Knitting Basics - Simple Terms and Instructions
by: Craftopoly.com

Ever wanted to learn how to knit? Here are some simple descriptions of key terms that will help you get started with this "age old" new craze!

To "Cast On":

First you need to put the stitches on the needle. This is called "casting on":

Measure 8 inches from the end of the yarn and make a slip knot here. Slip in the needle and tighten yarn.

Hold the needle like a pencil in your right hand. Loop yarn around left thumb, grasping it with last three fingers. Move needle down through loop, and slip thumb out. Tighten stitch by pulling yarn gently. Make nine more stitches, keeping them loose.

To knit:

Now you're ready to knit. Change needle with cast-on stitches to the left hand. With right hand, hold the other needle. With yarn in back of work, insert needle in the front of first stitch, pointing needle toward first stitch, pointing needle toward the back. Put yarn around right needle, pull through stitch and slip this first stitch off the left needle onto right. Now you have made one stitch.

Continue until all the stitches are on the right needle. Put empty needle in right hand and needle with stitches in left hand. Place the yarn behind the left needle and you are ready to start the second row of knitting. Continue knitting for several rows and you will have a sample of the garter stitch.

To "Bind Off":

When you complete your work, you will have to take it off the needle. This is called binding off. Knit two stitches. Bring first stitch over second stitch. Knit one more stitch and again bring first stitch over second stitch. Be sure to bind off loosely. At the end of the row, cut the yarn, draw it through the last stitch, and pull it tightly.

To "Block":

After you've finished knitting your article, you'll want to block it to give it a neat, finished look. Pin ea h knitted section on a smooth towel and place on ironing board. Cover with a damp pressing cloth and press with hot iron. Let your work dry thoroughly.

Now that you have learned the basics terms, there is nothing stopping you from grabbing some knitting needles and yarn for that perfect project!

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