Fix Knitting Mistakes

Learn to spot knitting mistakes then fix dropped and twisted stitches in this tutorial from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

Sometimes, you will notice a stitch in your knitting that looks just a bit strange. As you begin to recognize the shapes of knits and purls, you will learn to “read” your knitting as you work. Once you know what your stitches should look like, you will start to spot mistakes. Twisted, dropped, and slipped stitches are common errors that almost every knitter makes. If you learn to identify them, you can fix knitting mistakes before you bind off your project.

The video lesson below will show you how to spot and fix twisted and dropped stitches. Then, continue reading to see more about spotting and fixing common knitting mistakes.

Video Guide: Common Knitting Mistakes, Fixing Dropped & Twisted Stitches

Written Guide: Common Knitting Mistakes, Dropped & Twisted Stitches

Fixing Knitting Mistakes with a Crochet Hook

Many common knitting mistakes are fixed by intentionally dropping a stitch off your knitting needles. Knitters commonly refer to this as “laddering down” to the mistake. This allows you to correct your mistake, then return the stitch to its place. When correcting a mistake, you will want to be sure to always put the stitch back onto the needles with the right leg in front, if you do not want a twisted stitch.

Using a crochet hook helps when fixing mistakes in knitting that a few rows back. Learn to fix mistakes with Liz @PurlsAndPixels

When you have knit several rows before you notice your mistake, dropping the column of stitches directly above your mistake will allow you reach the problem stitch and fix it. Then, you will re-loop the dropped stitches by climbing up the “ladder” of stitches, anchoring them back in place one at a time. When you reach the top, you can put the last stitch back on the needle and resume your project.

While this can be completed with just your hands, using a crochet hook makes straightening the column of stitches an easier task. Choose a crochet hook that is the same size or just a bit smaller than your knitting needles. Crochet hooks and knitting needles are both labeled with millimeter measurements, so you can easily compare sizes. Here, I am working US No. 7 (4.5 mm) knitting needles and a G (4.0 mm) crochet hook.

Examining Correct Knit Stitches

Before you can spot mistakes, you need to know what a proper knit stitch and purl stitch should look like. So, let’s first look more closely at what knit stitches typically look like, without mistakes.

The “knit-side” of a stockinette stitch pattern should be flat and should be completely made up of the V-shaped stitches.

This knit has no twisted or dropped stitches. Learn more about knitting mistakes with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

If you examine a correct (untwisted) knit “V” closely, you will notice the point at the bottom of the “V” should stretch apart, like so: “ /”. Each half of the “V” is referred to as a “leg.”

An untwisted knit stitch is open, not crossed, at the tip of the "V" - a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

Identify Twisted Stitches

Unlike a regular knit stitch, a twisted knit stitch will have its legs crossed.

Learn to identify twisted knit stitches and fix knitting mistakes with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Fixing Twisted Stitches

Fix a Twisted Stitch, Step 1:

You can find the complete step-by-step tutorial to fix twisted stitches on its own page. Go to full tutorial.

Identify Dropped Stitches

A dropped stitch is simply one that has fallen off the needles at some point in your work.

Fixing Dropped Stitches

Fix a Dropped Stitch, Step 1:

You can find the complete step-by-step tutorial to fix dropped stitches on its own page. Go to full tutorial.

Learn to fix dropped stitches with this knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Identify Slipped Stitches

A slipped stitch is an unworked stitch. This will cause one stitch to look much bigger than the others.

There will also be a loose loop on the purlside where you have slipped a stitch.

Fixing Slipped Stitches

Fix a Slipped Stitch, Step 1:

You can find the complete step-by-step tutorial to fix slipped stitches on its own page. Go to full tutorial.

Learn to fix slipped stitches with this knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

“Tink” – Knit Backward to Fix Mistakes

Tink, Step 1:

You can find the complete step-by-step tutorial to knit backward to fix mistakes on its own page. Go to full tutorial.

Learn to knit backward ("tink") to fix mistakes in this knitting lesson with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Practice With My Knitting Patterns

Basic Washcloth and Face Scrubby knitting pattern by Liz @PurlsAndPixels

In this guide I was making a Simple Face Scrubby. Knit along with me. This pattern is part of my Simple Washcloth Knitting Pattern Collection.

A knit stitch should look like a little "v" with an opening at the bottom.

Up Next

After you have learned to fix knitting mistakes, you may want to know how to unravel a few rows to correct a problem. Or undo an entire knitting project to reuse the yarn. Either way, knitters call this “frogging,” and I will show you how in the next tutorial.

Learn how to unravel your knitting aka "frog" knitting in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels

Go Back to the Learn to Knit Index

August 16, 2015January 12, 2026

How to Remove Labels from Beechnut Baby Food Jars with No Chemicals

Learn how to remove baby food jar labels and sticky glue without chemicals in this guide from Liz Chandler at PurlsAndPixels.

Beechnut baby food jars are some of my favorite little containers. The rounded pear shape is adorable, sturdy, and surprisingly useful. I saved a collection of them for future projects because they felt too charming to toss into the recycling bin.

