It’s okay to start a project and not finish
It’s okay to start a project and not finish: freeing yourself from the ‘all-or-nothing" approach.
It’s absolutely fine to start a project and not finish
I bet there are very few of us who have started a knitting or crochet project with the best of intentions, only to leave it half-finished when inspiration struck for something new? And where does it end up? In our stash!
Many people who knit or crochet feel guilty when they don’t immediately finish what they begin, fearing they’ve somehow failed. But you know what it’s okay to start a project and not finish right away.
In fact, giving yourself permission to set aside one project and pick up another can reignite your creativity and keep your hobby enjoyable.
In this blog, I’ll explore why stepping away from a work-in-progress can be a healthy choice, how to stay motivated even with multiple half-finished items, and when it might be time to circle back and complete a piece.
By changing the way you think about “unfinished” projects, you’ll find more enjoyment and less pressure in your crafting life. I find that running a successful website I’m constantly developing new ideas so it’s not unusual to have six or so projects on the go and that doesn’t include items I might be making for myself. I have a lovely green alpaca sweater that I started two years ago (yes I know!) and it only needed sewing up, so I set myself the task of doing this just before last Christmas only to find that the neck opening was too small. So now it’s back on the to finish list as I have to rework the neck opening!
How to Free Yourself from the ‘All-or-Nothing’ Approach
1. Recognise that creativity isn’t linear
It’s really common to feel enthusiastic about a new pattern or yarn only to lose momentum halfway through.
Your interests change, your skills improve, you see something online or at a yarn show you can’t resist, or sometimes you simply fancy a new challenge. This doesn’t mean you’ve failed; it means your creativity is moving in different directions, that's great embrace it!
● So time to get organised: I would suggest keeping your current favourites close at hand, say in a nice decorative basket or bag next to your settee. For those paused projects invest in some moth proof boxes and to get really organised pop a contents list on the outside! That way, they’ll still feel like exciting options to pick up again later.
● There are phone Apps that you can use to organise your stash, projects and even needles, hooks and patterns.
If you need a quick project or something to make whilst working on a more challenging piece, take a look at my Beginner hat kit, and also perfect for those moments when you just want a quick simple, gratifying project.
2. Embrace the value of the process
Do remember that knitting and crochet is more than just the finished product. The repetitive, soothing motions can help you relax, think through ideas, or simply enjoy the present moment. Even if you set a piece aside, you’ve still had the calming benefit of crafting.
● Instead of fixating on how many projects you’ve yet to complete, consider what you’ve gained from each one—whether it’s learning a new stitch, working on a gift for someone or simply unwinding after a busy day. I often have different projects for different times of the day or for knitting group when I definitely can’t do anything too challenging when there's cake and chatting to be done!
Looking for a mindful, low-pressure piece to work on try my Domino garter blanket knitting kit, working on small squares allowing you to savour each row without feeling rushed. Oh and the great thing about this kit is each square is knitted onto the previous one so there is none of that dreaded sewing up to do! OR the easy crochet scarf.
3. Half-finished projects aren’t a sign of failure
At shows and when I had the shop I do hear many knitters or crocheters worrying that not finishing a project means they’re a failure, not focussed or not committed to their craft.
In reality, I think it often indicates an active imagination and willingness to explore new techniques or designs. You may return to a paused project later with fresh eyes or decide it’s no longer your style and undo it to use the yarn for another project at a later date—and both outcomes are perfectly fine.
● Sort your paused projects that are the storage boxes into two groups: those you’re excited to resume and those you’re genuinely done with. Reclaim yarn from old projects if you no longer feel any spark with them. When I find I have oddments or old projects I’m no longer in love with, I wind up the yarn into balls and drop it off at a local charity shop.
4. Rotating between projects can spark new ideas
Working on different items can actually benefit your creative flow. Switching between a blanket and a pair of gloves, for instance, might keep your enthusiasm high. We do need different projects for different personal moods and situations. After a testing work day a simple repetitive project is ideal or on a Sunday afternoon feeling fresh a new more challenging one could be more inspiring.
● Schedule short crafting sessions for each project, especially if you find yourself bored with just one. You’ll maintain variety while avoiding burnout.
When you’re ready for something fresh, our Seasonal Knitting Kits offer lovely patterns for quick or more advanced makes.
5. Know when it’s time to finish
Although we know we're not going to finish a project in one sitting, there’s real satisfaction in finishing one.
That sense of accomplishment can boost your confidence and help you better manage your stash of yarn and patterns.
● If you feel ready to revisit a half-done creation, start with small milestones—finishing a few rows a day. Celebrate each step forward to keep yourself motivated, and before you know it, you’ll have a finished item to enjoy or gift.
Final thoughts
Just remember that it really is okay to start a project and not finish it in one go. Taking breaks, rotating your projects, and accepting that your interests evolve are all part of enjoying your craft experience. Whether you pick up a paused project next week or in a few months, what matters is that you’ve given yourself the freedom to explore different ideas without pressure.
If you’re looking for inspiration to keep things fun and low-stress, explore the range of [Kits at Knit One Kits].
Each kit is created to help you relax, learn, and craft at your own pace. Let your creativity breathe, follow your instincts, and please please remember: knitting or crochet should be a source of pleasure, not stress.
