Knitting is a craft that’s been around for centuries and has evolved into an art form. Over the years, knitters have come up with many different techniques to help them create beautiful patterns and shapes.
Here are 15 unique knitting techniques that you can use to unleash your creativity:
| Key Takeaways |
|---|
| – Knitting is a versatile and rewarding craft that offers numerous benefits for your mental health and wellbeing. |
| – Learning different knitting techniques can help expand your skillset and improve the quality of your work. |
| – There are many great resources available online and in your community that can help you learn more about knitting and connect with other passionate knitters. |
| – Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced knitter, there are many projects and patterns to choose from that can challenge and inspire you. |
| – Knitting is a wonderful way to express your creativity, de-stress, and make beautiful items for yourself and your loved ones. |
Yarn Over
A yarn over (yo) is a way of creating an extra stitch. It’s done by bringing the yarn forward, over the top of the right-hand needle, then taking it back again to make a loop on the left-hand needle. You then knit or purl this new stitch through this loop in order to create an extra stitch.
Yarn overs are commonly used in lace knitting as they’re used to increase stitches gradually and allow for patterned increases such as kfb (knit front and back).
They can also help you keep track of where you are in your row for example, if you need to increase every 8th row but have forgotten which one it is already!
There’s nothing quite like snuggling up with a cozy knit blanket. Check out our step-by-step guide to knitting your own masterpiece with the help of these handy tips.
Stranding
In stranded knitting, you hold the yarns in a different order than when you are knitting with one color. When you’re working with two colors, for example, you will hold them as follows:
- First yarn is held in your left hand and second yarn is held in your right hand.
- When working a stitch using first color (e.g., green), put both strands of second color on top of first color strand(s).
- When working another stitch using second color (e.g., red), put both strands of first color on top of second color strand(s).
Intarsia
Intarsia is a method of colorwork that involves knitting in separate sections of color. Each section has a different color and is joined together with a different color yarn, which means that you’ll need to carry the yarn along the back of your work (called “intarsia in the round”).
For this tutorial, we’ll be intarsia-ing our way through an argyle pattern. The finished project should look like this:
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Knit English-Style
Knitting English-style is a method used to create a stitch by pulling the yarn through from left to right. This technique can be used in combination with other methods and has many variations depending on how you hold your needles and how you pull the yarn in the first place.
Knit Continental Style
As you will see, knitting continental style is a creative way to weave a fabric that has an entirely different look and feel than what you may be used to.
The yarn is held in the left hand and wrapped counter-clockwise around the needle. Stitches are held in place with the thumb of your left hand while your right hand moves the work along. The result is a flat fabric with no visible floats (unlike English or American style).
Circular Knitting
Once you’ve mastered the basics of knitting, it might be time to take your skills to the next level. Circular knitting is one of those techniques that can help elevate your knitting to the next level and open up new possibilities in your finished projects.
Whether you want to make a hat, sock or scarf that has no seams, or maybe even an entire sweater in one piece, circular knitting is a great way to go!
First things first: what exactly does “circular knitting” mean? Well, it simply means that instead of working back and forth on straight needles like we do when we knit flat (also known as back-and-forth), this method uses circular needles with two points at each end connected by flexible wires between them so that they stay connected without slipping out of place.
If this sounds confusing now don’t worry! We have some key tips below for making sure everything goes smoothly from start to finish but first let’s talk about how cast on with this technique!
To get started with circular needles there are two main methods “knitting around” and “casting on.” With “knitting around,” begin by placing all stitches onto one needle then rotate clockwise until there are no gaps between stitches you’ll need A LOT more yarn than normal since there won’t be any breaks while working through them (more on this later).
This method works well if you’re making something small like hats or kids’ toys where having less bulk matters more than having perfect seam placement relative one another regardless whether they’re at opposite ends both sides together (which would require starting off with different amounts).”
Casting on” involves using both ends simultaneously so that there aren’t any gaps between stitches close enough together; however if done incorrectly could result in having too many stitches which makes pulling harder when trying create tension–and/or too few would cause holes throughout between
Winter is the perfect season to get your knitting needles out and start working on some cozy scarfs. Check out these 20 scarf patterns to keep you warm and stylish all season long.
Cables
Cables are a common knitting technique that can add texture, pattern and dimension to your knitting. There are many different types of cables, including twisted stitches, traveling stitches and crossed stitches.
Cables are often part of a more complex stitch pattern such as a cable panel or lace design but they also look great when worked on their own.
Fair Isle Knitting
Fair Isle knitting is a form of stranded knitting. It’s a popular technique that uses multiple colors in the same row. The color pattern is created by alternating between two or more colors within one row, creating an effect similar to fair isle embroidery.
Fair Isle knitting has been around for centuries and was once used as a way to create patterns on hand-knit sweaters, socks and mittens in Scotland. Today, it’s most popularly used for creating scarves, hats and gloves.
Fair Isle knitting can be done using 2 or more colours at once but only one colour at a time is knitted; when you change your yarn to work with another colour you will have to knot it in place before you begin working with that strand again (as shown below).
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Definition | A form of stranded knitting that uses multiple colors in the same row to create a color pattern |
| Technique | Alternates between two or more colors within one row, carrying unused colors across the back of the work |
| Benefits | Creates beautiful and intricate colorwork designs; provides an opportunity to experiment with different color combinations |
| Brands | Rowan, Cascade Yarns, Jamieson & Smith, Shetland Wool Week |
| Popular Projects | Sweaters, hats, mittens, and other items where a colorful pattern is desired |
Fair Isle knitting is a popular technique that allows knitters to create beautiful and intricate colorwork designs. This table highlights some of the key aspects of Fair Isle knitting, including its definition, technique, benefits, and popular brands. It also lists some of the popular projects that utilize this technique.
