Knitting, learning to knit step by step. Knitting for beginners from scratch

If you want to understand the science of knitting, then first of all you should get acquainted with the main types of loops, learn to recognize and knit them. After you have mastered the basics of knitting, you can start making patterns. For beginners learning knitting needles, it is best to take light patterns.

The opinion that simple knitting patterns are boring is wrong; there are a lot of beautiful patterns among them. We will introduce you to the most popular ones in this article; for clarity and ease of learning, we will provide a knitting diagram for each of them.

Unopened simple knitting patterns for beginners

Among the easiest drawings are the following:

"Checkers"

They are small and large. For children it is better to take the first, and for adults the second. Performed according to the following schemes:

small checkers

large checkers

The following conventions are used for these schemes:

Only odd rows are indicated on them, and even rows should be knitted purlwise.

"Lightning"

We read this diagram using the following notation:

“Pearl”, “rice” or “putanka”

Actually, the “pearl” pattern is not so embossed, the protrusions are small, while the “rice” is more convex, it is also called “large pearl” or double.

"Diamonds"

The diagram uses the same symbols as for the “Checkers” pattern.

“Diamonds” will look great on golf or a sweater. It can be knitted in combination with any other simple knitting pattern or even the usual stockinette or garter stitch.

All these patterns are recommended to be used for making warm winter clothes: sweaters, long-sleeved jackets, hats, mittens and scarves. This is due to the fact that for knitting them, knit and purl loops are used, but in different combinations.

Openwork simple knitting patterns with diagrams

Having mastered several openwork patterns, you can begin to openwork ones. To perform them, it is not enough to know knit and purl stitches; you should also become familiar with how to yarn over, draw through, and knit two or three loops simultaneously while bending.

"Simple openwork"

In the knitting pattern, only odd rows are indicated, since all even (purl) rows are made with purl loops.

If it is very small for you, then by adding a few loops you can get a larger pattern.

"Leaves in the Wind"

The diagram shows how to knit odd rows, and even rows should be done according to the pattern, only the yarn overs should be knitted purlwise. The result will be a drawing like this:

"Spikelets"

The broaching indicated in the diagram is performed as follows: remove 1 loop, knit the next one and pull it through the removed loop. In this pattern, as in “Leaves in the Wind,” there are only odd rows in the pattern, so here, too, we knit all the even rows according to the pattern, and purl the yarn overs. The result is a canvas like this:

"Lacy diamonds"

To get the pattern you need to knit 14 rows in height. Odd rows should be knitted according to the pattern, and even rows should be knitted like this: the 2nd, 4th and 6th - completely purl, and the 8th, 10th, 12th and 14th - according to the pattern, and the yarn overs - purl .

Due to the presence of holes in the fabric, such patterns are recommended for use for items intended to be worn indoors or in the warm season. These can be sleeveless blouses, sundresses, dresses, light hats and scarves.

It is recommended to initially knit the pattern on the sample, casting on 16-20 loops; when you have worked it out, you can start knitting the whole product with it. Knitting patterns for beginners are best complicated gradually. Move on to a new one only after you have learned how to knit the first one well (without mistakes).

If you want to learn how to knit, following step-by-step explanations aimed at beginners will make it easy to master this skill.

“Thinking is like cosmic knitting,” wrote Waldorf Rudolf Steiner almost a century ago. He developed a comprehensive curriculum for Waldorf students based on this idea, filled with knitting, sewing and woodworking, believing that "a person who is unskillful with his fingers will also be unskillful in his intellect, having fewer mobile ideas and thoughts." Today's Waldorf students still knit socks and kitchen spoons, and many Waldorf schools eschew the use of technology. These two things - handcraft and technology - may seem at first glance discordant. But there is a case where manual work and computing, and the process that links them, are more closely related than one might think.

When electrical engineering professor Dr Karen Shoop from Queen Mary University of London took over her first knitting studio, she immediately noticed that knitting was a lot like writing computer code. "I've noticed that knitting instructions are mostly binary (like computers)—in other words, knit or purl," she said. “More interesting were the knitting instructions, which read just like the codes used for string matching and coding manipulation.” Schoop also acknowledges that the earliest stages of computing were inspired by handwork: “Of course, computers eventually began partly inspired by weaving. Some of the earliest programmers were probably people making card/paper hole patterns for weaving patterns.”

It is recommended to purchase bamboo needles for beginners because they are considered the easiest to work with. Metal and plastic needles can be a little slippery, which can cause problems for beginners if the stitches slip. If you've never picked up knitting needles, this is a great time to start.

Where to learn

You can learn to knit using different techniques, depending on your personal qualities:

Other knitters. For most people, the best way to learn to knit is to sit next to someone and teach you the basics. If you have a friend or relative who is a knitter, this is also a good way to spend quality time together.
Knitting groups. If you haven't been lucky enough to know people who can show you how to knit, then it's time to meet some. Your local yarn store has classes or knitting groups you can join.
Books. If you're the type who learns best from diagrams and written materials (or you avoid human interaction), the above options may not work for you. As for books, copies are popular due to their clear illustrations.
Useful sites. Of course, you can learn everything from a book or one of the many online classes and tutorials.

