Knitting scarf

How knitting began

Knitters were first believed to have begun their craft in the first few centuries AD. Egyptian artifacts and art have led many historians to credit the creation of knitting as a way to design clothing to the Egyptians. Since the craft is quite simple, it caught on and spread to other cultures rather quickly. By the middle of the 1500s, the first knitting groups had been established in France.

Patterns for knitting: garter stitch scarf

First-time knitters and those new to the craft often start with a pattern like the garter stitch scarf. This simple pattern is quite basic in that is requires only the knit stitch. The end result, however, has a more complicated looking ribbed design and is an attractive fashion accessory that makes an ideal gift for loved ones.

Patterns for knitting: stockinet stitch scarf

The stockinet stitch scarf pattern is one that is simple for even the most novice knitters to learn, and is a good transition pattern for those hoping to graduate from basic to more intermediate patterns. The finished stockinet stitch scarves are quite attractive, but tend to curl up on the edges. This can be used as the fashion and design in which these scarves are designed, or try knitting the stockinet stitch scarf with fuzzy yarn.

Patterns for knitting: baby blankets

Many knitters first become interested in the craft so that they can create blankets for their friends and family. Baby blanket knitting patterns are available, and because of the square design, are quite simple for beginners. The baby blanket pattern is highly customizable in both size and design. A baby blanket is the perfect place to practice more complex pattern stitches. And if you decide to go larger, be sure to try to the square afghan patterns. The stitches are much the same as the baby blanket design, but the final product is nearly twice as large.

Patterns for knitting: party wrap patterns

Ready for a knitting challenge? When it's time to move on to a more difficult stitch, try out the party wrap pattern. This design is circular and requires a few more advanced stitches to make it the end product come out correctly. However, the design is especially good for beginners because it helps to hide and camouflage any minor mistakes that are made in the creation of the party wrap.

Patterns for knitting: washcloths

When you want to create some products that offer more functionality and usability, consider checking out a washcloth pattern. These usually utilize the basic stockinet stitch, which makes them ideal for beginners. And with their small size, it will take even a newcomer very little time to complete the project and enjoy that rush of accomplishment and success.

The basics of knitting

Learning the art of knitting is relatively simple, and is enjoying a surge in popularity among new generations. Although machines do much of the commercial knitting necessary in the production of clothing, knitting by hand still has a very important role in modern culture. When knitting by hand, the artist also controls the colors, needles, and overall design of the final product.

There are two kinds of knitting - weft knitting and warp knitting. With warp knitting, only one string of yarn is necessary for each stitch. This type of knitting is most often done by hand. However, weft knitting involves multiple yarn strands and is commonly done by machine as part of commercial knitting.

Why use knitting patterns

Patterns for knitting provide a strong outline and foundation for starting any new knitting project. While knitting patterns can offer suggestions for design and color ideas, it is ultimately up to the artist to decide what the final product what look like.

Most new knitters should start with some of the basic patterns listed above and work on mastering basic stitches. Once you learn the basics of knitting, you will want to continue progressing to more advanced stitches and knitting patterns. You may also want to consider finding a local knitting group or meeting online others who share your hobby. Not only will this provide a nice social outlet, but your new knitting friends may also be able to help you locate and use new knitting patterns and new ideas for knitting projects.

Be sure to try using other available resources, such as local craft and hobby stores. There are often professionals and enthusiasts who can help you find great knitting patterns to start with. You can also find great information about patterns for knitting at online message boards, chat rooms, and knitting Web sites.

By: Mary Amos

Knitting

Of all the different types of needlework, knitting is one of the most popular. Knitting is a specific type of needlework that is identified by the process of looped stitches pulled through one another. Knitting is commonly used to make clothing and accessories such as hats, scarves, sweaters and gloves, as well as blankets and afgans. Most commercially produced knitted items are made with knitting machines; their high speed is indispensable for meeting the demands of the world economy. Knitting machines have not done away with human knitting, however; far from it, knitting has gone through a recent resurgence in popularity as a craft and hobby.

One of the great things about knitting is that you can make a wide variety of items with the same relatively simple steps. Just select a different type of yarn and a different variation in your stitch, and you can come up with a very different end product.

The origins of knitting

Archeologists have found evidence of knitting as far back as the first millennium. Obviously, knitting has been around for a long time. Indeed, even the ancient Egyptians are known to have knitted colorful socks and other accessories. It is generally thought that the first peoples to use knitting to make blankets and clothing were the ancient Arabians.

The history of knitting was pretty straightforward until the invention of the knitting machine. The knitting machine completely changed the purpose of knitting. Before the industrialization of knitting, it was an essential task for many families, a means to keep warm and clothed. After the knitting machine, blankets and clothing were mass-produced far more cheaply than any one person making it. For this reason, knitting today is primarily a recreational pursuit. Knitters enjoy gathering together to socialize. People love to knit because it can be an extremely relaxing way to pass the time and ease one's nerves. The products of their pastimes are often presented as gifts, which can save you some money as well.

The demographics of knitting are changing as well. Knitting used to be the sole preserve of primarily older women. More and more, however, knitting is becoming popular with younger generations. Indeed, some studies show that knitting has risen in popularity among the 25 to 35 age group by as much as 150%.

Different types of knitting

The two main types of straight-needle knitting are weft knitting and warp knitting. Weft knitting requires only one string of yarn at time, but can be more susceptible to snags and runs. Warp knitting, on the other hand, is usually done by machine, so when most people think of knitting, they are usually thinking of weft knitting. Another important type of knitting that is commonly done by hand is circular knitting. This method uses a circular needle, and creates a "tube" of yarn when completed - great for socks and other tubular garments.

What materials do you need to start knitting?

Knitting is an ancient and rudimentary craft. As such, the materials that you need to knit are fairly basic; when it comes down to it, all you need to knit is some needles and some yarn. You should pay close attention to the type of yarn you use, however, as it will have a significant impact on how your final product looks and feels. For instance, certain yarns are appropriate for stretchy materials, while other yarns will produce less stretchy, more solid final results. The width and thickness of the yarn should be taken into account when selecting knitting needles to use. Picking out the yarn can be one of the more pleasant steps in making an item, as knitting yarn comes in a variety of colors and styles and it is always fun to play around with your imagination. Some are solid colors, others have multiple colors for striping, and others include sparkles and other embellishments.

Knitting resources

The best thing for those serious about knitting is to join a knitting circle. In a knitting circle, members will meet with their yarn and needles at the home of different members or local coffee shop and just knit, share tips, and socialize.

If you are on your own, you can always turn to the Internet for a wealth of knitting resources. Groups, forums, and message boards provide a means of communication and getting together for knitters. Through these avenues, many knitting enthusiasts share tips, techniques, patterns, and tales of successful projects. The Internet is also a great place to order knitting materials and patterns, and can help novice knitters get past some of the challenges that face those new to the craft.

Craft and hobby stores will also carry a robust selection of knitting needles, yarns and patterns. Do not be afraid to ask employees in these stores for help - more often than not, you will be able to find experienced knitters who can offer you some sound advice and tips.