I would like to focus on the new knitter. This person has a stirring interest in knitting but not sure where to start. Here are some suggestions:
- Visit you LYS (Local Yarn Shop). There you will find everything you need to get started. You will know if it is the right place for you if the shop oozes friendly. Check out the yarn selections. You want good quality, but you also do not need to start out on a luxury fiber either. Check out the class schedule, usually you will find beginner classes at different times to accommodate most schedules.
- Investigate libraries, community colleges, churches, etc., these organizations often have knitting groups that welcome new knitters. The draw back is not having supplies to purchase.
- What if there isn't a LYS within a reasonable distance? There area a huge amount of knitting websites that sell supplies and there are also teachers, mentors and coaches that can interact with students online as well.
Purchasing your supplies can be very overwhelming. What exactly will you need to get started?
Well, your first project should be simple, able to be completed quickly, so there is that feeling of "instant gratification". You don't want a project that goes on and on. Interest is lost with a long repetitive, non stop knit. So, your supply list should be short and sweet too. Appropriate fiber for your project...you wouldn't want to use 100% wool yarn for a washcloth, you would rather choose a cotton or cotton blend. Your needles should be specific for your project as well. View these as tools of the trade. They will be reusable for many projects to come. I have encountered potential knitters who look at needles as just an expense, but better to view the purchase as an investment.
After your first couple of knitting successes are under way or completed, you might also consider some of the wonderful knitting needle kits that are on the market now. They come in a host of price ranges from the more expensive Addi Turbo Clicks to the very reasonable Knitter's Pride. These are circular needle sets that contain a variety of sizes within a set. It is always better to buy a set when possible because in the long run they are more economical.
Speaking of needles, as a long time teacher, knitting coach and mentor, I recommend to my students to invest in circular needles instead of straight needles. The reason being, you can knit flat on circulars, but you can't knit circularly on straight needles, also more cost effective. If you have never knit on circulars before, there really isn't much of a learning curve at all.
If you are a member of a knitting group, there are usually as many needle brands as there are members. Bring some yarn to swatch with and ask a member if they like their brand of needle and see if they would be willing to let you give their brand a try. It usually only takes a few minutes or so of knitting to make an informed decision...yeah or nay.
Once you find out the knitting notions that you prefer, perhaps your LYS or your online knitting supply source has a wish list that you can print out and post in a strategic place. That way at gift giving time, it can be used as a valued tool for the gift giver. Include web info, LYS info, pricing etc. The more information provided, the more likely it will be used. Also, be sure to add books to your list as well.
I hope that this information is helpful for you and that getting started will become the beginning of a long association with the world of knitting and all it's groups and members. We are a friendly bunch of people who love to share what we are knitting, finished or unfinished. It is a great way to get ideas for future projects and expand your knitting experience.
My current projects are, Hemp Face Cloths, ongoing, French Beret, Layering Shrug, Little Girl's Dress, pattern writing and organizing for my classes. I'm sure I have left out a few things as well.
I would love to know what projects you are working on. As always, if you get stuck or have a question, post in the comment section below, or email me: dee@youandmeknit.com. Skype and Face Time are available as well.
I hope you all have a great weekend and Happy Knitting!
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