The Prince of Skeins (who may be male or female) is the knitter -- or the embodiment of the tendency in each of us, as knitters – who wants to knit heirlooms, testaments, legacies. His sensitivity to the commemoration of events and people is subtle and on-target. Count on him to find the perfect stitch, colors and materials for any project, and to be able, in his knitting, to evoke occasions, loved ones, and memories as warmly as would a photograph or letter.
It’s an impressive talent, but one that carries a lot of expectations. When those expectations are not met – the Wedding Afghan will not be finished in time, the cardigan knit in secret does not match its wearer’s eyes as planned, the baby is allergic to purple – the Prince of Skeins is so prostrate over his own shortcomings that you wish he had just bought you something off the gift registry like everyone else.
The Prince of Skeins is here to remind you that it’s lovely to want to knit something that will be treasured for generations, but that it’s difficult to assign that significance to a thing upon creation and expect others to adhere to the claim. Treasures assert themselves over time. Some treasures were created to be such; some just are, by accident. Make it special, do your best, and of course, use the sentimental touches that make the project one of a kind; but know how, as well, to let it be what it is, and ultimately, to let it go.