Once you've learned the basic stitches and vocabulary, there's still tons to learn about knitting. If you don't want to choose something too difficult to start with, gradually improve your skills by trying projects that challenge and motivate you to learn new techniques and stitches.

If you get confused or stuck, just ask another knitter. Most of them are more than happy to help you.

Practical minimum

The basics of knitting are quite simple, you need two basic stitches and everything else is a variation or combination of the two. These stitches are "knitted" and "crimped" (basically back to front knitting). Then from there it gets more complex.

Start with a slip knot and place a loop on the left needle. Now insert the right needle into this stitch from front to back and wrap the yarn around the back of the right needle.
Then pull out the correct needle, bringing the yarn to it.
Place the tip of the left needle under this loop and thread the loop onto the needle from the right needle.
Remove the correct needle and tighten the stitching. You should now have two stitches on your left needle. Continue doing this until you have as many stitches as you want. For your first pattern, it is recommended to start with about 20 stitches, but remember that this is unlikely to turn into anything. This is just for practice.
The crochet stitch starts out exactly the same as this lure. Insert the right needle into the first stitch of the left needle and wrap the yarn around the right needle. Pull out the right needle, bringing a new loop to it.
This time you will leave a new stitch on the right needle and slip a stitch that you just put into the left needle (that loop at the tip of the needle). It may seem scary to line up your stitch, but you'll be fine.

When learning to knit, the most common mistake people make is not slipping the stitch they just worked with the left needle. Instead, they work on that stitch again, which increases the total number of stitches.

At the end of your row you will switch your needles so that the one with all the stitches is now the left needle. Work the crochet stitch over and over again until you become comfortable with it and create stitches that are relatively straight. As you improve, your seams will align. Once you've mastered the knit stitch, go back to start learning another basic stitch: the crinkle stitch.

Here are five tips for learning anything new based on your knitting experience:

Understanding a new language takes time. You need to understand needle size, yarn weight, and what those stitch code words mean. It's always worth remembering that learning a new language takes time. It can be overwhelming to give up everything after seeing a whole new set of terms without giving you time to understand what they mean and have time to practice them.
Learn the rules. When someone is learning for the first time, they need small wins and don't try to take on too much at the beginning. Failure early on can be off-putting.
Following a pattern makes it easier for you to learn. Following a pattern is a good way to learn some basics while trying to take on too much at once, which results in overflowing and missing some fundamental blocks.
Create a safe environment. People need a safe environment to learn, where mistakes can be made and risks taken. This may mean taking time to study with close support from others.
Ask others for advice. People should be able to explore new ideas by being able to learn from others and not be afraid to explore new ones. There is a lot of knowledge that is easily accessible.

3 Beginner knitting mistakes

You will make mistakes along the way. Mistakes are part of learning, so expect them. If you drop a stitch, keep moving forward. First the goal is to complete the basic knitting steps. Once you become comfortable with the knitting stitch, your hands will naturally settle into the rhythm of your knitting and you will make fewer mistakes. Think of your first ten lines as practice. Once the knitting is comfortable, consider starting a new scarf. You will be much more confident and your scarf will have fewer mistakes. Knitters since time immemorial and knitters in the future have and will make the same mistakes.

Drop stitches. At some point you will drop a stitch. It takes less than a minute to fix it.
Adding stitches. This happens to most newbies. There is one way to correct the added stitches - to trace the location of the error.
Thick knitting. Sometimes the nervous side takes over and you start grabbing your needles and tugging at your yarn.
The best way to prevent these three beginner mistakes is to keep knitting.

How to Read a Knitting Pattern

Once you've learned the basics of knitting - how to cast on and knit, how to work the knit stitch and the loop stitch - you'll be ready to start your first pattern. In the beginning, looking at a knitting pattern can be confusing. It is a special knitting language that uses many abbreviations and terms to save space and make patterns easier to read. So, the first thing you need to do is become familiar with knitting abbreviations.

Some of them are easy to understand, for example:

Basic stitch abbreviations: K or k = knit stitch, P or p = stitch.

The terms represent what you should do, for example:

CO= Enable. (This is how you start each pattern).
B.O.= Disable. (This is how you finish most jerseys, sometimes called discarding. They mean the same thing).
Inc= Increase. (Add one or more stitches. The most basic increase is to work from the front and then again to the back of the same stitch.).
Dec= decrease. (Eliminate one or more stitches. The most basic reduction is to make two stitches together as one. This can be done in both knitting and knitting stitches. Various ways of increasing and decreasing change the way a project works, and most designers have a specific method. So usually your the template will tell you how to do this.)
Rep= repeat. (Repeat the same again the number of times indicated in the pattern.)
Sl= Slip. (Slide the stitch or seams from one needle to the other without working).
YO= yarn. (Hold the yarn over the needle.)
Tog= together. (Work two or more stitches together to form a decrease.) This is typically used when you are working with a pattern and increasing (or decreasing) along the edges. This means that you keep the center piece in the pattern as you've already established, and will add (or subtract) stitches at each end without breaking that pattern. When enough new stitches have been added, they should be included in the pattern.

