reblog

Knitting a shawl is one of the most beginner-friendly projects. An all season-favorite project, shawls can be knitted with any knitting needles and yarn. For yarn you can knit with any lightweight lace yarns to chunky wool and any fiber or shade. It is simply constructed in back and forth knitting (flat) with a pair of classic single pointed needles or circulars. Single pointed knitting are an ideal fit as long as you cast the width of the project and then go knitting lengthwise. Circular knitting needles are a better fit as the ergonomic make allows to divide the weight of the project and not strain your hands and wrists. For scarves, you can go ahead with a knitting pattern or plan one without one. It is very easy to knit a length of around 100 – 150 cm and a width of 15 – 20cm. This can also be customized according to your need. Asymmetrical shawls such as triangular.

So, let’s get started. For a shawl you can go ahead with any new yarn of any weight according to your preference or even use scraps from your stash. Leftover yarns from previous projects are particularly wonderful as you can truly express your creativity.

Garter Stitch

The most basic of all stitch patterns, garter is made by knitting every row (when you are knitting in rows which you will be basically doing to make a shawl). It is a handy stitch if you want something flat, reversible in a ridged fabric. The stitch pattern will create a solid fabric that works for most shawls, especially if you are looking for a dense and warm knitted fabric. If you looking for something light for summer or spring, make the project in lightweight yarn. Lively spring and summery colours will work best for the garter shawl.

Stocking Stitch (Stockinette)

The stocking stitch pattern, known as stockinette is another basic stitch pattern that lends itself beautiful to many knitting projects. The pattern is made by alternating one row of knit stitches followed by a row of purl stitches. Stockinette is a mix of both knit and purls but has a tendency to curl at the edges. Follow the yarn suggestions for the stitch pattern too. Work with multiple yarn colours in lightweight fibers and vibrant shades. Finish up the shawl with pom poms on all four ends or tassels of same or a contrasting shade of colour. You can also try out a beautiful edge of seed stitch or work a patter or picots or ruffles. Blocking you knitted shawl is a step you must not miss out.

Reverse Stocking Stitch

Working the reverse stocking stitch is also a good option. Instead of alternative rows of knit and purl, work on alternate rows of purl and knit stitches. The knitted fabric still curls but the sticth pattern will have a different look that regular Stockinette.

Multi-coloured shawl

Knitting with multiple colours is one of the easiest ways to dress up your knitted shawl. Choose two or three colours that complement each other. You can go for knitting with stripes or make colour changes after 3-5 rows for bold lines. If you are a fan of colourwork and have a pattern and requires skills, it is one of the best options of knitting a shawl for the spring season. Even if you not yet gained the colourwork knitting skills, you can simply thread your darning needle with a contrasting shade of yarn than the knitted fabric and cerate interesting designs on your finished piece.

Lace Knitting Patterns

Lace knitting is an art. You create holes in your knitted baric with a variety of techniques. A knitting pattern is the best bet if you are a beginner and you’ll find many advanced makers searching out patterns for their projects. A lace shawl is perfect for spring and summer seasons. Choose knitting needles, a size bigger than mentioned on the yarn label or pattern. With lace patterns, create motifs of leaves, flowers and more. Stainless steel knitting needles works best for lace patterns. Interchangeable circular needles are also perfect for the task as they assist with smooth knitting and have a lifeline hole that works for the knitting pattern.

Get ready for shawl knitting! Besides the above you can make interesting shawls with any more stitch patterns. Textured stitch patterns work beautifully. If you have worked on a seed stitch or a moss stitch pattern you just have to follow the pattern in changed dimension. A knitting trend from the 1970s, Condo knitting is also making a comeback. You work in the garter stitch pattern with two knitting needle sizes. The effect is an open weave that looks beautiful for a spring or summer-inspired shawl.

With the Mindful Collection explore the range of stainless steel needles for single pointed, double pointed, fixed circular or interchangeable circulars and sets of multiple sizes. With mindful knitting needles enjoy the meditative process of knitting.

