She’s a Knitter!

For the longest time, I’ve had it in my mind to introduce my niece, Magda to knitting. Because I don’t get to spend nearly as much time with her as I’d like, I’d never had the opportunity. So, as Christmas approached and I was tussling with what to get the kids in my life, I thought this might be my shot at it. Though I was very excited about the prospect of Magda knitting, I honestly did not know how she’d take to the idea. I picked up big colorful needles and some sparkly chunky yarn. I did a little research and found that Martha was endorsing this book:

Author Melanie Falick is the editor of Interweave Knits, a source I’ve always trusted for inspiration. Her kid’s book is bursting with bright, fun projects that go beyond the classic scarf. There is no dumbing-down here; I knew my Ladybug would never go for that 😉 In fact, this book goes from basic knit-and-purl right through knitting in the round, so I think it’s something that will grow right along with her.

We’d had the chat about how knitting needles are tools, not toys, how they’re pointy and could do some damage if not handled in a grown-up way. She gave me her solemn promise never to run with needles or to use them for any purpose other than knitting. Thus armed, we jumped in. Magda was keen right away. With dinner barely over, I found The ‘Bug seated quietly on the sofa, a giant blue needle in each hand, waiting to start. 

Now, maybe it’s just because she’s my niece and I love her but really…the child is a natural! I cast on the first row and told her “It’s just like you forgot your lunch…in through the front door, all around the house, pick up your lunch, off to school.” There was no stopping her after that. She was off and running! Look at the progress…!

Best reward ever: “Mama, can I take my knitting to bed?” I almost cried 🙂