With abbreviations and deadlines in mind, let's look at a typical knitting pattern. Jerseys can be worked back and forth in rows to form a flat piece, or in rounds to form a seamless tube such as socks or hats. Special needles are used to work in rounds.

The instructions will first tell you to cast a certain number of stitches. But wait - before you can begin, you must place a slip knot on one of the needles. Templates will never tell you this - they just assume you know it.

There are many ways to start. Some give a nice stretchy edge; others provide a solid foundation. Unless the pattern tells you differently, use the method you know.

How to Read a Knitting Chart

Learn how to read a knitting chart with an easy step-by-step tutorial. Basic beginner patterns include both written instructions and a knitting chart. Once you understand the general structure of a knitting pattern, you'll find yourself wanting to conquer even more complex patterns and textures.

Knitting charts are a tool to help you understand how to knit a pattern. Most patterns come with both written knitting instructions and a chart. Consider a knitting chart as an additional aid in visualizing and understanding your project as a whole. The diagram itself is laid out in a grid quite simply. And this grid has small cells, like an Excel document or graph paper. Each of these boxes represents one stitch on your needle. The entire chart represents your knitting pattern.

Stitch symbols are small patterns that represent knitting techniques that can be used on each stitch of your design. Each box will be filled with either a jersey symbol or a down stitch. Each box on your knitting chart grid has a different stitch symbol in it to help you know when it's time to knit each stitch on the needle.

The overall diagram helps you see how the pattern is drawn in and the repetition portion is highlighted.

So we have our stitches on our needle. The very first stitch on your needle is here to the right of the row of stitches. When we knit our piece, we start from the bottom of our work. So that first stitch in the bottom right corner of our knitting pattern is in the same location as the bottom right corner of our knitting chart.

Knitting Instructions for Beginners

Knitting- a centuries-old craft, mainly practiced out of necessity; if you wanted socks or a sweater, previously you would have had to knit it yourself. Today, knitting is more of a hobby, although it is also an art form, and some might say it is becoming an obsession.

Knowing how to knit can seem overwhelming after looking at all the yarns and patterns. But don't let it get to you—even the most experienced knitter was once a beginner.

"Cast on" is the name of the technique used to get the first row of stitches on the needle, which is important for beginner knitters. There are several dialing methods. This is a versatile and durable basting that can be used for most projects.

It all starts with a loop, which is a knot that pulls up easily once you place it on the needle.

How to make a loop the right way:

With the tail of the yarn in the palm of your hand, wrap the working yarn around your index and middle fingers and fold the working yarn over the tail end, forming an X.
Massage your fingers a little and push the working yarn with your fingers from the back of your hand.
Pull this loop a little while holding the tail of the yarn to form a knot.
Place the loop on the knitting needle and pull the working yarn to adjust the tension.

How to knit: long tail method:

Make a loop and place on the right needle.
Place the index finger of your left hand between the ends of the yarn so that the working yarn is around your index finger and the end of the tail is around your thumb.
Using your other fingers, secure the ends a few cm below the needles. Keep your palm up while making a V.
Bring the needle up the loop on your thumb, take the first thread around your index finger with the needle and go back down the loop on your thumb.
Lower the loop from your thumb and, placing your finger back in a V configuration, carefully tighten the resulting stitch on the needle.
The stitches should slide back and forth easily on the needle without looking loose or stuck.

Beginner knitting practice: 20 stitches

Now pull all the stitches out of the needle and make 20 stitches again. Repeat this process until you feel really comfortable with this technique. When you're just learning to knit, it takes time to strengthen your memory.

One of the objects of the knitting game is to move stitches from your left needle to your right needle, introducing new rows of stitches into the process.

Hold the needle with cast stitches in your left hand, the empty needle in your right hand. Hold the needles a few cm from the tips, between the thumb and first pair of fingers.
With the working thread at the back of the needle, insert the right needle into the front of the first stitch (closest to the tip) from left to right.
Now use your right index finger to bring the yarn between the needles from front to back.
With your right hand, pull the right needle - which now has a loop of yarn around it - towards you and through the stitch. You now have a stitch on your right needle. All you have to do to finish the stitch is move the old stitch off the left needle. Tow gently on the working thread to secure the new seam.
Repeat this process at the end of the line. As you have knitted each stitch in the row, you will have an empty needle in your left hand. Replace the needles so that the “full” needle is in the left hand and the empty one is in the right hand and do it again.

Continental knitting method

There are several ways to achieve a knit stitch; the two most popular are the English method (also called "throwing") and the continental method (also called "gathering"). The above information refers to the English method, in which the working yarn is held in the right hand. In this method, the yarn is held in the left hand. Practice both methods to see what works best for you. There is no right or wrong way to knit. To use the Continental knitting method, follow these steps:

With the working thread under and at the back of the needle, place the tip of the right needle between the front and back of the first stitch on the left needle. The tip of the needle should be pointing towards you.
Wrap the yarn counterclockwise around the right needle (the one you just passed through the stitch.
Pull the right needle back enough to slip under the left needle and pull the yarn with it through the seam on the left needle.
Remove the stitch from the left needle. You have just created a new seam.