Source: https://medium.com/@mindfulknitpro/how-to-knit-a-shawl-7fc2bd30cdad

Fingerless gloves are perfect for spring and summer. If you are planning to knit one, it is quite easy and quick and always works easily with your stash. Fingerless gloves were preferred by fishermen and sailors to keep hands warm while not struggling with manual dexterity and in the 80s, it became a fashion statement. So, let's get started. In this blog, we’ll discuss how to knit fingerless gloves.

Before that let’s take a look at the knitting needles to craft a pair of gloves along with yarn and a pattern.

Knitting Needles - You can knit fingerless gloves on any knitting needles in your collection. Knit them flat with single-pointed or circular needles and join the seams to make a round. Or, seamlessly knit in the round with circular or double-pointed needles (DPNs), depending on your preference. For circulars, either choose a length smaller than the project circumference. Another option is the Magic Loop technique that requires an extra-long circular knitting needle. This works for knitting even the smallest circumference. Another advanced knitting technique is knitting with two circulars and having two gloves grow on the needle at the same time. DPNs make ideal tools for small projects but requires handling multiple pointy ends.

Yarn – A small and quick project, fingerless gloves can be easily knit with a small quantity of yarn often times found in your stash. Multiple colours or yarns can work beautifully for a fingerless gloves pattern. You can knit gloves with fine lightweight yarns or chunky wool depending on the look you want.

Pattern – A knitting pattern works like a map. It instructs the steps on knitting. There are multiple patterns to explore from. You can knit fingerless gloves without a pattern. If you worked on a pair of socks or even a hat, you understand knitting in the round and that is how you’ll knit the gloves.

To make things easier, we’ve a step-by-step tutorial for knitting fingerless gloves. Whether you opt for double pointed knitting needles (DPNs) or a pair of circulars, you might want to choose two sizes though. The smaller needles are ideal for the rib stitch edge while the larger ones are best for working on the wrist. Before you start, first knit a gauge swatch with the bigger knitting needle size and yarn.

Step 1: Cast on stitches on 3 DPNs or a circular needle length that is smaller than gloves circumference. The number of stitches can be calculated with the gauge swatch. Join your stitches in the round any method you prefer but be careful not to twist the stitches.

Step 2: Knit in the round a 2 x 2 ribbing pattern (knit 2, purl 2) until you’ve 8-10 cm of knitted fabric. For the next section opt for a garter stitch edge of 6-8 rounds and continue in stockinette stitch. 

Step 3: When you reach the wrist, switch to bigger needles and continue to knit in stockinette stitch in the round for 2- 4 cm. 

Step 4: Place a stitch marker at the beginning of your round for the thumb opening. Just write it down that for your second glove; the thumb opening will have to be marked on the opposite side. The exact stitch number will depend on the cast on stitches.

Step 5: In this step, you will be knitting in the round while increasing one stitch on each side of the marker in every third or fourth round. You can work any knitting increase with KFB (knit front and back) or YO (yarn over).

Step 6: Use a stitch holder to carry the increased stitches and the marked and continue to knit in the round. Be careful to avoid laddering of the connecting stitches.

Step 7: Knit for another 5-7 rounds, switch your needles to the smaller size and knit two or three ribbed edge (or any edge you prefer for finishing your glove). Bind off all your stitches according to your pattern, knitwise for knit stitches and purlwise for purl stitches.

Step 8: Pick up the stitches from the stitch holder on your knitting needle and additionally pick up six or seven new stitches from the edge behind the thumb stitches. Distribute them evenly on three DPNs. Now the double points are the best option here as you’ll only have a few stitches on hand.

Step 9: Knit 1 round in knit stitch, then continue 5-6 rounds in rib 2 x 2 rib pattern. Bind off the stitches, cut the thread, and weave in all your yarn tails.

Step 10: Craft the second glove like the first one.

With this tutorial you are ready to knit fingerless gloves. For spring you can make some leaf motifs or work with vibrant shades. Duplicate stitches with a darning needle can also be used for some interesting colorwork. With stainless steel knitting needles from the Mindful Collection you can enjoy smooth crafting. Choose DPNs or fixed circulars or an interchangeable knitting needle or even a needle set. Along with needles, explore knitting accessories that assist with smooth crafting.

