5 things I do BEFORE I start any knitting project

A detailed look at all the simple steps I take to ensure my next project will be a success.
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This video takes a very detailed looks at all the important lessons I learned in the past decade or two when it comes to knitting patterns. Often, the mistakes are entirely avoidable if only you took 5 or 10 minutes before you started knitting. Reading, swatching, and doing a bit of research are vital but so often overlooked - especially by beginners. This video hopes to emphasize the importance of these super simple steps to save you from unraveling and regretting your choices.
0:00 Introduction
0:48 Read the description
2:12 Knit a swatch - but different!
6:34 Read the WHOLE pattern
11:33 Check for Errata & past projects
16:11 Compare pattern and pictures/chart
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[@NimbleNeedles]

☕ Support my work and become a patron: www.patreon.com/nimbleneedlez 🧑‍🎓Free knitting school: nimble-needles.com/learn-to-knit-for-beginners/ 🧶 My knitting tools: nimble-needles.com/wool-and-tools/my-knitting-toolkit-essential-items-i-need-for-every-project/ 👕 My patterns: nimble-needles.com/free-knitting-patterns/ 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/nimbleneedlez/ And feel free to comment any time if you have a question. No need to be shy! :)

[@viktorijavaiciulyte2578]

Norman, You are my absolute favorite knitting KZbinr! You're such a positive presence in this community and You produce such high quality, extremely thoughtful videos with HQ closeups, it really helps understanding the knitting process. I cannot thank You enough for all of the work You put into this and share Your experiences. I've learned so much from You. Please know how thankful I am and do keep up the excellent work! Much love from Lithuania ❤️

[@NimbleNeedles]

awww...thank you for these kind words, Viktorija. Glad I can be part of your knitting journey and my videos are so helpful to you!

[@StickmanFights.]

that's so nice of you😊😊❤❤

[@ASMRkatz]

I agree 120 % !

[@elenapescosolido5940]

Preferivo i vecchi schemi di una vta fatti in Italia o tradotti bene, sono in pensione e siccome ho lavorato tutta una vita mi annoio a star ferma ed ho ripreso dopo decenni i ferri per fare qualche maglia ma ahimè le spiegazioni sono tremende a volte trovi gli schemi spezzettati c'è A b pod poi pezzi distaccati che ti chiedi e questo a che serve mó. Ci sono dei punti che non hanno niente solo un colore e ti dice di non lavorarli e non è che si tratta di un solo quadratino ma di 4 o 5. . Caxx e che li hai messi a fare, dai una spiegazikne logica sul come fare, per poi finire con i quadratini in bianco che devi indovinare se sono diritti o rovesci. Un casino pazzesco

[@Sequoya]

Thanks Norman! I’m newish to knitting, and a professional baker. Patterns are like recipes. I read them start to finish, map out the process, color code difficult stitches, and trust the designer. I always follow a recipe the way it is written the first time. I do have to slow my roll in the beginning because I’m so excited about the project. Taking the time to prep is so important!

[@NimbleNeedles]

it definitely is!

[@lindapayne9474]

Yes, I would very much like a more in depth video about swatches. Your tutorials are so professionally done and yet your presentation is so friendly. Thank you for all you do for the knitting community.

[@NimbleNeedles]

your wish is noted, linda!

[@lindapayne9474]

@@NimbleNeedles In particular, how can I swatch properly to knit in the round?

[@Mindbender78]

I would also appreciate this! I feel like most advice is “do it!” but I would like a video that assumes that I don’t need persuasion and do want intermediate-level tips ❤

[@noelleparris9451]

Absolutely yes; a full video on swatches (and all the uses and benefits) would be great.

[@NimbleNeedles]

so many have expressed the wish so I think i'll do it :D

[@paularubina9843]

Yes please to a video all about swatches. Thanks Norman ❣️

[@theastewart6721]

Hi Norman. What a wonderful video! Such sensible advice. All of your advice is spot on. I can’t count the times I could have spared myself a lot of hassle by just reading through the pattern from start to finish before starting. Swatching is so helpful as you’ve pointed out. I especially like to get comfortable with knitting with a particular yarn. Thanks for sharing all these great tips! Have a wonderful week!❤️

[@karindaugaard5580]

Again-again a very useful lot of extremely good advice, presented in your both clear and warm way. Thank you ❣️ 'Unicorn blend' 🤣🤣🤣 I laughed so hard that I dropped 6 stitches 🤣

[@NimbleNeedles]

Sorry...well..a bit 😅🤣

[@karindaugaard5580]

@@NimbleNeedles no, you're not - not one bit 😂

[@helanesteinmuller9279]

Oh my. I’m supposed to be holidaying here in Italy, but rather than enjoying the sun and sea, I discovered your channel this morning and have just spent the whole day watching Norman knit. Best day ever! Thank you darling 😍 I hate sand anyway.

