Knitting Goals for 2014

Normally, I don't exactly set knitting goals. Sometimes I decide I'd like to knit a sweater, and then I do. Wanting to wear that sweater for a particular event is definitely good motivation to finish the sweater, sure, but I've never made yearly knitting goals. 

Until now. 

Some of my goals are doable, and some of them are flat-out cray-cray, especially when you consider that I don't normally get to sit at home and knit all day, except on the weekends. But isn't that what goals are about? To plan on something realistic, and to plan on something you totally want to achieve but haven't yet.

So, without further ado, here are my knitting goals for 2014, in no particular order: 

• Knit 12 pairs of socks (at least a pair a month)
• Knit 3 sweaters
• Knit a blanket for a king-size bed out of leftover sock yarn
• Publish 6 knitting patterns

The one that is a stretch is the king-size blanket. I'm doing it all in garter stitch, making log-cabin squares that will be seamed together. It's a design challenge that involves harmonizing all the colors of every pair of socks I've ever knit. Based on the size of my squares, I figure I'll have to knit about 144 squares to cover the bed with some overhang. And all on size 2 needles. No biggie. 

But on the sock and knitting pattern design front, I've already hit the ground running. Two pairs finished, one pattern written, all before January is halfway through. 

The first pair of socks was all about improvising the cable pattern, then charting it.

The cables go from small, medium, to big, and undulate back and forth across the surface of the fabric.

The second pair was about pattern drafting. Writing the pattern, working out the kinks, and doing a test-knit.

I'm happy with both pairs of socks, and definitely thrilled to add to my sock drawer. And yes, those are my real feet modeling the socks in the snow.  It was cold, but totally part of the plan.

So, without further ado, here's the pattern! If you have any feedback, I'd love to hear it.

Ice Glider Sock Pattern