Murat
Because it’s always there, and improving every day…
Letter From Jodie Morgan: Founding Editor
In this issue, there’s… Color & Comfort, a New Twist On An Old Classic, retreat Into The Beauty Of Stranded Colorwork, a Fresh Take on Lace, and…
Note: If you click a link on this page and make a purchase, I may receive a commission, but at no extra cost to you. Learn More.
Plus, you’ll find…
Ideal for an all day outfit, the Nordic vest, soft and lovely, the classic turtleneck made modern, deck the halls with DIY charm, stylish lace for summer, for the love of texture, delightful delfiniums, and leafy loveliness.
Grafting magic or mere science, this is how they knit in the movies, cast-on without the fuss, revolutionize your intarsia circular projects, knitting conveys strength, and bobbles and beads: a match made in knitting heaven.
Winter knitting with Noma’s latest vlog episode, a miniature adventure into Mochimochi Land, master the mattress stitch on garter edges with ease, is this electric yarn winder a true time saver?
The ingenious colorwork method and woolen vs worsted: why the spin matters.
And! Black Friday is nearly upon us, but while the anticipation gathers… There are some great early deals happening now! All the details are in my post.
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Knitter’s Corner
Question From A Reader
I love getting emails from my readers and every week I pick out the best question and answer it here. So, today’s question is…
“I’m curious about loom knitting. Is it suitable for beginners, and what can I make as a first project?”
Loom knitting is a fantastic choice for beginners! It’s easier on the hands and quicker than traditional knitting. I’d start with something simple, like a scarf. This allows you to familiarize yourself with how the loom works without being overwhelmed.
Check out the basics and project ideas in this post.
Have you tried loom knitting? Share your stories in the comments!
Useful Knitting Tip
Use A Row Counter
“Got your knitting in a tangle because you’ve lost count of your rows? It’s easy to do in large sections of the same repeating stitch pattern or in complicated techniques like colorwork. Invest in a handy row counter: it keeps track so you avoid knitting mishaps. Or, jot down your rows in a notebook, on your printed out knitting pattern or your phone’s notes app.”
— Excerpt from the Knitting Habits Success Manual.
Casting On Comedy
I love sharing the fun of our craft and I hope you get a giggle out of this…
I knit. What’s your superpower?
The Great Knitting Debate
I so enjoy finding out about my readers’ experiences. Please let me know your thoughts in this poll.
You have until the next issue to cast your vote, and there, the results will be revealed!
And now… for last week’s results…
Your Preferred Knitting Needles Are…
- Option #1: Metal needles all the way. 57%
- Option #2: Wooden needles for life. 28%
- Option #3: I love my bamboo needles. 14%
Worthy Of A Spot On Your Bookshelf
Here’s my weekly recommendation for an excellent knitting resource to help you on your knitting journey.
Patty Lyons’ Knitting Bag Of Tricks
“Learn handy tips to improve your knitting stitch skills from expert Patty Lyons. Fabulous illustrations clearly showing the steps involved and also ones that’ll make you chuckle.“
— Sourced from my recommended books for your knitting library.
Knitting Through Time
I love finding pieces of art from history showcasing our craft through the ages.
This is a sketch of what looks like a pair of socks by Léo Laporte-Blairsy.
Fabulous Yarny Happenings
Here are just some of the fiber craft events happening in the world this week:
- L’aiguille en Fêtes/Créations & Savoir-Faire – France
- Dutchess County Sheep & Wool Growers Association Fall Farm Tour – USA
One of my most popular posts has been my list of global Knitting Events. Check it out for all the details of the upcoming festivals, gatherings and retreats.
The Wisdom Of Words
“Creativity is inventing, experimenting, growing, taking risks, breaking rules, making mistakes, and having fun.”
— Mary Lou Cook
This Week In Knitting News
Here’s what I’ve found for you…
Warm Hearts With Every Stitch This Winter
I love the spirit behind the Knit Through the Nippy Days project! It’s such a heartfelt initiative for older adults to craft together and help newborns.
What better way to beat the winter blues than knitting for a cause?
November’s Knitting Reads
The latest roundup of knitting and crochet books shows a treasure trove of must-haves! Dee Hardwicke’s natural-themed ‘Cultivate’ caught my eye. I’m bookmarking these for my evening reads!
Meet The Unphotographable Coat
Sarah C. Swett’s latest post explores a coat with a larger-than-life personality with her usual wit and whimsy. She invites you to appreciate the beauty in imperfection.
