I only got back into knitting last year. I would say that it started when I was seduced by a beautiful wool and then I chose the design with an idea in mind of what my wardrobe could use, what the sweater would go with. For the second sweater, I wanted something comfy for home but one where the knitted stitches would show -- they were hidden in the fuzziness of the first sweater. Sweater #3 started with a beautiful linen yarn and I wanted something summery with short sleeves. In every case, I was using custom fit patterns I had recently discovered that could be modified in many ways and knit to really fit your body the way you want. And I like that idea because it's a waste of time & money to buy or make things that you don't love and wear.