Binding

Once you have finished knitting you will need to remove your needles unless your stitches are reversed. This process is called binding. Even beginners will be able to communicate easily by following these simple instructions.

Knit two stitches as usual, moving to the correct needle.
Place the left needle in the first stitch (the one furthest to the right).
Pull this stitch up and over the second stitch and pull it all the way out of the needle.
Knit one more stitch and repeat the third step. Pull the stitch further to the right and new stitch and release the needle completely.
Repeat step four until there is only one stitch left on the right needle.
Finish the yarn by cutting it and threading it through the last loop. Pull the yarn to tighten.

If you make a mistake, keep moving. You're doing nothing but practicing knitting, so you can ignore the mistakes and just keep practicing knit stitch.

Once you start knitting the downstitch, you will be confident.

Why not start with a super simple scarf like the one shown above. This scarf is knitted with a super chunky yarn. To start, take a size 13 needle, place on 12 stitches and knit until you have 12cm of yarn left, then tie it off and sew it into the ends.

Knitting needle selection

All knitting needles perform the same important function, but different types of needles are available in the market depending on the type of knitting project. These are single point, bi-directional and round needles.

Single needles, also sometimes called straight needles, are pointed at one end and driven into the other, allowing knitting from a single point. Are these needles used for back and forth knitting? and creating flat knitted products.

Double pointed needles are straight needles with both ends and are sold in sets of four or five. These needles are used as a kit to create tubular objects such as socks.

Circular needles are two straight, unidirectional needles connected together by a flexible cable. They can be used for both flat knitting and bulk knitting. As a result, they are increasingly becoming the preferred type of knitting needle among knitting enthusiasts who don't want to stock up on different needles for different projects. Round needles are available as fixed round needles and as interchangeable round sets, with the ability to change cable length and needle tip size to suit project requirements, giving them great value.

Learning to knit on your own is a completely normal desire for every woman. Sooner or later almost everyone comes to this. Therefore, knitting is considered the most popular hobby among the fair half of humanity. The issue of teaching this skill becomes especially relevant during the period when a girl is carrying a child. Moreover, the process of knitting calms and distracts from anxious thoughts. Also, every expectant mother wants to knit her baby’s first clothes with her own hands, putting all her love into the outfit. And most importantly, such a product will be made in a single copy.

In order to learn this craft on your own, you need to be patient. You need to be very careful and attentive.

The success of knitting depends on the right choice. It is very important that the instrument is comfortable to hold in your hands. There are 5 main types of knitting needles:

Regular knitting needles are straight, tapering towards the end. They are usually used for flat knitting.
Circular - two knitting needles connected to each other using a flexible cord. They help to produce a whole product, without unnecessary joints.
Flexible - small metal knitting needles, extended with a cable. Ideal for knitting complex patterns.
Stocking stitches are similar to regular ones, but the set comes with 5 pieces at once: loops are placed on four, and the fifth is knitted. They are suitable for knitting footwear, mittens, and socks.

Knitting tools are made from different materials; they can be metal, wood or plastic. Each type has its own characteristics. So, for example, the last two types are easy. However, wooden knitting needles can snag threads, and plastic knitting needles break quickly. Metal ones are heavier and can stain light threads, but they will last for many years.

In addition to the type, knitting tools differ in size. It is best to purchase them in the same thickness as the yarn. This way you can produce a higher quality product.

Thread selection

When choosing yarn, you need to know that it comes in two types:

Natural,
Synthetic.

It’s up to you to decide which yarn to knit from. Natural ones usually cost less, and besides, things made from them are pleasant to the body and do not prick. Natural thread, although it will tingle a little, causing some discomfort, but the skin in such clothes will breathe.

Do not buy yarn that is too thin; products made from it will come out shapeless. When choosing yarn, carefully read the manufacturer's information. As a rule, the packaging indicates the size of the knitting needles suitable for knitting.

Before you begin the main work, you should knit a test piece measuring approximately 10 by 10 cm. By counting the number of loops and rows on it, you can figure out the size of the product.

First steps for beginners

First you need to understand that there are two types of knitting - flat and cylindrical, but either of them starts with loops.

Set of loops

It is necessary to try knitting precisely from this, and it is better to start with the simplest set, after mastering which, complex loops will be much easier.
Distribute the yarn on the palm of your left hand strictly in the center so that the “tail” is on the left and the ball is on the right. Wrap the piece of thread that is located above and goes to the ball around the circumference of your thumb. Now draw the thread to your index finger and go around it from behind. Pass the thread between the second and third fingers. Two strings should fit comfortably in your palm.

The time has come to pick up the tool - 2 knitting needles, which must be passed from above, through the loop located on the thumb. Guide the tools through the buttonhole towards the other loop, which is on your index finger. Pass the tools through the second loop and return to the first. This will form a knot.

For beginners, this whole “Abra-Kadabra” may seem insanely complicated, although in fact it is not at all so. If the information is difficult to perceive, then you should watch a video that will help you learn how to make chic things from threads. Be patient and don't stop trying, you will definitely succeed!