[@NimbleNeedles]

Haha...do enjoy a bit of the country as well. Italy is gorgeous!

[@helanesteinmuller9279]

@@NimbleNeedles so So are you darling 🤣🥰

[@hongjiae]

I've finally gotten to a point where I can understand the pattern before starting my project, and it's so nice~🎉 I've been reading the patterns before I start for a while, but it usually went over my head. I found it very difficult to picture and understand the pattern when I didn't have the physical thing before my eyes. Especially things like seams, hems, collars, gussets, etc. So, while I do agree that reading the pattern ahead of time is important, I think beginners shouldn't feel discouraged if the reading doesn't make a huge difference for them. For me, it took quite a bit of experience before I could read the pattern, visualize all the separate pieces, and how it all comes together in the end.

[@NimbleNeedles]

I think you certainly hit a mark there. At the same time I would like you to consider two things: First of all, even if you don't understand everything, you understand a little bit more and that will always be a benefit. Sometimes you need to read a sentence twice, somtimes you even need to sleep over it once. So, I think it still makes sense. And secondly, of course, I do believe you reading all those patterns helped you finally getting proficient at reading patterns much faster. So, of course, reading a somewhat advanced pattern will have different effects when you compare an experienced knitter with a beginner. I would still say it's a smart chice in either case.

[@ccsullivan9164]

I highly recommend Shirley Paden’s book which is encyclopedic in terms of the tailoring of knits and really helped me understand different designs and how to approach and create them.

[@PoptartParasol]

@@NimbleNeedles i 100% agree with your reasons. That definetly is my experience as a beginner. Reading and rereading always helped and over time I understood better

[@ragathnor326]

Errata!!! I have a book that has errata in EVERY pattern....I cried so much...I thought I was losing my mind.

[@NimbleNeedles]

oh, I can well imagine that. that shouldn't be the case!!

[@oceansoul3694]

This is a wonderfully informative video, Norman. I always knit a swatch, and I keep them to make baby blankets when I have enough. It's a great way to use them and delight a new mother at the same time. Thank you for teaching us, inspiring us, and keeping the tradition alive!

[@juliakarwat8148]

Your comment is genius - I’ve never thought of using swatches for a blanket I might have to give this a go! 😊

[@oceansoul3694]

@@juliakarwat8148 Thank you, Julia! They make wonderful car-seat blankets, and when you have enough of them blankets of all sizes. It's always a work in progress, as I'm always knitting and tossing the swatches in a basket for further use. I also stuff them with catnip and make toys for my cats. Knit on my friend!

[@NimbleNeedles]

yeah, that is a wonderful tip! if they are mismatched, you can also use them to yarn bomb!

[@Housewrensnest]

Great video, Norman. Your advice is spot on and brilliant. Preparation can prevent many "tears" and the knitter from coming unravelled with his or her knitting. Thanks so much.

[@NimbleNeedles]

it sure can! i mean, not all tears but those that are easily preventable, at least!

[@capodicasa4038]

I also use a Swatch to see if I like the look of the stitches. I'm copying an old favourite shop sweater. The needle size recommended for the wool made the fabric too open, so I went for slightly smaller needles and the second Swatch was perfect - also allowing me to calculate how many stitches I needed to match the old sweater size.

[@aimeewalters4861]

Great advice, as always! I'm a knitter and a sewist, printing my next sewing pattern right now. Many of your tips work well across disciplines. It's a good reminder to gather all my materials and notions before I need them, so I don't need to stop midstep and run to the store for interfacing. 😊

[@NimbleNeedles]

yeah, definitely true. even for things like recipes etc!

[@macarenajanninck3036]

Yes! I would love to learn what to do with my swatches. I have been so reluctant to swatch because I feel it's a waste of yarn, but you are showing me the error of my ways. Could you please expand on this? THANK YOU ! ! ! ! (And, I had NO IDEA you had a second channel!)

[@NimbleNeedles]

I'll put it on the lists!

[@TheEhuang]

So thought-provoking as all your videos are, even when it covers a topic I thought I knew well.

[@wt3869]

Great advice, as always. I like to test out new patterns by knitting swatches but I use 100% cotton and make then about 20 cm x 20 cm and then give them away as washcloths. Although it isn’t the yarn for that particular project, it helps me practice the pattern without wasting any expensive yarn.