How to remove baby food labels from Beechnut jars, tutorial from PurlsAndPixels

The only problem came later. The clear plastic labels peel off easily, but the glue they leave behind is incredibly stubborn. The jars stayed sticky even after a trip through the dishwasher. That sticky residue collected dust, hair, and crumbs, which made the jars look and feel messy. Since I wanted to use them for a craft project, I needed a way to remove the glue without harsh chemicals.

Remove Labels from Beechnut Baby Food Jars

After a bit of experimenting with what I already had in the kitchen, I found a simple solution that works beautifully. It is gentle, effective, and safe to use around kids.

The Best Way to Remove Glue from Beechnut Baby Food Jars

The best way I have found to remove labels from Beechnut baby food jars uses one simple ingredient: vegetable oil. No chemical cleaners, no strong smells, and no special products required.

Here is exactly how I clean the jars.

Peel off the plastic label and remove as much of the loose glue as you can with your fingers.
Dip an old toothbrush into vegetable oil.
Scrub the sticky residue with the oiled toothbrush until the glue begins to loosen.
Wipe away the glue and excess oil with a paper towel or soft cloth.
Run the jars through the dishwasher to remove the remaining oil and leave the glass sparkling clean.

It still takes a little elbow grease, but the vegetable oil breaks down the adhesive gently. Once the jars come out of the dishwasher, they are smooth, clear, and ready for your next Cozy DIY project.

Get baby food jar label glue off with just a toothbrush and some cooking oil. Get the guide from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

What to Make with Beechnut Baby Food Jars

I originally cleaned these jars because I needed better storage for my jewelry making supplies. A few thin coats of teal spray paint on the lids made them look fresh and coordinated. Filled with beads and stones, the jars now line my shelf and add a little bit of color to the room.

Once they are clean, Beechnut jars are perfect for all sorts of small storage and quick craft projects. Here are a few ideas.

Organize small items, such as beads, buttons, or hardware.
Create containers for paperclips, tacks, or other desk supplies.
Turn them into pin cushion jars.
Pour your own mini candles.

If you like collecting ideas before you start, you can also visit my baby food jar crafts board on Pinterest for more inspiration.

Clean jars, fresh lids, and a little creativity can turn recycling into something both useful and beautiful.

Remove the labels, clean the jars, and store little things in upcycled Beechnut baby food jars. Find out how with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Yard Sale Signs

If you have ever looked around your home and thought, “Something needs to leave this house,” it might be time for a yard sale. Or a garage sale. Or a driveway clean-out with coffee. The name does not matter. Selling what no longer serves you is one of the simplest ways to clear clutter, reclaim space, and bring in a little extra cash.

When I hosted my first yard sale, I had more clothing than felt reasonable. Baby clothes, toddler outfits, and a very full adult closet. I knew I did not want to spend hours tagging every single item. That felt like a chore that would drain my motivation before the sale even started. Instead, I created clear printable yard sale signs that helped me organize everything quickly.

I sorted baby clothes by size and placed them in bins. Then I taped a sign to each bin so people could browse without digging. For adult clothing, one sign handled it all. It read, “All clothing two dollars unless marked.” This eliminated sticker issues, price confusion, and the awkward bargaining that sometimes happens at yard sales. The entire setup felt smoother and more welcoming.

People at the sale kept asking where I found my signs. That was my cue to turn them into editable templates for anyone who wants a low-stress setup. These files open in Microsoft Word. You can change prices, adjust wording, or personalize the signs for your own home. Once printed and taped in place, your sale looks organized and intentional.

Download free editable word documents with yard sale signs for your next rummage sale from PurlsAndPixels.

Free Printable Yard Sale Signs

When you click these three links, a word file will download. Find it in your downloads folder then, open it to start editing.

Baby boy clothes yard sale signs

Adult clothes yard sale signs

Yard sale signs: We can process credit cards

If the text does not appear correctly in Word, click “Enable Editing.” That usually restores the full layout.

Hosting a yard sale can be a small reset that makes your home feel lighter and more manageable. Each step you take toward clearing space creates more room for comfort, calm, and projects you actually enjoy. Cozy independence comes from simple skills like these that help you shape a home that works for your real life.

How to Knit the Purl Stitch

Learn to knit the purl stitch in this easy knitting lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Now that you understand the knit stitch, you are ready to move on to your next knitting challenge: learning to make the purl stitch.

Learn to make the purl stitch, a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

What is a Purl?

A purl stitch is essentially a backwards knit stitch. You will hold your yarn in front of your needles to create a “U” shaped stitch, which looks like a bump. If you make a knit stitch, turn it over: the back side of a knit stitch looks exactly like the front side of a purl stitch.

If you purl every stitch in every row of a flat knitted piece, you end up with a garter stitch pattern, just as you do when knitting with only the knit stitch.

Combining knits and purls can create all sorts of fun patterns and textures.

Two important things to remember when making the purl stitch:

Hold the working yarn in front of your needles, and
Insert your right needle into each stitch from back to front.

Below are both video and written tutorials to help you learn how to make a purl.

Video Guide: How to Make the Purl Stitch

Written Guide: How to Make the Purl Stitch

Purl, Step 1:

Hold your yarn and needles as if to knit, except place the working yarn in front of your left needle.

Step 1: Learn to make the purl stitch, with a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Purl, Step 2:

Insert your right-hand needle tip into the front loop of the next stitch on your left needle from back to front.

