Beginner Knitter Field Guide
Congratulations on embarking into the wonderful world of knitting! While beautiful, empowering, and incredible, this new skill - like any other - comes with its hurdles.
This list of tutorials cover the basics and can be referred to when you hit a snag. Breathe, take your time, and revisit these as much as you need to. You’ve got this!
Try practicing these techniques on small swatches of about 20 stitches. These allow you to repeat techniques frequently and practice a lot of them without committing to a whole project. Worsted weight yarn (also labeled with a 4) on size US 8 / 5.0 mm is a comfortable place to start.
Foundational Techniques
Left-handed knitting (Mirror knitting)
Stitch Patterns & Shaping
SSK & K2tog (Decreases)
KFB - Knit front & back (Increase)
Knitting in the Round
*This is the same for circular and double pointed needles
Troubleshooting
Useful Tools
*These can be sorced locally at yarn stores
Finishing & Care
Once you’ve knit a few swatches, and maybe worked a small project, these are a few projects that are a great next step! No, they’re not too hard. Take the plunge and take your time. You can do a lot more that you may think.
Two by Two by Anne Gagnon
This classic hat features a clean 2x2 rib and is knit in worsted weight yarn.
Required techniques: ribbing, knitting in the round (magic loop or DPNs), decreasing, bind off.
Knitting the hat using magic loop would require one 40” US 6 / 4.00mm needle. Alternatively, you could start the hat on a 16” circular needle and switch to double pointed needles once the crown decreases make the hat too small for the circular needles.
Photo credit: Anne Gagnon
Step by Step Sweater by Florence Miller
This much-loved pattern is a great introduction to sweaters for the adventurous beginner. Florence has detailed video tutorials for every step, and you’ll be in good hands the whole time.
Required techniques: ribbing, increasing and decreasing, knitting in the round
Photo credit: Florence Miller
Vanilla Socks by The Blue Mouse
These worsted, stockinette socks knit up quickly and are a great staple for cooler months. This pattern includes a full video tutorial.
Required techniques: ribbing, knitting in the round, decreasing, picking up stitches, the kitchener stitch*
*This is a fun level up! Take your time, and walk it through with the video.
Comfy Gusset Mittens by Karen Hoyle
These mittens are a great winter staple that can be customized in many different ways. Take a look at the Project tab for endless inspiration!
Required techniques: ribbing*, knitting in the round, increasing and decreasing
* A twisted rib is used in the pattern - a new technique!
Photo credit: Karen Hoyle
I’ve learned so much from listening to and watching other creatives, and I recommend anyone looking to immerse themself in the craft do the same. Below is a list of content creators that have educated and inspired me. Explore and enjoy the rabbit hole!
Knitting Podcasts (YouTube Videos)
handmade by florence
Podcasts (Audio)
Staci Perry