Tips for Starting Your First Knitting Project

Let's start by saying, "CONGRATS." The knitting community welcomes you and you are now part of a very cool group of people called "makers." As with most things, there are pros and cons to knitting. 

Pros to Knitting

• Knitting is great for mental health.
• The knitting community is kind and generous. 
• Anyone with patience and time can learn to knit.
• Making your own garments is an amazing feeling.
• It is a travel friendly hobby. 
• You will never be short on comfy socks.

Cons to Knitting

• Knitters have our own language and you are expected to learn it. 
• There is a good possibility that you will become a yarn hoarder.
• There will be days that you won't want to do anything other than knit.

Still interested in getting started on your first knitting project? 

Knitting: Where to Begin?

Chances are that you have an idea about what it's like to knit. Maybe you have a vision of knitting the perfect  sweater or you plan to knit all of this year's holiday gifts. Before you get carried away, the best place to start is with a simply knit square. Boring, I know. But, it will be worth it. 

Beginner knitters have a lot to learn about themselves before diving into a big project. Are your stitches even? Probably not because that takes practice. What is your gauge? Which stitches come more naturally to you? The first part of your knitting journey will involve self discovery and practice. 

One day in the future you will look at that knit square and reflect on how far you have come. 

Step One: Cast On

To start any knitting project, you must create the loops on the needle that you will use to knit. This is called casting on.

When you have mastered the cast on, add 20 or so stitches to get started.

Step Two: Knit the First Row

Now it is time to form the first row of knit stitches. The first row will set the stage for subsequent rows. The goal is to have even stitches as much as possible. Continue knitting row after row until you form a square. 

Step Three: Binding Off 

Once you have reached your last row of the project, you will have to finish the edge so that your stitches won't unravel. 

One way to accomplish this is with an I Cord Bind Off.

You should feel proud of yourself for knitting your first square. Once you grow comfortable with the knit stitch, expand your horizons with the purl stitch or seed stitch. Once you increase your level of confidence, dive into a beginner project. 

Need some guidance or direction? Drop a question in the comments and we are happy to help.