I knit when walking because I'm autistic and have severe anxiety and struggle with agoraphobia, the act of knitting gives my brain something to focus on and it gives me a way to stim to regulate my emotions.
I have ADHD and anxiety and I do the same thing. It’s a way to keep my mind engaged in a different way when I just want to stay indoors and still need to get exercise. I also knit in class in college because it helped me concentrate in discussion based classes. The stim is so helpful in multiple situations.
I’m glad that this is a help for you. If you can find something that helps you cope, stick to it, no matter what any knitter on RU-vid says in jest. I am a firm believer in finding natural and accessible ways to cope with anxiety and the like.
@@KomekoroKoa @self made geek I really appreciate you bringing this up because it’s so true. These activities can be very therapeutic and truly, if it helps it’s valuable and what’s even better, it’s a natural and healthy therapy. I suffer from panic attacks and find that there are activities that truly help me that some may not consider at first.
Historically women who worked at Summer Farm Houses (Fäbodar in Swedish, Seter in Norwegian) had a mandatory amount of knitwear to knit during the summer. Therefore they knitted while walking around tending the herd of animals. It was part of the "rent" so to speak.
I finally realized I am a process knitter. I would think “I would NEVER spend $200 on a sweater I bought!”. The I realized knitting is not about the garment but about the hours of enjoyment I get from knitting it.😊
I’m also a small project walk knitter (simple hats, cowls, and socks usually). My husband walks slowly after he had an injury that led to a walking disability 4 years ago. I’ve always walked at a brisk pace. We go for walks in parks and on groomed nature paths, and I’ve had to slow my pace to match his. When I carry a small lightweight bag over my forearm or wrist and knit on simple small projects in the round, knitting helps me walk at my husband’s pace without as much awareness that I’m walking at a pace that otherwise feels quite unnatural for me. And it’s productive time, in addition to enjoying the walk with my husband.
I LOVE this Anna and clearly was not considering this while sharing my opinion (which is mostly in jest and to be taken with a grain of salt). I absolutely see how this would be the perfect accommodation for a very slow walking pace and just a sweet thing to do to let your husband know that you're not in any hurry. You have your knitting and you're enjoying your time. My husband is everything to me and if I were in the same position, I would want to do what I can to be present with him---and knitting, while it does require our attention, can sometimes make it easier to be present in moments that would otherwise make us restless. Thank you for sharing this. ❤️
I totally agree! Except for scarves. Everyone wants a scarf when they start and I think its the quickest way to quit. Knit want you want as long as it's short and quick to keep you going!
This is also my advice for newbie sewists. If you're making a project that you're not excited about, when you encounter a road block (and even the easiest projects will cause issues when you're just learning), you won't have the motivation to work through it.
I totally agree! I started with a hat for my daughter and am up to slippers :) I enjoy it and think that making dishcloths and potholders is a waste of time!
Loved hearing all the opinions. My 2 cents, I am not a machine knitter but machine knitting is definitely NOT cheating! It is a whole other skill set and involves a lot of technical knowledge, creativity and problem solving. People who are interested should follow Sweet Georgia - she is currently learning how to machine knit and it is so interesting!
100% agreed! No one tells someone with a sewing machine that their dresses aren't handmade... it's just a tool. Even if you're using a computerized knitting machine, the process of set up and plotting for the pattern is, as you say, a complicated skillset.
I love the thought that "if you're happy in it, it's going to show and it will make me happy" - that's so true! I see people wear many knits I'd never make for myself but I'm happy for them!
I felt so judged about walking and reading 😂 but seriously, I was such a bookworm growing up. I wanted to live in the worlds in my books, not the middle school hallway. So I read and walked 🤷🏼♀️
Unpopular opinion, I have recently converted to exclusively using DPNs for EVERYTHING (yes gloves, socks, and cardigans.), And I feel like because I have to be more conscious of my stitch uniformity at transfer points that making the switch from circulars to dpns (8in and 14in long) has ultimately helped my gauge more and for less money than anything else. Keep in mind I've always not really liked magic loop and I have had circulars break on me before In the middle of a project. Also, I love weaving in ends.
Interesting! Are you using dpns for the body of the sweater? I would love to see that in action. And I see what you're saying about being less money overall for the needles. Makes sense. Thank you for watching Rozaline!
@@WOOLNEEDLESHANDSThank you so much for the reply! I am using DPNS for the body of the sweater, I am using the "stones and hills cardigan" by Amanda Lee on Revelry. I use five 10mm needles for the knit rows and five 9mm needles for the purl rows, this in combination with stitch stoppers allows me to keep it together. I originally got this idea from Kutovakia's video ( ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-PwjcDeqpNyw.html&t ) because both our patterns are using super bulky weight yarn and are making similar items. I am working on making a knitting Instagram so when I get a few good vids/pics for you I will come back and let you know. The technique I have been mimicking is based on this man's knitting style. ru-vid.com4y3Xy_--uiw?feature=share Hope it helps!
