Episode 151: Lunenburg, Forvie, & Tips for New Knitters

Hello my knitting friends! I finished Lunenburg and the beautiful Forvie shawl and now it's time to compare notes. Plus, I'm brining my other two Rustic Heather Sport pullovers to the party so we can talk about using a singles yarn for sweater knitting. Then, it's all about using stashed yarn for shawls. Finally, I'll share some tips for new knitters in hopes that we can lure others into our craft! Leave a comment for the giveaway--details below! ~Melissa
To enter the giveaway for a skein of yarn from my stash-to-yours, please leave a comment here or over in the Ravelry group telling us your favorite tip(s) or tricks(s) for new knitters. I’ll draw one winner by random number. Domestic shipping included; if you’re an international winner, I’d ask that you cover postage. Good luck!
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Special Thanks to the Podcast Producers: Jennifer, Erika, Nargis, Rose, and Kendra
Chapters
00:14 Welcome
04:00 Lunenburg Pullover
07:20 Singles Yarn and Sweaters
14:35 Forvie Shawl
24:42 Tips for New Knitters
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[@debmidas7736]

My favorite tip is when casting on. Use a strand from both the inside and outside of a ball of yarn . Just start casting on and when you have reached your cast on number, cut one of the yarns depending on if you prefer to knit with the inside or outside strand.

[@bekahfisher3614]

My recommendation for a new knitter is to pick a first project that you really like - even if it's a little more complicated than the usual dishcloth people may tell you to make. I never would have been motivated to keep knitting if I hadn't wanted the shawl that I was making as my very first project. It was garter stitch with a couple of small mosaic sections and an integrated I-cord edge and increases and decreases on every row, and I had to rip out my first few inches of knitting about five times before I got the hang of it, but then I spent the next month just absolutely enjoying getting used to knitting. I still have that shawl and proudly wear it, and it doesn't look like a "beginner" effort (unless you notice that the gauge on it is super tight. I only used about 2/3 the recommended amount of yarn because I was strangling the heck out of my stitches. Which leads me to my second and third recommendations for beginners - Don't strangle your needles! Loosen up a little! and also maybe pick a first project where you don't have to meet any specific gauge to have success.

[@lauraalicewatt]

re: those project pages without someone wearing the finished item -- some of us live alone & getting a decent photo of oneself in something like a sweater can be a major challenge! and best tip for beginners is simply not to be afraid -- my third-ever project (less than three years ago) was a steeked Icelandic-style colorwork cardigan, made with an unspun yarn (plötulopi) held with a laceweight, and i made all kinds of mistakes and yet STILL produced a lovely garment. it helped enormously that i was participating a video-supported knit-along (from Héléne Magnusson), so everything i needed to learn was there in the videos and i could play them however many times i needed to finally get something right. and it was SO SATISFYING to make something i really wanted, in yarns that were interesting, instead of some just-making-it-because-it's-easy-and-cheap kind of project.

[@lilbruin]

Hello from Canada - since this is the Canada episode (love Briggs and Little). A tip for teaching someone to knit: Be sure to teach them both knit stitch and purl. I'm always surprised (dismayed) when I hear someone saying how much harder purling is. Shouldn't be. Start early! Also, love what you said about sleeve length and getting to make it exactly as you want it; shorter, in your case. I'm the opposite. I like to knit sweaters so I can make the sleeves as long as I want. Base of thumb is perfect. Yup, I spend valuable microseconds pushing up my sleeves to do dishes, but I get to choose. And the rest of the time, my wrists are warm. Another lovely episode. Thanks!

[@inykim2817]

Love your beginner knitter tips, Melissa! Here are a couple of mine: When you start pattern knitting, get into the habit of skimming the pattern all the way through from beginning to end before you get started. And, be mindful of, and listen to, your body - keep good posture and take breaks to avoid aches and pains. Also, familiarize yourself with yarn weights and pay attention to gauge, specifically for fitted items like hats and sweaters.

