From Needles to Notions: What to Buy to Begin Your Knitting Journey

AvatarByJill Nammar Knitting

Are you ready to start knitting but not sure where to begin? Look no further. Whether you want to make a cozy scarf for the winter or create a beautiful baby blanket, knowing what to buy is the first step in your knitting journey. From needles and yarn to essential tools and supplies, this article will guide you through the must-have items for any new knitter. Get ready to embark on a creative and fulfilling hobby as we explore what to buy to start knitting.

Knitting is a popular and enjoyable hobby that has been around for centuries. Not only can it reduce stress and anxiety, but it also allows individuals to create one-of-a-kind items for themselves or their loved ones. However, for those who are just starting out, buying all the necessary materials can be overwhelming. From different types of yarn to various tools and accessories, it’s easy to get lost in the sea of options. In this guide, we will break down what you need to buy to start knitting with confidence.

Understanding the Basics: Yarn

Yarn is the essential material needed for knitting. It is made up of fibers twisted together to form long strands that are used to create fabric. When choosing yarn, there are a few things to consider.

Firstly, you need to determine the type of fiber you want to work with. Wool is a popular choice as it is warm, versatile and comes in a variety of textures and colors. Cotton is durable and great for warmer climates while acrylic yarn is affordable and easy to care for. There are also more luxurious options such as cashmere or silk which may be pricier but produce stunning results.

Next, consider the weight of the yarn which refers to its thickness. Yarn weights range from super bulky (thickest) to lace (finest). Choose a weight that fits your skill level – thicker yarns are easier for beginners while lighter weights require more experience.

Lastly, pay attention to the yarn’s texture or ply – this refers to how many strands of fiber have been twisted together. A single ply yarn has one strand while a 2-ply has two twisted strands and so on. Thicker plys provide more warmth and texture while thinner plys give finer stitches.

Must-Have Tools: Knitting Needles

Next on your list should be knitting needles – long sticks with pointed ends used to create stitches. There are different types and sizes of needles available, and choosing the right ones can make a significant difference in your knitting experience.

The most common material for knitting needles is wood, which is lightweight and adds warmth to your hands while working. Metal needles are smooth and great for faster knitting, while plastic needles are cheaper but may not last as long. Bamboo needles are eco-friendly and comfortable to hold.

Just like yarn, needle size is important. The general rule is that the thicker the yarn, the larger the needle size. Most patterns will specify the needle size required but if not, refer to the label on your yarn or consult a yarn weight chart.

Circular needles, with two needle tips connected by a flexible cable, are great for knitting projects in round such as hats or socks. Double-pointed needles have points on both ends and are used for smaller projects like gloves or sleeves.

Essential Accessories

Besides yarn and knitting needles, there are a few accessories that knitters will find useful for their projects.

Firstly, a measuring tape is crucial for checking gauge (the number of stitches per inch) which ensures your project turns out as intended. A stitch marker can be used to keep track of changes in patterns or where you need to increase or decrease stitches.

Scissors or thread cutters come in handy for cutting yarn after completing each row or weaving in loose ends at the end of a project. A crochet hook can help fix dropped stitches or create various stitch designs.

Finding Patterns

Now that you have all the necessary materials, it’s time to find some patterns! Many websites offer free and paid patterns that cater to all skill levels – from easy knits like scarves and dishcloths to more complex designs such as sweaters and shawls.

It’s also helpful to invest in a good book of knitting patterns. This way, you’ll have a variety of patterns at your disposal and can learn new techniques.

Conclusion

Starting a new hobby like knitting can feel overwhelming, but with the right materials and tools, anyone can learn the art of creating beautiful knits. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of yarn, needles, and patterns to find what works best for you. With practice and patience, you’ll soon be on your way to becoming a skilled knitter!

The Best Supplies to Get Started in Knitting

If you’ve ever been interested in learning how to knit, then you may have found yourself wondering where to begin. With so many different types of needles, yarn, and other accessories available, it can be overwhelming to navigate the craft store and determine what you actually need as a beginner. In this guide, we’ll break down the essential supplies you should have on hand to start your knitting journey off on the right foot.

Knitting Needles

One of the most important tools in knitting is a set of needles. But with options ranging from straight needles to circular needles and everything in between, how do you choose? The key is to start with the basics and then experiment with different types as you become more comfortable with the craft.

For beginners, it’s best to start with a set of straight knitting needles. These are available in a variety of materials such as bamboo, plastic, and metal. Bamboo is often recommended for beginners because it provides a better grip on yarn and tends to be less slippery than other materials.

As for size, US size 8 (5mm) needles are a good starting point for most projects. This size needle will work well with medium-weight yarn and allow you to create smaller or tighter stitches if needed. As you gain experience, you may find that certain patterns call for different sizes of needles depending on the type of project or yarn being used. It’s always helpful to have a variety of needle sizes on hand as your skills progress.