Step 2: Learn to make the purl stitch, with a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Purl, Step 3:

With your left pointer finger, bring the working yarn down, towards you, over then behind the right needle tip. This will form a loop on the right-hand needle tip.

Step 3: Learn to make the purl stitch, with a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Purl, Step 4:

Pull the new loop of yarn on the right-hand needle through the first stitch on your left needle.

Purl, Step 5:

Slide the stitch you just worked into off the left needle, allowing the new stitch to remain on your right needle.

Purl, Step 6:

You have made your first purl stitch!

Repeat steps one through five each time a pattern asks you to purl a stitch.

Practice With My Knitting Patterns

Free Beginner Face Scrubby knitting pattern by Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

If you purl an entire piece of knitting work, you end up with a garter stitch pattern, just as you do when knitting with only the knit stitch. Because of this, one way to learn and practice the purl stitch is to make a Face Scrubby with only purls. You can follow the free Beginner Face Scrubby Pattern, except replace all the knit stitches with purl stitches.

When you are ready to start a new project, you can to learn to purl with the Basic Face Scrubby or Washcloth pattern found in my Simple Washcloth Knitting Pattern Collection. You will combine knits and purls in to create the traditional, smooth Stockinette stitch pattern that is commonly used in knitwear.

Up Next

To help you “read” your knitting and make sure you are following patterns correctly, you can start to see the knit stitches as “V” shaped and the purl stitches as upside down “U” shapes. Learn to identify knits and purls next.

Go Back to the Learn to Knit Index

February 12, 2015December 3, 2025

Frozen Snowflake Mittens

Frozen Snowflake Mittens: A Free Knitting Pattern by Liz Chandler

Are your hands a little chilly? Keep them warm with these mittens, embroidered with a subtle frozen snowflake. Get ready to embark on a new knitting adventure! Here is my free DIY pattern to knit these Frozen Snowflake Mittens yourself. Dive into the cozy world of crafting with step-by-step instructions to create three sizes of Frozen Snowflake Mittens: Women’s size, Girls’ Size, and Toddlers’ Size. Elevate your winter style with these charming mittens fit for royalty.

Anna's Anna's Snowflake Mittens Frozen Gloves

Crafted with care and warmth, these Frozen Snowflake Mittens are made using my favorite super-soft acrylic yarn – Caron Simply Soft. The choice of this yarn is intentional; it’s not only incredibly soft but also remarkably warm. Take them outside and build a snowman! What’s more, the practicality extends to easy maintenance – just toss these mittens into the washing machine when they need a refresh.

Designed with a touch of royal elegance, these mittens are perfect for princesses of all ages. The enchanting blue hue adds a regal charm, and to cater to diverse preferences, I’ve created these mittens in women’s, children’s, and toddlers’ sizes. Whether you’re gifting a pair to a little one or treating yourself to a new accessory, these mittens are a delightful addition to any winter wardrobe.

About This Free Frozen Snowflake Mittens Pattern

This simple ribbed hat is an easy-level knitting pattern. You will need to know how to make a long-tail cast on, knit, purl, decrease, and draw yarn thru the remaining stitches. If you are not familiar with these skills, find quick, free lessons in my Learn to Knit Guide.

Anna's blue snowflake mittens in the Disney move Frozen.

Materials

You will need the following materials, which you can purchase at your local yarn shop or on Amazon.com via the affiliate links below:

Knitting Needles:
Double Point Needles (DPNs)

No. 13/5.00MM double pointed needles (dpn) (or four sizes larger than size needed to obtain gauge)
No. 9/5.00MM double pointed needles (dpn) (or size needed to obtain gauge)

Yarn:

One 315-Yard Skein of Caron Simply Soft Yarn, Cobalt Blue (worsted weight) (Note: You may want to purchase two skeins of this color; you will knit with two strands held together. Having two separate skeins lets you avoid winding a second ball of yarn.)
One 315-Yard Skein of Caron Simply Soft Yarn, Royal Blue (worsted weight) – This color is for the snowflake embroidery, and you will use only 1-2 yards from this skein for each pair of gloves

*Weights estimated with Caron Simply Soft yarn; other yarn weights may vary. Weight does not include gauge swatch. A 4×4 inch gauge swatch with a 2 row by 3 stitch border uses an additional 21 yards (0.4 oz.).

Tools:

A stitch marker, a measuring tape and a darning needle.

Gauge

20 stitches x 28 rows = 4 x 4 inches in stockinette stitch on No. 5 (3.75 mm) needles. (Learn how to check your gauge here.)

Abbreviations

k = knit

Make 1 = with the left needle, pick up the strand between the stitch just worked and the next stitch from front to back and knit into the back of it.

k2tog = Knit two together.

ssk = Slip, slip, knit. Slip two stitches as if to knit. Insert left needle from left to right into the fronts of the two slipped stitches and knit together.

sl1pwyif = Slip one stitch purlwise, holding yarn in front of work.