[@slowstitches]

My beginner tip is remember the chant of the Little Engine That Could: "I think I can. I think I can. I think I can." Remember that every knitter was once a beginner. And if by chance I happen to be the lucky winner, I'd love to have the two leftover skeins from your shawl! Thanks for another great podcast, Melissa!

[@jeantompkins67]

My favorite tip for a new knitter is pick a yarn color you love. I also love to make wooden needles for a new knitter I am introducing to this wonderful art\craft. Happy stitching.

[@Janet-ov7zx]

Tip #1. Keep a couple of different sizes of crochet hooks in your knitting bag. You will use them to fix dropped stitches. (Yes, you WILL drop a stitch. Many times.) They are also great for picking up stitches when a pattern calls for that. Tip #2. You will get very engrossed in your knitting and lose track of how long you've been asking your arms, hands, and fingers to do these new, intricate movements. Set a timer to go off every 20-30 minutes. When the timer goes off, stand up, walk around, stretch your arms and hands and fingers, and drink some water. Your body will thank you. And if something starts hurting, stop knitting for the day and let everything relax and have a break. Repetitive motion injuries are no fun, and you want to avoid them. Hi Melissa, When I saw your leftover silver yarn, I immediately thought of the Sophie scarf by Petite Knits. The pattern is written for DK yarn, but I knit a lovely one out of a fingering weight extra soft merino. I knit to the measurements, not the stitch count, to know when to start the decreases. It turned out great, and wraps around the neck twice just like the pattern pictures. You can check my project page-I'm janetsockknitter on Rav. That silver yarn blend would feel so good wrapped around your neck, or around the neck of someone who is knit worthy as a present. Your sweater yoke looks like a band of jewels. The colors just sparkle together. I'd love to read your book! Thanks for keeping me company as I go round and round on a sock foot! harpingjanet

[@rossifamily5227]

Great episode (as always). I have vintage mason jars filled with balls of leftover yarn. They look nice while they await their turn in scrappy socks or fingerless mitts. My knitting trick is for weaving in ends on mitts - put the mitt on inside out and then you can see any holes/gaps in the thumb to sew up with your ends while it’s on your hand. Linda from Ontario. 🧶

[@dancetothebeat45]

Thank you for sharing how your sweaters have been wearing. I've had a linenburg sweater for 1 winter season now and I love how it is still wearing in lichen and lace. If I was a new knitter I'd recommend watching videos of people knit (various peoples!) and to relax your hands and arms. No death grip required to knit into each stitch. (:

[@amandadecker2957]

I would use those blue yarns for a two colored musselburgh hat. They are so beautiful. Please share more about your book, it sounds fascinating!

[@tinahoward6280]

Hi everyone 🧶 I think a very useful tip is a lifeline . Happy crafting 🎃🧡

[@vindeljay]

My tip, as I just picked up knitting again a few years ago. Use some less expensive yarns, not necessarily acrylic, I used a cheeper wool or wool blend, so I didn't get so precious about it and was willing to make mistakes. I have learnt so much from those mistakes. They helped to move me forward quickly, both in what not to do, how to read my knitting, what to do and how to fix it.

[@nlturcott5168]

Left over yarns: I love mixed up yarns and colours for striped things...tops, mitts, hats, socks, endless options. Tips: Always start with your favorite colours and something that you want to make. If you have to 'tink' back then you are still looking at something enjoyable. There are multiple ways to do things and Learn to unknit with concept that you are still making progress. Remember: It's only string and some sticks!

