Do you enjoy knitting in your free time and are looking for ways to enhance your hobby? Or you are just starting out and wondering about the essential tools you need for knitting as a beginner? Then you have come to the right place. In this article, we will discuss some of the most important tools you need for starting your knitting hobby. Let’s delve into it:
Scissors
Some yarns are so delicate that you can break them easily with your hands. But most of the yarns are so sturdy that you would need something sharp to cut them. That is where the scissors become valuable.
They are used for snipping ends, trimming loose fibres, or cutting pieces of scrap yarn for stitch markers. It’s tempting to grab the nearest pair of household scissors, but for knitting, a small, sharp pair works much better.
Yarn
Yarn plays a major role in knitting projects. It is challenging to pick one from the comprehensive options in the market. If you are a beginner, you can go with acrylic or cotton, as they are easy to handle and an affordable option.
Another factor is yarn weight. You can choose from a variety of lace, fingering, DK, worsted, bulky, and super bulky. Each one gives your project a different texture and thickness.
Knitting Needles
A needle is one of the most important knitting tools. Beginners often start with straight needles. Once you become an expert, you can use the circular ones. They are popular due to their versatility. You can knit flat or in the round, and the weight of the project rests on the cable instead of your wrists. This makes knitting easier during long sessions.
Double-pointed needles (DPNs) are another type, often used for socks, hats, or smaller round projects. There are different types of needles you can choose from. Bamboo is the best choice for beginners as it ensures a strong grip. The metal needles are smoother and faster.
Crochet Hook
A crochet hook is a tool used for picking up the stitch and fixing a mistake. They also come in different sizes. It is wise to buy a medium-sized one as it works for both small and large projects.
Stitch Markers and Progress Keepers
Knitting is not as easy as it seems, as it involves complicated patterns. You can lose track easily. That is where stitch markers are helpful to keep track of the number of stitches. They are little rings or clips that you can attach to your stitches.
They are lifesavers for complicated patterns. By using stitch markers, you don’t have to double-check after making a stitch. Moreover, the progress keepers are helpful to mark the number of rounds and rows you have knit.
Measuring Tape
Knitting isn’t just about making stitches; it’s about creating items that actually fit. For accurate measurements and fitting, a measuring tape is used. Flexible measuring tapes are the best because they can wrap around circular projects or stretch across long rows.