks”. I can’t wait!

  217. Yarn Harlot, and a couple of other knitting blogs, make an appearance in the Economist this week! There is a sidebar article about knitting as part of a larger article about leisure time in the U.S. A nice break from some of the other cheerful reading this week!

  218. Yarn Harlot, and a couple of other knitting blogs, make an appearance in the Economist this week! There is a sidebar article about knitting as part of a larger article about leisure time in the U.S. A nice break from some of the other cheerful reading this week!

  219. Hi there! I would like to join the Knitting Olympics as well. This is my chance to FINALLY sit down and learn how to use the double-pointed needles. I will try a pair of mittens. Thank you! 🙂

  220. I have settled on Kiri in the gorgeous cashmere/silk that Juno sent me. Thank you so much for spurring us towards this, Stephanie. It’s going to be a blast.

  222. So who thinks future history textbooks will implicate Stephanie in the Wool Riots of early 2006? At some level, I think this is all insane. I’m still in, I just think it’s insane.

  223. Oh, discipline was required this weekend. Plenty of swatching, pattern adjusting and clicking of the calculator to make sure that the hand spindled yarn will stretch.
    But…. don’t start yet, don’t put on those stitches until THURSDAY, wow what a test to not “false start” on the whole thing.
    I’m in the gate and ready to GOOOOOO…..

  224. My name is Morgan and I would like to join in the Knitting Olympics. I am a beginner so I would like to attempt a tote bag. I found one that I like in a book called “Sugar and Spice” which is where I got the first project that I completed from. It was a sweater for my son. This will be a huge challenge for me because I’m not sure how long it will take me but I’m willing to give it a try.

  226. I’m sorry for such a late entry, but I can’t resist the challenge. I’ll be working on Jane Slicer Smith’s Mitered Capelet. I can’t imagine finishing it in 16 days, but nothing ventured, nothing gained.
    Ellen

  227. I definitely am joining – I have gone to the Team Canada site (http://teamcanada2006.blogspot.com/) and registered, but they haven’t put me up on the list yet, fyi. I’m going to be knitting the MagKnits pattern Odessa (see my blog for picture & link), which will be a first for me as it will encorporate beading! I have my yarn, I have my beads, I have my needles, bring it on!

  228. Hi! I would like to join too!! I’ll be working on Knitting Pure & Simple Beginner socks. My first pair! Whoo hooooo!!
    -Kristen

  229. I am so excited for the knitting olympics! I can hardly wait! You are a genius, and I’m amazed how many people are joining in!

  230. Wow. Who says one person can’t change the world?
    I’m going to be participating with a prayer shawl for a wonderful friend. No need to add my name.

  231. Please sign me up too, better late than never! I’m going to make a baby sweater with cables. I’ve never done cables before. It’s for my new grandchild (#5) due in March.

  233. I hesitate to point out a minor error in my entry, but there are both a shrug and scarf listed for me and I entered for only the shrug. Did you somehow sense that wasn’t a sufficient challenge for me? 😉 I am waiting most impatiently for the Opening Ceremonies. Go Team Wales!

  234. I have decided to join the Knitting olympics. I need to knit a toddler sweater by February 24th.
    I will be using a new technique to me. It is a t shaped pullover knit in one piece. So I only have the underarms to sew up. The pattern is for a U-shaped neck. I will be changing it to a v-neck!

  235. I am going to do a tweedy blue cardigan. A challenge because I am a slow knitter with limited time. I will be victorious!
    Suzi

  237. I would like to join up in the knitting olympics but I’m not sure where to sign up.
    Anyway, I’m Megan and I’m going to knit legwarmers for my daughter. Out of my fancy pants wool in my stash. From my own pattern. Those are both new for me. I’m usually a seamstress so I’m looking forward to trying out new things.
    http://megtell.blogspot.com/

  238. I have to say you made my day Friday. When I heard the geo quiz on the radio I nearly flipped my lid. I couldn’t believe they were asking a question about the knitting olympics. Then when I heard you say that there were more olympic knitters than olympians it finally decided to join in and knit something. I am not sure what my project will be yet, but I’ll have to decide soon (Friday will be here soon). Thanks Stephanie for having this wonderful idea.

  239. OK, I’ll bite. I’m going to cast on a baby layette (sweater, hat, booties & possibly pants) from a Pingouin book I have at home. If I can finish at least the sweater in 16 days, I’ll consider that a completed project.

  240. You know, I’ve come to grips with my knitting addiction. I’ve come to grips with my yarn addiction. I’m starting to accept my Addi Turbo addiction. But dang it, now I’ve got Harlot addiction too, and crave a daily fix! Steph, sweetie – no new news for 3 days? C’mon, throw me a bone here!