Instructions: Frozen Snowflake Mittens

Instructions: Adult Women’s Size Frozen Snowflake Mittens

(Approx. 10.5 inches from top to bottom, 8 inches around hand, without thumb)
Use the Long-Tail Cast On method. Knit with 2 strands of yarn held together. Use stitch marker to keep track of the beginning/ends of your circular rows by placing it in the first stitch of each circular row (round). Remember: You will turn these gloves wrong-side-out (purl-side-out) when you are finished. Make two (2).
Row 1: With No. 13 DPNs, cast on 15 stitches. Divide evenly onto 3 No. 13 DPNs (5 stitches each).
Row 2: Join (taking care not to twist stitches) and knit 15 stitches.
Rows 3 thru 14: Knit 15 stitches.
Row 15: Switching to No.9 DPNs as you go, k1, make 1 repeat for one round. (30 stitches)
Rows 16 thru 21: Knit 30 stitches.
Row 22: Knit 14 stitches. Place stitch marker on the 14th knit stich. Make 1. Knit 2 stitches. Make 1. Place stitch marker on the newly made stitch. Knit 14 stitches. (32 stitches)
Row 23: Knit 32.
Row 24: Knit to marker. Slip marker purlwise with yarn in front. Make 1. Knit to second marker. Make 1. Slip second marker purlwise with yarn in front. Knit to end. (34 stitches)
Row 25: Knit 34 stitches.
Row 26: Knit to marker. Slip marker purlwise with yarn in front. Make 1. Knit to second marker. Make 1. Slip second marker purlwise with yarn in front. Knit to end. (36 stitches)
Row 27: Knit 36 stitches.
Row 28: Knit to marker. Slip marker purlwise with yarn in front. Make 1. Knit to second marker. Make 1. Slip second marker purlwise with yarn in front. Knit to end. (38 stitches)
Row 29: Knit 38 stitches.
Row 30: Knit to marker. Slip marker purlwise with yarn in front. Make 1. Knit to second marker. Make 1. Slip second marker purlwise with yarn in front. Knit to end. (40 stitches)
Row 31: Knit 40 stitches.
Row 32: Knit 14 stitches. Slip next 12 stitches, purlwise with yarn in front, onto stitch holder. Knit 14 stitches. (This will separate thumb stiches from hand stitches.)
Rows 33 thru 54: Knit 28 stitches.
Row 55: K2tog. Knit 10 stitches. SSK. K2tog. Knit 10 stitches. SSK. (24 stitches)
Row 56: Knit 24 stitches.
Row 57: K2tog. Knit 8 stitches. SSK. K2tog. Knit 8 stitches. SSK. (20 stitches)
Row 58: Knit 20 stitches.
Row 59: K2tog. Knit 6 stitches. SSK. K2tog. Knit 6 stitches. SSK. (16 stitches)
Cut yarn leaving a 12 inch tail. With tapestry needle, draw yarn tightly through remaining 16 stitches. Weave in end. You may wish to reinforce the “seam” created by the decreases at the fingertips; use duplicate stitch to tighten the seam as you weave in your tail. Keep in mind your “purl-side” or “wrong-side” will be the visible outside of your glove, so keep that side neat.

Thumb

Put 12 stitches from stitch holder onto three No. 9 DPNs (4 stitches per needle).
Thumb Row 1: Knit 12 stitches in the round.
Thumb Row 2: Join round (taking care not to twist stitches) and knit 12 stitches.
Thumb Rows 3 thru 10: Knit 12.
Thumb Row 11: K2tog x 6 (6 stitches).
Cut a 12 inch tail and draw tightly through remaining 6 stitches.
Use duplicate stitch to tighten any loose stitches around the “seams” as you weave in your tails. Keep in mind your “purl-side” or “wrong-side” will be the visible outside of your glove, so keep that side neat.
Turn mittens purl-side (wrong-side) out – this is now the “right-side” of your work. Embroider adult snowflake design.

Instructions: Child Size Frozen Snowflake Mittens

(Approx. 9 inches from top to bottom, 7 inches around hand without thumb)
Use the Long-Tail Cast On method. Knit with 2 strands of yarn held together. Use stitch marker to keep track of the beginning/ends of your circular rows by placing it in the first stitch of each circular row (round). Remember: You will turn these gloves wrong-side-out (purl-side-out) when you are finished. Make two (2).
Row 1: With No. 13 DPNs, cast on 14 stitches. Divide onto 3 No. 13 DPNs.
Row 2: Join (taking care not to twist stitches) and knit 14 stitches.
Rows 3 thru 12: Knit 14 stitches.
Row 15: Switching to No.9 DPNs as you go, k1, make 1 repeat for one round. (28 stitches)
Rows 16 thru 21: Knit 28 stitches.
Row 22: Knit 13 stitches. Place stitch marker on the 13th knit stich. Make 1. Knit 2 stitches. Make 1. Place stitch marker on the newly made stitch. Knit 13 stitches. (30 stitches)
Row 23: Knit 30.
Row 24: Knit to marker. Slip marker purlwise with yarn in front. Make 1. Knit to second marker. Make 1. Slip second marker purlwise with yarn in front. Knit to end. (32 stitches)
Row 25: Knit 32 stitches.
Row 26: Knit to marker. Slip marker purlwise with yarn in front. Make 1. Knit to second marker. Make 1. Slip second marker purlwise with yarn in front. Knit to end. (34 stitches)
Row 27: Knit 34 stitches.
Row 28: Knit 13 stitches. Slip next 8 stitches, purlwise with yarn in back, onto stitch holder. Knit 13 stitches. (This will separate thumb stiches from hand stitches.)
Rows 29 thru 44: Knit 26 stitches.
Row 45: K2tog. Knit 9 stitches. SSK. K2tog. Knit 9 stitches. SSK. (22 stitches)
Row 46: Knit 22 stitches.
Row 55: K2tog. Knit 7 stitches. SSK. K2tog. Knit 7 stitches. SSK. (18 stitches)
Row 56: Knit 18 stitches.
Row 57: K2tog. Knit 5 stitches. SSK. K2tog. Knit 5 stitches. SSK. (14 stitches)
Row 58: Knit 16 stitches.
Row 59: K2tog. Knit 3 stitches. SSK. K2tog. Knit 3 stitches. SSK. (10 stitches)
Cut yarn leaving a 12 inch tail. With tapestry needle, draw yarn tightly through remaining 10 stitches. Weave in end. You may wish to reinforce the “seam” created by the decreases at the fingertips; use duplicate stitch to tighten the seam as you weave in your tail. Keep in mind your “purl-side” or “wrong-side” will be the visible outside of your glove, so keep that side neat.

