How Do I Learn to Knit?

For Teens

Materials

You will need yarn, a pair of knitting needles and, if you choose, a pattern.

Don’t spend a lot of money on expensive yarn until you’ve mastered some of the basic techniques and have confidence in what you’re doing—although you could buy some and use it as motivation for learning faster!
Our teens suggest a pair of size 8 knitting needles because “they are not so small that your fingers will cramp, but they are also not bulky.”

Casting On

All knitting begins with a cast-on, which creates loops on the needle. There are a variety of ways to cast on before beginning to knit. Learn more about these methods using the websites and books listed below.

Learn Simple Stitches

After casting on, you can work the knit stitch or the purl stitch, which are the foundations of knitting. The knit stitch is just pulling a loop of yarn through an existing loop on the needle. Pulling it through with the yarn in the back creates the knit stitch. Pulling it through with the yarn in front creates the purl stitch.

Practice!

Before taking on a knitting project, practice the knit stitch, the purl stitch and casting on until you feel comfortable.

Find a Pattern

Once you feel comfortable with simple stitches, look for a pattern for a project you would like to try. Most instructional books have patterns in the back, but you can also find patterns online or individually. Search around for one—or a few—that you would like to try. Don’t be intimidated: A pattern may look difficult, but if you break it down and follow the instructions one by one, you will find yourself having no trouble at all!

Source

“The Knit Stitch.” Knitting Help.com.

Websites

Knitting Help »
This website features how-to photos and videos that offer step-by-step instructions for beginners and more advanced knitters who want to learn new tricks.

Knitty »
Find patterns and learn techniques in this free online magazine.

Ravelry »
Connect with other crafters using this free social network for knitters and crocheters.