  241. Hi,
    yet another participant in the Knitting Olympics 2006:
    I’ll be knitting two pairs of socks: Jaywalkers (MagKnits/Grumperina) AND Embossed Leaves Socks (Interweave Knits, Winter 2005). I represent Team Finland.

  242. I’m in! I’m going to knit an afghan for my first entry in a knitting competition. This is awesome! I told my daughter I’m knitting for world peace and look at this huge demonstration!

  244. I am in!…I over 20 years of knitting, I have never knitted socks. We will be on vacation part of the time, but I am psyched!
    Good luck to everyone.
    Judi from CT

  245. sign me up for the knittin’ olympics! going to knit the cabled shrug shown in interweave knits fall 2005 . going to make it out of some cinnamon alpaca. ready and waiting for that damn torch to get lit!!!
    hugs and happy knitin’, chappy

  246. You can add one more eager knitter to the ever-growing list of athletes. I’m knitting a beaded pendant bag.
    Now I wonder if participation is enough of an excuse to book off the last half of my shift so I can watch the Opening Ceremonies live? Somehow I doubt my boss will buy it.

  248. Wonderful to hear your voice on “The World” Geo-Quiz. This has taken on a life of its own!:) I wonder if you could get an appearance on a talk show. hmmmm. I have to print out the pattern for Kiri and get my Addi cirs warmed up for the opening cast on. KSH, here I come!!!

  249. Hi, I hope it’s not too late to join.
    Thanks for hosting this and I really look forward to your finished
    sweater because damn, it’s gorgeous but looks like a real challenge.
    Thanks again!
    Name: Debbie
    Project: first sweater/Knitty’s Tempting I

  251. My good friend, a one time olympic gold medalist, is courageously doing battle with cancer. I would like to enter the knitting olympics with a prayer shawl for her. All prayers and blessings welcome.
    As a Canadian ex-pat, I find your site very heartening!

  252. I want to be part of this event! Thanks for providing the inspiration and what sounds like a whole lotta hard work keeping the team on track.
    I will be making an afghan for my daughter’s new home and it will have a ton of novelty yarns in it.
    Thanks again
    Yockeygal
    Knitting an Afghan during the Olympics

  253. I’m so excited to join the knitting olympics! I’m going to do a stole for my mom’s upcoming birthday. If I make it, I will have it finished almost a month early! Thanks for the encouragement and fabulous ideas.

  254. Dear Steph
    I’m floundering around here, trying to find out where to put my last minute entry for the knitting Olympics (knitting in the UK contingent!) – I plan to frog what I’ve started and knit a cardi for my ample mother – that means upwardly adjusting and adapting the pattern I think I’m going to use. and hopefully not running out of yarn. I’ll go away and google for the site. Good luck everyone 🙂

  255. Am I crazy? My daughter just got engaged last night, wants to get married in August, and here I am joining The Olympics! (not to mention I still have Valentine’s gifts to finish/start/finish!) I am going to do the Karabella Sequin Shawl in (I’m REALLY nuts!) BLACK LACE MOHAIR and SEQUIN MOHAIR. Wish me luck and good luck to all!

  256. Am I crazy? My daughter just got engaged last night, wants to get married in August, and here I am joining The Olympics! (not to mention I still have Valentine’s gifts to finish/start/finish!) I am going to do the Karabella Sequin Shawl in (I’m REALLY nuts!) BLACK LACE MOHAIR and SEQUIN MOHAIR. Wish me luck and good luck to all!

  257. I would love to joing the Knitting Olympics! I’ve given it some thought and think I can manage 4 felted pot holders from Last Minute Knitted Gifts. Thanks so much for organizing this…it will be great!

  259. I noticed there is a special site for Team Canada..do any of the other “teams” have sites?
    If so what are they???
    Getting more and more excited by the minute…can hardly wait to “cast on”

  260. I noticed there is a special site for Team Canada..do any of the other “teams” have sites?
    If so what are they???
    Getting more and more excited by the minute…can hardly wait to “cast on”

  261. I feel bad to add to your work. Please sign me up for The Olympics. Plan on a lace shawl. Thanks.

  262. Don’t know if this info will get to the person it needs to get to, but here goes. I know that I saw at least one other person knitting the Snoflake and Arrow Vest from Knitpicks. I was swatching yesterday – my gauge is off, was doing the math to see if a smaller size would yield the correct measurements at the gauge I am getting – when I noticed errors in the cast on/start pattern number. Searches on Knitpick found no corrections, but I know it was off. Finally found an email from the designer to a knitter who had contacted her with the same questions. The answers to the typos are at snowflakevest.blogspot.com Hope anyone planning this sweater finds the corrections before starting on Friday. This would have been a real time loser when time will be of the essence.

