It was just last year that I convinced myself that I needed to learn to knit. I still don't knit well, and I'm not to the point where I could care at all about obtaining proper gauge, but it has definitely brought me a sense of satisfaction to begin to learn a new craft. Last year I knit several scarves, and began work on an afghan (which is still in progress).
I am terrified of knitting anything that has any shaping to it, but I have dared to tackle Yarn Overs and Slip Stitches. I'm pretty pleased with myself. I think that I'll continue working on square and rectangular shaped items for now. I just completed my first knitting projects of the year. What was it?
Wash clothes of course. These were the first wash clothes that I've made, and they are so far from perfect, but I finished a project. It also allowed me to get back into the hang of knitting and allow me to work on my tension.
I do have hopes of knitting a hat or two this year, but we'll see if I can ever get the hang of circular and double ended needles.
I thought that I'd do a bit of a round-up of free knitting patterns....just in case some of you are in need of a new project. All of these patterns were found online, and the photos can be credited to the source. For the link click on the pattern title. For the full list click read more below.
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| Image Source: Knit Jenious |
Here is an "On The Fly Earwarmer" pattern from Knit Jenious.
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| Image Source Hip Knitized |
This Lacy Cowl is from HipKnitized.
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| Image Source: Knitty.com |
These Ailbe Mittens can be found on Knitty.com.
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| Image Source: Balkan Style |
This free Newfie Mitten Pattern can be found at Balkan Style. I really love these, but am a bit intimidated by the two colors.
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| Image Source: Classic Elite Yarns |
This adorable Nordique Scarf can be found at Classic Elite Yarns.
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| Image Source: Classic Elite Yarns |
Classic Elite Yarns also provides this pattern for Lavish Flap Hat and Mitts. I really want to try this one, but dare I attempt ear flaps?
I hope that these free patterns inspire you to pick up your needles and get going. I was really excited to find several different sizes of knitting needles at a thrift store. If you've always wanted to knit, but have never tried it I'd recommend searching your local thrift stores for supplies, and picking up a book at the library. It doesn't take long to pick it up, and it is not nearly as difficult as it looks (but that's coming from someone who just knits one colored rectangles).
A few of my knitting goals for the year are to
1-Learn to knit in the round
2-Learn to knit cables
3-Learn to knit multiple colors
Does anyone have any suggestions on good projects to practice any of these techniques?
9 comments:
You're doing great! I learned to knit on the round a couple years ago. It really is not hard at all. Even if you do a hat that requires the five double needles to finish, once you do one round of stitches, you've got it, its not bad. Good luck and thanks for sharing the free patterns!
These awesome patterns really make me wish I could knit... I learned twice for an assignment, once in high school and once in college, but I think that knitting and I are just not meant to be. Probably because crochet and I met first and get along SO much better. :)
Good luck with your knitting goals and projects -- I can't wait to see what you create!
Oh, I think you need to start the hat next! The double ended needles are much less intimidating once you try, I almost prefer them now. Ear flaps are no biggie either :) I've also been knitting about a year now and I kinda sorta did it all through summer - little projects though, not afghans - that seems so big to me!
Awesome! you ARE doing great! A small pair of circular needles (say size US 7, 16" long) would be a great start to knitting a hat in the round. You'll be amazed at how easy it is. You just have to learn how to join the two ends (very simple) and make sure your stitches aren't twisted and then around and around you go!
Please come over and join my party called Fibers on Friday! A blog party dedicated to knitting and crochet. You'll find help and inspiration and motivation!
http://plumslife.blogspot.com/
I don't know how to knit the real way but with a loom I'm a pro....ok not a pro but it's so easy!
Thanks for the links - I am looking for projects and I share your sentiment about "knitting season". Visiting from The Girl Creative.
Debbie Bliss books are excellent for learning some of those things you listed. Learned to cable on one of her gorgeous blanket patterns. Knitting in the round is easier than it sounds. Two colors will be cake for you. Just jump in and try it. Thanks for posting.
You can make your goals! You can do it!
Here from FOF!
http://crazycraftercatlady.blogspot.com/2010/11/new-frilly-little-thing-for-finish-it.html
Hey Tricia,
This is great, and yeah simple is the way to go, when you've not knitted in ages, like me, lol. I used to knit and crochet, very basic stuff, but I could do it, now I have to learn everything again.
I love that last picture in orange, with the mittens, and earflap hat. Totally cute.
Thanks so much for linking up to **Amaze me August**
Oh and I'd tell you all about my AWESOME giveaway coming soon, but you already know all about it, :) Can you believe SEVEN gals, (including you) have offered up wonderful prizes. THANKS again, I am so THANKFUL!!!
Bella :)
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