[@NimbleNeedles]

That's a great idea!

[@tl4214]

You did a wonderful job!! I found myself checking, double checking my yarn choices, and the overall construction. It really helped me enjoy the actual activity because I was not overwhelmed once I started stitching. I love the idea of questioning my own work, because I know the designer is suck a great pattern writer!!

[@NimbleNeedles]

definitely. I mean, it's easy to get lost in self-doubt so, I think at one point you have to be confident. But double-checking such an important choice is definitely a good idea!

[@meredithdrysdale5013]

Great tips thanks Norman

[@amandah4834]

Thank you for sharing your wealth of knitting knowledge Norman I always find your tips so useful and interesting 😊amanda xx💕

[@sandramalone9977]

Very sound advice Norman for newbies and us old knitters alike - great video, thank you.

[@Sciayam]

High Value video - thanks Norman

[@EvieO1950]

Such good advice!! Thanks for these great tips!!

[@nicolakerrison]

Thanks Norman! It's so tempting with a new project to dive straight in but you have some very sensible reminders here that will save time and frustration in the long run.

[@lisalee2594]

The swatches. I like to keep them in a journal with all the information about the yarn, knitting instructions or where I got it from. Some aren’t necessarily a swatch, especially when I try something like lace edging or a cast on/bind off technique.

[@annaapple7452]

Absolutely agree with these tips! In ravelry, people can tag projects as having helpful information. Those are always worth reading.

[@NimbleNeedles]

Absolutely!

[@libertylady64]

Thanks Norman! As always you have more great advice for us!

[@NimbleNeedles]

as always, My pleasure!

[@ruthievintage]

Thanks for these great tips! I was literally about to cast on…. Now I’m going to slow down and try out your advise 😊

[@RayRed13]

Oh, how I missed your videos. They're always so helpful to me and I'm truly grateful of how much editing, thoughtfulness and production goes into them. I never stop learning from your tips and advices. Thank you so much for taking the time to make these videos 🙌 and be of great help to the knitting community

[@NimbleNeedles]

but i have been constantly publishing new ones every two weeks? why missed?

[@RayRed13]

@@NimbleNeedles i have the notifications on but i don't know why it's only this one that KZbin sent me one :/ the other ones didn't

[@NimbleNeedles]

@@RayRed13 hm...well, that I cannot explain. I know, if you just follow someone and you tend to not watch their new videos anymore, youtube ceases to show you their new videos on your home screen.

[@lindacraven5085]

Your advice is spot on as always! I enjoy your videos so much!

[@NimbleNeedles]

Thanks so much!

[@lynnbean7200]

Great video. Lots of useful tips we should all remember. Thanks.

[@NimbleNeedles]

Thanks for watching!

[@lizzybedeker8964]

Norman, being a crocheter who recently started knitting, I just found your channel and I love it. Creative greetings from belgium 🤩

[@robinallison2862]

Great tips! Thank you❤

[@hollyjames7951]

Hi 👋🏻. I’m new to knitting. I have been sewing garments for a while but knitting is a new endeavor. All of these tips were so good and many of them apply in sewing. I am eager to give knitting a try!

[@dorym8045]

Excellent thorough video as always. Thank you for continuing your work to aid the knitting community.

[@NimbleNeedles]

it's my pleasure, Dory!

[@deborahcherry1735]

Great video,and great advice,we all know to read a pattern to the end,but we never do.I do make a swatch,mainly to try a new stitch and for a different yarn,ravelry is a great resource

[@rachelchudley1527]

So helpful !!!! Thank you x

[@karenlesley3623]

You're vlogs have helped me so much on my knitting journey, because of you I have learnt to knit and now become obsessed with it! Thankyou for the time you take to share your tips ❤

[@NimbleNeedles]

not sure if I should feel proud or guilty now *smirk

[@karenlesley3623]

@NimbleNeedles 😂 definitely proud, I've even managed to learn how to smuggle wool into my house 😉

[@nel6268]

Very helpful. You make me feel better about moving slowly into patterns and doing all the practicing I do. I picked up some new pointers as well. And amen on the popular Steven West patterns. 😵‍💫😊

[@NimbleNeedles]

glad i was able to confirm your process!

[@user-yr6yp9nt7u]

Thank You 💕

[@peggytraeg]

Thank you for your information.