Source: https://www.zupyak.com/p/3580727/t/how-to-knit-fingerless-gloves

Hats are for every season. Knitting a hat is fun. It is easy, quick and a wonderful for gifting purposes. There are so many options to make a hat on any knitting needles you own. Knitting a hat of single-pointed needles is often done but the seaming leaves a mark. Knitting in the round is the best option and you have options. You can knit with double-pointed needles or work with circulars. DPNs work in a set of five while circular needles can be worked with either one (a length smaller than the circumference of the project), a circular knitting needle (with an extra-long cable length), or two circular needles (same size and length).

So, let’s get started.

Pattern: Knitting patterns are a designer’s set of instructions. You can always opt for one and enjoy knitting. Or, you can plan your own design. Hats are basically a tube with a proper fit made with increases or decreases, depending on whether you knit top down or up from the brim. If you do not want to follow a pattern general measurements.

Yarn: You can knit a hat with any yarn weight, fiber or shade. Spring and summer call for lightweight fibers such as cotton or acrylic. For winters and cold weather, work with wool or other mixed yarn types or bulky wool. If you have been a knitter for a long time, you may have enough stash to cover your knitting project. Mix and use multiple yarn shades and types for a colourful hat. 

Once you’ve decided on a pattern and yarn, then cast on stitches on your knitting needles and begin.

Knitting with Single Pointed Needles (STNs)

An easy method to knit a hat, with single pointed needles you simply knit a rectangle of specific measurements and then seam them together. If you’ve worked on single points you will have no problem knitting your hat. You cast on stitches on one needle tip and then turn the project. Knit or purl stitches row wise. Stockinette stitch pattern with its natural curl works beautifully, you need to knit a row of knit stitches and then a row of purl stitches. Or, a ribbed stitch pattern has a stretchy fabric. The seams at the top can be hidden under a colorful pom pom if it suits you.

Knitting with Double Pointed Needles (DPNS)

Knitting in the round is the preferred way to make a hat. Double pointed needles are preferred by knitters for many reasons. They have been the oldest tool for knitting in the round, they can accommodate even a few stitches. For the hat, cast on stitches on one DPN and then distribute it over 2 or 3 more DPNs while keeping the extra needle to knit with. Join the round and then continue knitting decreasing stitches every second row for the proper fit. You can work on any stitch patterns such a Stockinette or ribbed or even textured stitches.

Knitting with Circular Needles

Circulars, both fixed circular knitting needles as well as interchangeable ones are perfectly fine options for knitting a hat as long as you have the size and length that you need. The general rule is to choose a length that is smaller than the circumference of the hat. If you have a 40 cm hat then a 25 cm needle is the best choice. This way, the stitches won’t be stretched and you can smoothly continue with your knitting. The steps of knitting a hat with circulars is the same. Cast on stitches, join the round and continue knitting. When you have limited stitches on the needles, switch to DPNs to knit smoothly.

Knitting with Magic Loop Method

The magic loop technique is worked with a circular needle with a longer cable. The technique allows you to knit with hat with a limited number of stitches. The thing to keep in mind for this technique is that the cables should be smooth and between 100 cm or even 150 cm long. You will be knitting in the round on two needle tips with a loop of cable lying between the stitches to help you manage even the smallest number of stitches. This way you can knit the entire project with one knitting needle than switching needles or tackling multiple points and managing needles when working with DPNs.

Knitting with Two Circulars

Though generally worked for socks, knitting with two circular needles is also possible for a hat project. Cast on stitches on two needle tips. Choose circular needles of the same size and length. Even when stitches are limited, you can easily knit with two circulars.

With this guide and the right knitting needles, you are ready to make your hat. Explore stainless steel knitting needles in single-pointed, double-pointed, fixed circular as well as interchangeable circulars. Each needle tip carries an inspiring word that helps knitters focus on mindful knitting. Even the accessories of the range are designed with stainless steel materials with a mindful theme and imagery.