Thumb

Put 8 stitches from stitch holder onto two No. 9 DPNs (4 stitches per needle).
Thumb Row 1: Beginning with the first picked up stitch, knit 8 stitches in the round.
Thumb Row 2: Join (taking care not to twist stitches) and knit 8 stitches.
Thumb Rows 3 thru 11: Knit 8 stitches.
Thumb Row 12: K2tog x 4 (4 stitches).
Cut a 12 inch tail and draw tightly through remaining 4 stitches.
Use duplicate stitch to tighten any loose stitches around the “seams” as you weave in your tails. Keep in mind your “purl-side” or “wrong-side” will be the visible outside of your glove, so keep that side neat.
Turn mittens purl-side (wrong-side) out – this is now the “right-side” of your work. Embroider children’s snowflake design.

Instructions: Toddler Size Frozen Snowflake Mittens

(Approx. 6.5 inches from top to bottom, 6 in. around hand without thumb)
Use the Long-Tail Cast On method. Knit with 2 strands of yarn held together. Use stitch marker to keep track of the beginning/ends of your circular rows by placing it in the first stitch of each circular row (round). Remember: You will turn these gloves wrong-side-out (purl-side-out) when you are finished. Make two (2).
Row 1: With No. 13 DPNs, cast on 12 stitches. Divide onto 3 No. 13 DPNs.
Row 2: Join (taking care not to twist stitches) and knit 12 stitches.
Rows 3 thru 10: Knit 12 stitches.
Row 11: Switching to No.9 DPNs as you go, k1, make 1 repeat for one round. (24 stitches)
Rows 12 thru 16: Knit 24 stitches.
Row 17: Knit 11 stitches. Place stitch marker on the 11th knit stich. Make 1. Knit 2 stitches. Make 1. Place stitch marker on the newly made stitch. Knit 11 stitches. (26 stitches)
Row 18: Knit 26.
Row 19: Knit to marker. Slip marker purlwise with yarn in front. Make 1. Knit to second marker. Make 1. Slip second marker purlwise with yarn in front. Knit to end. (28 stitches)
Row 20: Knit 28 stitches.
Row 21: Knit 11 stitches. Slip next 6 stitches, purlwise with yarn in back, onto stitch holder. Knit 11 stitches. (This will separate thumb stiches from hand stitches)
Rows 22 thru 34: Knit 22 stitches.
Row 35: K2tog. Knit 7 stitches. SSK. K2tog. Knit 7 stitches. SSK. (18 stitches)
Row 36: Knit 18 stitches.
Row 37: K2tog. Knit 5 stitches. SSK. K2tog. Knit 5 stitches. SSK. (14 stitches)
Row 56: Knit 14 stitches.
Row 57: K2tog. Knit 3 stitches. SSK. K2tog. Knit 3 stitches. SSK. (10 stitches)
Cut yarn leaving a 12 inch tail. With tapestry needle, draw yarn tightly through remaining 10 stitches. Weave in end. You may wish to reinforce the “seam” created by the decreases at the fingertips; use duplicate stitch to tighten the seam as you weave in your tail. Keep in mind your “purl-side” or “wrong-side” will be the visible outside of your glove, so keep that side neat.

Thumb

Put 6 stitches from stitch holder onto two No. 9 DPNs (3 stitches per needle).
Thumb Row 1: Beginning with the first picked up stitch, knit 6 stitches in the round.
Thumb Row 2: Join (taking care not to twist stitches) and knit 6.
Thumb Rows 3 thru 6: Knit 6 stitches.
Thumb Row 7: K2tog x 3 (3 stitches).
Cut a 12 inch tail and draw tightly through remaining 3 stitches.
Use duplicate stitch to tighten any loose stitches around the “seams” as you weave in your tails. Keep in mind your “purl-side” or “wrong-side” will be the visible outside of your glove, so keep that side neat.
Turn mittens purl-side (wrong-side) out – this is now the “right-side” of your work. Embroider children’s snowflake design.