[@nena6332]

Great video, Norman. I have probably made all the mistakes you list over the years, and learned the hard way. Very very useful advice. Great video

[@NimbleNeedles]

I always say, as long as we learn from our mistakes all is good :)

[@elviraloewen4703]

Thank you, Norman for your consistently excellent videos. You are the crown jewel of knitting teachers!! Because I my eyes are 70 years old and don't work as they did years ago, many digital patterns are printed in a font size that is very challenging for me to read. To meet that challenge I create a "large print version" of the pattern for myself by copy/pasting the PDF into a Word document and then blowing it up into an eye-friendly print size. That process is tedious but well worth the time because I get intimately familiar with the pattern and am able to check off all the clever suggestions you make in your video. It also allows me to color highlight my size , and make notations of any steps coming up that I might overlook as I knit along. Sunny spring greetings from Vancouver Island in Canada!

[@judithquinteros9686]

Hola ;desde Chile 🇨🇱🇨🇱 🥰🥰🥰 . Amo el Tejido nunca se termina de aprender gracias!.

[@sarahmacintosh6449]

Yes please to a swatch video!

[@NimbleNeedles]

noted :)

[@susann9365]

Yes, how to use swatches. I love your great videos!

[@NimbleNeedles]

thx for your feedback :D

[@yarneffects1868]

Excellent advice as per usual.

[@NimbleNeedles]

trying my best :P

[@janhendry]

Yes, Norman, I would like a video on how to use swatches. Thank you.

[@lenaraullo5263]

Thank you. As always, very informative. I would love it if you will consider to make a video what to do with swatch collection and about swatching itself.❤

[@NimbleNeedles]

let's collect some more feedback and then I'll see what I can do

[@judithzondler1657]

I also use swatches to get a feel for the drape if the fabric - I've had to unravel a big piece of a sweater because I didn't do that...the fabric was just much too tight 😅 - And yes, I would love an in-depth video about swatching and all things related - maybe also about getting the yarn back from them, or how to treat frogged yarn for reknitting. Specifically I'm wondering how to do that for a linen yarn - the soaking and drying is giving me sort of not so wonderful results...Thank you so much, Norman, for all your great content! 😊🙏

[@conniedufford8825]

Sooo true! I just had a pattern I was following where the colors in the written instructions were switched up from the picture. I wish I had looked more closely first! The end result was so disappointing! Thank you for all your videos. I am returning to knitting after a long hiatus and I find your videos both helpful and encouraging. And I just changed over to continental from English… all that throwing in a one by one ribbing was too much hahaha

[@NimbleNeedles]

oh no...sorry this happened to you. And yeah...ribbing can be exhausting. Just working on the cuff of some gloves and its...well..it's so boring >.

[@hannahsideris4353]

Thank you for this video. I think, it helps a lot. As a beginner knitter I do really make a good research for a pattern. I always look also at the comments of the other makers in ravelry. And - I think as a beginner I like to knit a pattern of a "well known" designer, because these pattern are made by mor than 100 people. I like the process before I am starting a project. Its like packing befor I start a journey - and knitting something is like a journey for me. And - your tutorials help a lot in these journeys.

[@NimbleNeedles]

I am so gonna steal this :P looove "like packing before the start of a journey"

[@gabrielecarter5440]

This is great advice, as usual! I never, ever get gauge when I knit a swatch. But I do knit swatches testing out several needle sizes to see which fabric (or Maschenbild) I like the best. And then I can calculate which size to knit. I wouldn't think of skipping the swatch because it does provide a lot of useful information besides gauge! Greetings from Virginia, USA

[@TheEhuang]

You are so right! Look, feel and drape of the knitted fabric is just as important as size so swatching is so important for knitted items like scarves, blankets, wraps and that sort of thing!

[@joanmachado9063]

Great video thank you

[@NimbleNeedles]

Glad you are enjoying it, Joan!

[@missmae5068]

I found your channel when looking for double knitting tips (which helped me fix my issue) and then went down the rabbit hole of your KZbin and blog. your videos are soo informative, soo helpful and have made me a better knitter.. especially the grafting one...mind blown 🤯...as so many others have said, thank you for the time and effort you spend to put out such organised and thoughtful videos with the positive and passionate vibe you exude. your time investment is blatantly apparent and not lost on the astute. thanks again. on to the next the project ..🧶🏵️ JMS

[@Jacelyn5440]

Thanks, Norman! It does sound very time consuming, but as you say, I am sure it is much better than the alternative -- having to rip out!