Basics

To learn the craft, after typing, you need to move on to the knitting process. There is a basic technique on the basis of which all products are subsequently knitted. It involves knitting stitches using the knit and purl method.

Knit loop for beginners

Having cast the loops onto two knitting needles, carefully remove one of them. So, they will remain on the left, and the right will be free and will become working. Place the thread stretching from the ball on the index finger of your left hand and hold it between three fingers so that it does not interfere. We simply move the first loop onto the working tool; there is no need to knit it. Now insert the tool into the next loop, grabbing the working thread. Thread it through the stitch and move the new stitch from the left needle to the working needle. Do the same with the remaining loops.

Purl loop

Place the thread in front of the product, insert the working needle behind the front wall of the loop and throw the working thread under the tool in your right hand, now pull the captured thread into the loop. Do the same with the remaining loops.

To avoid problems with learning how to knit from scratch, these exercises should be done several times until the whole process becomes automatic. First knit 5 rows knit, then the same number purl, unravel and repeat the process again. The more training a novice craftswoman does, the easier it will be to start knitting real products.

Learning to knit an elastic band

Making elastic is an important learning step, because it is present in many products. Having learned how to shape it, you can knit socks, mittens, sweaters, and cardigans without any problems.

The technique is based on alternating knitting and purling. First you need to make sure that the edge of the product is neat. To do this, move the first loop to the working tool. The next two loops need to be knitted, then purled. Alternate the two types of knitting until you have knitted the entire row. Please note that the last stitch should always be a purl stitch, even if the knit stitch falls in the order.

This is a simple way to make elastic on woolen products from scratch.

Technique for narrowing and expanding the product

Often, in the process of making a wool product with your own hands, in some places it is necessary to narrow or expand it. To avoid any difficulties, you should master this technique in advance.

In order to add or subtract a couple of stitches, you should start either after the first, unknitted buttonhole, or at the end of the row, before the last (edge) buttonhole, so you won’t spoil the pattern.

Most often, adding or subtracting loops is done on the front side, unless otherwise indicated in the instructions that you follow when making the product. To decrease a loop, you simply need to knit two buttonholes at the same time.

There are three ways to add loops that every beginner should know.

Method 1 – broaching

To add a loop in this way, you need to make another one from the thread located between the loops, using the front method behind the back wall. If you do this procedure behind the front wall, a hole will form in the finished product.

Method 2 – yarn over

Before knitting the next loop, throw a ball of thread onto the tool, which you hold with your left hand. This method is used quite rarely, since small holes remain on the product.

Method 3 – increase from the row made earlier

Consistency is important here. First, using a working knitting needle, you need to hook a loop from the row in front and knit it in the usual way, and then move on to the next loop. Adding loops in this way does not leave any traces in the form of unwanted holes.

Closing the loops

So, now that you have mastered the basics of this craft from scratch, you need to master the process of closing the loops. After the item is finished, the loops must be closed correctly, otherwise they will unravel when removed from the knitting needles.

Knit the first two stitches at the same time to make one. This is done in the same way as when decreasing loops.
Repeat the same thing, only now using the loop that you got.
Pull a wool thread through two loops, again forming a loop that needs to be thrown onto the right knitting needle.
Such manipulations should be done until the end of the row, and the very last stitch should be knitted.
Now the knitting needle can be removed from the loops and the thread tightened.

In terms of knitting, there are quite a few of them, but here are the most basic ones:

Don't be afraid to start learning from scratch. You may not succeed on the first try, but over time you will be able to do any things on your own.
Before starting work, it is important to carefully study the instructions. Since misunderstanding or misinterpretation will lead to the product being of poor quality or not working at all.
First of all, it is better for a beginning girl to learn how to make small pieces of yarn measuring 10 by 10 cm. The more training she has, the more quickly the craftswoman will master all the nuances.
The first items will be experimental, so it is better to give preference to lighter products. Choose loose models, since a novice craftswoman is unlikely to be able to make a complex, fitted item.
Beginners should buy colored rings in specialized stores. They help mark places where you need to add or decrease stitches, which makes your work much easier.
If you feel tired in your hands when making large elements, then it makes sense to use circular knitting needles for the work.
For beginner girls who decide to try a technique using several colored threads, it will be useful to purchase a special ring. It usually has several loops for threads, so they will not tangle.
It's useful to have plastic or rubber knitting valves in your crafting arsenal. They hold the product on the knitting needles when work is interrupted.
If there is a need to unravel part of the product, then it is better to transfer the loops to a thinner knitting needle, so you will not lose any of them.
An important tip for those who are learning from scratch is that using a hook to hide the ends of the threads at the final stage of work is much faster and more convenient.
When making things from angora, it is necessary to add a silk thread that matches the color scheme. This way the finished product will better retain its shape.
To prevent the neck of the finished product from stretching, add a thin elastic band to the wool thread when closing the loops.

Now the question of how to learn to knit on your own should not bother you. By following the basic rules and using the tips given in practice, you will be able to delight your loved ones with things made with your own hands, and the process itself and the resulting result will bring real pleasure.

