Following Knitting Patterns
There are a number of ways to keep your place in a knitting pattern as you work. When following knitting patterns, it is important to pay attention to the details and instructions provided. Here are some tips to help you in following knitting patterns.
Read the pattern carefully:
Start by reading the entire pattern before you begin knitting. Make sure you understand the abbreviations, symbols, and techniques used.
Take note of pattern repeats:
Many knitting patterns have repeated sections. Repeated sections are often noted by asterisks surrounding the instruction. For example: *Knitting Instruction* would mean, “repeat the Knitting Instruction between these asterisks” Pay attention to these repeats and mark them if necessary. It will make it easier to maintain consistency throughout your project.
Check your gauge:
Always check your gauge before starting a project. Gauge refers to the number of stitches and rows per inch. It ensures that your finished project will have the correct size and fit.
Use highlighters, sticky notes, or paperclips: Highlight or mark the specific instructions or sections you are working on. You can make tick marks on some scratch paper as you finish each row.
Or, try following along by aligning a paperclip with your current row in the knitting pattern. This can help you stay focused and prevent any confusion.
Use stitch markers or a row counter to keep track of your stitches and rows. This will help you stay organized and ensure accuracy in your knitting.
Count your stitches and rows:
You can also check your row-count by looking at your work.
Count each knit or purl stitch in a column, beginning at the bottom of the work.
If you started with a long-tail cast-on, don’t count the straight edge stitch.
Do count the loop on your needle.
Confused? There are more specific instructions in this article: Counting Knitting Rows.
Remember, practice makes perfect. As you gain experience, you will become more comfortable with interpreting and following knitting patterns.
Now, choose a pattern and start a new project. Happy knitting!
Up Next
Now that you’ve learned the basics, let’s work on perfecting your skills. In the next lesson, we will learn how to make stitching more even by improving knitting tension.
Go Back to the Learn to Knit Index