  263. Hi, I would like to sign up myself and my 3 kids for the Knitting Olympics. We are from Australia and it’s summer here (+40degree Celsius), but if we put the air conditioner on super cold we can almost pretend that it’s winter 🙂 My eldest daughter Keziah (age 9) is a seasoned knitter and has elected to knit mittens. Liam (age 6) is a beginner knitter and will be completing his first knitting project ‘a red treasure bag’, self designed! And my youngest daughter Mckenzie (age 5) will be making pom pom puppets and machine knitting doll clothes. I will be working on the Alphabet Baby Blanket by Debbie Bliss. Thanks so much for the opportunity to be a part of this exciting adventure!

  264. Hi Steph –
    I am already on the list, but I am changing my Olympic challenge. I am designing my own sweater in mohair. And the finish line will be crossed when I have a sweater that will actually fit ME!!

  265. Hi Stephanie, I emailed you yesterday and I can imagine you are swamped with emails right now. I would like to join in on the Knitting Olympics. This is FANTASTIC! I have been checking out your site and your stuff is just awesome 🙂

  266. I’d like to join the knitting Olympics too! I’ve been trying to figure out what to knit and finally made my decision: A summer halter top. Never made a garment for myself to wear and this one’s just tricky enough to make it interesting but easy enough I won’t get utterly confused. Can’t wait to cast on.

  267. I’d like to join the knitting Olympics too! I’ve been trying to figure out what to knit and finally made my decision: A summer halter top. Never made a garment for myself to wear and this one’s just tricky enough to make it interesting but easy enough I won’t get utterly confused. Can’t wait to cast on.

  269. Add me to the list, please. I’m going to try a toddler cardigan, button bands and all. Oh my.

  270. I’m thinking that I should show the Yarn Boy to DH, but I’m not sure that I’m ready for his response!
    As far as the Knitting Olympics, if you or S.Kate would change mine from undecided to cardigan, I’d appreciate it. Good thing there are Tim Horton’s nearby for a steady supply of iced cappucino!

  271. Hello! I�m Helminalle and I�m already a member of the Finnish Knitting Team.
    My Blog address is http://helminalle.vuodatus.net/.
    Three of my children would like to join the Great Olympic Games, so I�d like to introduce my “Junior TEAM”.
    Daughter-10-years will be knitting or crocheting a scarf to herself.
    Son-8-years will be knitting a wristwarmer and
    Son-6-years wants to knit a key ring.
    If it is still possible to add them to your list as the “Helminalle + 3 Kids Team”, we�d be very grateful. Sorry for entering so late and thanks for this great idea!!

  272. I’d like to sign up for the knitting olympics too! Not sure whether I’ll be making my first sweater in 20 years or if some other project will catch my eye, but I want to play!

  273. I will so be Knitting in the KO!! And I have recruited a BRAND NEW KNITTER to join us too. Karen will be knitting a scarf with 2 strands of novelty yarn. I will be attempting my first sweater. Not sure yet if I will be knitting Tempting, Tempting II or something else. But I am really excited!!

  274. Have only been reading your blog for a few weeks & am totally hooked. I would love to join in the Olympics. I am going to make my first pair of socks on dp needles. Let the games begin!!!
    Bev

  275. Emma (age 10)
    I sortof know how to knit. I want to make a headband for the knitting olympics.

  276. Nothing like joining at the eleventh hour! Your challenge has intrigued me since it was first posted, but working as a full-time night nurse takes so much of my time & energy that I wasn’t sure I could do it. I’m still not sure, but I would like to try. I will be making a prayer shawl for a friend. It is a simple pattern, one that I have done before, but never in so few days!
    Thank you for your wonderful blog & for encouraging us to stretch & grow.

  277. Another eleventh hour entry.
    My challenge project is a Cinxia cardi from Knitty.
    Yarn from Knitpicks ready to go.
    Thanks!

  278. hey i hope i’m not too late to sign up for the knitting olympics … i plan to knit a word or two (this might not make sense – but i promise i’ll send a photo when i’m done!)

  279. hey i hope i’m not too late to sign up for the knitting olympics … i plan to knit a word or two (this might not make sense – but i promise i’ll send a photo when i’m done!)

  280. Hi, Stephanie. I’ve heard a rumor about a deadline for signup, but can’t seem to find it anywhere. It wasn’t on your original KO intro page (unless I’m blind, always a possibility). We have an entire team who would like to sign up officially here if it isn’t too late. Don’t worry, it’s a small team! Eleven of us will be attemtping to sign up here, except for our one knitter who wishes to remain somewhat anonymous; for her just note that “She Who Wins Blue Ribbons in County Fairs” is knitting 1 charity afghan block and a scarf.
    I will also be knitting 1 charity afghan block and 2 necklaces in different styles.
    Thanks for all your hard work! Team Deseret is really excited for the games to begin!
    By the way, we are also going to have awards for just our team–stitch markers that look like the Olympic rings!

