  Yes,  I'm a knitter. nbsp;  Yes,  I'm also a guy. nbsp;
 Don't knock it -  knitting gives me something to do when there is time to kill -  on the train,  waiting at the dentist/ doctor,  or when watching TV just isn't sufficiently stimulating.
nbsp;  More that that,  though,  knitting provides everything I need to stay sane. nbsp;  First,
 there are the left- brain techniques of knitting& nbsp;  -  there's& nbsp;
 a lot more to it than knit and purl,  let me tell you. nbsp;  Lace knitting is particularly fascinating to me right now -  the tension of increases and decreases combine with the slack from yarn overs to balance out creating complex,  yet regular textures.
nbsp;  Second,  when the pattern is mastered,  the simple,  repetive physical motions of its execution induce a calming,  meditative state.
nbsp; nbsp; Third,  there is a great sense of satisfaction from having created something -  a hat,  scarf,
 sweater,  socks -  from just needles and a ball of yarn. nbsp;  Not only that,  but it provides a very tangible connection to garment making now and in the past.
nbsp;  I am certainly more aware and appreciative of the clothes we have available to us,  especially the products of handknitters. nbsp;  Lastly,  there is the ultimate pleasure of giving a gift which you have carefully,
 lovingly,  and often arduously crafted with your own two hands. nbsp;  I feel that I am truly giving a piece of myself to someone when I give them a knitted gift.