Snowflake Design

The snowflake design is made by embroidering the mitten using a tapestry needle and one strand of royal blue yarn. Tip: You may want to practice sewing the snowflake on your gauge swatch before you embroider your mittens.

Using the knitting’s natural holes as a guide, embroider the following charted design onto the back of the hand of each mitten. I found it easiest to begin with the center stitches and work my way out and around the snowflake. For all sizes, the center of snowflake should be placed about 1 inch in from thumb crease and 1.5 inches above where the rows made with No. 9 needles begin.

In the diagrams below, one line equals one stitch. The stitches shown in red should be embroidered in a continuous manner, sewing into the same hole as the previous stitch. The black stitches should not connect and should have gaps between them. Use the close-up photographs as a guide, as well as the diagrams below

Print the Free Frozen Snowflake Mitten Knitting Pattern

Printable Frozen Snowflake Mitten Knitting Pattern PDF by Liz @PurlsAndPixels

Find More Knitting Patterns

If you like this, check out the other knitting patterns I’ve written. Visit my knitting patterns page to see my full collection.

Find all of the knitting patterns by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

This pattern is for personal use, gifting, and charitable donation of completed items. You may also sell handmade items created using this pattern. Do not copy this pattern and distribute it. If you’d like to share the pattern, refer your friends to my website, purlsandpixels.com so they may obtain a copy.

If you find any errors or have any questions, email purlsandpixels@gmail.com and I will do my best to help.

I’d love to see your finished work! Tag your photos with @PurlsAndPixels on Twitter or Instagram.

December 10, 2014December 13, 2025

Knitting Tension

Maintaining yarn tension in your knitting is essential to keeping your stitches even. If you do not place your yarn loops on the needles evenly, your knitting work will end up irregular, saggy, or filled with holes. To prevent these knitting problems, practice wrapping each stitch around your needles with the same tightness or “tension.” Making sure all your stitches match one another will help your final knitting to look even and consistent.

Learn to fix loose stitches to improve your knitting tension - a lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Pay close attention to how your stitches wrap around the needles. Ideal knit stitches are looped with just enough tension that they fit around the needle with no gaps. On the other hand, stitches should not be pulled so tightly that the loops get stuck in place; if your stitches cannot slide down the needles easily, you will have a hard time working into them.

How tightly you knit can greatly impact your finished object. If you do not have the correct tension, you can end up with very differently sized knit pieces, even when knitting with the same yarn and needles. Loose tension will create larger stitches, while tight tension creates smaller stitches.

Below you’ll find video and written guides, which I hope will help you improve your knitting tension.

Video Guide: Knitting Tension

Written Guide: Knitting Tension

Practicing different yarn holds can help you with your knitting tension. Try holding the yarn in several ways, wrapping it around your hand or fingers until you find a comfortable option to keep your string taut.

Find a comfortable yarn hold to help you improve your knitting tension - knitting lessons from Liz @PurlsandPixles - a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

With each stitch, try to ensure that you loop the yarn around the knitting needle snuggly. Take care not to knit your loops too tightly, however, or you will have trouble inserting your needle into the stitches for the next row. The key to knitting tension is to place each stitch on the needles in with the same moderate tautness: not too tight and not too loose.

Knitting tension that is too tight. — Too Tight

Knitting tension that is too loose. — Too Tight

Another way to maintain even tension is to keep a close eye on the stitches that you have just worked. If you notice a stitch on your needles that is too loose, you can adjust that stitch before you knit further. A loose stitch on your needles can be tightened by pulling the excess yarn back towards the yarn ball, one stitch at a time.

Improving Tension by Adjusting Stitches as You Go

Adjust a Loose Stitch, Step 1:

Identify the loose stitch by noticing that it sticks out from the righthand needle a bit more than the other stitches.

Step 1: How to keep even knitting tension by fixing loose stitches as you go - a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

Adjust a Loose Stitch, Step 2:

Gently pull on the first stitch to the left of the loose stitch; this will tighten the loose stitch, while loosening the stitch on which you are pulling. Once you have achieved the desired tightness in the loose stitch, let go of the stitch you just pulled.

Step 2: How to keep even knitting tension by fixing loose stitches as you go - a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

Adjust a Loose Stitch, Step 3:

Pinch the next stitch to the left and gently pull it to tighten up the previous stitch. Continue gently pulling the stitches, one at a time, moving toward your left. Ensure you are tightening the previous stitches to the correct tension as you go.

Step 3: How to keep even knitting tension by fixing loose stitches as you go - a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

Adjust a Loose Stitch, Step 4:

When you reach the last stitch on your righthand needle, pull the working yarn to tighten the last stitch to the correct tension. The loose stitching should be fixed, and you can resume knitting your pattern.

Step 4: How to keep even knitting tension by fixing loose stitches as you go - a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

Practice With My Knitting Patterns

Simple Washcloth Knitting Pattern Collection from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

If you’ve been following my lessons, you now have enough information to knit all of the washcloths and face scrubbies in my Simple Washcloth Knitting Pattern Collection. Happy knitting!

Up Next

Everybody makes mistakes. In the next lesson, we will learn how to spot and fix some of the most common knitting mistakes: twisted, sipped, and dropped stitches.

