Knitting Wool, Needles, and Kits

For those who need something to do with their hands or occupy their minds during stressful times knitting is a therapeutic outlet. After some practice knitting becomes second nature. While the knitter watches T.V. or rides the bus she can actually create fun and useful items.  It’s the ultimate in multitasking.

We love knitting at crazycatknitting.com. This site is designed to provide information to those just getting started knitting and advice to those who have been knitting for years.  We offer input on yarn, needles, patterns and much more. The goal of this website is to spread the joy of knitting and we don’t endorse any name brands, just unbiased advice.

The first step to getting started is picking a pattern. Books for beginners are a good way to start, but basic easy patterns can also be found online for free as well. Having a pattern in mind will help the knitter pick the supplies needed. Local yarn stores, online videos, and knitting groups offer support to those who need a point in the right direction.

Once a pattern has been chosen it’s a good idea to record some information in a knitting journal. Record when the pattern was started, what it was, the sizes of needles used, the weight, color, and fiber of the yarn. Once the project is completed comments and notes can be taken (like the pattern was tricky for example, or use a different needle next time.)

The basics needed will be yarn, needles, a pair of scissors, sewing needles, and a crochet hook. The pattern will name the weight of yarn, how much yarn, and preferred fiber type. The pattern will also list the needle sizes needed (so will the jacket on the yarn.) The scissors can be nice crafting scissors or just regular old scissors- just as long as they cut the yarn effectively.

Now it’s time for the fun part: selecting the yarn. All the different colors and textures of yarn is what usually attract most people to knitting in the first place. It’s tempting to go overboard when buying yarn, but be rational and pick the right yarn for the project.

Inexpensive yarn is ok to use but will be scratchy to work with and wear. Those with sensitive skin can attest to this fact with tales of wrists rubbed raw. This type of yarn is great for kids crafts. A bundle of yarn is called a skein.  Yarn can be basic or novelty. Novelty yarns may be hard to work with at first, so get some practice before trying novelty yarns.

Touching and feeling the yarn is truly the best indicator. Knitted items are usually worn or slept with so make sure the texture will be comfortable and washable. The fun part is picking out a color. The color is usually a matter of preference but those who are learning may find it helpful to use the same colors as the picture of the finished project so they have a reference point.

Knitting needles can range from inexpensive and simple to costly and ornate. For beginners, start with the cheaper needles to make sure they enjoy the hobby. Save beautiful needles for when the knitter has become dedicated.

Knitting needles can be made from a number of materials, from aluminum, plastic, wood, bamboo, etc…Any material will be just fine as long as the needle is the right size for the pattern. When starting out the knitter will find they will need to buy a few needles to get a decent collection of sizes going.

The other two items needed are some sewing needles and a crochet hook. Large sewing needles are used to attach parts together- like sleeves to a sweater. Look for needles with a large enough eye for the yarn to pass through, they can be either metal or plastic (plastic is good for the accident prone.)

A crochet hook is used to add a lovely crocheted border to a finished project. It also comes in handy if the ends are too short to be woven in. A size G or H is the most common and easiest to use.

The biggest key to becoming a successful knitter is patience. It’s never easy at first, it’s guaranteed that there will be a moment or two when the knitter will have to put the project down, walk away, and regroup. Fear not though, with a little practice the hands will begin to learn the knitting language and soon projects can be worked on with the eyes closed or in the dark. Practice makes perfect.

Check back with this site often for advice and other points of view. Encourage friends and family to check out this website too so that they can join in the fun and create clothing and gifts for their loved ones.

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