Many people have hobbies that they love to do. Knitting is just such a pastime. Thanks to this type of activity, a variety of crafts, toys or beautiful clothes are obtained. If you have never done it, but really want to, then you most likely have a question in your head about how to learn to knit from scratch. If you really like this leisure option and want to master this activity, purchase the necessary knitting attributes and use the step-by-step instructions below.

Necessary materials and tools used when knitting

To start knitting, prepare everything you need in advance. Without basic tools, you won’t succeed, so go to a special store that sells everything for needlework to buy:

Yarn of the required color (your choice).
Regular knitting needles.
Knitting needles for knitting braids or plaits. They look like regular ones, only they are curved in the middle.
Circular. Ordinary knitting needles connected to each other with a special fishing line. Needed for knitting items in the round or large size fabrics.
Hosiery. Comes in a set of five pieces. Used to knit socks, necklines, hats, and mittens in the round. Four knitting needles are placed on the fabric in a circle, and the fifth knitting needles are used to knit the loops. In this way you will get a solid product that has no seams.
Large needle with a large eye. It will help to sew the parts of the product together.
Labeling clip.
Pin for passing stitches over to leave them undone.

Step-by-step instructions and patterns for knitting from scratch

Once the tools and materials are prepared, it’s time to learn the basics of knitting. Start with the very first steps: casting on loops, doing knit and purl stitches, knitting small napkins or fragments of any product. Don't be discouraged if things don't work out. During the learning process, you will have to redo everything in a new way more than once. Below you will see step-by-step instructions describing how to learn to knit from scratch with regular knitting needles.

Set of loops

The very first step in the process of knitting any product is a set of loops. To do this, use one of two main methods. At first glance, the patterns described below may seem difficult to perform, but it is all easy to remember in the process of regular knitting. Practice several times, using both options, to choose the one that is more suitable for you. After the description, you will find a video that clearly shows how loops are cast on.

The basic method of casting on the first row using two knitting needles:

Place the thread in the middle of your palm (the end should be down, and the side that leads to the ball should be opposite). Move the upper part around the thumb from right to left and lead it to the index finger, grasping it from behind. Pass the thread between the second and third fingers, place it in your palm so that you grab both ends with your middle, ring and little fingers.
Take both knitting needles in your right hand and use them to hook the loop on your thumb (on the back side) from top to bottom.
Continue moving towards the thread on your index finger, prying it from top to bottom, and again insert the ends into the first loop.
Remove your thumb while tightening the knot on the right needle. In this case, both working fingers should fix the ends of the thread.
Holding the resulting loop on the knitting needles with the index finger of your right hand, lower them down towards you. It turns out that the thread is again around two fingers.
This time, use the knitting needles to hook the thread on the thumb from the bottom up from the side of the palm and again pull it into the loop on the index finger.
Next, perform the steps from step 4 again.
Repeat what is indicated in step 6 to dial a whole row.

With one spoke:

Place the thread in your palm so that its end goes down.
The second side, which goes through the hand from above, going around the index finger, and originates in the ball, then pinch it between the ring and little fingers.
Using a knitting needle, pull the thread toward you at the point where it touches your index finger. Immediately turn the tool away from you so that the yarn twists around it.
Circle the knitting needle around your index finger and insert it under the thread in a motion towards you (it will turn out that you remove the yarn from your finger).
For each new loop, perform the movements indicated in step 4.

How to learn to knit knit and purl stitches

The knitting process of any product is always based on a certain technique, which consists of two types of loops: knit and purl. Only their number changes in accordance with the instructions of the selected pattern. Study the diagram carefully before starting work so as not to get confused. After studying the step-by-step description, you will be able to consolidate the instructions by watching the video material.

Knit loop the first way:

Hold the thread at the back of the product.
Pass the free needle through the middle of the loop.
Pull out the thread leading to the ball from the back wall, grabbing it with a knitting needle in a downward motion. Drop the loop that was on the left needle.

Knit loop in the second way:

The pattern remains the same as in the first method, only this time grab the working thread from the front wall of the loop.

Purl stitch, first method:

Always keep the working thread in front of the product.
Insert the free needle behind the front wall of the loop.
Throw the working thread under the tool in your right hand.
Pull the caught thread into the loop.

Purl type of knitting, second method:

Insert the free knitting needle behind the front wall of the loop, move the tool to the right so that the satin stitch is underneath it.
Throw the working thread onto the knitting needle to pull it through the loop.

Rib knitting lesson 22

The rib knitting method 22 is an alternation of two types of knitting: knit and purl, two loops of each option. This is how the bottoms of sweaters, vests, sleeves, necks, and cardigans are knitted. To see how this technique is performed, see the step-by-step instructions below. After studying it, strengthen your skills with the video below. The sequence for performing elastic band 22 is as follows:

Slip the first stitch onto a free needle. This is necessary for the edge to be beautiful.
From the second loop, knit two knit stitches, then two purl stitches.
Continue this way until the end of the row.
Always knit the very last stitch as a purl stitch, regardless of the pattern.

