How to Plan Your 2026 Make List Without Overwhelm

The week after Christmas always feels like a deep breath. The wrapping paper is recycled, the gift knitting marathon is done (or nearly there), and suddenly there’s space again—for rest, reflection, and dreaming about what you want to make in the new year.

But planning a year of projects can get overwhelming fast. Between yarn calendars, scrappy leftovers, pattern wishlists, MALs, new releases, and all those tempting colorways, it’s easy to feel pressure instead of joy.

So here’s a low-pressure approach to planning a Make List for 2026. No resolutions, no guilt—just thoughtful intention and lots of cozy inspiration.

Step 1: Reflect Before You Plan

Take a moment to think about:

• What makes were most joyful this year?

• Which projects felt stressful or stalled?

• What textures or techniques did you love?

• What yarns did you reach for most?

Make choices rooted in what fills you up—not just what feels trendy.

Step 2: Choose a Few Anchor Projects

Instead of planning everything, choose 2–4 “anchor” projects to guide your year:

• One garment

• One accessory

• One slow-burn, meditative make

• One quick win for motivation

These pieces create a loose roadmap without boxing you in.

Step 3: Pair Patterns With Yarn You Already Own

Before buying anything new, spend time with your stash. Pull out the skeins that spark excitement and pair them with potential patterns. Photoshoots or flat lays can be grounding and motivating.

Bonus: If you received yarn for Christmas, now is the perfect moment to assign it a home.

Step 4: Leave Space for Surprise Makes

The best projects are often the unplanned ones. Yarn club drops, dyer collaborations, spontaneous CALs/MALs, and testers pop up throughout the year. Give yourself room to follow joy when inspiration strikes.

I like to think of my make year as:70% planned · 30% spontaneous magic.

Step 5: Create a Flexible List, Not a Resolution

Write your 2026 Make List on a single page—digital, notebook, or pinned to your craft space wall. Make it editable. Cross things off, move things around, add surprises.

This isn’t a checklist. It’s a guide to help you make intentionally without pressure.

A Make List Should Feel Exciting, Not Stressful

Whether you want a thoughtfully curated list or just a handful of intentions, remember: your yarn should spark joy, not obligation. The thrill of imagining next year’s makes is part of the magic.

If you’d like help building a list based on your personal stash, favorite stitches, or upcoming Violet Loops releases, I’d love to help you plan a cozy and creative 2026.