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Learn how to knit
The basics of casting on and off by Carol Chambers: extract from Knitting Magazine
© Knitting magazine, to subscribe call +44 (0) 1273 488005, www.thegmcgroup.com, www.nationalknittingweek.co.uk.
In order to start knitting all you need is a pair of needles and some yarn. The finest and the fattest needles are the hardest to handle for beginners so choose something in between. Many sources recommend DK (Double Knitting) yarn and size 4mm needles, but don't let this stop you experimenting, as it's likely that a lovely yarn will have induced you to learn to knit in the first place.
When you purchase the yarn ask the shop for advice about needle sizes to match or look at the ball band where you should find a needle size suggestion, but if you want to learn using a super chunky and 15mm needles then have a go; it's supposed to be fun!
Smooth yarns are easier for beginners and so are light colours, and both because the stitches are easier to see and stay separate on the needle. Fluffy yarns and those with 'bobbles' or 'slubs' are not recommended until you can recognise the different parts of a stitch without difficulty.
Getting started
As you look at knitting books and patterns you will find that there are many different ways of doing the same thing. There is no right or wrong way, find out what you like and then stick to this.
Some methods may be better suited to a particular yarn or pattern but don't be overwhelmed by the choices. For right-handed knitters, the needle that makes new stitches is held in the right hand whilst the needle which holds the finished stitches is held in the left.
If you are left-handed, look at the illustrations reflected in a mirror and copy the adjusted images or have a go at the right-handed method, you may find it works for you anyway.
Garter stitch
Two or more rows of knit stitches are called garter stitch - a good stitch for edges as it doesn't curl. This is also a perfect stitch pattern for scarves, a great beginner's project and you can never have too many.
Slip Knot
To cast on you start with a slip knot. This serves as your first stitch. When made correctly it is easy to adjust its size. Pull on the loop and it gets bigger, pull on the tail to tighten. If your knot does not do this, follow the route of the yarn as shown in the diagram carefully when making it again. Now you have one stitch on your left-hand needle and are ready to make another.
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