Knitting rope

Knitting any pattern always involves counting stitches and rows. You will perform them in both purl and stockinette stitch. A plait is a braid; its creation requires alternating knitting options through a certain number of loops. Check out the step-by-step instructions below for how to knit this pattern correctly. Here is an example of knitting a fabric with a width of 12 loops. If the description is unclear to you, reinforce the technique by checking the steps in the video.

In this case, the braid is made in the center and consists of six loops. Start the row with three purls.
Afterwards, knit 6 stitches using stockinette stitch.
The last three are purl.
Repeat the next row, only this time knit three stitches in stockinette stitch first, and then follow the pattern.
When the braids need to be turned on the fabric, tie at least four rows in the manner described above.
Having reached the next front row, where the pattern changes, knit three purl loops.
Next comes the braid, which is knitted using stockinette stitch. Skip the first three loops of the harness, and continue knitting with the fourth.
Carefully remove all 4 loops. You can put them on a pin.
Place the knitted loop on the right needle. And three unknitted ones - return to the left.
Next, knit according to the pattern.
Be sure to remember how many rows there are before each twist of the rope so that the pattern turns out beautiful and neat.

How to knit an English rib

This knitting method involves a technique that is also based on a combination of purl and knit stitches. English elastic is used to create the bottom of sweaters, sleeves, the edges of socks, cuffs on slippers or mittens. To fully understand the lesson, study the step-by-step instructions and video material below, in which the master shows the sequence of performing the English elastic band.

Cast on stitches on two needles, knit one row 11: alternating knit stitch - purl stitch.
The English rib pattern begins with the next line: throw the first loop onto the tool in your right hand, and knit the next one like a knit stitch.
Afterwards, yarn over the thread on the right needle. Purl stitch. Continue in this style, alternating both knitting options.
Knit the next row like this: slip the first stitch, and knit the second stitch through two with a double crochet at the end.

Knitting the “Bumps” pattern

After looking at the following diagram, you will become acquainted with an interesting pattern in the form of openwork patterns called “Bumps”. To perform it you will need a special technique that you can learn. This pattern is used for knitting various sweaters, hats, scarves, and mittens. Follow the step-by-step instructions below to find out how it's done. The video below will help you reinforce the lesson.

In the new row, place the first stitch on the right needle, and purl the second stitch. The next five will be knitted over (as described in the lesson on knitting an English rib), but knit them from one loop of the current row.
Next come three purl loops.
Continue alternating until the end of the row. Stretch it and move on to the next one.
Here the knitting sequence changes: the knit stitch comes first.
Each “Bump” is located on five rows, and the sixth one covers the picture.
Transfer the first loop to another knitting needle, and knit the next one as a knit stitch.
Next come 5 loops - pass a knitting needle through them and knit another knit stitch.
Knit the next three stitches in stockinette stitch.
Repeat the described steps until the end of the row.
Knit the next row completely with purl stitches.

How to close loops

When the product is ready, it is necessary to finish knitting correctly. To do this, the loops are closed so that the fabric does not unravel. You can learn this technique by reading the step-by-step instructions below. If any point is unclear or you need to reinforce the knitting method, watch the video tutorial attached below.

Knit the first two stitches. From them you will get a new one - throw it on the left knitting needle.
Repeat the movement, only using the resulting loop. Pull the product a little and continue knitting.
Pull the thread through two loops: you will again form a new one - throw it onto the left knitting needle.
Continue this way until the end of the row until all the loops are completed.
At the very end you will have one loop left. Knit it, pull out the knitting needle and tighten the thread.

How to learn to read knitting patterns

To facilitate the process of creating a planned product with any pattern, there are detailed diagrams describing the knitting technique. However, sometimes these instructions are difficult to read, especially if you are an inexperienced knitter, because they use certain abbreviations. Be sure to pay attention to the explanation given at the end, or remember the main abbreviation. Additionally, there are some rules for reading diagrams. You can check them out below.

If you are using a pattern that describes knitting in the round, read it from right to left.
Always understand the instructions before you start knitting so you don't waste time reading while you work.
The edge loop is indicated by a plus sign, and its abbreviation looks like this: “edge.” P.".
Purl is abbreviated as “purl.” P.". You can find it in the diagram using a white square that is crossed out inside.
The front loop in the diagrams is abbreviated as “l. P." and is indicated by a black square.
The cape is abbreviated as “n.” and has a sign in the form of a triangle without a base.

Video tutorials on knitting for beginners

If you are full of enthusiasm and have seriously decided to learn how to beautifully knit some patterns of things, first try to create a simple product - footwear. In the future, use different lessons for beginners to gain knitting skills. For example, watch four videos below that show in detail how to knit an original scarf; independently create two options for warm socks for the winter; make cute baby booties for the youngest member of the family.

Detailed lesson on knitting a scarf

Video course on knitting socks

A simple way to knit booties for beginners

Where to start knitting? Beginners ask this question quite often, but there is no answer. Or rather, this is not the answer they want to hear. It is impossible to say that there is any product that will be optimal for the first experience. Everyone has different tasks, different levels of patience, accuracy and attentiveness. It is important that your first experiments in knitting are not a burden to you and do not irritate you, then the work will go smoothly in any case, whether you start with a simple one, knitted with an elastic band, with or with. But there are general rules that you need to follow, no matter what model you choose to work with, and not only for your first experiments. And in fact, this is where knitting begins.