[@aroundtheworldfibers]

My tip(s) #1 Make something you want to make/wear. My first knitted piece was a swatch in 100% wool, then a sweater. What's the worst that can happen? The sweater or sock doesn't fit. You can rip it out or keep going for practice and give it away. #2 Find and use the right yarn for the project you want to make. It does no thave to be the most expensive or the cheapest, just the right one for the project. This is where your LYS can be really helpful. Don't be afraid to ask questions and even better, ask what local yarns they have. And many LYS's have beginner knitting classes too. I think that's a great place to start and it brings you into a community too. Many LYS's hold online classes too, that's another option if one is not local or unable to get to an LYS. And of course there's always YT, like here! #4 - Try not to fall down a rabbit hole too early on with the internet. It's easy to become overwhelmed with the amount of information, and the number of 'How to' videos and books. Remember, it's just knitting. It may turn out not to be your thing. There are so many other options when it comes to fiber and what you can do, don't give up. Explore and have fun!

[@michellelindgren8419]

I feel your pain regarding that leftover yarn. 😮 I like your explanations about why you chose the light color for one side of the shawl and the dark color for the other side. My only tip is to start with a worsted weight yarn and an appropriate needle size for it.

[@janetvonholt8775]

My tip for new knitters is to knit what you love with the best yarn and tools that you can afford.

[@chris112233ish]

Stunning lune berg sweater.

[@kathywise8772]

My tip for beginners is find the time to knit daily regardless if you’ve made mistakes or need help. You learn from your mistakes. I’ve taught many new knitters and those who only knit in class really don’t make progress.

[@Angela-hn6mb]

I've got a couple tips. 1. Try different material types. It could be that you just don't like knitting with cotton, but wool is fine or maybe you don't like knitting cotton with metal needles but will like it with wood needles. You won't know unless you try different things though. 2. Repairing a ladder is much easier with a crochet hook.

[@kathryn6670]

Good episode, I enjoyed it. As for tips for new knitters, I'll add to your tip about finding reference books. Check your local library and perhaps used book store and see what they have. Often the older books are real gems, including basic information as well as ideas for future projects to get a new knitter excited about the possibilities in their crafting future.

[@roselimke8736]

My biggest tip for new knitters is to knit every day, even if just a few stitches. It takes lots of practice.

[@Reknits4me]

My tip would be to notice how your needle tapers. Often new knitters don’t know to slide the stitch down to the fatter part of the needle before knitting the next stitch. I would also recommend new knitters NOT to start with fat needles and super bulky yarn. I think they can be cumbersome and hurt your hands - size 8s would be my suggestion. Beautiful Lunenburg!

[@knittingthestash]

Hello! You're the winner of the knittingthestash giveaway for a mystery skein. Please send me your mailing info at [e-mail] Congratulations!

[@heathergoldsmith]

Great tips, and the books look great. I think I really most often just encourage new knitters to make sure they are enjoying what they are making. If it isn't interesting enough, rip it out and move on to another idea or design. We're meant to be enjoying it. 💜

[@sueemmons5658]

As someone who switched to English style knitting from continental, I've noticed that there is very little ( if any ) growth when I block my work. But, I made an all garter stitch asymmetrical shawl in non-superwash, with three edge stitches in stockinette rather then i-cord. Now I was just floored when I blocked it, cuz it went from about seven to about eight and a half! Luckily in happier with it, but can you imagine a sweater doing that!?! So it goes to show how important blocking can be.

[@elizabethmorgan5163]

Two tips for new knitters. Keep looking at what you have done. Early spotting of mistakes make them easier to fix. Worried about stitches falling off the needles? Wrap elastic bands around the ends to keep everything secure . Oh and keep watching enthusiastic and talented knitters like Melissa.

[@wendysullivan5511]

Here are 2 tips: knit a little every day, or almost every day, when you are learning. Helps make the motions feel more natural and automatic. Second, knit with others. It’s a great way to learn about materials and equipment to see what others are using and making. Podcasts are good for that too, but I find that being in-person makes asking questions easier, and allows for touching fabrics, for example.

