When beginners start their knitting adventure journey they have to first equip themselves with the basics. It later helps them in confidently creating sophisticated pieces. Everyone differs in their knitting style, but when the discussion is about which hand to hold knitting yarn then the world is divided.
As you are about to start knitting you will need supplies like knitting needles. Gain familiarity with the kind of needles, so you choose the right one for your project.
There are two basic styles – the English and the Continental or German technique. The difference is in which hand you hold the yarn. In the former technique, working yarn is kept in the right hand, while in the latter it is the left hand. Both techniques offer equally fine results, but are distinct.
As a beginner start with small projects, but when you get some speed then chose circular knitting needles because they have a flexible cord connected and almost look like the long needles.
English knitting style
It involves holding the yarn in the dominant hand alongside the working needle. English knitting is also called the ‘Throwing’ method. The yarn is kept in your right hand and thrown over the knitting needle to create a stitch. The majority of knitters use the English knitting style.
Continental knitting style
It involves holding the yarn in a non-dominant hand and subtle index finger movement is used to help the needle pick the yarn from the new stitch. It is known as ‘Picking’. In this style, there is no requisite to move yarn forward or backward to switch between weaving and purling. The yarn is placed below or above the needle, you hold in the left hand.
Types of knitting stitches
Knit stitch
The basic form of stitching is the knit stitch. Each knit tack forms the letter ‘V’. You can use it to form moss, purl, or rib stitches. It is even used to knit garter strings. For beginners, wooden knitting needles are beneficial because they are less slippery and you can learn without getting frustrated. Start your knitting journey by making a garter stitch scarf, which is easy and looks chic.
Garter stitch
It is a stitch that you need to get familiar with to create different knitting patterns. Garter stitch is easily distinguishable. The knitted loops of each row form horizontal ridges. It makes wavy patterns and is a good stitch to make thick and stretchy cardigans and hats.
Stockinette stitch
Learning this stitch allows you to perfect knitting and purling skills. This stitch has a wrong and right side. The right side is smooth, while the wrong side has a wavy and bumpy texture. Stockinette stitch curls because of the variance in size between purl and knit stitches. With this style knit sweaters, scarves, mug holders, pillows, etc.
Seed stitch
It is an easy knit & purl stitch, which makes dimple patterns. The texture appears like seeds scattered on the knit fabric. It is also called sand or dot stitch. The fabric created is not too stretchy. It is a good stitch for edgings for sweaters and cuffs. It is even great for two-way scarves and blankets. If your project involves bulky yarn then choose knitting needles with rounded points.
There are myriads of knitting stitches, but as a beginner start off with the ones mentioned above.