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Jeanine
Chatty Knitter
248 Posts |
 Posted - 06/07/2004 : 05:55:44 AM
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Morning All!
A friend and I are about to start the Bed and Breakfast Sweater and I'm wondering if I should create a spreadsheet of the pattern first. I've never done this but have seen them for other projects and it seems a good way to clarify complicated bits and help one keep track. Does anyone do this? If so, what's the best way to set it up: as a table or using a spreadsheet program? (Never worked with the latter--looked at the programs on my computer this weekend but found them quite confusing.) What kind of information and format is the most helpful?
Thanks a lot for any advice.
Jeanine |
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PamS
Seriously Hooked
USA
943 Posts |
Posted - 06/07/2004 : 08:41:17 AM
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As I'm already at ease with Excel, I'm using that program to keep track of where I am in a project, because I use the program's row counters. However, you don't need to use the computer to keep track of a project, many knitters use index cards, with one line per row or one line per instruction within a row. Note cards are easy--no learning how to use software.
Hope this helps.
--Pam |
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anderknit
Permanent Resident
USA
2550 Posts |
Posted - 06/07/2004 : 08:51:23 AM
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I usually start the pattern without a worksheet, and then as I struggle with the pattern, it "reveals" a better way to be organized. Sometimes it's a simple as rewriting the instructions with one row on each line of a piece of paper, with my own shorthand. Other times I go to graph paper so I can tick off the rows as I do them, sometimes it's a combo. But usually it involves something other than just using the pattern as written.
"Courage doesn't always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, 'I will try again tomorrow.' " |
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fmarrs
Guardian angel
USA
9776 Posts |
Posted - 06/07/2004 : 11:16:00 AM
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I used to keep details on all of my projects and that is an excellent learning experience. Then as my knowledge of knitting grew, I found that I needed fewer and fewer notes. I still record the yarn used,and may include a sample, the needles sizes, the gauge, and any other pertinent information such as "this yarn splits easily" but unless there is something unique about the pattern I no longer record all that information. I do keep extensive and up to date information on the sizes of those I knit for,including schematics, so if I make something for one of them I only have to check how old the sizing is and then proceed. I find that I now have most of this information in my brain and don't need all the notes, but it takes years to develop that type of information. Now I can write out a pattern for my own use in 2 or 3 lines on a file card, but of course no one else can make anything from it. I do keep a record of the yarns I buy, especially the coned yarns, because once purchased and at home on the shelf, most of the information you learned about the yarn before purchase is missing.
fran |
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Boogie
Permanent Resident
USA
3073 Posts |
Posted - 06/07/2004 : 2:06:01 PM
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I rewrote the Charlottes Web pattern and a few others that are a bit confusing. I also often will photocopy the pattern and make notes and highlight my size throughout the pattern. Most of my "worksheets" are less worksheets and more hen scratches but I understand them at least.
amy
http://theboogerblog.blogspot.com
http://www.thekingspottery.com |
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carpe diem
Permanent Resident
1158 Posts |
Posted - 06/07/2004 : 2:25:57 PM
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For pattern repeats, I have been using lined notepaper and list row numbers plus the pattern repeat row, along with a Row Counter. For example, say Panel A is an 8 stitch repeat, Panel B is 12 st repeat:
1) A1, B1........9) A1, B9
2) A2, B2.......10) A2, B10
3) A3, B3.......11) A3, B11
4) A4, B4.......12) A4, B12
5) A5, B5.......13) A5, B1
6) A6, B6.......14) A6, B2
7) A7, B7.......15) A7, B3
8) A8, B8.......16) A8, B4 etc.
I rely on my row counter and just look at the pattern directions for the appropriate panel repeat info. After awhile, the pattern develops so I know what I need to do on RS/WS rows. It works for me  .
~ Lisa, Seattle |
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PattiG
Permanent Resident
1119 Posts |
Posted - 06/08/2004 : 1:59:58 PM
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I made the B & B and found it to be a very well-written pattern. I didn't need to make notes, but I have in the past with other patterns. I look for the dreaded phrase "While At The Same Time"...
PattiG
Atlanta
http://redvelvetcake.typepad.com |
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Jeanine
Chatty Knitter
248 Posts |
Posted - 06/09/2004 : 07:39:57 AM
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Thanks, everyone, for such good advice. I'm printing it out now to peruse at leisure.
Jeanine |
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kimkrafty
Permanent Resident
USA
2145 Posts |
Posted - 06/09/2004 : 08:23:05 AM
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I've color coded a chart for colourwork to make it a little easier. Excel can definitely be your friend.
Kimberly, kniting in VA
http://kimberlyskorner.blogspot.com
FO for 2004: 3/4 blanket and 2/3 sweater :) |
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