I always use DPNs for knitting socks. For sleeves (at least for the narrower part of them) I use DPNs too. But for the body of a sweater I use a circular needle. I do have those long DPNs in my collection, but haven't used them for decades ...
I don’t normally comment, but I have to say I FULLY agree with learning as you go with rewarding projects. Nothing overly ambitious and difficult, but something still exciting and motivating and challenging. I really like the BT by Brooklyn Tweed series of patterns for this because they really break down techniques. I started knitting on October 1 and I’ve already knit a scarf and a hat. I’m currently halfway through the yoke on a raglan sweater and have learned so much. But most importantly, I’ve had FUN. And I get to look forward to these FOs that aren’t dish cloths.
I'm so glad you did comment! I've never heard of the BT series of patterns. I just looked them up and you're absolutely right. What a great collection of designs that inspire without intimidating new knitters. That was something I definitely did not have when I started...at least nothing that was easy to find. Very cool. And I'm amazed with what you've accomplished so far. That's fantastic! Happy knitting and thank you so much for watching. ❤️
I’m so happy to have found your channel. I just turned 70. I’ve been knitting since I was 11 when I saw a sweater for Barbie in a McCall’s Needlework & Crafts magazine. My mom didn’t knit so I used the magazine to teach myself. I don’t dislike circular needles but straight needles are my first choice. I think my grip changes on circular needles because my hands don’t tire with straights. I prefer to knit socks from the toe up, wish everyone would realize their way is not the only way (in more things in life than knitting!), and appreciate designers who write out a design pattern as well as offer a chart. I can follow a graph but a few friends are still intimidated and either avoid purchasing a pattern that doesn’t have the stitches spelled out, or ask me to go over it with them.
We are of the same generation (I'm 66). I learned to knit at school. It must have been before the age of 10. Circular needles were unknown back in those days (at least here in the Netherlands). The first thing I had to knit was a square, like a potholder. Not fun for a young child! But when that was finished we started baby bootees. I had a doll that could wear those. Then I decided I knew how to knit, so I started making clothes for Barbies. And some more years later (I was about 17) I was able to knit an Icelandic sweater with round yoke. That was the first time I knitted with circular needles; those were still unknown here, but one of my mother's friends had a set of them (interchangeables). I think she must have ordered them from the USA. For knitting such stranded colourwork, but also for cables and knit-purl patterning, I need to have a chart. If all the pattern is written down in words I get confused.
I taught myself to knit on dishcloths. I did it because I knew it would help me to get the groove, learn new stitches, but kept it concise and quick. A big shawl or sweater was too intimidating, a small dishcloth was perfect for me. Now 10 years later I'm just starting to knit for myself 💜
I used to read and walk when I was in school. It was more about being immersed in the world of the book, and not wanting to function and be out and about. I take my knitting everywhere. I knit while walking, I knit while waiting, I knit while watching TV. It helps me focus.
I bought a sock knitting machine because I’d accumulated too much sock yarn. I taught myself to use the machine during Covid, and it was a challenge. I knitted hundreds of lovely socks and gave them away. I probably have 50 pairs of warm socks for myself, and I’m happy I know how to make more gifts. It was hard. Another thought-I dislike bobbles. To me they look like big warts. I think color work garments are like a print fabric-and I like to wear plain. But I think it’s just fabulous that others like bobbles and color work and tight round-yoked sweaters (I just see prominent shoulders) and DPN’s and 9” needles even if I don’t. Endless are the differences. Yeah! Finally, what’s the sweater you are wearing? Your podcast is brand new to me….
I'm late to the conversation... but I started with "knitting what I want" instead of a dish rag, and it was definitely the way to go. I'm a bald guy, so what I wanted was a nice hat, so I learned alternating cable cast on, multiple reduction stitches, ribbing, and how to fix my many mistakes!
I'm a completely self-taught knitter, so I occasionally will stumble across something accidentally - which is how I found out that I was automatically doing Magic Loop when I had cables that were too long! and here I was avoiding even looking at Magic Loop patterns/techniques because I thought they seemed too hard! 😂 I love using cable needles! but I like the smooth, satisfying process and don't think about how it could affect rhythm, so I can totally see how it could throw off a knitting flow if that's something someone was concerned about
I love straight needles and try to avoid circular needles as much as I can! It's nice to be able to rest the 'butt' of the needle on your lap when you do things like purling. I feel like it's less weight holding up the project
I know this video is 3 months old, but I wanted to jump in. I have panic disorder, so walking without mental stimulation makes me hyper aware of my body, my heart rate, and typically leads to panic. Using a combination of audiobooks and knitting while walking not only helps me overcome that, but motivates me to want to go for walks. I'm very bad about being sedentary, so anything that helps someone get up and move is a win!
