Twisted stitches create the look of cable stitches without the use of a cable needle. Right twists are simple to execute and are often used to complement cable patterns. I used this stitch in my Laughing Matter socks and, of course, incorporated it into the Building Blocks series. After watching the video tutorial, try this beauty of a stitch in your next project!
Leave a Comment July 28, 2010
Many patterns call for the use of a kfb (knit front and back). This abbreviation is used for a knitting increase made by knitting into the front and back of a stitch. It is an easy and quick increase that turns one stitch into two. The resulting new stitch leaves a bump similar to a purl bump. Try your hand at this elementary increase demonstrated in my newest video.
Leave a Comment July 24, 2010
Once you have mastered the knit stitch, it is time to learn the purl stitch. The knit and purl stitches are the foundation of all knitting and it is the million manipulations of these two stitches that create the wonderful designs that dazzle us!
Leave a Comment July 22, 2010
If you or a friend are interested in learning to knit, try this basic knitting lesson to get started. A whole world of creativity awaits you!
Leave a Comment July 22, 2010
Cables are the best bang for your buck in knitting! Cable designs look difficult, but are so simple to execute. Start with these easy cables and work your way up to more complicated versions. All levels of cables follow the same principles and you will be very impressed by the professional look achieved with such minimal effort. We don’t have to let all those non-knitters in on our little secret!
Leave a Comment July 4, 2010
Continental style knitting refers to the method of knitting with the working yarn held in the left hand. Many knitters find this method far quicker than English (American) style knitting where the working yarn is held in the right hand and wrapped, or “thrown”, around the needles. If continental knitting is new to you, view my latest video lessons and see what all the fuss is about!
Leave a Comment June 9, 2010
Every knitter will need to decrease stitches at some point. The simplest decrease is made by knitting two stitches together which results in one new stitch where there had once been two. A knit two together (k2tog) results in a stitch that is right leaning. In shaping or lace knitting a left leaning decrease may be required. The simplest left leaning decrease is made by knitting two stitches together through the back loop (k2tog tbl). Watch these two quick videos and make your stitches disappear!
1 Comment June 6, 2010
The left twist is a bit trickier to execute than its counterpart the right twist, but these two stitches open the door to many design possibilities. There are several ways to create that finicky left twist, but I demonstrate the simplest in this video. Give it a whirl and enjoy all the new stitch opportunities!
Leave a Comment June 2, 2010
This top down sock was a delight to knit due to the yummy softness of Shibui’s newest yarn, Staccato. The cuff began with the optional rib cast on using the Long Tail/Purl Cast On (see Purl Cast On Video) and was followed by the simple dancing squares. Pattern debuted as Mystery Sock #24 in May 2010.
Leave a Comment May 21, 2010
The Purl Cast On is a variation of the Long Tail Cast On that creates, you guessed it – a purl stitch! Many knitters use this cast on as a way to keep an edge from curling. Alternate this cast on with the standard Long TaiI and you can actually establish your rib pattern in the cast on row. I think this is especially good looking when knitting with a bulky yarn. I love the way this cast on challenges my brain!
Leave a Comment May 20, 2010