Falling into Knitting
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Throw blanket project waiting on me
As the days get shorter and cooler, I always feel the urge to pick up my knitting needles. Knitting has become a cherished hobby for me, one that I’ve been practicing regularly for the last 10 years. Though I dabbled in it during my youth, I never truly embraced the craft until much later.
Relics of projects
A Therapeutic Craft
Knitting is more than just creating items—it’s a soothing way to relax, a balm for my mental health. I’ve knitted everything from shawls, blankets, and sweaters to hats and baby garments. I always like to have a quick project on hand (hats, ear warmers, etc.) alongside more involved projects like blankets or sweaters. This keeps me engaged and prevents boredom from creeping in.
Boot cuff project
How I Learned to Knit
Many people have asked who taught me. My mom introduced me to knitting in high school, but after a long hiatus, I rediscovered it in adulthood. I could only do basic stitches—knit and purl—until I found online tutorials about 10 years ago. YouTube videos and websites with free patterns opened up a new world of possibilities. I can now do intricate stitches and have access to endless project ideas without breaking the bank.
Yarn seems to be in every room in my house
Budget-Friendly Knitting
As someone on a budget, especially being a teacher, I know how expensive yarn can be depending on where you buy it. That’s why I’ve always turned to free patterns and found ways to shop smart for supplies. Don’t let the cost of yarn discourage you—there are plenty of affordable options, especially for beginners.
Needles waiting to be used
Where to Buy Yarn
If you're just starting out, here are a few great places to buy yarn at reasonable prices:
Joann Fabric and Crafts – They often have great sales and coupons, and their selection of yarn is extensive. Brands like Big Twist are affordable and perfect for beginners.
Michaels – Another great craft store with frequent sales. Their Loops & Threads brand offers budget-friendly options.
Lion Brand Yarns (Online) – They offer quality yarn at various price points, and you can often find discounted skeins.
We Are Knitters – Known for beautiful yarn, they often run sales, and their kits are perfect for beginners looking to try a specific project.
Hobby Lobby – They offer a wide range of yarn at budget-friendly prices, and their I Love This Yarn! line is popular for its softness and affordability.
Thrift Stores - You never know what you are going to find at a thrift store and many times I have stumbled on enough yarn for a project.
More yarn hiding under an end table
Choosing the Right Yarn
When starting out, selecting the right yarn can make a big difference in the ease and satisfaction of your knitting experience. Here’s a quick guide to common yarn types and their benefits:
Acrylic Yarn – Affordable, widely available, and comes in a variety of colors. Acrylic is great for beginners because it’s durable and easy to care for (machine washable). It’s ideal for learning basic stitches without worrying about ruining expensive yarn.
Perfect for: Dishcloths, scarves, and baby blankets.
Cotton Yarn – Breathable and sturdy, cotton yarn is great for projects like dishcloths or market bags. It’s not as stretchy as other yarns, which can be helpful for beginners who want more control over their stitches.
Perfect for: Dishcloths, summer garments, and bags.
Wool Yarn – Warm, natural, and versatile, wool is a popular choice for garments and winter accessories. It can be pricier, but it’s worth investing in for projects like sweaters or hats that need warmth and structure. Wool is also known for being forgiving—you can often block and reshape your projects if needed.
Perfect for: Sweaters, scarves, and hats.
Blended Yarns (Wool-Acrylic, Cotton-Acrylic) – These blends combine the best qualities of different fibers. You get the warmth of wool with the easy care of acrylic or the softness of cotton with the stretchiness of synthetics. Blends are great for affordable, versatile projects.
Perfect for: Versatile projects like shawls, baby garments, and hats.
Chunky/Bulky Yarn – For those who want a quick project, chunky yarn is perfect! It knits up fast and is great for beginners who want to see quick results. Plus, it’s cozy and perfect for winter accessories.
Perfect for: Chunky scarves, blankets, and hats.
