Want warm woolen clothes? 'Learning to knit' is easier than you think

Knitting in winter is a way to warm both the giver and the receiver. ▲Source=Pixabay

When winter arrives, one thinks of scarves or sweaters made of warm yarn. Although high-quality down parkas and various winter items are available these days, handmade knitted clothes somehow feel even warmer.

One cannot help but admire seeing someone knitting with skillful hands. ▲Source=Pixabay

Starting to knit is not easy, but it is entirely possible if you learn step by step. Watching mothers knit skillfully may make you want to try it yourself, but knitting is not as easy as it looks. There is a great deal to learn, from casting on stitches to working the knit stitch. Still, there is no need to feel intimidated before you begin.

Types and methods of knitting

Two major types of knitting are crochet and needle knitting. Needle knitting is generally more common, but recently, crochet has attracted considerable interest for being challenging yet distinctive.

Crochet is a method of continuously connecting single stitches using one crochet hook. Hold the crochet hook in your right hand about 5 cm from its tip. Support it lightly with your middle finger, wrap the yarn once around your left pinky finger, drape it over your index finger, and hold it with your thumb and middle finger.

Crochet is suitable for making small items. ▲Source=Pixabay

Knitting with needles is the type of knitting we generally think of, using two needles. Stockinette stitch involves alternating between knit and purl stitches every row, while other patterns follow specific designs; since the order can vary, one must focus on every single stitch. Using two needles produces a flat piece, while using four needles or a circular needle to join the first and last cast-on stitches and knit in the round produces a cylindrical shape. Crochet is often used for interior decorations or household items like covers or scrubbers; while it includes techniques such as chain stitch, single crochet, and half double crochet, the chain stitch is most commonly used. In crochet, forming the initial stitches correctly is crucial, and since it may not work on the first try, one must practice several times to become proficient.

Knitting with needles is the type of knitting we generally think of, using two needles. ▲Source=Pixabay

In addition, there is Afghan knitting, which uses a special needle called an Afghan needle to combine crochet and knitting techniques, and machine knitting, which uses a knitting machine to create stitches based on the up-and-down movement of the needles and the stitches. Scarves are a representative example, and various items like sweaters or hats can be made using knitting with needles. If you are starting to learn knitting to make these types of clothing, it is better to learn knitting with needles.

Choosing yarn before knitting

Before starting to learn knitting, it is important to carefully choose the yarn. There are various types of yarn, such as cotton, wool, alpaca, and acrylic, available in different thicknesses. While cotton is commonly used, using high-quality wool allows for the creation of better-quality garments. Alpaca yarn is made from the hair of alpacas living in places like Peru and is characterized by its soft texture.

Choosing the right yarn is more important than the act of knitting itself. ▲Source=Pixabay

When learning to knit, one may encounter obstacles, but these days, various video materials are easily accessible online. Additionally, while knitting shops are becoming rare, visiting one to learn in person is a good way to enjoy a cozy and comfortable learning experience. The thickness of the yarn is also important; while slightly thinner yarn or acrylic yarn is fine for crochet, when knitting with needles, one should choose yarn with good strength and elasticity because tension is applied.

[Fam Times = Reporter Kim Jae-young]