A Day In The Life Of A Knitter
Isn’t it just the best when our plans align with our passion for knitting? Louise Tilbrook’s latest Instagram post resonates with me deeply. She talks about her ambitious knitting plans: something I aspire to daily!
Seeing knitters chat in the comments about their days is wonderful! Each is different, and it shows knitting is unique for everyone.
The Lucky $77 Yarn Giveaway
7 lucky winners, so you have a great chance of winning…
Knitting Designs You Can’t Miss…
Color & Comfort
The vibrant Snug Wrap by Sylvia Watts-Cherry caught my eye! This lively rectangular shawl is ideal for intarsia lovers. Textures bring each color to life.
Recommended using a sport weight yarn and US 5 (3.75mm) needles, it’ll be as fun to make as it is to wear. She used Prism from La Bien Aimée (sport weight, 50% Merino Wool, 50% Recycled Fibers leftover from other yarn production from the company.)
A New Twist On An Old Classic
Have you met the NAiMA Pullover?
Designed with flexibility in mind, it includes three body shape options. Delight in the seamless top-down design and tailor it with straight, A-line, or balloon shapes.
It uses the comfy Biches & Bûches Le Gros Lambswool (100% Scottish Lambswool, Aran weight), and you could also try making it in Woodland (80% Merino Wool, 20% Baby Alpaca, Aran Weight) or Simply Wool Aran (100% Eco Wool.)
Retreat Into The Beauty Of Stranded Colorwork
Tif Neilan’s Retreat Tee is a beautiful knitting adventure! With multiple sizes and detailed instructions, it’s a delightful project you can adjust to perfection.
The recommended yarns are Brooklyn Tweed’s Arbor (100% Wool) and Dapple (60% Merino Wool, 40% Cotton.) The DK weight makes this a relatively quick knit, too.
A Fresh Take on Lace
If you adore textured knits as much as I do, then you’ll appreciate the Josephine Sweater. Its stunning lace design adds a sophisticated twist! I adore the high neck.
Two yarns (merino: Lana Grossa’s Cool Wool Lace & mohair/silk: Lana Grossa’s Silkhair) held together bring out the pattern’s intricate details beautifully. A delightful project for those crisp evenings!
The Lucky $77 Yarn Giveaway
7 lucky winners, so you have a great chance of winning…
Ideal For An All Day Outfit
I love this chunky, wide-neck sweater design! The comfort of the chunky yarn and the stylish wide neck make it a standout. Perfectly pairs with any outfit!
Plus, the pattern suggests using 10mm circular needles and bulky weight yarn, which means it’ll knit up quickly.
The Nordic Vest
The Nordic Vest from CasualKnitsStudio is a treat for knitters looking for an accessible yet rewarding project. What I love about this is how it accommodates a range of sizes and promises a fashionable, custom touch in your wardrobe.
The choice between cotton or wool allows for warm and breezy options, making it versatile for various seasons, knitted on standard US size 6 needles.
Soft & Lovely
The Vorin sweater from StrikkeVorin caught my eye. I’m always searching for pieces that balance ease and elegance, and this one ticks all the boxes!
It’s knit with two strands and requires Dale Myk Påfugl or Hip Knit Fluff yarns, using needles sized 8 mm and 9 mm. The generous sizing options make it versatile for various body types, and the bottom-up construction is a practical touch.
The Classic Turtleneck Made Modern
There’s something endlessly appealing about a sweater that marries simplicity with style, and this bottom-up turtleneck is no exception. I love the versatility of the slightly oversized design, making it perfect for both a casual day out and a cozy evening in.
Using 4 mm needles and DK-weight yarn ensures a piece that’s lightweight yet warm.
Deck The Halls With DIY Charm!
Looking to add a personal touch to your holiday decor or gifts? I recommend giving Amanda’s Mini Holiday Stocking a go. Ideal for those tiny but thoughtful last-minute gifts, or even as festive tree decorations.
I love how it’s beginner-friendly with its creative use of scrap yarn in charming red and white. A small stocking that’s perfect on its own, or filled with holiday treats!
Stylish Lace For Summer
The Summerwood Tee caught my eye for its delicate lace work that imbues summer elegance. The lace mimics lush landscapes, adding a romantic touch.
Plus, the Italian bind-off is a lovely touch.
The chosen yarn is an airy blend of cotton and Merino wool.
