How do I manage my project queue?

Prioritise by deadline (gifts first), then by season (knit winter items in autumn). Keep a list with estimated hours for each project. Be realistic about your knitting time. Limiting WIPs (works in progress) to 2-3 at a time helps you finish projects rather than accumulating UFOs.

What is a UFO in knitting?

UFO stands for Unfinished Object. These are projects you have started but not completed. Most knitters accumulate UFOs. To reduce them, set a rule like finishing one project before starting a new one, or dedicate one session per week to UFO finishing.

How do I estimate hours for a project?

Calculate total stitches (stitches per row x total rows for each piece). Divide by your stitches per minute, then divide by 60 for hours. Add 10-20% for setup, seaming, and finishing. A DK sweater is typically 80-120 hours of knitting.

Should I knit one project at a time or several?

Both approaches have merits. One project at a time means faster completion but can lead to boredom. Multiple projects let you match complexity to your mood: a simple stockinette for TV knitting, a complex lace for focused sessions. Find what works for you.

How realistic should my queue be?

Most knitters have queues longer than they can ever complete. A realistic approach: plan 6-12 months ahead. Accept that some projects will be dropped as interests change. Regularly review and cull projects you no longer want to make. Quality over quantity.

KnitCalcs

Project Queue Calculator — Estimate Queue Completion Time

Estimate how long it will take to complete all the projects in your knitting queue.

Projects in Queue

Including current WIP

Avg Hours per Project

Average knitting hours per project

Knitting Hours per Week

Current Project % Complete

How far along your current WIP is

How We Calculate This

This calculator estimates the total time to complete all projects in your queue based on average project duration and your weekly knitting time.

The formula

Current project: Avg hours x remaining percentage
Queued projects: (Number - 1) x avg hours
Weeks to complete: Total hours / hours per week

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates based on standard yarn weights and gauge. Results may vary with individual tension, yarn brand, and needle size.