Knitting Supplies: What Do You Need to Knit Properly?

Knitting is a great craft that doesn't really need a lot of specialized items for you to get started. It's not like you have to run out and spend hundreds of dollars on tools or equipment, in fact, a lot of what you need to knit may already be in your craft cupboard. Here is a look at some of the tools that you need when you are starting that knitting project.

Yarn

Of course to knit, you will need yarn or wool. This is readily available and comes in a wide variety of styles and colours. Some is real wool, that is, real sheep's wool, but the majority is constructed with man-made fibers. Cotton, polyester, mohair, angora, and chenille are all types of yarns.

Yarn or wool comes in different weights, and that basically tells you how thick or thin the product is. Thin yarns knit up a lot more slowly than the chunkier ones do. Each pattern will have a weight of wool in mind that you will use if you want the item to achieve the measurements that the pattern promises.

Needles

The next part of your knitting supplies are needles. Once you have your yarn you will need somewhere to work with it. Enter the knitting needles. These are long sticks with points on the ends that allow you to pick up stitches as you work your project. The finished stitches sit on the needles until they are needed again.

Needles can be made of bamboo, plastic or aluminum and are different widths and lengths. The width is important, as each project will be worked on a specific width of needle to achieve the desired measurements and result. Large (wide) needles and thick yarn for example will knit up faster than thin needles and thin yarn will.

Row Counter

Some knitters find it helpful to utilize a row counter. This tiny device goes on the end of a needle and will keep track of how many rows have been worked.

Pins/scissors/tape measure

All knitters periodically need to check their work to make sure it is the right length and width. Pins can hold your place while you measure, and the tape measure can ensure the right amount of knitting has been finished. Scissors are used to cut the yarn ends after you have made the garment up.

Sewing needle

This is a great little tool to have, especially when you are sewing up your knitting project. They have a large eye for ease of getting the yarn through and have a blunt end so you won't split your stitches when you are sewing. A sewing needle is definitely an essential for your knitting supplies.

Pattern

Most knitters read from a pattern. This will tell you exactly which stitches to use on which rows to create the item that you desire. Patterns also tell you which type of yarn and which size needles will give you the effect you desire. Patterns can be found in stores, online and in books.

Knitting is a great way to create wonderful items for your family and friends. It does not need any bulky equipment and what you do need can easily be stored away in a small bag when not in use.

By Sally Anne Peters. For more information read Knitting For Beginners or go here to purchase knitting supplies.

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