How To Knit A Comprehensive Guide

Before You Start

We know that there is a LOT that you can make with yarn: whether it be a knit, crochet, or weaving project, the possibilities are endless! With all this room for creativity, it can be hard (and a little scary!) to learn a new fiber technique. Here, we'll introduce the first part of a four-part series centered around Knitting Basics.

Throughout this series, we'll teach you how to Cast On, Knit, Purl, Cast Off, and even Rib Stitch! This week, we'll start with how any beautiful creation begins; with Casting On.

Step By Step

Materials

Any size Knitting Needles (we recommend size 5-8 for beginners)
Any Yarn (we recommend DK Herbal Dyed yarn for beginners)

Step 1

To begin, you will need to make a slipknot. Start by finding the spot about 24” from the tail of yarn. Leave a long tail to cast on more stitches, and a shorter tail to cast on less.

Step 2

Create a loop in the yarn.

Step 3

Pull the strand on the bottom through the loop.

Step 4

Pull to tighten.

Step 5

Place the slipknot on the needle with the tail end facing you.

Step 6

Holding the needle in your right hand, separate the two strands of yarn with your thumb and pointer finger. Hold the two strands of yarn in your other fingers.

Step 7

Turn your left hand upward to make a loop with the strand on your thumb.

Step 8

Insert needle through the loop on your thumb from the bottom.

Step 9

Reach the needle back to the strand on your pointer finger, scooping to grab it from top to bottom.

Step 10

Pull needle back towards you and back through the loop around your thumb.

Step 11

Tighten onto your needle. Not too tight or too loose. Tight enough that it will stay on the needle but loose enough that will be able to get another needle under the stitch. You will now have 2 stitches on your needle, the loop from the slipknot and the loop from the first stitch cast-on.