Yarn

When it comes to yarn, there are countless options available. Different fibers and weights create unique textures and finishes – but don’t let all the choices intimidate you! As a beginner knitter, it’s best to stick with medium weight (also known as worsted weight) yarn in acrylic or wool. These types of yarn are easy to work with and provide good stitch definition.

When it comes to color, solid or variegated yarn is best for beginners. Steer clear of fancy yarns with textures or sequins until you gain more experience and have a better understanding of how to work with them.

Notions

Notions are the little extras that make knitting easier and more enjoyable. While they may not be essential, having some basic notions on hand can save you time and hassle when working on a project. Here are a few must-haves for any beginner knitter:

– Scissors: A pair of small, sharp scissors is essential for cutting yarn and weaving in ends.
– Tapestry needles: These large eye needles are used for sewing in loose ends when finished with a project.
– Stitch markers: These small rings or clips are placed on your needles to mark specific stitches in a pattern.
– Row counter: This handy tool helps you keep track of how many rows you’ve completed.
– Measuring tape: You’ll use this to measure your gauge (more on that later) and check the size of your project as you go.

Additional Accessories

As you become more proficient in knitting, there are some additional accessories that can make your life easier. While these aren’t essential for beginners, they can come in handy and make the knitting process more enjoyable.

– Needle gauge/ruler: This tool helps you determine the size of your needles if they’re not labeled.
– Point protectors: These small caps fit over the ends of your needles to prevent stitches from falling off when not in use.
– Yarn bowl/bag: These help keep your yarn clean, untangled, and free from dirt or pet hair while you work.
– Blocking mats/pins: Used to shape and smooth out projects after completion.

The Importance of Gauge

Before you start your first knitting project, it’s important to understand the concept of gauge. Essentially, gauge is the number of stitches and rows per inch that you get when knitting with a particular needle size and yarn. It’s crucial to follow the gauge indicated in your pattern to ensure your finished project matches the intended measurements.

To measure your gauge, follow the instructions in your pattern for creating a gauge swatch. This small sample piece of knitting will allow you to determine if you’re getting the same number of stitches and rows as specified in the pattern. If not, you may need to adjust your needle size or tension until you get it just right.

Where to Buy

Now that you know what supplies you need, where do you buy them? The good news is that most craft stores carry all the necessary supplies for knitting beginners. You can also find many options online through sites like Amazon or Etsy.

If you’re not sure where to start, consider visiting a local yarn store. The staff will likely be able to help you select the perfect needles and yarn for your first project and answer any questions you may have.

Conclusion

Starting a new hobby can be intimidating, but with these essential supplies

1. What equipment do I need to start knitting?
To start knitting, you will need a set of knitting needles, yarn, and a pair of scissors. You may also want to invest in a tape measure and darning needle for finishing your projects.

2. What size needles should I buy for a beginner?
For beginners, it is recommended to start with medium-sized needles (around US size 8 or larger) as they are easier to handle and work with. As you gain experience and try different techniques, you can experiment with smaller or larger sizes.

3. What kind of yarn is best for beginners?
For beginners, it’s best to start with smooth, medium weight (worsted) yarn made from high-quality natural fibers such as wool or cotton. These types of yarn are easier to work with and result in more consistent stitches.

4. How much yarn should I buy for my first project?
The amount of yarn you need depends on the size of your project and the weight/thickness of your chosen yarn. As a general rule, it’s best to purchase slightly more than what the pattern recommends to account for any mistakes or variations in tension.

5. Do I need all different types of needles for different knitting techniques?
Not necessarily. There are different types of needles such as straight, circular, and double-pointed needles that can be used for various techniques. However, as a beginner, it’s best to start with straight or circular needles as they are the most versatile.

6. Should I invest in expensive knitting supplies?
It’s not necessary to buy expensive supplies when starting out with knitting. As long as your needles are smooth and your yarn is good quality, you can create beautiful projects without breaking the bank. You can always upgrade your supplies later on if you feel the need.

In conclusion, starting knitting can be an exciting and fulfilling hobby that not only allows for creative expression but also has numerous benefits for mental well-being. Before diving into this new craft, it is important to have the right tools and materials to set yourself up for success. From yarn to needles and accessories, there are many options to consider when beginning your knitting journey.

Firstly, understanding the different types of yarn and their properties is crucial in determining the outcome of your project. It is worth investing in high-quality yarn, as it can make a significant difference in the overall look and feel of your finished product. Additionally, choosing the right needles for your desired project and personal preference is essential in ensuring comfortable and efficient knitting.

Aside from yarn and needles, there are also various helpful accessories that can enhance your knitting experience. Stitch markers, row counters, cable needles, and tapestry needles are some examples of useful tools that can aid in achieving professional-looking results. These can often be found in convenient beginner kits or individually purchased at most craft stores.

Moreover, acquiring a few basic techniques such as casting on, knit stitches, purl stitches, and casting off can provide a strong foundation for beginners to build upon. With practice and patience, one can gradually progress to more advanced techniques and patterns

Author Profile

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Jill Nammar
My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.