Beginner's Guide to Knitting: Getting Started with Basic Stitches

Knitting is a versatile and rewarding craft that allows you to create beautiful garments, accessories, and home decor items. If you're a beginner in the world of knitting, learning the basic stitches is the first step towards mastering this craft. In this blog post, we'll provide a comprehensive beginner's guide to knitting, focusing on the essential basic stitches. We'll also include relevant resources, links to sites, and helpful information for all knitters and crafters.

Knitting Needles:

Start by selecting the right knitting needles for your project. For beginners, straight or circular needles in a medium size (around US size 8 or UK size 6) are recommended. The choice of material (such as bamboo, metal, or plastic) is a personal preference. The Knitting Network offers a wide range of knitting needles suitable for beginners.

Yarn Selection:

Choose a yarn suitable for beginners, such as medium-weight or DK (double knitting) yarn. Look for yarn labels that indicate it's suitability for knitting, and which needle sizes would be best. LoveCrafts offers a variety of yarn options along with helpful reviews and recommendations.

Beginner's Guide to Knitting Basic Stitches

Now onto some beginners’ stitches and useful techniques for getting started with knitting.

Knit Stitch:

The knit stitch is the foundation of knitting. It creates a smooth "V" pattern and forms the right side of the fabric. Websites like KnittingHelp provide video tutorials and step-by-step instructions for beginners. Take a look at the video here for how to knit stitch.

Purl Stitch:

The purl stitch complements the knit stitch and creates a bumpy texture on the fabric, forming the wrong side. Learning the purl stitch allows you to create a variety of stitch patterns. There are more helpful video tutorials on Knitting Help for you to learn the Purl Stitch here.

Casting On:

Casting on is the process of starting a knitting project. There are different methods, but the long-tail cast-on is commonly used for beginners. This guide by Sarah Maker provides detailed instructions for how to get started with casting on.

Binding Off:

Binding off, also known as casting off, is how you finish your knitting project. It creates a neat edge and secures the stitches. Another guide by Sarah Maker offers a step-by-step guide on binding off for beginners.

Practice Swatches:

Creating practice swatches allows you to perfect your tension and get comfortable with the basic stitches. Start with small swatches and gradually increase the complexity of stitch patterns. Lion Brand Yarn provides free beginner-friendly knitting patterns and projects to practice your skills.

Joining a Knitting Community:

Joining a knitting community or attending local knitting groups can provide valuable support, inspiration, and opportunities to learn from experienced knitters. The UK Hand Knitting Association offers a directory of knitting groups and events across the UK.

Also, keep an eye on the Craftzar site for when our crafting communities and courses go live! You can learn more about your craft while meeting other people who share your interests.

Embarking on a knitting journey can be exciting and fulfilling. By familiarising yourself with basic stitches such as knit and purl, selecting the right tools and yarn, and practicing regularly, you'll be well on your way to becoming a skilled knitter. Embrace the joy of knitting and let your creativity flourish!