Knitters choose projects for different reasons, as varied as knitters themselves. Some knitters will never progress past the simplest stitches, while others who have only been knitting for a short while will seek out increasingly complex projects. Even knitters who love to work on difficult patterns may find themselves craving a project that knits up quickly.

If you're seeking almost instant gratification, you need to think either "small" or "simple"--or both. Also, large needles help. Combine bulky yarn with US size 15 needles and you can have a scarf in a day or two. The easier the stitch pattern, the quicker the project will go. Since many knitters first learned the knit stitch, a project employing only this stitch (a garter stitch pattern) will knit up relatively quickly. A simple dishcloth can be worked up in a couple of hours, even on size 5 mm needles.

Knitting items for babies is a favorite pastime for many knitters because the tiny size of baby knits makes projects practically fly off the needles (with the exception of baby blankets). However, even a blanket can be knitted up in a weekend if big needles and chunky yarn are used. A ribbed baby hat, easy baby booties, and even a baby cardigan are all projects even the most impatient knitter will enjoy. What's so appealing is that there are so many different patterns available for each of these projects, that you don't necessarily have to do plain garter stitch to make it quickly. Even moss stitch on a small scale will knit up in a short amount of time.

Small sachets, gift pouches, and hats can generally be created in a weekend. If you want to knit a gift for an upcoming birthday or holiday and you're pressed for time, you'll need to choose your projects realistically. An afghan or blanket can take weeks or months. But an accessory like an iPod or cell phone cozy, headband or even simple stockinette (stocking) socks can take no time at all. It's not always about the complexity of a project; a lot of people who don't knit are generally impressed when presented with a handknit gift.

There are books out there geared toward the quick-knit set, including Last Minute Knitted Gifts and 24-hour Knitting Projects. Also, One Skein: 30 Quick Projects to Knit and Crochet contains projects that can be knitted up quickly and (if using reasonably priced yarn or even yarn already on hand) inexpensively.

Sure, it's nice to lovingly work on a lace shawl for months and months, but if you want a break from a long project, seek out something you can create in a day. It'll give you a sense of accomplishment, no matter how small.