Get Started with Knit How

Knit How is one of most popular learn to knit books and now it is back in stock! For those curious to start knitting or looking for a knitty gift I have written this blog post with an introduction to the first project along with some suitable yarns and the right needles.

Knit How takes you from the very beginning of knitting. You will learn, casting on, the knit and purl stitch and casting off. You then learn through a series of projects, 10 in total, each taking you through a new skill. Starting with the simple, weaving in ends, swatching and blocking.

New stitches are introduced through other projects, like cowls with different stitch patterns. Hat's cover knitting in the round, cables in a scarf project. Larger projects like jumpers are also included, as well as socks and a little bit of lace. Before you know it you will have the confidence to take on any project.

If you are looking to put together a gift for someone or want to start knitting from this book yourself, below is all you will need to get started.

Ce by Meghan Fernandes and Lydia Gluck

Ce is the first project in the book. A pair of fingerless mittens! These simple mittens contain plenty of things to learn and look more complicated than they are. Knit flat and then seamed, with ribbing at the cuff and fingers. A little hole is left for the thumb to peak through. A perfect accessory for going into the cooler months.

For this project you need 250 yards (229 m) of a DK weight yarn plus a pair of 4mm needles and optional 4.5mm needles. Below I have listed all the suitable DK weight yarns for this project to get you started.

To get you started you will need:

• The Knit How Book.
• A pair of 4mm Needles.
• An optional pair of 4.5mm Needles (for casting off)
• 1 100g skein or ball of DK weight yarn. (see options below)
• A darning needle for sewing up and weaving in ends.
• A pair of scissors.

Fyberspates Vivacious DK

These are hand dyed 100% Superwash Merino 100g skeins. Being hand dyed the colours move gradually between light and dark, with sometimes tones of other colour peeking through. Wonderfully soft and great worn next to the skin. It is also easy to care for.

Hedgehog Fibres Merino DK

Hedgehog Fibres create the most gorgeous bright and speckled hand dyed yarns. The Meino DK is plump and soft and fun to knit with. It makes the simplest of patterns look amazing! 100g skeins that vary from subtle variegated to wildly speckled.

John Arbon Knit By Numbers DK

John Arbon is a based in the South West of England in North Devon. They spin everything in their mill and the Knit by Numbers range is a collection of tonal Falkland merino yarns that fade from dark to light. A super soft merino that is great for accessories worn close to the skin. In a range of interesting solid colours in 100g skeins.

Hillesvåg Ullvarefabrikk Tinde

Hillesvåg is a traditional Norwegian wool. The mill has been running for over 100 years and they dye on a tradition Norwegian Pelssau sheep which has a grey fleece. This gives a deep richness to the colours. Sturdy feeling than the merinos but oh so warm. This is a yarn that reward you with wear, creating garments and accessories that will last. Sold in 100g skeins.

Coopknits Socks Yeah! DK

Socks Yeah DK is a strong, durable, easy to care for but soft merino nylon blend. Designed for sturdy accessories like socks and gloves it will stand up to lots of wear. With a range of solid colours its a great allrounder. Sold in 50g Skeins 112m/122yrds you will need two to match the meterage requirements of the pattern.

Nurturing Fibres Eco-Cotton

Lastly for those who can't or might not want to use wool here is a cotton alternative. Nurturing Fibres are based in South African and hand dye all their yarns. They filter their waste water before it leaves them and they use solar power. Super soft with a good twist, which add durability. Sold in 5og balls 125m/136yrds you will need two to match the meterage requirements of the pattern.