Learn to spot and fix simple knitting mistakes with this lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Go Back to the Learn to Knit Index

December 5, 2014January 12, 2026

DIY Peppermint Twist Garland

Learn to crochet a peppermint garland with this easy, free tutorial from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

An Easy Holiday Crochet Project for Beginners

Looking for a quick and festive garland for your Christmas tree or holiday decor? This DIY Peppermint Twist Crochet Garland is a super easy, beginner-friendly project that works up fast and adds a handmade touch to your holiday decorations. Perfect for crocheters of all levels, even kids learning to chain!

Make your own handmade peppermint candy cane garland using only yarn and a crochet hook. Get the tutorial from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Why Make a Crochet Peppermint Garland?

When I set up my new Christmas tree, I realized I forgot to buy a garland. Rather than leave the tree looking plain, I grabbed some yarn and crocheted a peppermint-inspired garland. In about an hour, I had a cheerful, festive garland—and now you can make one too!

Handmade crochet Christmas garland with snowman, tutorial from PurlsAndPixels

Making a Peppermint Twist Garland Couldn’t Be Easier

This simple, fast project is a fantastic way for beginning crocheters and kids to learn to chain in crochet. You’ll hold red and white yarn together, pretending they are one strand of yarn. Then, just make a crochet chain until the garland is long enough and you’ve got a new handmade decoration to treasure for generations to come.

Do it yourself and add a handmade touch to your Christmas tree this holiday. Or, make it a family project and teach your children how to chain and let them practice with this fun and cheerful crochet garland. You all can even take turns! Everyone will be proud to see their own handmade work shown off for the holidays.

Handmade touches add the coziest feeling to your holiday decor. Drape a DIY Peppermint Twist Garland around your Christmas Tree with this crochet pattern by Liz Chandler @ PurlsAndPixels

The easy chain crochet project ends up looking like a long string of peppermint that you can twist around your Christmas tree. Or drape it along your mantle, up the stairs, or on any other surface that needs a little holiday cheer!

Materials To Crochet a Garland

All you need is:

Crochet an easy peppermint twist Christmas garland with a PurlsAndPixels tutorial

One skein of chunky white yarn (I used Bernat Softee Chunky Yarn in White)

One skein of worsted weight red yarn (I used Caron Simply Soft Yarn in Autumn Red)

A size K/6.5mm crochet hook (I used Crochet Hook-Size K/6.5mm)

How to Make a Peppermint Twist Crochet Garland

Combine the yarn: Hold the red and white yarn together as if they were one strand.
Start with a slip knot: Create a slip knot and place it on your hook.
Chain away: Using the combined yarn, chain until your white yarn runs out (you may have extra red) or until you reach your desired length.
Finish off: Cut the red yarn and pull both strands through the final stitch to secure.
Trim the ends (optional): Leave the ends loose for a rustic look or trim them for a polished finish.

That’s it! Your crochet peppermint garland is ready to display. Easy as pie!

Crochet a peppermint twist garland from red and white yarn. you can crochet it straight onto the Christmas tree for a festive home decoration. Happy Holidays!

Creative Ways to Use Your Crochet Garland

Now drape your peppermint twist crochet garland around the Christmas tree, down the banister, or weave it into a pine wreath. What a fun handmade Christmas project. Now don’t you feel crafty?

Learn how to make an easy DIY peppermint twist crochet garland with this beginner-friendly tutorial by Liz Chandler at PurlsAndPixels. Add handmade charm to your Christmas decor in under an hour! — A Fluffy Crochet Peppermint Twist Garland Looks So Cute With A Mini-Mitten Ornament. The Free Mitten Pattern Is Linked Here

🎄 More Holiday Craft Ideas 🎄

Love DIY Christmas and holiday projects? Find more handmade holiday craft ideas at my Holiday Pattern Roundup Post.

Wishing you the Merriest of Christmases and the Happiest of Holidays!

Liz Chandler's favorite cozy Christmas. Put your handmade crochet garland on the tree to mimic peppermint twists and a long strand of candy cane. Get the tutorial at PurlsAndPixels.

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Don’t Miss a Stitch! 🧶

Love cozy knitting projects? Join me on YouTube, Pinterest, and Instagram! And don’t forget to sign up for my newsletter to get more free patterns, helpful tips, and updates straight to your inbox. 💌

November 4, 2014December 13, 2025

How to Make the Knit Stitch

As its name implies, the knit stitch is the foundation of knitting. Here, you will learn to make a knit stitch with this simple beginner’s knitting lesson. Then, you’ll be able to make a variety of fun projects: washcloths, scarves, blankets and more!

Learn to make the knit stitch, a free knitting tutorial from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Once you have cast on your first stitches, you will be ready to begin your first knit stitch row.

The abbreviations “k” or “K” are often used in patterns to instruct you to make the knit stitch.

Two important things to remember when making the knit stitch:

Hold the working yarn behind your needles, and
Insert your right needle into each stitch from front to back.

There are different styles of knitting, the most common of which are Continental and English style knitting. Both styles of knitting give you the same knitted piece at the end, but they differ in how you hold your yarn. Here, you’ll learn how to knit in the Continental style. I like Continental style knitting because it is quicker to make the knit stitch once you have practiced. Read more about Continental Style Knitting.

