Please Touch

"Ever heard of the 'knitter's handshake'? Someone approaches you, hand outstretched, but reaches for your sleeve instead of your hand - she or he wants to touch your sweater! It is almost unconscious at fiber-related events. After all, we're all constantly touching everything that's on display or for sale, and some of the most wonderful things are on the other knitters. You may feel someone stroking your shoulder, and turn to find a stranger. Most people quickly grow accustomed to the experience. In fact, most people quickly engage in conversation with the other knitter. What yarn is this? Did you make the pattern yourself? Do I recognize the stitch?
We're a sociable bunch.
Knitting is a very visual activity, yes, but it's also extremely tactile. You see the sweater and you want to touch it. If you saw wallpaper in the same beautiful shade, you wouldn't feel drawn to touch. The tactile pleasure comes from the yarn itself, and also from the knitting. The fabric can be smooth or pebbly, sculpted or thick and cushy, all depending on the knitted stitch."
Lisa R. Meyers says this in her book, "The Joy of Knitting". She delves into the world of knitting, exploring the many facets of the knitting process and its global community, and includes an original pattern at the end of each chapter. See for yourself....