😂Hilarious! My unpopular knitting opinion- Brioche. It should have stayed a bread. It’s not that pretty to me and it is a royal PITA to knit. My life is too short to fuss with Brioche. I share the dislike of 9 inch circulars. On sock machines- I have had that pretty yellow Erlbacker Bumblebee in my cart about 100 times. I just can’t seem to pull the trigger- but that is because I am cheap- not because I think it’s cheating. I think that is a “making” skill in its own right. I would love to crank through my 200 skeins of stash sock yarn. I watched a video of Aimee of La Bien Aimee cranking out tubes. It looked kind of complicated. One of these days, that yellow sock machine will be mine.
brioche is just not worth it.. 9 inch is fine for just all knit stitches, as soon as there is anything else i go magic loop. knitting on machines is a whole new set of skills, knowledge and craftmanship. it only is cheating if you knit it on a machine and tell it is all handknit on neeldles. i sew by hand and machine, i knit by hand (machine is on my wishlist), i embroider by hand and borrow a machine every now and then. i see them all as different.
I love this Hannah! You made me chuckle about the bread. 😆 I have yet to try brioche, but I’m also not overly compelled to try. I hear a lot of things about how much of a headache it is and how it’s just not worth the work and I wonder if it’s like that even in single-color? And the Erlbacker Bumblebee is such a petty machine. That’s the one I’ve seen and I think it would be soo cool to have, but alas you and I are the same-and I don’t want to say cheap, but…. Yeah. Maybe we’re cheap. 😅 Thank you for watching Hannah!
The potholder (I didn't do a dishcloth at all lol) was actually my third project. I knit a scarf first, cup cozies, and then the potholder/trivet. I've been knitting for a year, and currently in the middle of knitting a cardigan. I agree with learning as you go.
I reckon it's great that there are so many ways to make our garments.. I'm of the opinion that whatever works for you, do it. There is no right or wrong way.. there is just different 😍
I also used to like DPNs but now since using 4” circulars my tiny hands hate all long needles! I think it’s just because they don’t curve in the palm of my hands and it makes it super Uncomfortable for me to knit with.
Yes. Absolutely! My opinions have changed or shifted even just in the time I've been able to have these conversations in the comments section. It's really cool to delve into the differing takes on the craft and become enlightened to things you just didn't consider before. ❤️
This is interesting because I'm realizing that I must have largish hands because I prefer to have something to rest the outside of my hand on whereas some folks find that really uncomfortable and I think it is a hand size thing. Good thing that we have all of these options! ❤️
I agree! Do you knit continental or english? I think if I knitted continental more it might not bother me but since I knit English and flick the yarn by keeping it on my index finger, the extra needle sticking out makes it a lot less comfortable to do the flicking motion… if that makes sense. I mostly only knit continental for ribbing so now im curious if it would still be uncomfortable for that 🤔🤔
I’m currently doing the Stephen West MKAL and I find it’s like taking a class. Lots to learn and new interesting techniques I might not have attempted any other way.
This is a great point actually and in the same vein as my comment on learning through meaningful projects, this is that. You're learning a multitude of techniques while also creating a very unique piece. Great point Crystal. Thank you for watching!
Stephen West is só very good at showing how to knit and his videos are fun to watch. So I watch them even though I don't think I'll ever knit one of his shawls (and certainly not a MysteryKAL ... I don't like mysteries!)
Magic Loop was a game changer!! No rivers. All sizes of circular components are doable. But, also learning to use 12” and 16” circular for hats. So many wonderful options!
I keep things simple - I think as a person does a certain type of knitting over time, they can do things more simply. I have been knitting since I was very, very young. I haven't used cable needles in years, I rarely use markers, and can knit most things without a pattern. But now with a brain injury I keep track because I'm basically 10-second Tom lol
I will knit/crochet when I walk around or I’m in places messing with my sensory issues or if I’m stressed out. Also helps me focus on lectures bc it keeps my brain from trying to wander.
I have always gravitated towards short circular needles. I never quite understood the people who said they get cramps in their fingers, using them, but recently, watching people knit with dpns, magic loop, or two circs, it hit me. When you are knitting with very short circs, you don't stop to adjust the needles or cable, you just keep knitting. Your fingers don't get a break from the repetitious motion like they do with the other methods. For those of us who love the shorter circs, this is obviously not an issue, but for those who complain of cramped fingers, they need to take those regular breaks that other methods provide.
14:50- Yes! I learned to knit during Covid by swatching lace patterns and ribbing. My first project was actually a poor choice because I was clueless, but I learned a lot. Knit in pieces, a giant in dark dark green, alternating skeins due to poor yarn choice, and not a single piece of stockinette or garter. It was all cables, honeycomb and double seed stitch ....until the ribbed neck with the tubular bind off. The upside was I learned almost everything I needed to know for sweater knitting in my first project.
My mom had to have surgery and she was in hospital for 3 days. I spend all the waiting time walking down the halls knitting 😂 i have my yarn in a tote bag. That helped me a lot to pass time, get mi mind occupied and relief stress.