[@NimbleNeedles]

well, it sure does. But knitting that sweater takes 40+ hours as well. And I would say it's a smart move to prepare diligently so all those 40 hours knitting don't end up in a sweater that doesn't fit or you don't like in the end (and believe me, I get comments like those on a daily basis!)

[@angelacornell8660]

Thanks timely advice for me ❤

[@NimbleNeedles]

You are so welcome, Angela!

[@mollymollie6048]

Yes! Read the ENTIRE pattern before you start! I have found that by doing this, it helps me know what I’m getting into, and feel that I have an overall understanding of what I’m doing…and if this is a pattern I just want to avoid because of some reason personal to me (every knitter has their own things they stay away from.) I always knit a swatch for a yarn I’ve never used before, or if I’m making a substitution of the yarn to see if it will work with what the sweater is meant to do (drape, have a lot of structure, etc.) I try to make it into a coaster or something (because it’s boring…and I never bother with a familiar yarn, or making socks or similar.) One thing I do with a chart is to mark it up if the chart is always R to L, every row, every R side row, etc. I use a highlighter, or little arrows at the end of the line to indicate what direction. Make a photocopy/print out (for your own personal use, not to share!) to mark up to your hearts content!!! Read that whole pattern through and highlight the #s related to your size, annotate a tricky part, make a check off list for what is and isn’t done, write down the type/size of needles you’re using, figure out any places you may need an adjustment you know in advance (say, from the schematic the arms are too short/long for you). My patterns may be covered in writing after I’m done, and if I want to make it again (or it’s a pretty book, or I don’t want to lug a book around) this is a great solution, and is legal (in the US) to copy something you own for solely your personal/private use (please correct if I’m wrong, Norman!) Thanks for another great video. You give fantastic advice in a way that is easy to understand, and explain why to do something…instead of just saying “make a gauge swatch” you explain the reasons why it’s going to help you, you give great examples, and you give resources for further knowledge. You have a true gift for educating others, thank you!!!

[@NimbleNeedles]

yes, afaik you can definitely create a couple of copies for your own private purposes (i think there may be a limit..like 3 or 5?)

[@mollymollie6048]

@@NimbleNeedles I haven’t heard about limit…but there probably is one (or it differs by country.) Afaik, in the US the Fair Use Copyright Law says you can make a duplicate for your personal use and not for sale or “distribution” (i.e., don’t give one to a friend, or post it on the internet, that’s my understanding.) I can only imagine how long it would take to write a pattern (never done it before) and test it out, adjust for a variety of sizes, etc., must take hours and hours. People will complain about $10 for a pattern…but “time is money.” The designer used their time to make the pattern, and compensating them is only fair. They are hardly millionaires from pattern sales! (Speaking of patterns…Norman, in one of your videos you were wearing an amazing yellow sweater that had a motif across the chest of green leaves and black letters were slightly visible below the motif…is that one of your patterns? If not, do you know where you found the pattern? I would love to make that! I wanted to compliment you on how perfectly fitted it was for you…exceptional work, particularly on the set in sleeves and collar!)

[@NimbleNeedles]

@@mollymollie6048 yes, it's one of my patterns: nimble-needles.com/patterns/sweater-knitting-pattern-love/ tho, this is only a sketch/recipe and not a full blown pattern!

[@anigozan3785]

Love love love your videos - your approach, your attitude, your presentation, and of course the content - love everything about them! thank you!

[@NimbleNeedles]

wow. thank you

[@tessa5]

Thank you, Norman! I always swatch, because otherwise I wouldn't know where to start a project. I'd very much appreciate a video on swatching. For practicing techniques or stitch patterns/cables I use the ball of acrylic yarn I started learning to knit with so I don't spoil any nice yarn. If it looks promising, I try it out with the yarn I want to use for the project.

[@NimbleNeedles]

yeah, that definitely is a smart move. why waste all the precious yarn, right?

[@valeriehowden471]

Great advice!

[@NimbleNeedles]

Glad you think so!

[@katherinefischer5747]

Great list, Norman, especially that makers read the pattern entirely before starting. So often at the shop where I teach I hear knitters proclaiming that they don't need to do that but then, voila! They really do. As a lifelong classroom teacher, I am impressed by how much thought you give to teaching in a way that becomes concrete and memorable. Your vocal variety is also used so effectively. Were I still teaching student-teachers, I would use your videos as examples of teaching techniques!

[@NimbleNeedles]

oh my, Katherine, I am blushing all over! lol. Thank you for that lovely feedback

[@Hind_Algeria]

Thank you so much Norman I need this video , yes I'm one of those who take a pattern and start working on it without reading it ,and then I find myself stuck in the middle😂😢. thank you again ❤

[@NimbleNeedles]

well..hope I was able to prevent future misfortunes!

