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Written by Alexis Kenne
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Thursday, 07 May 2009 03:51 |
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Knitting is a centuries old way to make cloth that has made quite a comeback in recent years. It's no longer considered a pastime for grandmothers alone. More and more people of all ages have been learning to knit, and this simple needlework craft lets people express their creativity by making items that are both functional and beautiful. Whether you prefer low maintenance, machine wash items or luxurious and posh, there's always something new to knit.
by AlexisKenne
Knitting is a centuries old way to make cloth that has made quite a comeback in recent years. It's no longer considered a pastime for grandmothers alone. More and more people of all ages have been learning to knit, and this simple needlework craft lets people express their creativity by making items that are both functional and beautiful. Whether you prefer low maintenance, machine wash items or luxurious and posh, there's always something new to knit.
Most people associate knitting with bulky sweaters or pastel baby blankets. Knitting can make much more than that, however. Some people like to try their hand at many different projects. They may make a scarf one week, and a delicate sweater set the next. Others specialize in a certain type of item, like socks. Hand knitted socks certainly can be a luxury.
Other knitting enthusiasts enjoy blending knitting with other crafts, like wool felting for example. They may knit large versions of wool slippers, mittens, and handbags that can be shrunk in the washer and dryer to create wool felt. The felting process creates quality, durable items that can last for many years.
Skilled knitters create some of the most intricate works of art. For example, spiderweb lace shawls are so fine and delicate they seem to be made of gossamer. These shawls are usually created with luxury yarns like mohair, cashmere, and incredibly soft wool yarns.
Most kinds of knitted articles can be crafted using either fine wool yarns or acrylic yarns. Fine wool is bit pricier and requires extra care, whereas acrylic is inexpensive, and durable to last through many rounds of re-stitching. This makes acrylic the ideal yarn for beginners. Once you've become more proficient with your knitting, you may want to try a luxurious yarn like fluffy, soft merino wool. Superwash merino doesn't shrink, so it's a great choice for knitted socks.
Wool blends with mohair, angora, or cashmere are great for knitting items to keep warm in the winter, like sweaters, hats, and scarves. Wool yarns, like their acrylic counterparts, are available in an endless variety of colors and weights. The only limits are your creativity and your budget.
If you are just starting out with knitting, it's a good idea to start with a kit that can provide you with introductory instruction in reading a knitting pattern and learning to do the basic stitches. Kits for hats and scarves are available in just about any craft or fabric store. Once you've got a handle on the basic knit and purl stitches, you'll be ready for more advanced patterns. Most of the detailed work in knitted pieces involves a variation of these two stitches. As you gain skill and confidence, you'll be ready to tackle ever more detailed projects. Be sure not to ignore the finishing details. This can make or break your piece, and can mean the difference between a beautiful piece and one that looks hastily thrown together. Some important finishing touches to remember are to block the finished piece into correct shape and weave in the tail ends of your yarn to hide them.
You'll feel a sense of pride and accomplishment once you finish your projects and begin to wear them. Before long, you'll be adept at knitting handmade gifts for friends and family that will be cherished through the years.
About the Author:
This article has been made available by the author, Alexis Kenne. if you need any more information regarding how to knit or knitting patterns please check out his resources. |