[@lauradillon3704]

Hi Melissa, I really enjoy your content 😊 I have recently been teaching a couple of Iranian women to knit, so I guess my tip is more how to teach a new knitter. They were already able to crochet, so I watched them crocheting before teaching them to knit, so I was looking to incorporate their existing way of tensioning yarn. I'm an English thrower, but they both wrapped the yarn around their left index finger. Whatever works for them, I say!

[@80sgma10]

My tip or trick is almost the same as yours. I knitted for over 50 years, having been taught by my grandmother when I was 11, without learning much of anything new. Then the pandemic happened and I discovered KZbin. I learned more in the last 3 years than in the 50 before that, thanks to exposure to teachers like you.

[@fibernymphdyeworks]

Two tips I offer new knitters/crocheters: don't be afraid to start with using "good" yarn because you're afraid you'll mess it up...using something like squeaky acrylic is not going to be your friend and will likely offer more frustration than anything. Second, and related to the first, play with a lot of different yarns...different weights, different fiber content. You can practice your stitches with little swatches or squares and at the same time get the feel for how various yarns and fibers feel, giving you a better idea is what YOU might like to work with. (As someone with a large stash of leftovers, I will put together a collection of various yarns to give to a new knitter/crocheter for this purpose...which also answers your question about something to do with leftovers! 😊) The swatches can be assembled later into some sort of funky scarf/blanket/mat/whatever and be a fun way to look back at your progress over time, and you can use them to learn various seaming techniques too.

[@jberan9768]

New to knitting can be so exciting. I think starting off with visually interesting yarn, fun project bag and just a few kitschy notions can keep the joy level high. And, a good pair of needles, like a nice fixed circular can help make knitting pleasurable versus frustrating when first starting.

[@julzlarrabee]

One tip I tell a new knitter is to find a group, or at least a knitting pal, to knit with in the beginning. It can be frustrating and overwhelming when you hit a problem and have no help to turn to, and we’ve all been there, so having someone to teach, guide, troubleshoot, inspire and reassure in the beginning can make a knitter for life rather than a knitter dropout! 😊

[@danielleboots7032]

To have fewer ends I dbl. up the yarn tail and working yarn and knit the two together. I have found that the extra bulk isn’t overly noticeable. When knitting these stitches on the way back I knit them together so as not to make extra stitches, of course. I keep these two yarns taut when knitting with them.

[@natalieschumacher4729]

My tip is to be patient with yourself, and be nice to yourself

[@cmschartner]

Great tips! I recommend making washcloths, hats, and toys. If you do make washcloths, make sure your cotton isn’t mercerized because it won’t absorb water as well! Toys are a great way to use up scraps too.

[@urbanstylejantine810]

I just had to laugh when you talked about arm length. Mine are a bit like bracelet length or slightly longer, and I have desired to make them all longer this year as I kept being cold with my wrists not properly covered. My best tip is a video by Suzanna (Susanna) Bryan on how to put stitches for the underarm on hold on a needle instead of casting off. Also, I always print my patterns and write notes all over them. It has saved me quite a few times when a project got unintentionally neglected for a longer period of time .

[@Polly_Jean]

I have been knitting for quite a few years but I learn very slowly (I don't know why, maybe it's the abstract thinking, written patterns is like reading out of tea leaves to me, what is it supposed to meeean) I learned two things: If you are stuck, having someone show you in person almost always solves the problem. Just ask! I never met a knitter who wasn't glad to help or share tips, so just ask (I work in elder care and at first I felt hesitant using my elderly patients to solve my own private knitting problems, but I could not have been more wrong 😅 I was just sitting on a treasure of knowledge!) Oh, and maybe, reading this, I realized it's helpful to find out how you learn best. Maybe written instructions don't work, but you are good at patterns? Or you like me rather watch someone do it

[@sunnyw4148]

If you want to start or restart knitting pick a pattern of something you like. Something you will wear or give to a close family member so you can see it every day. Some beginner friendly patterns offer links to youtube videos on how to complete each step. Very well thought out and good for skill building.

