Michelle, I generally prefer metal needles, and I always knit with circulars rather than straights, as clumsy me was always bumping into things with straights- even if the pattern doesn't call for circs, I find I can slide the project to the middle when not in use, and the chance of dropping stitches has gone way down!

For quick pick-up-put-down patterns, I love cotton dishrag/washcloths (I keep a few on hand for housewarming and other gifts). And simple hat patterns done in the round are great for putting away.

I've done sweaters, mittens and socks, but I generally prefer easy and quick things- scarves, shawls, stuff like that. Always wool, cotton or natural blends- I don't care for acrylic!

Sandra, I love that scarf pattern and might have to try it! Those links are great, too- I think I'll do another hat when I'm done with this shawl!

Dare I reveal where I've been dabbling when I've been unfaithful to the Mudcat? You might check out http://www.ravelry.com/, which has something for everyone! Slate magazine named it "a better social networking site than Facebook" (of course, Slate had never visited the Cat!). Plus, tons of patterns- their pattern search is a thing of beauty.