[@Hind_Algeria]

@@NimbleNeedles yes sure, thank you so much

[@etainne2001]

i just love your sense of humor Norman. #3 and #5 were my sins on my second sweater but your videos and website have helped hugely. i am now a much more 'experienced' sweater maker that knows to check all those things you mentioned and actually read the pattern. it is crazy that a simple sweater can throw curves at you when you are new and don't know any better. no one should have to spend two weeks re-writing a pattern into something that makes sense to a beginner, when the search included the terms easy / beginner in it. YES PLEASE, do the swatches are wonderful video. I want to learn. now, new pet peeve, all the recent photos on sweaters have the back flapping in the wind and the front tucked into the jeans/ pants. This is making it difficult for beginners to see the bottom edge and know if it is cropped or long enough. and of course the only photo is from the front, never showing the back. ahh- not everyone is 20 years old and knitting for a size zero- three. Most of us are making things for a size american 12-22 if we want to be honest. thanks for all that you do and this video.

[@NimbleNeedles]

valid points. I do feel that some pictures could be a bit more clear. Then again, I know how difficult it can be to shoot complicated patterns - especially if they are huge (like sweater, blankets, shawls)

[@iloname5007]

Hello from Ukraine, I like your style, you create such nice things and videos are stylish and informaive.

[@NimbleNeedles]

Thank you very much, Ilona!

[@pamelamilkins8848]

Good advice. 1900's used Priscilla's as the abbreviation bible. Reprints. Swatch, you forgot no stretch cotton, acrylic... some. Even designing or using too old a pattern. Thanks.

[@ApathySun]

I hate swatching. I *hate* swatching. But it's so important! I wish I watched this video earlier before discovering that sometimes unicorn blends don't have the stitch definition you need for certain patterns, hence the importance of swatching. Excellent tips as always.

[@NimbleNeedles]

i know i know...i don't like doing the dishes either. But I guess...you have to do it ;-)

[@itsjohnira]

Hahaha. Thank you for calling these tips out. Picked up my needles to knit a pattern - finished scarf 🧣 which wasn’t a problem, but the hat did not fit. I learned the importance of gauge and I’m glad I did before starting the cardigan pattern 🤯.

[@NimbleNeedles]

heh...definitely. a hat is easy to unravel...a sweater..that would hurt!

[@Frostedminifirecracker]

You are absolutely excellent with tips sharing. ❤ Swatches are great for trying out alternative yarns even if supposedly the same weight. I do a lot of lace and complex patterns fascinate me, so I do little swatches and leave them on some spare dpns with stoppers on the ends. I call them mouse needles. As if I have an invisible miniature friend sitting nearby. I can try out unfamiliar techniques in the pattern with my own private tiny KAL. If you do make a change, write it down. You will forget. Yes. You definitely will. Also, learn to read your own stitches. If it’s a minor mistake, Blocking it out works. On some days.

[@NimbleNeedles]

yes, that's an excellent rerminder. you definitely WILL forget even if you are SURE you won't ;-)

[@hollyo4140]

Swatches are essential for me when knitting with substitute yarn especially. It's critical for understanding how your fabric will feel and especially drape. I knit a wonderful raglan sweater once. The pattern and gauge were right on. But instead of looking like a stylish modern piece, it looked like I should be wearing it to muck stalls! 😂 It's still a useful garment, but I don't wear it for what I originally intended. Thanks for another great video Norman!

[@NimbleNeedles]

oh noes! but glad you found a way to salvage things!

[@porkysnature]

One thing I began doing every day is to take care of my hands and arms by using energy medicine practices. I found that the exercises that donna eden energy medicine techniques really make a difference and my whole body feels happier.

[@floatingmoon5778]

Once again, you have made many very valid points! I do not consider myself an experienced knitter, but I have tried to be helpful to beginners. Your advice should be printed like the TEN Commandments on a poster for knitters! Swatches! The biggest mistakes I have seen (and DONE) were in choosing a yarn significantly different in composition to the one used by the designer; assuming that a yarn will work because it’s the same weight or gauge is a recipe for disaster. Cotton, bamboo, and silk behaves very differently from wool, and even a switch of wool to superwash can make a dramatic difference in a garment. You are a voice of reason and practicality in the knitting world, and I appreciate you! Bravo! ❤

[@NimbleNeedles]

yes, I think that's one of the easiest things to mess up. Cotton and wool are just two different worlds. both can be great but not each fiber is for each project!

