How to Start Knitting Part 1
Embark on a creative journey and unlock the soothing art of knitting with this comprehensive guide on ‘How to Start Knitting Part 1,’ where I unravel the basics, tips, and the joyous world of yarn crafting for beginners.
Knitting is a timeless and beloved hobby that has been enjoyed by people of all ages for centuries. It is a relaxing and enjoyable activity that allows you to create beautiful and practical items such as scarves, hats, socks, and more. Whether you are a seasoned knitter or a beginner, there are countless knitting patterns available to suit your skill level and interests. In this blog post, I will share some tips on how to choose and use knitting patterns, as well as some ideas for beginner-friendly projects.
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How to Start Knitting Part 1
Choosing a Knitting Pattern:
- Determine your skill level: Knitting patterns are often rated by their difficulty level, ranging from beginner to advanced. It is important to choose a pattern that is appropriate for your skill level to ensure that you are able to complete the project successfully.
- Consider the yarn: Different knitting patterns call for different types of yarn, such as worsted weight, bulky, or sock yarn. Make sure to choose a yarn that is suitable for the pattern you are using, as the type of yarn can affect the final result.
- Think about the purpose: Knitting patterns can be used to create a wide variety of items, such as garments, accessories, home decor, and more. Consider what you would like to make and choose a pattern accordingly.
Where to buy knitting supplies:
First, acquaint yourself with your local yarn store (your LYS). Smaller, independent shops tend to be more personal — though generally more expensive — while big box stores like Michaels and JOANN are often less pricey and less intimate. Amazon also has a huge selection of knitting supplies, many with next day delivery.
If going to a physical location isn’t an option, you can order your materials from an online store like WEBS, which stocks an enormous variety of yarn, needles and notions at all price points, or Knitpicks, which carries its own affordable house brands. Amazon also has a huge selection of knitting supplies, many with next day delivery. If at all possible, touch your yarn before you buy it, because not only are you going to spend an inordinate amount of time with it, you’re also going to want to actually like the end product.
For those first few projects, generally you’ll want yarn that’s medium-weight, otherwise known as worsted — not as thin as dental floss nor as thick as rope — and make sure to read its label to figure out which size needles you should buy to go along with it (generally sizes 6 to 9). Don’t worry too much about your first needles; the size is the important thing, and what they’re made of (bamboo, aluminum, plastic) and how they look (straight versus circular) is more a matter of preference than anything else.
Using a Knitting Pattern:
- Read the entire pattern before you start: It is important to familiarize yourself with the entire pattern before you begin knitting. This will help you understand the instructions and identify any special techniques or abbreviations used in the pattern.
- Follow the pattern step-by-step: Knitting patterns are written in a specific order for a reason, so it is important to follow the instructions as they are written. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you are unsure of something.
- Take your time: Knitting can be a relaxing and meditative activity, so don’t feel like you have to rush through the process. Take your time and enjoy the process of creating something beautiful.
Using a Knitting Pattern:
- Read the entire pattern before you start: It is important to familiarize yourself with the entire pattern before you begin knitting. This will help you understand the instructions and identify any special techniques or abbreviations used in the pattern.
- Follow the pattern step-by-step: Knitting patterns are written in a specific order for a reason, so it is important to follow the instructions as they are written. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you are unsure of something.
- Take your time: Knitting can be a relaxing and meditative activity, so don’t feel like you have to rush through the process. Take your time and enjoy the process of creating something beautiful.
Beginner-Friendly Knitting Patterns:
If you are new to knitting, here are some of my easiest few beginner-friendly patterns to get you started:
- Easiest Newborn Hat Knitting Pattern If you can knit a rectangle, you can make this baby hat!
- Easy Foldover Slippers Knitting Patterns in sizes for women, kids and babies.
- Easiest Flat Knit Kids Garter Stitch Hat a simple, cozy hat that uses cast on, garter stitch and cast off techniques.
Ready to start knitting?
In Part 2 of this How to Start Knitting series (coming soon), I’ll take you through the following techniques: casting on, the knit stitch, the purl stitch, and casting off.
I love seeing your finished projects! If you enjoyed making this post, How to Start Knitting Part 1, or any of my other free knitting patterns, I’d love to see yours on Instagram, just tag me @ginamicheleblog. Happy knitting!