Why do I walk and knit (or read and walk-I’ve been guilty of that too!)? Because I’m an impatient person. I have small children, and though I love being in the moment with them, I would lose my mind otherwise at their NEED to stop every three feet to examine a flower, climb a tree, collect acorns, identify ants…etc. knitting whilst I walk has made me a better person ☺️
Love these videos! I’m a walk-and-knit gal, so I thought I’d just share my experiences with it. I have severe anxiety and ADHD, and I find that it’s very calming to have knitting in my hands when I’m out and about. If it weren’t for my knitting, I probably wouldn’t get out and do the necessary things like grocery shopping or going on walks. I usually only work in stockinette in that situation, though. Keeping my hands busy with something soft helps me avoid sensory overload/overstimulation, and it also keeps me just focused enough to avoid going into a thought spiral. I get that it’s not for everyone, but it isn’t always pretentious, and it absolutely doesn’t have to detract from the walk or other experience - for me at least, it makes it much more pleasant! 😊 Unrelated- I just finished a pair of knitted shorts, and the diaper thing is REAL! Nothing like a knitted bubble booty!
I appreciate you sharing this Claire. I’ve read several comments from folks here who also use knitting and walking as a way to cope with anxiety and the like and it’s eye-opening. It makes perfect sense and as a person who believes in doing everything you can to cope with anxiety naturally, I’m all for it. Despite my comments here (not to be taken seriously), I do not think it’s pretentious. And I actually have come to value it for how it’s able to provide support to soo many people who really need that diversion sometimes. Thank you so much for watching Claire. ❤️
@@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS Thanks for the reply! It’s been really lovely to see the other comments from people in a similar situation, and I’m just so grateful that you provide such a lovely community for us all to be part of!
I don't think it's the 'neutral colour' that's boring. What I find boring is knitting all stocking stitch (or, even worse, all garther stitch) for a whole project in one colour, whatever colour that is.
@@ingeleonora-denouden6222 I actually like long stretches of stockinette because it is a great chance for me to practice my tension to produce an even fabric even before blocking. Even garter stitch in large swaths for the same reason. What it means, though, is that I may need to have another more intricate project going so I can switch over to that to stay freshest.
Had to pause the video and comment. I just cleaned the straight needles out of my stash, found a great place to donate them. BUT, before packing them up I pulled out a few sets to put in my bag of dishcloth knitting! No lie! Dishcloths on a circular just feels wrong, straight needles there all the way!
I’m loving the mid week rambles hilarious 😂. I don’t understand why you would knit reverse stockinette when working in the round. Turn it inside out and it’s similar enough for me. ❤️
Thank you! I'm glad you're enjoying them. I love making them. And I totally agree...however that's coming from someone whose never had need to knit reverse stockinette in the round. I'm wondering if there's a pattern out there that does that? Interesting. ❤️
I’m an advocate for long DPNs…..I need them and they are so hard to find (at least for me). I’m a guy so my hands are longer, 5-6inch DPNs are just the right length to dig into my palms if I’m not finagling them correctly, it’s painful. I love DPNs so much but shorter sizes just turn me away.
I love DPNs. I learned to knit on DPNs. I have several sets of extra long needles. I made them myself, actually my grandmother made my first set of DPNs from umbrella spokes. I also love magic loop.
I'm not a big fan of mystery for yarn or patterns. I want to know what I'm making and what it's going to look like. That being said, I bought my first yarn advent calendar last year, and I loved it. It happened to be a theme that I loved and using the yarn has made me smile. I'm currently knitting the Brioche Adventure wrap, and I think I'll have enough yarn left over to do a matching hat and fingerless mitts. I was horrible about actually opening my little boxes on time, but I've opened and wound them all now, and I'm almost finished with 22 out of 24 of the yarns. The big skein will become a pair of socks for me. I don't think it will become an every year investment for me, because I just don't use minis that much, but that doesn't mean I won't do it on occasion when the theme fits something that makes my heart happy.
I love your podcasts like these. It makes me feel like a part of the knitting community. Very often my feelings about certain knitting things are validated when I hear your opinion. I also am a teacher and totally agree about the process being everything. Please continue to point this out so beginners will not worry about the outcome of the project and recognize the joy of learning and that you will get better after multiple mistakes. It should be joyful. One of the biggest thing I learned is that making mistakes is what all beginners do and that is how one learns. Keep at it and it will get better and better.
I’m so glad that these videos resonate with you and help create a sense of community. That’s so important. And you’re absolutely right. As we begin our journey in any craft, we need to show grace to ourselves as we adapt to new skills otherwise we risk burning out before we make any real progress. Thank you for watching Michelle. ❤️
I had a really hard time with DPNs and thought I hated them, but then decided to keep using them until the newness wore off and make a more honest assessment, and now I love them to pieces. I always use them for socks now except for the toe section when there won't be enough stitches left on the needles (that's dicey and calls for magic loop). My favorite metal DPNs are Zings. I have the 6" ones for socks, and I've made a few hats with 8", and I can confirm that those longer ones are really great for anything bigger around than socks.