[@KittenBowl1]

I agree with many of your tips here. I also sew and crochet and they also come in patterns of sorts. I always read instructions and see if I can follow the pattern and instructions and imagine the FOs. If I can’t then I don’t dive into the project. This same concept applies to the knitting patterns. I almost never use the yarn they suggested as I live in Japan. I use yarns sold in Japan most of the time though I sometimes buy yarns from European sellers. It hasn’t been an issue for me to use other types of yarns than recommended ones in the pattern as I always check the gauge and look and feel of the yarn itself (not just gauge). They usually come out quite nice at the end. As for the swatch making, I use circular knitting needles so that I don’t have to bind off to count the stitches or see the look and feel of the fabric with different needle sizes. I almost never bind off making swatches and I wash the swatches and pin the fabrics with yarns attached on the cable if it’s a wearable garment. For shawls I also knit swatches the same way as I want to see if it drapes the way I want (shawls are supposed to have nice drapes!), at the same time stitches are not too loose. Then I unravel to start an actual project. No wastage (I don’t want to waste yarn especially silk or some other luxury yarn). I found circular needles are the way to go to knit swatches.

[@NimbleNeedles]

yeah, unraveling the swatch is quite a smart option :)

[@christielamb2894]

Thank you, Norman. You always have wonderful advice and encourage good knitting habits. I admit that I am guilty of being so excited to begin a project that I have jumped right into it only to end up restarting it later because I hit a problem or didn't have all the needed supplies. Your video reminded me that if the project is worth my time, then I need to take the time to prepare so I can do it right. 🤟💜✌️🧶

[@NimbleNeedles]

i mean...I guess being excited is always a good sign and we have all been there :P

[@penguinfood88]

Hi Norman, I’ve been knitting for almost 6 months now and almost exclusively use your videos. Your analytical approach really speaks to my way of working and has helped me in so many ways. That being said I have just started my first lace shawl project only hours before this video went up and I have to say if I had followed your tips I might not have around 5 small pieces of fabric that cannot be unravelled (due to the furry yarn) where something has gone wrong! Seriously one of them is just a strand of wool with a knot in it 😂 Anyway! Thank you for your videos!

[@NimbleNeedles]

oh noes! well...hope there is enough yarn left to start over again!

[@maryglancy17]

Yes, a more in depth discussion on swatching tricks would be most appreciated. I enjoyed this overview of preparing to knit from a pattern as I am currently preparing to knit my summer tee for myself. This will give me more confidence to get it right.

[@NimbleNeedles]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Ss-dz6cm]

Norman, I just wanted to share I am doing a test knit project (so fun) and I found a technique I love for more invisible yoke increases. It is in principles of knitting I think pg 210. It involves slipping the stitch you are increasing into. So m1L, slip the stitch before the increase do the normal raised or lifted increase and continue. M1R you do the raised increase and slip the stitch after. The stitches are very close together (which makes them easy to count) and after the next row, there is even less distortion!

[@NimbleNeedles]

that's a wonderful tip. have to try that out! thx for sharing

[@Kelleykrafts]

Please do a swatch video. 😊

[@cindyceraolo4676]

Hi Norman, love your tips as always. I would be very interested in all your tips and tricks for swatches. I do swatch but just to get gauge so any further uses would be helpful. Thanks

[@NimbleNeedles]

Noted!

[@BeautifulOaks]

Thank you. I would appreciate your insight to making and using swatches in a video.

[@NimbleNeedles]

thank you for your feedback!

[@lindaarmstrongjackman9788]

You are the best. 😁👍👍

[@NimbleNeedles]

thank you

[@Mummumster]

For me making sure the pattern is written in English! Accidentally I purchased a pattern in Japanese. It did come with a chart I might be able to follow.

[@realitycheck4086]

Hello Norman. Your knitting channel is a wonderful resource that I regularly refer to. I sometimes just watch your videos to cheer me up. Thank you so much. By the way where did you learn to speak such good English?

[@NimbleNeedles]

School, relatives, friends....and I love reading sci-fi/fantasy novels (and most of them are in English)

[@janhendry]

Thanks

[@NimbleNeedles]

it's my pleasure, Jan! Thank you for supporting my work!!!