Current projects
Tips for Beginners
For anyone interested in starting their knitting journey, here are a few tips:
Start Small – Begin with simple projects like scarves, dishcloths, or beanies. These are quick and rewarding, and they’ll help you build confidence.
Use Affordable Yarn – You don’t need expensive yarn when you’re starting out. Acrylic yarn is a budget-friendly option that works great for learning.
Watch Tutorials – YouTube is an amazing resource for learning new techniques, from casting on to intricate stitches. One of my favorite channels is Very Pink Knits which offers detailed tutorials for beginners.
Find Free Patterns – Websites like Ravelry and Knitting Pattern Central offer tons of free patterns, which is perfect for beginners who want to try different projects without investing in books or paid patterns.
Don’t Rush – Knitting is a skill that takes time and practice. Enjoy the process, and don’t worry if your first few projects aren’t perfect! I have started over many times on a project and have learned to be patient with myself when starting a new knitting skill. It’s okay to make mistakes. It’s how we learn.
This basket is out in the open crying out to be worked
Recommended Beginner Projects
Dishcloths – Simple patterns like the classic Grandmother’s Favorite Dishcloth are a great way to practice basic stitches and increase/decrease techniques.
Beanies – Quick and cozy, beanies are satisfying to knit, and they’re perfect for cooler weather. Try the Purl Soho Classic Cuffed Hat pattern for a simple and free project.
Chunky Scarves – If you’re looking for something quick, chunky scarves knit with large needles and thick yarn are perfect. Check out the Garter Stitch Chunky Scarf pattern for a fun, cozy project.
More waiting in the loft
Basic Supplies Every New Knitter Needs
Starting your knitting journey requires just a few essential tools. Here’s a list of basic supplies for new knitters and links where you can find some reasonably priced tools:
Knitting Needles – Begin with straight needles in a medium size, such as US size 8 (5mm), which is a good all-purpose needle size for beginners. Metal needles are smooth and fast, while bamboo needles offer more grip, which can help if you’re just starting. I have moved on to knitting in the round which I find to be easier to work.
Yarn – As mentioned, choose an affordable yarn like acrylic or a blend. A medium weight (worsted weight) yarn is best for beginners because it’s easy to handle. Look for yarn labeled as “worsted” or “4” on the label.
Scissors – Small, sharp scissors are essential for cutting yarn ends. I love these little scissors. I have them in gold tone.
Yarn Needle (Darning or Tapestry Needle) – This large, blunt needle is used to weave in the loose ends of your project after you finish knitting.
Stitch Markers – These small rings or clips are used to mark certain points in your knitting, especially for more complex patterns. If you don’t have these, you can use small loops of scrap yarn. I avoid the clip type because they tend to fall off. I like a simple loop type with no opening.
Measuring Tape – Handy for checking the length or width of your project to ensure it matches the pattern specifications. The retractable ones do not tangle in your knitting bag.
Row Counter (Optional) – A small tool that helps keep track of which row you’re on in a pattern. Many knitters use a simple notebook or tally marks instead, but counters can make things easier. I find myself using a small spiral notebook for my bigger projects. If I use a counter it is the old fashioned click type.
Knitting Bag or Pouch – While not required, having a dedicated bag to keep your project and tools organized is really helpful. This prevents losing small items and keeps everything tidy. I like one with pockets and room for yarn with grommets to cut down on tangles. This one is in my wish list.
My favorite throw blanket pattern
Knitting: A Journey of Creativity and Calm
Knitting is a journey, one filled with creativity, patience, and satisfaction. Whether you're knitting a cozy scarf on a chilly evening or working on a more challenging project, the joy comes not just from the finished product but from the process itself. It's a wonderful way to relax, take a break from the stresses of life, and create something beautiful with your hands. I hope these tips and resources inspire you to pick up your needles, try a new project, and discover the calming benefits of this timeless craft. Remember, knitting isn’t about perfection—it’s about enjoying the journey, one stitch at a time.
My dog waiting patiently to play when I am knitting.
