Tips for New Knitters

🧶 Tips for Knitters

Welcome to Knitting 💛

We’re so glad you’re here. Knitting is one of those rare things that’s both creative and calming—and yes, you can do it. Every knitter you admire started exactly where you are right now.

Start Simple (You’re Doing It Right)

Choose a smooth, light-colored yarn so you can easily see your stitches. Pair it with the right-sized circular needle for the project. The right pattern will give you all this information.

Your first project doesn’t need to be perfect but it does need to be something that inspires you, check out pattern suggestions under Favorite First Patterns and Yarns.

Slow and Steady Wins

It’s not about how fast you knit—it’s about how your stitches feel. Take your time, find your rhythm, and let your hands learn. It's not a race. There are 100's of way to knit, do what feels right for you.

Count Early, Count Often

A quick stitch count every few rows can save you a lot of time later. Stitch Markers are your friend.  A great tip is to use a stitch marker every pattern repeat. Use them to mark the beginning of a row, keep track of stitches, or just give yourself helpful little reminders along the way. As your projects get more complex, invest in Sweater Strings to mark your rows.

Mistakes Happen (Even to Us!)

Dropped a stitch? Added one by accident? It happens to everyone. Knitting isn’t about avoiding mistakes, it’s about learning how to fix them (and sometimes just letting them be). Using a smooth light colored yarn when you start is a great way to see your mistakes and learn to fix them.

Keep a Handi-Tool In your Project Bag

This might be the best little tip we can give you - keep a Handi-Tool with you at all times.  It will help you pick up dropped stitches quickly and easily. It’s like a tiny rescue tool for your knitting.

Learn One Abbriviation at a Time

Start with the knit (K) stitch. When you’re ready, add the purl (P). Reading the Abbreviations list is a great way to figure out if a pattern is good for you.  If you don't know a couple of the terms, it's a great pattern for you.

Small Projects = Big Wins

Cowls and hats are the perfect first projects. You’ll finish faster, build confidence, and feel that “I made this!” moment sooner. Start with what you will use.

Get to Know Your Yarn

Your yarn label is full of helpful information—needle size, fiber content, and how to care for your finished piece. A quick read goes a long way.

Don’t Skip Blocking

Blocking is the final step that helps your stitches settle and your project shine. It’s simple, and it makes a big difference. Wool blocks beautifully.

Most Important of All

Knitting should feel good. If you’re feeling frustrated, take a break and put your project in time out. Take care of yourself, stretching your hands and using MSM Cream will keep the pain away so you can knit more.

You became a knitter the moment you picked up those needles. 🧶