Sometimes the yarn you choose provides all the texture you want. While splurging on a luxury yarn may feel like an indulgence, it’s important to treat yourself. Find a yarn you love--it doesn’t even have to be expensive, just something you love the feel of. Hold it against your cheek, against your neck. Smell it. Look at the way the fibers are twisted together. If the yarn uses more than one kind of fiber (I chose one that includes merino wool, baby alpaca, and silk), look at the ways the different types of fiber accepted the dye--here, the silk stands out in bright little clumps, while the alpaca blooms with a dark halo.

And then knit something really simple with it. Something in which the yarn is really all you’re thinking about, and let your hands and mind drift.