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Knitting is a craft with a rich history, that allows you to create beautiful and practical items with just yarn, needles, and a bit of patience (and maybe some fun knitting tools too). Whether you're drawn to the idea of making cozy scarves, intricate sweaters, or warm blankets, getting started with knitting is simpler than you might think. This post is focused on what I learned through my own experience and mistakes; this is what I wish I had read before making my first purchases and endeavoring upon my first project.
Gather Your Supplies
The first step in learning to knit is to gather the necessary supplies.
Necessities
Knitting Needles | I recommend interchangeable circular needles. They offer the most versatility and while they may be a bit more expensive at first, in the long run they will save you money. |
Yarn: Size | I recommend starting with some in the Super Bulky range (also labelled as size 6). Thicker yarn means easier to see stitches, and it also means that your project will work up very quickly, which is especially satisfying when you first start out. |
Yarn: Fiber | I personally love working with sustainable wool, but for my first few projects I worked with a wool and synthetic blend. It's definitely more cost efficient, and the end product may be more durable. Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick and Quick is a knitting staple that I used for my first knitting project and I don't regret it, I still use that scarf to this day. Bonus, it comes in lots of colors! |
Tapestry Needles | These needles have a bend to them that helps you to weave in your ends when you're done knitting. Clover is a well known brand. |
Scissors | You'll need something to cut the yarn. Use whatever you have on hand or have fun with it! |
Pattern or Idea of What to Create | Ravelry.com has a TON of free patterns and they are filterable by how easy they are. You do have to create an account to access Ravelry, but in my opinion it's well worth it! More info on choosing a pattern below. |
You Might Need...
Stitch Markers* | My favorite set comes from a company called ChiaoGoo, a well know player in the knitting space. I like this set because it's a variety pack when it comes to sizes (larger yarn = larger needles = needing larger stitch markers), and they are a bit nicer than the super cheap ones. Ultimately I wish I had purchased these first, instead of the cheap kits that only come with one size. |
*I put this in the "might need" category because not every project calls for these. If you're using a pattern, read through it first to check to see if it calls for them.
Learn the Basic Knitting Techniques
Before diving into your first project, familiarize yourself with the basic knitting techniques. These include casting on (creating the foundation row of stitches), knit stitch (forming the basic stitch), purl stitch (creating a textured stitch), and binding off (finishing off your work). There are numerous online tutorials, books, and videos available to guide you through these fundamental techniques. Youtube is, in my opinion, the best place to go for this. My favorite book resource for all things casting on and binding off is Cast On Bind Off by Leslie Ann Bestor.
Start with a Simple Project
Begin your knitting journey with a straightforward project that allows you to practice your newfound skills. A basic scarf, cowl (my favorite), dishcloth, or coaster are excellent choices for beginners. These projects typically involve using simple stitches and straight rows, making them perfect for honing your knitting abilities without feeling overwhelmed. As I mentioned before, my favorite source for (free!) patterns is ravelry.com
Keep Going and Make Mistakes
Like any skill, knitting improves with practice and especially patience. As you become more comfortable with the basic techniques, challenge yourself to try new stitches and patterns. Also, when you find yourself stuck with mistakes, instead of putting the project down, seek out answers to that specific issue on Youtube or Google. It's the best way to learn and add to your knitting skills!
Remember Your Purpose
Knitting is not only about creating tangible items but also about enjoying the process itself. When you feel discouraged, think about the sense of accomplishment you'll gain as your first project takes shape.
Starting knitting may seem intimidating at first, but with patience, practice, and perseverance, you'll soon find yourself immersed in this rewarding craft. So gather your supplies, learn the basics, choose your first project, and embark on a journey filled with creativity, warmth, and endless possibilities. Happy knitting!
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