Below are both video and written tutorials to help you learn how to make the knit stitch.

Video Guide: How to Make the Knit Stitch

Written Guide: How to Make the Knit Stitch

Knit, Step 1:

After turning your work, arrange the working yarn onto your left hand in your preferred yarn hold. Hold the empty needle in your right hand.

Step 1: Learn to make the knit stitch, with a free knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Knit, Step 2:

Place the working yarn (coming from your yarn ball) behind your left needle.

Step 2: Learn to make the knit stitch, with a free knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Knit, Step 3:

Insert the tip of your right-hand needle into the front loop of the first stitch on your left needle.

Step 3: Learn to make the knit stitch, with a free knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Knit, Step 4:

Bring the right needle tip over the working yarn and begin to form a counterclockwise loop around it.

Step 4: Learn to make the knit stitch, with a free knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Knit, Step 5:

Pull the loop on your right needle tip through the stitch on your left needle.

Step 5: Learn to make the knit stitch, with a free knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Knit, Step 6:

Slide the stitch you have just worked into off your left needle, allowing the new stitch to remain on your right needle. You have made your first knit stitch!

Step 6: Learn to make the knit stitch, with a free knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Repeat steps one through six to knit an entire row off your left needle and onto the right. When the left needle is empty, you can turn your work again and start the next row.

This pattern, of using only knit stitches and turning after each row, is known as the Garter Stitch. It is used in many knitted projects.

Practice With My Free Knitting Patterns

Knit along with me and practice your knit stitches with my Free Beginner Face Scrubby Pattern.

Simple garter stitch scarf easy beginner scarf knitting pattern by Liz @PurlsAndPixels

If you are looking for a bigger project, my Free Beginner Knit Scarf Pattern is also made in garter stitch (all knit stitches). It is just as simple as my face scrubby pattern; it just takes a bit longer to make.

Up Next

After mastering the knit stitch, you will be ready to learn the purl stitch and start adding texture and patterns to your knitting projects.

Learn how to make the purl stitch, a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Or, skip ahead and learn to take your stitches off the knitting needles with a standard bind off.

How to end a knitting project with the standard bind off, a knitting lesson from Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Go Back to the Learn to Knit Index

Video Guide: Common Knitting Mistakes, Fixing Dropped & Twisted Stitches

Written Guide: Common Knitting Mistakes, Dropped & Twisted Stitches

Fixing Knitting Mistakes with a Crochet Hook

Examining Correct Knit Stitches

Identify Twisted Stitches

Fixing Twisted Stitches

Fix a Twisted Stitch, Step 1:

Identify Dropped Stitches

Fixing Dropped Stitches

Fix a Dropped Stitch, Step 1:

Identify Slipped Stitches

Fixing Slipped Stitches

Fix a Slipped Stitch, Step 1:

“Tink” – Knit Backward to Fix Mistakes

Tink, Step 1:

Practice With My Knitting Patterns

Up Next

The Best Way to Remove Glue from Beechnut Baby Food Jars

What to Make with Beechnut Baby Food Jars

Read More: Cozy DIY Projects

Free Printable Yard Sale Signs

Read More: Cozy DIY Projects

What is a Purl?

Video Guide: How to Make the Purl Stitch

Written Guide: How to Make the Purl Stitch

Purl, Step 1:

Purl, Step 2:

Purl, Step 3:

Purl, Step 4:

Purl, Step 5:

Purl, Step 6:

Practice With My Knitting Patterns

Up Next

Frozen Snowflake Mittens: A Free Knitting Pattern by Liz Chandler

About This Free Frozen Snowflake Mittens Pattern

Materials

Gauge

Abbreviations

Instructions: Frozen Snowflake Mittens

Instructions: Adult Women’s Size Frozen Snowflake Mittens

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Instructions: Child Size Frozen Snowflake Mittens

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Instructions: Toddler Size Frozen Snowflake Mittens

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Snowflake Design

Print the Free Frozen Snowflake Mitten Knitting Pattern

Find More Knitting Patterns

Video Guide: Knitting Tension

Written Guide: Knitting Tension

Improving Tension by Adjusting Stitches as You Go

Adjust a Loose Stitch, Step 1:

Adjust a Loose Stitch, Step 2:

Adjust a Loose Stitch, Step 3:

Adjust a Loose Stitch, Step 4:

Practice With My Knitting Patterns

Up Next

An Easy Holiday Crochet Project for Beginners

Why Make a Crochet Peppermint Garland?

Making a Peppermint Twist Garland Couldn’t Be Easier

Materials To Crochet a Garland

All you need is:

How to Make a Peppermint Twist Crochet Garland

Creative Ways to Use Your Crochet Garland

🎄 More Holiday Craft Ideas 🎄

Don’t Miss a Stitch! 🧶

Video Guide: How to Make the Knit Stitch

Written Guide: How to Make the Knit Stitch

Knit, Step 1:

Knit, Step 2:

Knit, Step 3:

Knit, Step 4:

Knit, Step 5:

Knit, Step 6:

Practice With My Free Knitting Patterns

Up Next

LET’S KEEP IN TOUCH!