Knitting 101: Everything you need to know in an 11 minute video!

Seriously folks, knitting is that easy. I’ve been teaching children to knit at the local library for over a year now and I have really learned to simplify the process. If you are new this video is for you. If you are rusty have a look and be reminded of the techniques. If you think you are unteachable and could never get the hang of it try it again. You can pause the video whenever you like and rewind it until you get it right.  This video shows you how to cast on (CO), knit (k), purl (p), and (BO) bind off.  Not bad for 11 minutes eh? I have noted what times each technique is covered below the video so you can skip around if you need to.  So, are you ready to get knitty with it?

See, I told you it was easy! For quick reference here is when each technique is demonstrated:

• Slip Knot 1:04
• Cast On 1:30
• Knit Stitch 2:50
• Purl Stitch 5:10
• Bind Off 7:00

If you get stuck on a project you can just refer to the part of the video you need. You’re welcome! I hope you have some time this weekend to do a bit of knitting. If you have any questions just let me know. Did you know all of those fancy stitch patterns you see in knit wear is just a combinations of knits and purls, who’d a thunk it? Happy knitting and til next time happy crafting!

DIY: Knitting Spools!

Good morning crafters! I was looking for a way to transition the kids in my knitting group from knitting on their fingers to knitting on needles and came up with this: Homemade knitting spools:

 

I read on a website that using a “knitting nancy” or knitting spool was a great way to teach kids to knit so instead of buying knitting spools I made some for pennies! Heres how:

1. Pound 4 small 1″ long nails called brads around the hole of a wooden spool.
2. Roll a scrap of cardstock around a knitting needle and insert it in the hole in the spool, that prevents the yarn from snagging on the wood, no need to glue:)
3. If you like you can wrap another scrap of paper around the outside of the spool or let the kids decorate their own!

Here is how to use a knitting spool!

First, feed the end of the yard down through the top hole (the end with the nails) so it comes out the bottom hole. Then wrap the yarn around each nail from back to front going around the spool counterclockwise.  Wrap the yarn around each spool again so it looks like this:

Then use a small crochet hook or knitting needle to lift the bottom string over the top. It will look like this:

After each round of knitting give the string on the bottom a little tug and after a few rounds you will start to see a fabric cord forming out the bottom of the spool. You can use this cord for purse straps, belts, hat strings or roll it into a spiral and stitch it flat and use it for a Barbie doll rug or pot holder. The possibilities are endless!

Thanks for stopping by and til next time happy crafting!