Entrelac Knitting
Entrelac knitting is a mosaic knitting technique that creates a fabric made up of blocks that are joined to each other. It’s also known as intarsia, double knitting and slip stitch colorwork. This mosaic technique creates a pattern where stitches are picked up from one row, then knit in the next row.
Each block is knitted using two colors at once so that the yarns always alternate between themselves.
The process of entrelac begins by casting on an odd number of stitches with one color (typically light) and working 1×1 ribbing for several rows before switching to another color (typically dark).
You will continue alternating between these two colors until you have reached your desired length or finished your pattern repeat; then bind off loosely!
Crochet is a fun and versatile craft that’s great for beginners. Jumpstart your crocheting journey with these 10 amazing patterns and get ready to create beautiful handmade items.
Double Knitting
Double knitting is a form of knitting that creates two separate layers of fabric at once. Unlike regular knitting, which only produces one layer of fabric at a time, double knitting has two separate right sides with the same pattern on each side.
In order to accomplish this effect, you’ll need to cast on twice as many stitches as your pattern calls for in order to create two equal-sized pieces of fabric at once.
For example: if your pattern calls for casting on 40 stitches in stockinette stitch (knit every row), then you should cast on 80 stitches instead! This allows you to work both sides simultaneously while still maintaining even tension throughout the piece.
Once both pieces are complete, you will sew them together using your preferred method(s). To create a garment from these pieces, simply follow whatever instructions are given by whatever pattern you choose!
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Definition | A form of knitting that produces two separate layers of fabric at once, creating two right sides with the same pattern on each side |
| Technique | Uses two colors of yarn, with one color worked on each right side of the work |
| Benefits | Creates a sturdy and reversible piece of fabric, with no wrong side; provides an opportunity to incorporate two different colors or patterns in a single piece |
| Brands | Patons, Lion Brand Yarn, Red Heart, Bernat, Caron, Knit Picks |
| Popular Projects | Scarfs, hats, mittens, blankets, and other items where a reversible, two-layer piece of fabric is desired |
Double knitting is a unique technique that allows knitters to create double-sided fabric with the same pattern on both sides. This table highlights some of the key aspects of double knitting, including its definition, technique, benefits, and popular brands. It also lists some of the popular projects that utilize this technique.
Slip Stitch Colorwork (aka Mingling)
The slip stitch colorwork technique is a great way to work colorwork without changing yarns. It’s an easy method that makes for a neat look, and it can be worked in either flat or circular knitting.
To work the slip stitch colorwork technique, you’ll need two colors of yarn and a pair of needles with points large enough to accommodate both strands of your chosen yarn together.
Begin by holding both strands together using one hand while working them with the other hand as if they were one single strand. Work up from the bottom edge of your knitting when you reach the point where you want your pattern to start (or continue), begin alternating which strand follows each row at that point.
Alternating rows will keep things tidy when working stockinette stitch on a flat piece or even when working garter stitch on a circular project like socks it keeps all sides looking good!
Looking to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to crochet fashion trends? Check out our list of 10 must-have crochet styles for 2023 to see what’s in store for the future of this popular craft.
Conclusion
There are many more knitting techniques to try, but these are some of the most common and useful ones.
You can find more info on them with a quick internet search or by asking your local yarn shop expert. Try them out and see which ones work best for you!
Further Reading
10 Knit Beret Patterns for Cozy Style All Winter Long – Get ready for winter with these 10 knit beret patterns that will add a cozy yet stylish touch to your outfits.
Knitting: A Creative Way to Unwind – Knitting is a wonderful way to unwind and relax. Find out how you can start knitting today and start reaping the benefits of this creative hobby.
Knitting Techniques: A Comprehensive Guide – Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced knitter, learning new knitting techniques can help you take your craft to the next level. Check out this comprehensive guide to learn more.
FAQs
What are the basic knitting techniques for beginners?
If you’re new to knitting, the basic techniques you’ll want to start with include casting on, knitting, purling, and binding off. These techniques will allow you to create simple yet beautiful projects like scarfs and hats.
What are some common mistakes to avoid in knitting?
Some common knitting mistakes to be aware of include dropped stitches, twisted stitches, and incorrect tension. However, with patience and practice, you can avoid these mistakes and improve your overall knitting skills.
How do I choose the right yarn for my knitting project?
When choosing yarn for your knitting project, consider the final product you’re trying to create, the fiber content of the yarn, the weight of the yarn, and the color. Make sure the yarn you select is appropriate for your skill level and the pattern you’re following.
Can knitting be used as a form of stress relief?
Yes, knitting can be a great way to relieve stress and anxiety. The repetitive motions of knitting can help create a calming effect that can help you feel more relaxed and centered.
What are some tips for improving my knitting skills?
To improve your knitting skills, consider practicing regularly, experimenting with new techniques, joining a knitting group or community, and seeking out online tutorials and resources. Additionally, make sure you’re using high-quality tools and materials and taking breaks when needed to avoid burnout.
Hellen James is the creator of Unified Crafts and has been crafting since she was a kid accompanied by her mom to the craft store, where she was free to choose whatever ignited her imagination.
