A number of years ago, I enrolled in level I of the Master Hand Knitting Program offered by the TKGA.  It's a 3 level program that allows knitters to become "certified" Master Knitters.  It's not easy; that's for sure, and it requires a HUGE level of dedication.  I have spent a few years looking at the program and only a week or so ago decided that it was time for me to start working on it.  There is no deadline for completing the program.  This is what makes some of us enroll, then wait.

Level I offers the opportunity to research stitch, cast-on and bind off techniques as well as writing a report on how to block knitting.  Most of us think we know how to do these things, but when it gets down to the "knitty gritty" (pun intended), a lot of us just do what we were shown without ever having spent some effort to see if what we have been doing is the correct methods.  Basically, we are instructed to knit swatches, answer some questions, and write a report.  We also knit a striped hat.  All easy stuff... the caveat being that we are to follow the directions.  If they specify to decrease 3 stitches in, that means 3 stitches in.  When it's time to be graded, they will be counting.  Everything.

I'm not saying that there's a "wrong" way to knit.  Actually, I'm suggesting that there are many ways that ARE correct... and that we should understand WHY we knit a certain way.  THIS is what the Master Hand Knitting Program will help me understand.

SO, with that in mind, I am announcing that I am going to be working my way through the program.  Level I at least, and I started with swatch #3; seed stitch.  Basically I'm going to follow the directions, and guide myself through this process.  I'll be chiming in from time to time on here to let you know how I'm doing. 

Want to join me?  The course is currently $90 and requires a membership to TKGA ($30).  Visit their website for more information.  I also have it listed on my ravelry projects page if you're there... feel free to add it as a favorite.

This program looks like a lot of work, and it is... but if I have learned anything in my life it's that good things come to those who dedicate some time on long-term projects.  THAT's how I ran a marathon and got my degree... one step at a time... with a basic plan in mind, and keeping the end reward in my thoughts.

Happy Knitting, all!