This is really good to know for folks on the fence Dawn. I know what you mean about having to let the newness ware off. I was the same way back when and once it kicked in, I really enjoyed the rhythm of them. And strange as it seems, having all of those needles in my hands seems to offer some sort of security or something that helps limit fatigue. I don't know if that makes any sense... Bonus, knitting with dpns in public is a lot fun. Folks just don't have any idea what you're doing and they look at you extra funny.
I love the make "what you want as a new knitter". My first project was a 2 color striped hat knit in the round. I learned a ton! Jogless stripes, knitting in the round, decreasing, ribbing and i really got a feel for uniform tension. Had I made a stockinette or garter stitch scarf or dishcloth I would have a boring item that wouldn't really be thought of afterwards.
Your take on walking and knitting cracked me up 😂 I walk and knit around the yard leisurely but definitely understand how it could detract from the walk for some people. For me, it adds to the experience if anything, haha. I agree that machine knitting isn't cheating, it's just a different experience! Haven't tried it myself either but it would be great for gift knits 👀
Honestly Katherine, my aversion to walking and knitting probably has a lot to do with the fact that I would be horrible at it. Lol! Trust me, on our last trip to Disneyland I thought a lot about how much less overwhelming the crowds would be if I had something to knit on, but then I’d just be bumping into everyone! 😂 To each, their own! ❤
I want a sock knitting machine too. So be sure to post something when you get yours!! You definitely need one to showcase your yarn. I just hate to invest in that one that costs $1000 and wondering if the addi machine would suffice. much cheaper. Can't wait for your sock knitting machine video!!
For 100 år siden havde alle kvinder i Skandinavien strikketøj i hænderne når det var muligt. Derfor var det helt almindeligt at strikke ærmer eller strømper når man gik. Det har været almi dejligt i Danmark og Norge siden vikingetiden. Dengang var strik en overlevelses evne ikke en hobby. Tak for en super god kanal
Absolutely agree with the “learn as you go” - one of the first things I knit up was an afghan blanket! And that project really helped me learn a lot of skills (different stitch patterns, cables, lace, etc)
I agree with the beginner knitting project. I've been doing dishcloths when I was learning and I didn't really learn anything. It wasn't until one crochet teacher who was also sharing his knitting hat video as he was also learning to knit, everything just clicked and I suddenly can knit hats, socks, etc. My biggest mistake from when I was learning that I thought garter stitch = knit stitch; stockinette stitch = purl (when working flat). It wasn't until I started to knit in the round when it clicked. I tried knitting in 2012 with nothing clicking until December 2022 when everything finally did. 😅I've been crocheting since 2012 with success and made beautiful stuff. There are places for knitting and there are places for crocheting. DPNs was something I've watched someone knit with about 10 years ago and it inspired me, but I was intimidated by it. It wasn't until I tried it that it wasn't all that difficult and is quite enjoyable. For paid knitting patterns, I've come across some that should not be $9 because it's a very basic pattern. Probably $3 at the most (Canadian dollars so it'll be significantly less in USD) There's a sweater pattern I fell in love that is $10 and I still think that's too low and it should be higher. So there's also a judgement call on whether a pattern is worth the money if it's paid. Knit shorts. Just no. 😂😝If you can rock it, then yay!!!
The one about learning to knit on a project you enjoy is so TRUE! I first tried knitting a scarf at 14 and just gave up, lost interest, too crooked wasn't worth it. Tried it again at 19, but this time around, knitting a teddy bear for my little brother, it was so much fun! My unstable tension didn't matter, having to learn increases and decreases, loved it and never stopped knitting since! Even picked up crochet and embroidery along the way :)
I use a crochet round stitchmarker as cable needle, especially when there's just 2 or 3 stitches. I used to skip the cable needle but as you I feel the tension is off and doesn't look the same. Also, I recently bought a vintage knitting machine (not sock machine) and definetly that's not cheating. Knowing how to knit with needles is basically useless when you put your hands on a knitting machine. Almos same result but whole different journey. Not to mention that aside from stockinette every other stitch must be manipulated and that's time consuming. Definetely not cheating :)
Hi, really enjoy your podcast, just stumbled upon it and subscribed! I have always followed the unpopular opinions of "enjoy the process", and "knit one project at a time." What I do is, I always have one knitting project going and one crochet project at the same time. Knitting is more challenging for me personally especially when there is. a lot of counting, but I love the challenge, and the process of it really distracts my mind from unwanted thoughts. If I am feeling upset or am grieving, the process of knitting, helps me find a feeling of balance. But then there are days when I need to really relax and knitting is too taxing. Then I find comfort in the soothing repetition of crochet. If I have too many projects going I feel weighted down as if my refuge becomes my work. Have a great day ahead!
Hi Delisa! Thank you so much for your subscription. That means a lot. ❤️ And I really love your take here. Especially when you say that too many projects on the go leads to your "refuge becoming your work." This really resonates with me and is just so true in general I think.