[@loopyloop1]

Love you ❤❤

[@JustFluffyQuiltingYarnCrafts]

Thank you, Norman!♥️ Sometimes we are too excited to get going and start knitting after reading a few lines. Oops! 🙂

[@NimbleNeedles]

that of course has neeeeever happened to me and this video comes from puuurely theoretical experienced. I mean, I have a friend who.. :P :P

[@JustFluffyQuiltingYarnCrafts]

😂😂😂

[@HunterJE]

Another useful thing about a swatch is getting a sense of feel, I have some unpredictable tactile sensitivities and really like getting a feel for the material before making the whole thing, and for anything knit for myself that will be worn against skin will rub it up against the part of my body I'd be wearing it on to see how it feels and if this is the right yarn and pattern for something I'll actually use and not finish the whole thing and then throw it in a drawer because I can't stand to wear it, it's much easier to tell with the swatch than by just trying to guess from a skein of yarn...

[@NimbleNeedles]

yes, that's definitely an added bonus!

[@karengervais6473]

Knew that would come up “knit the dreaded swatch” 😖 argh.. I do honestly respect the instruction. Im afraid I always just go for it. If I won’t fit me I’ll know of someone who it will lol😅xx

[@NimbleNeedles]

heh. Well, the reason why it keeps coming up is because it IS vital and I think you kinda need to hammer that in with brute force, lol!

[@nicolelafontaine1720]

Thanks for all these recommendations. I foten make a big swatch for lace just to get familiar with the pattern. Sometimes I have difficulty reading a chart mainly because it is too small or too pale, then I check the written instructions and once I understand the general parrten, then I can work from the chart. I quite often go and see on Ravelry how a pattern looks on my body type/size, many times the neck line is much too wide. It is not because we are bigger that our head, neck and shoulders are that much bigger ... 😁

[@NimbleNeedles]

yeah, i do feel that is quite vital. I personally don't like the word "size inclusive" all that much (and would prefer size diversity!). I do believe that there are certain shapes/fabrics that look better on certain body types.

[@nicolelafontaine1720]

@@NimbleNeedles I totally agree !

[@lynnmiller4669]

Yes please to a video on swatches

[@NimbleNeedles]

I'll see what I can do!

[@lovemesomeslippers]

I’d enjoy a swatch video.

[@NimbleNeedles]

good to know :)

[@1959GreenGables]

Thank you, Norman, for all the wonderful tips and teaching you give to us. Question: Is there a way to make the stitches in Continental knitting even. What would be a trick to do that? I have noticed that many of the Continental knitters do not have either even or pretty stitches. If it is stockinette stitches, the purls are usually looser and the rows are definitely apparent and uneven, and if it is the knitted side, many are not straight and pretty like yours. The ribbed stitches look unequal and almost crooked but not really. What is your method to make your rows, stitches even looking? As you can tell I am a newer knitter. Thank you so much.

[@NimbleNeedles]

Hmmm..while this certainly does happen most ppl in central Europe knit continental style do not have the problems you describe. I tighten up every stitch slightly after I've knitted it.

[@nicoles1257]

Where can I get that "unicorn blend" yarn? 😃. Thanks for another great video, Norman!

[@NimbleNeedles]

haha..well..i guess there ARE ton of colorways with that name :P

[@sunrhyze]

I keep waiting for that unicorn blend yarn to go on sale, but it never does! 😆

[@NimbleNeedles]

only at the yarn shop at the other end of the rainbow! xD

[@ScrapperScience7th]

Swatch video, please! Thanks, Norman!

[@roseprincess2155]

Thanks, Norman! What are some of your favorite things to knit or to crochet?

[@NimbleNeedles]

probably socks and little toys

[@MarkTheCuber]

You should do a sweater tutorial

[@NimbleNeedles]

One day maybe

[@jackieostrander9667]

I'm such a beginner, I find I need to read the instructions to make sure I can use the tools or understand the pattern.

[@bee909]

I know people recommend highlighting all the numbers related to your size, but if a pattern has a lot of sizes included and you have the digital version, you can copy it into a document and remove all the sizes but the one you plan to knit. This way you don't accidentally start following the wrong instructions or have instructions get lost in a forest of numbers! Probably not necessary for intermediate and above, but can make a pattern more manageable to look at for a beginner. Just make sure to double check against the original! This will also force you to pay much more attention to the pattern before you begin as you comb it for all the size details.

[@NimbleNeedles]

not even sure if that has a lot to do with experienced or beginner - rather how good you are at concentrarting on such details! (I will typically do something similar...tho marking/crossing out works reasonably well)

[@galethompson3013]

I confess to photocopying a pattern (that I own) for this reason. So I can highlight the size and mark my progress. Also to have a copy to take to Florida without dragging the whole book with me. But would never give a paid for pattern away!