Yarn and tool

Knitting for beginners and starting to crochet have their own characteristics, but the basic rules are the same. We begin work with the selection of yarn and tools.

Experienced needlewomen often look for a model to match the yarn they bought for the occasion or they liked, but for those who are just starting their journey in knitting, it is better to go the traditional route and try to buy yarn specifically for the product that they plan to knit. As a rule, the instructions for the model indicate either the exact brand of yarn, or at least its composition. By choosing a thread, if not exactly the same (it happens that the price of the original yarn is very “biting”), but as close as possible to the original in composition and the ratio of the weight of the skein and the length of the thread, you can save yourself from the difficult and not always possible recalculation of loops. Even when knitting a scarf, it is better to understand exactly what you can get than to knit according to the description from a thread three times thinner and get a much narrower and shorter scarf.

Please note: it is better to always buy a little extra yarn, especially if you still have little experience in knitting. It’s better to have some thread left over than to have to buy an additional skein: even if you buy exactly the same yarn, you will most likely buy a skein from a different batch, and its color will be different. This will be especially noticeable on a plain canvas.

Before you start knitting, check the performance properties of the yarn you purchased: does it lose color, shrink, or stretch much? Finding this out before you start knitting will, again, save a lot of time and keep you in a good mood.

If you are knitting your first piece, start by using the knitting needles or hook number indicated in the instructions. But if necessary, after completing the samples, you may have to change the tool to a thinner or thicker one. ()

Pay attention to pleasant and important little things that can greatly help you in your work. Stitch counters and markers, pins and shaped knitting needles for making braids and arans, special vases and baskets with slots that prevent the thread from getting tangled, and finally, a convenient basket in which you will store your work until you finish it - these are not the first things necessary, but knitting with such improvised means will most likely bring you more joy.

Samples

Knitting samples is an essential part of preparing to make a product. Even experienced craftswomen try not to neglect it, because with the help of a sample you can practice making a pattern for a future product. Beginning knitters should knit a swatch for each pattern they use. On the one hand, this is additional training, and on the other hand, it is with the help of a sample that you can find out how much your knitting density coincides with that indicated for the model.

To complete the sample, you need to knit it with a pattern or a combination of patterns, if so indicated in the description, a motif of at least 12 cm on each side, be sure to use the yarn and the knitting needles with which you plan to knit the product. After completing the pattern, you need to count how many loops (horizontal stripe) and rows (vertical motif loops) fit on an area measuring 10 x 10 cm. If the number is the same or very close to the one indicated in the instructions, then knit with the same knitting needles/hook. which are indicated. If the knitting density is greater (that is, there are more loops and rows in a 10x10 cm square than indicated), then take thicker knitting needles or a hook (usually increasing the number by half is enough, but sometimes by a whole number). If your knitting density is less than specified, then you need to take a thinner tool.

Tip: so as not to have to measure the density with a ruler every time, you can take a sheet of thick cardboard and cut out a window measuring 10x10 cm in it. By attaching it to the sample, you can easily count the number of rows and loops.

Please note that sometimes the descriptions indicate exactly how the density of the sample was measured - before/after washing, stretched or not. Naturally, you need to do the same thing as written with your sample.

Instructions and pattern

Before you start knitting, be sure to read the instructions and make sure that you understand every step of the garment, from casting on stitches to assembly. If you have questions about completing the pattern or you are not sure that you are able to figure out on your own how exactly to perform this or that action, seek help from more experienced knitters. Remember that figuring it out right away is much easier than redoing it later.

As for the pattern, of course, it makes life much easier, but it cannot be said that a pattern is always necessary in knitting. You cannot do without making a pattern if you are knitting something with a complex design or a model with a lot of decreases and increases. For example, like this.

You can afford not to make a pattern if you knit a model from simple rectangles (some sleeveless vests and jumpers, scarves, stoles, etc.).

In other cases, a pattern is desirable, but not necessary, especially if you have experience in knitting.

Please note that the instructions usually cover several sizes. Let's say, if a jumper can be knitted in sizes 36/38, 40/42 and 44/46, then the sizes will indicate 36/38 (40/42) 44/46, and in the future in the instructions all the data that appears before the brackets will be I will refer to size 36/38, those in brackets will refer to size 40/42, and, accordingly, those beyond brackets will refer to size 44/46.

For example, this one is designed for three different sizes.

Data for four sizes will be distributed in the same way, but in this case, either one more bracket will be added, say, (48/50) will appear at the end and for this size all data will be indicated in the second brackets, or two average sizes will be written in one brackets separated by a dash (like this: 36/38 (40/42 - 44/46) 48/50), and the data for them will be indicated, respectively, in brackets separated by a dash.

As for the size chart, if you knit from a magazine, then there should be an indication of what sizes are used, Russian or European, if this is a website instruction, then, as a rule, for transferable models the sizes are indicated in European, for example, on our website Mostly European sizes are indicated.