I read and watch a lot about historical knitting. In fact, the long DPNs are the first way people had to knit things in the round. I also emulate the Shetland knitting style (It is a kind of "English" flicking style, even though its a Scottish island.) They use 14"+ long DPNs to knit large items like sweaters. They are some of the fastest knitters alive. There's videos on youtube showing women from 50+ years ago knitting several stitches a second on long and short DPNs, while walking carrying a huge basket full of peat on her back. The 12" to 22" DPNs are great for knitting sweaters and shawls. You use them with a Shetland knitting belt. That's how Fair Isle and Aran sweaters (jumpers) were made for quite some time. (And yes, their tension was amazing.) There's actually a few paintings of The Virgin Mary painted centuries ago knitting a shirt on long double pointed needles. (Older than the 1700s is all I remember.) Would I walk and knit? Only if the project were simple or small. Simple ribbing, stockinette, or a sock, yes. I do it very rarely. I knit while I stand in line sometimes, because autism. The repetitive movements help. Knitting in busy traffic? No. I don't want to accidentally stab myself or someone else, or lose needles. I just hold my knitting in my hand in my pocket.
I bought a knitting belt in Lerwick in 1974 (and yes, women in Shetland knit at an astonishing speed, even with complex Fair Isle) and used it for years, so I have a lot of DPNs. Nowadays I tend to use ordinary straight needles or circulars except for mittens, but I can still detect the influence of the belt on the way I hold my work.
This was so fun! I agree on your take of most things if not all! I could not get magic circle, I watched a few videos even Andrea Mowry and thought I got it but nope. Then I accidentally volunteered to test knit a sock design by Christie Archer Designs and messaged her that I have no clue how to knit a sock and she was like “perfect!” Anyway she made a couple of videos to show how to do Magic Loop and something else and it just instantly clicked with me and I love it!!! I think somethings that people say they don’t like is because they just haven’t found the way to do it for them. I’m finding knitting to be so interesting but I’m such a whimp at branching out to more difficult designs like sweaters! 😱 Enjoy your travels!
14:35 I purchased my first knitting needles (clover set) in early march and I’m almost finished with my first ever project (a sweater with fishermen’s wool)!! learning as i go and i’m so excited to have it done here this weekend
Oh no! I've been knitting for almost 20 years on and off. Dishcloths are my favorite things to knit. Low stakes, even messed up, it's functional. Use fingerling weight yarn and you got really fancy washcloths to give as presents. Knit longer and you got hand towels.And they are quick and low commitment. I have no desire to knit sweaters. I branch out and have knit cowls and socks, but dishcloths are my favorite.
Yes! My first knitting project was a pair of baby pants. I learned caston, ribbing, eyelets, knit, purl, short rows, m1r, m1l, Kitchener, decrease, bind off, and I cord. All from one project.
I think the idea with knitting patterns being priced lower is that you’d sell more patterns and thus make more money, than selling fewer patterns at a higher price. Saying this as I’m thinking about how to price my pattern. I don’t mind paying a higher price for a pattern I’ll definitely make - but I would also expect higher quality from the pattern (and I’ve definitely bought some shoddy expensive patterns)
I own 2 pairs of straights needles and however I have never finished a project using straight needles. Also my first ever knitting project was some children's felted clog slippers. I lost the original pattern, but I still have a scanned copy, where I didn't scan the cover page with the name of the pattern (I would print a scanned copy each time I knit a pair to highlight the size I was making and crossing off rows/rounds as I went). A Google search has me thinking it's the Fiber Trends Children's Felt Clogs.
I'm super late to this party but I've only recently found your videos. I'm a new knitter, the first thing I made was a hideous cardigan for my Son's Kermit the Frog. I learnt how to pick up stitches, seam and a little bit of ribbing. I then went on to making my own pattern for a build a bear sweaters where I learn neck shaping and how to properly count my stitches and read my work. I made a second one with some colourwork and now I'm learning socks and made my first ever glove! By avoiding squares I've learnt more in the last month that in my previous years of attempting to knit. I love your content, thank you so much for sharing your insight.
To answer your question about why people knit and walk, I do it when hiking because if I keep my hands dangling while walking they get swollen and itchy. If I knit, my fingers are moving and they don't get swollen!
I found a pattern on Ravelry that I loved but could only be found in a book. Found said book on Amazon for like 18 bucks or 12 used, and bought it, not knowing what other patterns were in the book because I liked the pattern enough to pay 12 bucks just for it. The fact that there were other patterns and tips in said book were just bonus.
In defence of walking and knitting. I used to do it in my final semester of university (and will probably start again once I begin grad school) because I didn't have a tonne of knitting time, so I was able to use my commute to knit some vanilla socks . It was also really helpful with anxiety on exam/presentation days. My professor even let me knit in class (so long as I wasn't a disruption) as doing something with my hands helps me focus (I can knit stockinette or ribbed socks without looking, or without really even thinking).