Source: https://www.apsense.com/article/how-to-knit-a-hat-for-beginners.html

Knitters love to make things with their loved craft. They always have a project growing on their knitting needles for their loved ones. These knitting projects encompass even the dear pets. Be it a cat, dog, turtle, bird on any lovely creature that you adore, you can knit them beautiful garments accessories or some playful things. The loved pets have a treasure trove of designs from hoodies, sweaters, hats, toys, beds and so much more, with a range from practical to endearing options. Get out your favorite knitting needles ready and discover some great options. Even if you don’t have a pet, you can gift them to any friend or family member for their adorable beings.

So, gather you supplies.

Pattern – There is a wide range of patterns available for knitting projects for pets. From specially designed hoods to cosy beds and delightful toys, there is a lot to choose from. If you are beginner then knitting pattern will assist you with the knitting needles, the sizes, yarn, gauge and step by step instructions. Even if you want to plan your own design, you can go ahead with the measurements and gauge swatch.

Knitting Needles – The choice of knitting needles for adorable projects for your pets totally depends on what you are making and how. If you are knitting a hat, you can entire knit in the round with double-pointed knitting needles (DPNs) or circulars or you can choose the work with single pointed needles to knit back and forth. For flat projects, you can either work with circular needles of the appropriate lengths or STNs. The right knitting needle size is determined by the yarn weight, which is either mentioned in the label or the pattern.

Yarn – Choosing the yarn for your pets is done after careful consideration. Wool, cotton, acrylics or acrylic-blends are the most popular options. Make sure that your pet or the one you are knitting for is not allergic. Many times you’ll find yarn in your stash from previous projects that will be sufficient for a quick project for your pets.

1. Pet Garments

Pets are susceptible to cold so many knitters fashion garments to keep them warm and snuggly. Even for fashion, making a cute sweater or hoodie for them is easy. You can follow a pattern but then too you would require to calculate the right measurements along with positive ease. Scarves and hats are wonderful knitting projects that you can work out by yourself without a pattern with any pair of single points and circular knitting needles. You just need the standard size and knit them back and forth. For the hat you can knit it flat and shape it up with a darning needle. Or, knitting in the round is the best way to go about it. For a cardigan or even a sweater knit it in pieces and seam them later. Even baby booties can be worked and adjusted according to your pet’s hoof or paw size.

2. Pet Beds & Blankets

Beds and blankets are wonderful gifts for pets. While dogs love snuggling on your bed with you, cats prefer their own space. Snuggly beds and blankets will be a good option for both pets. Also, cats may be less accommodating about wearing things so they would appreciate their own soft corner to curl up. Beds for pets can be knit in various ways with almost all yarns and knitting needles. You can knit a round or rectangular bed. Stuff in some soft foam or other products for a comfortable bedding. You can work with any blanket pattern and customize it according to your measurements. Working with circular knitting needles with a long cord length, especially interchangeable circulars will accommodate all the stitches for a mid-size to large project.

3. Toys

Knitting toys for your pets is adorable. You can work with any pattern. Consider colourful projects as this way you can reduce your stash of leftover yarn. A simple ball or one of the favourite creatures such as a bunny or penguin can be easily knit with double pointed needles (DPNs) or circulars. For dogs they would love to have chewy bones projects while cats enjoy pouncing on balls and other shiny stuff. Even little birdies and other pets prefer snuggly toys.

4. Bow Tie

If you are fond of dressing up your loved pet, a bow tie is a quick and easy project. It is also a great yarn stash buster. Any pattern can be used with your measurements. Knit a few in different colours for every occasion for different outfits.

5. Toy Basket

Toy baskets are easy knitting projects. You can knit one as a gift too. The toy basket can be designed by customizing any regular project. You can add a name or other designs with duplicate stitches with a darning needle or knit a Fair Isle pattern.

With these 7 adorable knitting projects now cast on your stitches on your knitting needles.

Happy knitting for pets!