  282. Another Team Deseret member here! I’m going to be knitting charity afghan blocks with the others from my team. I think I’m going to shoot for 12! This is so exciting!

  284. Nothing like a johnny-come-lately entry for the Knitting Olympics?
    I’m not a big blog reader (yet), so had only peripherally heard about the Knitting Olympics. I realize I’m past your deadline (this being Wed the 8th), but I’m making myself apply anyway! ;o)
    I will be knitting a pair of sox from some Lorna’s Laces yarn in pinks. I’m not a fast knitter, so this is about as much challenge as I can handle…
    –Sue

  285. Hi, I am also joining late, hope that is okay. I am from Team Deseret and will be knitting at least 2 afghan squares. I also have wanted some fingerless gloves for a while, so I may try to tackle those.

  286. I’ve finally joined the ranks of the knitting, and am hoping to start my second scarf ever – and my first after learning to purl. I’m a very-newbie, but luckily, I’ve got my bestest friend, her mom, and her sisters that will be pushing me along in the right direction. We’re all blogging about it at http://clothedinjoy.typepad.com/knitink/
    The sheer number of knitters is amazing. At least you’ve got help – I’m sure it would be insanity without them!

  288. Ok, I’m in. Even though my patterns is considered easy, the challenge is in completing it w/in that timeframe, and not giving up to do it in crochet instead. I may only have 15-20 min per day to do this, but I’m determined. I’ll be making the LB Microspun Ripple Shawl as a prayer shawl for my mom:
    http://tinyurl.com/aplet
    Thanks for the challenge!

  289. Please sign me up for the knitting olympics! I will be knitting Wild Stripes from Knitty.com

  290. Torino, here I come!
    My project will be a square for a blanket that my group’s knitting for charity (Project Linus). I will be attempting to follow a pattern. (Yes, that’s earth-shattering). I will not give up and make up my own pattern! If I mess up, I will go back and READ the pattern and not just assume that the idiots screwed it up. I will see if *I* am the idiot that screwed it up! I will remember to count and to keep track of rows! Mine is a noble cause…

  291. I heard on the radio yesterday about this challenge and that there were over 3000 knitters involved!
    WOW!
    I’d like to represent the Netherlands and am knitting Teva Durhams Turtleneck with sleeves in an orange tweed.

  292. hi. if it’s not too late to join the knitting olympics, please sign me up.
    i’ll be attempting to knit enough lace to make a pair of lace-edged pillowcases (from Melanie Falick’s Weekend Knitting) as a wedding gift.
    pictures will go up at my (increasingly knitting-focused) blog, http://www.slithy-tove.net
    thanks!

  294. I really, really, really want to be a part of the Olympics. I hope it’s not to late…I’ll be knitting a baby kimono-ish sweater. I just started knitting 3 months ago, but I’m up for the challenge!

  295. I know I’m past the deadline you set, but I only heard about the Knitting Olympics from a yarn-besotted friend yesterday via email. And I’m thrilled! So, unofficial or not, I’m going to do it. I’ve chosen your snow drop shawl pattern to knit up in some incredibly yummy emerald green mohair that I picked up in Santa Fe last summer. I have some accompanying mohair of the same color but with some glitz in it that I will use for the border and I-cord. Wish me luck!

  297. I just read, last evening,about the Olympics in our local paper. I would like to be involved and counted!! I will knitting a blue lace pullover sweater using Cascade Yarns Sierra 80%pima cotton 20% wool. This yarn was made in Peru. Thank you. This is a great idea!!

  298. I love your knitting Olympics! If anyone of the (potential) participants is still wondering what to knit, I have a suggestion! Our company would be very interested in getting an Adult size (Male) footie PJ in red and grey stripes. This is what Edgar and Ellen, the clever twins from the Edgar and Ellen bookseries, wreaking mischief and mayhem, are wearing all day (their parents have been on a trip around the world for some years …). We are planning an April’s Fools day PJ party for the Boys and Girls club in Chicago, and would like to have our book illustrator wear an Edgar & Ellen PJ! Who will help us? To see what the PJ’s look like, look at http://www.edgarandellen.com. Thanks!

  299. I’d like to join the Knitting Olympics. Please add me to the list. I’ll be knitting a Denim Turtleneck Sweater.

  300. Steph
    I hope that I am not too late. I have never knit socks before but I am willing to give it the old Olympic try!
    Enjoying your escapades in Tacoma.
    Let the games begin.

  301. I’m going to knit my very first Dale sweater! It’s sweater 4 from boook 170. (the cool red and black sweater!) Yesterday morning I heard about the knitting olympics and after school I ran to the yarn store to get my pattern and supplies. I’m so excited!

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