This makes perfect sense and had knitting been a part of my life when I was in college, my opinion of knitting and walking (which is evolving all the time 😅) would probably be different. Despite what I say here (which is totally in jest), if there is a thing that we can do that’s good for us and natural that can help keep our hands busy when we’re nervous or calm our minds when we’re anxious then we should do that thing…wherever and whenever we can. I deal with panic attacks from time to time and there are things I do to cope and bring on the calm that others may not consider. I suppose this is one of those things that I just didn’t consider, but am now soo aware and on-board with it and how it can support folks. ❤️
Hear, hear, at the fun projects for beginners! I made one dishcloth, then my first proper knooked (knitted with a crochet hook) project was a sock. I haven't stopped since! 😁
I personally love 9” circs! Started w DPs, I knit faster cuz less needle finagling. Haven’t tried magic loop…I have wayyyyy too many circs, then upgraded to CGoo interchangeable set. Plus red and blue shortie sets. Re a sock knitting machine.. why not?? There’s a learning curve w those, or, at very least, heels & toes are (generally) hand knit….. is a sewing machine cheating ? Nope, in my opinion. I certainly wouldn’t want to sew a garment w hand sewn seams, etc. ugh-I don’t even like sewing a button on a shirt…give me a crochet hook, Sure! Haha , such a funny vid, thanks!! Oh, and I have some straight (+ nice wooden) needles sitting in a pretty vase. Fell in love with my first circular & never went back.
Learn as you go!!! Yes!!! That is what I do. I'm a new knitter. I've made 3 things and have 3 more projects on my needles now. I'm making what I want and a dish cloth isn't it because I don't like using them!! So, I'm making socks, a cowl, and a hat. And once I'm finished, I'll probably make more socks and a sweater!
1. I really like when you say that your opinions are guided by what you already own and are used to! Makes you much more relatable. Average knitter does not have the amt of money and time to spend on knitting as the average youtube knitter 2. If you are using a dpn with a similar gauge why does a cable needle change the twnsion/look. Ive never understood the point of cable needles if you have dpns
I'm so new to knitting that all of these I'm just sitting here like, "Oh, really?" and "whelp, I'll definitely try that later... after I learn more and can be properly scandalized." I run into so many knitters on facebook and youtube who are super judgy of budget yarn from big box stores, but they don't offer any reasonably priced acceptable alternatives for beginners. I watched your video on the budget to bougie wool yarns, but do you have any suggestions on how to build up a stash of different weights for projects without breaking the bank? I'd love to buy hand dyed yarn, but it's just not in the budget except maybe for gifts once I'm better at this.
I love my 12" DPNs. I only have 1 pair of them -4mm - and cannot find more. very sad about that. I use them as straight single points more often than not (also gives me a chance to use my needle point protectors)
YES to learning as you go!! one thing I love about knitting is that it's so easy to "naturally" increase the difficulty/interest of what you're doing. As soon as you get bored, guess what? you can learn a bunch of new things! (though I am really glad I started with basic scarves and knit-flat hats - I think those can still be good beginner projects because when you're just learning, just the process of basic stitches is enough interest/challenge) I'm actually using 10" DPNs right now! 😂 I originally got them for a really cute double-knit coaster pattern (which turned out great!) but I occasionally use them for socks if I can't find a better length in the right needle size
YAY more opinions 😄 I do love fades BUT they have to be reasonably faded and not obvious "microstripes", like you say. My eyes don't like to see fades that are not faded enough. If you wanna do black, bright red and white, I think colorblock might look better. Maybe not always but often. I think walking and knitting is fun but it doesn't have to be a MUST. I think it's nice when you don't have a lot of time in your day and wanna do both 🙃 I agree that MKALs are probably often a bad investment lol! Personally, I stay far from them. When I'm interested in knitting a design, I take quite a lot of time to look at many projects in order to decide if I'd like the FO enough to make it, what colors I could use, etc. So... would I knit something without knowing exactly what I can expect to get and how I can make the best possible use of my colors? No way! ❌
For sewing patterns versus a knitting pattern, if I looking a Garment pattern. The sewing pattern comes with the whole background extra stuff like cut out so that you can put it on your fabric so that's why it cut costs more Garment pattern. The sewing pattern comes with the whole background extra stuff like cut out so that you can put it on your fabric so that's why it costs more. Knitting Pattern are pdf and I got to print it myself. And yes there is grading but there is grading in both. So just because knitting patterns are catching up with the grading don't mean they should cost more.
I had to laugh at the first one. I so agree with anything longer than 24 inches being annoying. The flip side is I almost ALWAYS magic loop, I just do it on 24 inch cables.
I agree with working on the project you like. The first thing i knit was a sleeveless vest for my father when i was around 16.I learned cables,decreasing sts seaming,picking up stitches for neckline etc i really enjoyed it. My father still wears them when its not very cold.After that, i always ambitiously picked a project basically a needed item for myself or others and learned new things while knitting them.