Source: https://articlebusinessnews.com/7-adorable-knitting-projects-for-your-pets/

Brioche is a variety of knitting stitches that are typically worked using any kind of knitting needles. The interesting textures can be knit with single pointed to double-pointed, fixed or interchangeable circular needles - and any type of yarn. Though the name "brioche" seems to have derived from French slang for "mistake", the knitting pattern itself is believed to have originated in the Middle East, given the roll formed of two pieces, one stacked atop the other. As outlined in Barbara G. Walker's book "Treasury of Knitting Patterns", brioche patterns include two elements or knitting techniques- a slipped stitch (sl st) and a yarn-over (yo) which are knitted together on the return row. Technically, Brioche a one-row repeat but we have the first setup row which is only being worked at the beginning of the pattern. While brioche may seem intimidating to novice knitters, it's quite beautiful and can actually be pretty simple too.

Therefore, in this blog, we will take you through the steps of knitting Brioche stitch, including some helpful tips and tricks that will make the process a bit easier.

Gather your supplies

First and foremost, it's best to gather the necessary materials and have your favorite knitting needles on hand. Many knitters recommend stainless steel knitting needles as they help ensure a yarn over and smooth flow of slipping stitches.

Understand Brioche Knitting Abbreviations

Unlike other stitch patterns in knitting, Brioche has its own set of rules and abbreviations. These techniques are different from previous learnt knitting. Of course it has knit and purl stitches but they are worked differently.

Yf = Yarn Forward. In Brioche, it refers to the technique of bringing the working yarn under the right knitting needle to the front of the work.

Sl1YO = Slip 1 and yarn over. You may have seen this knitting abbreviation in lace knitting but this is different. Here it means to slip the next stitch purlwise.  Even though it may look like two stitches on your knitting needle, take care to not miscount as it would cause a hole in your knitted fabric.

BRK = Brioche Knit. This refers to knit the stitch together with its corresponding yarn over created on the previous row.

BRP = Brioche Purl. The stitch refers to the technique that you’ll be purl stitch together with its corresponding yarn over that was created on the previous row.

To really get a grasp on the technique, it's recommended to knit a swatch first before managing a pattern, allowing you to focus solely on mastering the new skill.

Cast on Stitches

From there, you should cast on an even number of stitches and make sure to choose a stretchy cast-on method, such as a long tail cast-on, tubular cast-on, etc.

Step up row - The Brioche stitch pattern then works in two rows, beginning with a setup row and a row of repeat stitches. For the setup row, slip one, yarn over, slip one, knit one - and continue this until there is only one stitch left, which you will knit.

Knitting the row- For the repeat row, simply slip one, yarn forward, slip one, then brioche knit one - and repeat this to the last stitch, which will also be knit. Once you have reached the desired length, it's important to bind off loosely in a k1, p1 rib pattern, making sure to work all slipped stitches together with their yarn-overs.

Bind off – Binding off the Brioche stitch pattern requires its own techniques

Though there are several helpful tips and tricks to keep in mind when beginning to knit brioche stitch.

1. It's best to use a needle size smaller than the one mentioned on the yarn label and choose a yarn that retains its shape - a wool blend or non-superwash wool is recommended - as Brioche knitting produces a highly elastic fabric.

2. Also, keep in mind that Brioche stitch patterns will use twice as much yarn as a standard knitting project, so make sure to have plenty of skeins available and, of course, remember to always start with a gauge swatch.

3. Lastly, use a loose cast-on and bind-off technique, one size larger than the needle you're using for the project, and be sure to block your project with precision tools and weave in any yarn ends with darning needles (a size smaller than the knitting needle) once finished.

With these few tips and tricks, you can begin knitting your own Brioche stitch patterns. Start with a swatch and then move on to a basic pattern like a scarf or hat. If you're feeling confident, why not even try a two-color Brioche? It may actually be easier to read the knitting and more enjoyable to work with! The Mindful Knitting collection has everything you need to have a smooth and successful knitting experience - so why not give it a try today?

Brioche or any other stitch pattern or technique, the Mindful Collection has everything you need to assist with a smooth experience. The stainless steel knitting needles are available in options of double-pointed, fixed circulars, and interchangeable and specially designed knitting needles sets. Enjoy your mindful knitting while learning new techniques and methods.

Source: https://knitpromindfulcolletion.hashnode.dev/easy-steps-and-knitting-tricks-for-brioche-stitch