For The Love Of Texture
If you’ve ever wanted a sweater that combines chic aesthetics and clever knitting techniques, LilyKateMakes’ Love Number is the one! The round yoke, easy texture stitches, and choice of waist shaping or straight variants make it adaptable.
Plus, the blend of merino and suri alpaca yarn ensures comfort and luxury.
Delightful Delfiniums
There’s something satisfying about knitted cables. The Delfinium Scarf, designed by MyCharmingWool, caught my eye with its bold cable center and optional fringes.
Knit with bulky yarn on 6 mm needles, it’s a quick project.
Leafy Loveliness
Looking for a chic summer project? The Annie Tee warrants attention for those warm days! Its bottom-up construction and lace details promise a breezy, beautiful fit. Esther’s design is perfect for advancing beginners and blends elegance with ease.
It’s knitted in DK weight yarn with a 4.5mm needle.
Insider Knitting Inspiration…
Grafting Magic Or Mere Science?
Who knew knitting could feel like performing a magic trick? This enlightening piece delves into the complexities of grafting directions in knitting.
Patty Lyons debunks the myth that a perfect grafting finish requires magical skills—it’s more about understanding the science behind stitch directions.
This Is How They Knit In The Movies
Olga from Gotham Knits often makes funny videos any knitter would relate to, and this one about how they ‘knit’ on TV and in films made me laugh.
When you next see a film and someone’s knitting, take a closer look. You might be surprised to see what’s actually going on!
Cast-On Without The Fuss
Norman takes on the tricky tubular cast-on with an easier version: what a relief, right? If you’ve ever caught your yarn in a twist trying the classic method, you’ll understand the allure of a straightforward alternative that doesn’t sacrifice looks.
Revolutionize Your Intarsia Circular Projects
I found a tutorial that demystifies intarsia in the round! It’s straightforward, showing exactly how to maintain a continuous design in circular knitting.
It uses a smart “round join” technique that notably simplifies the process, especially for mittens or hats.
Knitting Conveys Strength
In Episode 149 of Fruity Knitting, the spotlight shines brightly on the touching stories behind “Knit is for Power.” Watching Melanie Berg and Tanja Steinbach delve into how knitting has been their stronghold through rough patches was so moving.
Bobbles & Beads: A Match Made In Knitting Heaven!
Bobbles just got better with Laura Nelkin’s tutorial where you add beads! Her favorite technique not only enhances the texture but also brings a dash of sparkle.
Winter Knitting With Noma’s Latest Vlog Episode
What I adore about Knit With Noma’s Episode 18 is how she rolls out her upcoming winter knitting plans and showcases her latest one skein scarf pattern: talk about a winter treat!
It excites me to see knitters share their current successes and inspirations for new projects, all in one episode.
A Miniature Adventure Into Mochimochi Land!
I love Anna Hrachovec’s magical miniatures in Mochimochi Land! Each piece is a burst of joy, reflecting Anna’s vibrant imagination.
Her upcoming virtual class on December 13th promises to be a delightful dive into crafting tiny knitted creatures, complete with all the supplies.
Master the Mattress Stitch on Garter Edges with Ease!
Ever struggled with invisible seaming on garter stitches? I have! Which is why I found this video tutorial by SweetGeorgia so enlightening.
Felicia shows the mattress stitching technique.
The insights on handling carried yarn are helpful for ensuring that seamless look.
Is This Electric Yarn Winder A True Time Saver?
Toni from TL Yarn Crafts has an engaging take on a new electric yarn winder. She puts it through its paces with yarns of various thicknesses and speeds!
Check out her review and see if it changes your setup!
The Ingenious Colorwork Method
Anna Morwen’s take on knitting colorwork inside out is clever! By flipping the work, Anna ensures longer floats and uniform tension across various colors. If you usually find colorwork intimidating, her easy tutorial might change your knitting outlook.
Woolen Vs Worsted: Why The Spin Matters
I enjoyed Carol Feller’s latest exploration on yarn spins. She makes the nuances between woolen and worsted spins simple.
What resonates with me is her description of the textures and how they influence the final look of a knit. This video is a must-watch for knitters choosing yarn.
Hope this issue has inspired your next knitting project!
Was this valuable to you? How could I make it more useful for you?
Leave a comment or contact me with what you’d like to see. And as an extra thank you for sending me your feedback, I’ll have a surprise for you… 😀
P.S. This bear is doing a spot of knitting…
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