I don’t knit while strolling out in nature, but I sure do like it if I am with someone who is shopping for something I have no interest in. If my SO is shopping for computer bits, I am bored to tears, I can follow him around the store while knitting a simple hat and I have all the patience in the world. It works for both of us. But I can also knit simple things without looking at my knitting except for quick checks. So safety isn’t much of a concern. I don’t know if they are unpopular opinions, but a pet peeve is someone who believes their way is the only way; be it fiber content, use of a particular needle or technique. I can agree with don’t knock it to you try it. But once I learn your favorite technique and decide I don’t like it, quit bugging me about it. One use for my longer dpns is to pick up stitches. I can pick up from either side (which ever is either easier) and then knit off the dpn. I had to laugh during her discussion on straight needles. As I watch this, I am knitting dishcloths (as a gift) on straight needles. I have “emergency” knitting kits in each of our vehicles; cotton yarn and straight needles in case I ever am out without my knitting.
My first ravelry name was “hatescircs”-reference to the comment on hating straight needles 😂 Oh how things have changed! And for me it IS all about the process❤️🧶🌞👍🏻 Love your channel!
I have an antique sock knitting machine. THE hardest fiber skill I've ever learned. I like long circular needles, because I've lost DPNs - on the bus. Rolled all the way to the front. Also, in the movie theatre. Very inconvenient, and embarassing. And I love learning new techniques, new stitch patterns. And, of course, feeding my yarn habit, which is mostly sock yarn.
I’m 72 and am a new knitter. I just discovered your channel the other day and am thoroughly enjoying learning more about the possibilities in knitting. I have my mother’s knitting needles, all straight ones and some DPNs, but I have also bought a few circulars. I started with dish cloths using the English style method (I think that’s what it’s called) and struggled. I am now knitting the Continental style and it is much better for me. I just completed a hat and working on the matching scarf for a Christmas gift. I really started knitting because I have trouble finding socks that fit me and hope to start on a pair after Christmas. In the meantime my next project is the Fire Pit Mitts Fingerless gloves for our daughter and a pair for me. I agree, just dive in and learn along the way. Thank you, Linda Hardesty
This is really cool Linda! Welcome to the knitting rabbit hole! It's great that you found a knitting style that works for you. Being able to execute the stitches comfortably is so important and will make things feel so much more efficient. I hope you enjoy the Fire Pit Mitts. Happy knitting and thank you for watching!
I love your comments about reading and walking. My teenage son always reads when he is walking to and from bus. My only rule is he can't read crossing roads.
I'm doing an MKAL for the first time, and while I kind of enjoy learning all those new techniques I also think it will be the last time. Indeed, not worth the time investment this way xD After knitting all week for two weeks and missing my other hobbies and still being behind, nah, it's too much. So now I've been reading again while knitting on a basic cable scarf and it was so nice to ... well, do something else for a while. I'm definitely not a one-project-knitter either.
What is the pattern for the brown cardigan you are wearing at beginning of the video?? I think it is so beautiful. Love your videos. Thanks for taking the time to share.
I am a walker and reader and a walker and knitter dependent on my desire at the time. I walk as a work out, and I hate it...... so I knit or read when I walk so that it's a bit more enjoyable.
I use DPNs for socks and sleeves. The long ones are useful for sleeves, but they get caught on the cuff of my sweaters during knitting, so I much prefer shorter DPNs. I absolutely love KnitPro Zing, they are VERY slippery which I like but may be challenging to some.
I absolutely agree with learning as you go! My first knit was a sweater! Garter stitched 4 panels and seamed them up to make a body and the arms. It’s full of dropped stitches and it’s way too big but it was a gift for my mom and she loves it!
I love my Prym yoga cable needle. I use my DPNs as straight needles if I need some. 7" DPNs are ideal, and I love my 9" needles for my socks and sleeves.
I am currently knitting a farm blanket for my daughter. Needs lots of swatches in different styles. Great practice piece with a purpose. Also practicing some crochet for the flowers & bushes. Halfway through and still excited about the project.
This sounds like it's going to be such a special piece. And having something that lights your creative fire is so important. Happy knitting and thank you for watching and sharing here. ❤️
Absolutely! And this actually speaks to the opinion that folks should learn through a meaningful project. That's exactly what this is. Regardless of the opinion that MKALs are a risk or aren't worth the time or whatever...they certainly are a FANTASTIC place to sharpen skills and learn new ones. ❤️
I love this topic, and adding my unpopular knitting opinions, I would say I don’t like mohair, I don’t like rustic wool, and with all due respect for independent dyers, I prefer commercial yarn because you don’t get ugly pooling.
Hi Claudia! Thank you for watching. And I completely understand and respect those opinions. You're not alone! And favoring commercial yarn for the consistency of color is in no way disrespecting dyers. Trust me--we get it. ❤️
I don't hate dpns, but I used to knit during my commute to work via train & bus and often knitted standing up on one of those conveyances. I cannot tell you how many times I dropped one of the needles and lost it or it was damaged underfoot by a fellow traveler. Ditto for knitting in the car (as a passenger!). Drop one of those and it will without exception roll under a seat, putting an end to your knitting for that trip.