[@MikiCrespo]

You look beautiful on that amazing Blue 💙🔵 sweater

[@lgassin]

Somebody may have already said this, but I think it was helpful to me as a new knitter to use a highly variegated yarn. Not only is it fun to look at, but you can really easily follow where your stitches have been and are going as you try to fix something (or if you're just interested in tracking how the fabric fits together!).

[@ritaglenn6287]

Your sweater is absolutely stunning!! My new knitter tips are to knit a little every day, find tools that are joyful to use and learn to read your knitting and how to correct simple things like dropped stitches early on.

[@catblues8645]

My tips for beginners would be: start with medium weight or chunky wool and needle size 4mm (US6) or bigger, so you get encouraged by quick results :) also don't use cotton as it's harder on the hands and quite heavy. Don't shy away from making wearable items! If you want to learn to knit sweaters, maybe start with a top down raglan, as you can knit in the round and don't have to sew parts together. Also, if you want to try new ideas, maybe make a kid sized sweater first (I have lots of nieces so this is always an option) before making a big one for yourself, especially if you wear a bigger size.

[@juliehertel21]

My tip to new knitters is daily practice - at least 15 min every day for about 6 weeks It's about muscle memory - daily repetition and practice will make a huge difference.

[@Lilushaaakash]

My tip is to skip the straight needles from the beginning to circular ones. Also useful for flat projects and the stitches fall out less often

[@sue9322]

Thank you for your informative and inspiring podcast. Quick question to you and your audience, any secrets to how to teach knitting to left handed people? Any suggestions for resources? Thank you!

[@genier7829]

My beginner tip: knit what you actually want to make, and don't give yourself a deadline. No scarf or washcloth for me. I learned in deepest Covid days, entirely from KZbin. I basically just did a bunch of swatches, including lace stitches, then unraveled and tried another. My first real project was a big sweater with cables, seed stitch, seams, alternating skeins, and all the other non-beginner things. I learned a lot, and the only really frustrating part was the tubular bind off. I eventually completed it, but have never done it again!

[@vickistanton9078]

My new knitter tip would be to have an understanding of proper stitch orientation on the needle. So many early knitters problems and wonky looking knits stem from not understanding this basic!

[@noreenlou]

My tip is to just buy the supplies (needle) for your first project. Try a different type of needle for your project if it just isn’t working. Don’t buy a whole set. You might like straight needles in metal, wood, bamboo or dpns or circular needles. Try different tools and don’t think what works for one person works for everyone. Second tip try to learn different ways, in person, video, books and such. I taught myself with a pamphlet and it worked for me, I still use books or videos to learn.

[@barbarah.k.1326]

I think new knitters should use light coloured yarns to begin with so it is easier to see the stitches and detect mistakes. I also believe it is easier to lern knitting with yarns which are not too fine, but to begin with DK for example and 4-5 mm needles. And I think it is better to start with bamboo or wooden needles, because they are not so slippery and the chance of loosing stitches is smaller than with metal needles.

[@karlalintzenich2376]

Try not to be afraid to take out your work or try to fix mistakes. That fear has held me back so many times.

[@kgspaulding]

My tip for new knitters is to find an in-person knitting group be it at your LYS or library 😇

[@penguin_sweater]

My tip - new knitters might be surprised by how many friends, neighbors, and internet strangers have stash yarn they're willing to give away. Getting second hand yarn from places like Buy Nothing or second-hand art supply stores can make it much cheaper to try out knitting.

[@natalieschumacher4729]

What was the free pattern you referenced? Hi from South Australia

[@phyllisburke4141]

Take some classes if you can to learn interesting techniques. You tube is good for general teaching/learning but an in person lesson is invaluable. You don’t need to knit everything. Don’t be afraid to take on something new . Enjoy what you make.

[@sherithurber7847]

This is not really a trick more like a tip. Just remember knitting is not hard it is just new to you. Like anything new it just takes practice.