Knitting is a versatile yarn craft which has now become a wellness trend. With a knitting needle (there are different types), you transform any yarn ball or skein into a sweater, scarf, shawl, home décor or anything. Knitting is more than a hobby, it is now a secret of mindfulness among all ages with more artists beginning their first steps. Once you put your mind to this craft, you can basically knit anything and everything. At the beginning of your journey, you may make common mistakes, face issues and feel overwhelmed but then some knitting hacks can make your journey smoother.
As Stephanie Pearl-McPhee, famously known as the ‘Yarn Harlot’ says, "The only difference between an experienced knitter and a new knitter is that the experienced knitter makes bigger mistakes faster. Be bold; there are no terrible consequences in knitting." Keeping those words in mind, let’s discuss some knitting hacks for beginners. Just remember, it’s ok to make mistakes as they can be easily corrected but these hacks will help you not make them.
So, here they are.
Hack #1: Choose the right yarn
Knitting is a yarn craft and for a beginner, it is important to understand the yarn. Keep to the plain yarns (mostly wool cotton) when you are a beginner as they are easier to knit with. Do not go for mohair or angora yarn as it makes it difficult to see stitches and work with. Once you’ve got the hang of things you can go for the fun yarns!
Hack #2: Understanding your needles
Knitting needles are your tools so it is important to have the right ones. You may start with needles handed over by your mentor but over time you need to get yours. Circular needles are versatile as with the same pair you can knit flat and in the round. Make sure to keep the cords of the needles in mind, they are of different materials. Always straighten out your cords before starting any project.
Hack #2: Weaving Excess Yarn
Weaving yarn at the end of a project can be super annoying but you need to get it right. Use a darning needle to makes sure that you have a perfect-looking project.
Hack #3: Stress-Free Long Tail Cast On
Don’t let guesswork ruin your project, use the long tail cast on with two yarn tails. Use a center pull ball of yarn or 2 balls of yarn to cast on with 2 strands of yarn. It makes everything a whole lot easier.
Hack #4: Always make a swatch
A gauge swatch is gives an insight to see how your knitting turns out. Especially if you are a beginner, knitting gauge swatches are super helpful. A swatch will give enough practice before heading on to your project. It also shows how your combination of yarn and needles turns out. Also, if your knitting turns out too tight or too loose, then change your needles with a larger or smaller size of needles.
Hack #5: Don’t give up!
All knitters struggle in their own ways. Don’t let this hold you back, it’s just the way it is in the beginning. The more you knit the more the motions of knitting will set in your muscles and the more even your knitting will become.
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Source: https://www.storeboard.com/blogs/crafts/knitting-hacks-for-beginners/5526185
