Understanding the Basics of Continental Knitting
Continental knitting is characterized by the way the yarn is manipulated and the stitches are formed. It is often praised for its speed, as many knitters find it easier to maintain a consistent tension in their stitches. Before diving into the actual knitting, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the tools and materials you will need.
Materials Needed
To get started with continental knitting, you will need the following materials:
1. Yarn: Choose a medium-weight yarn (like worsted weight) in a color that you love. Beginners often find it easier to work with lighter colors as they can easily see their stitches.
2. Knitting Needles: Opt for a pair of knitting needles that are suitable for your chosen yarn. For worsted weight yarn, US size 8 (5 mm) needles are a good starting point. You can choose between straight needles or circular needles, depending on your preference.
3. Scissors: A pair of small scissors for cutting your yarn.
4. Tapestry Needle: A large-eyed needle for weaving in ends once your project is completed.
5. Measuring Tape: To ensure your gauge and project dimensions are accurate.
Basic Techniques in Continental Knitting
Before you can create beautiful knitted items, it's essential to learn the basic techniques involved in continental knitting. These include casting on, knitting, purling, and binding off.
Getting Started: Casting On
Casting on is the first step in any knitting project, and in continental knitting, it can be done in various methods. Below is a simple way to cast on stitches.
The Long-Tail Cast-On Method
1. Estimate the Tail: Measure about 4 times the width of your project in yarn to create a long tail.
2. Create a Slipknot: Form a loop with your yarn and pull a portion through to create a slipknot. Place this slipknot on your left needle.
3. Hold the Yarn: Hold the tail of the yarn with your left thumb and the working yarn with your left index finger. Your right hand should be ready to work the needles.
4. Insert the Needle: Insert your right needle into the slipknot from front to back.
5. Wrap the Yarn: Use your right needle to scoop the working yarn from your left index finger.
6. Pull Through: Pull the new stitch through the loop on the left needle. Repeat these steps until you have the desired number of stitches.
The Continental Knitting Stitches
Once you have cast on your stitches, it’s time to learn how to knit and purl—two fundamental stitches that form the basis of most knitting patterns.
The Knit Stitch
1. Position Your Needles: Hold your needle with the cast-on stitches in your left hand and the empty needle in your right hand.
2. Insert the Needle: Insert the right needle into the front of the first stitch on the left needle from left to right.
3. Wrap the Yarn: Use your left hand to bring the working yarn over the right needle.
4. Pull Through: Use the right needle to pull the wrapped yarn through the stitch. You will create a new stitch on the right needle.
5. Slide Off: Slide the old stitch off the left needle. Repeat the process until all stitches are on the right needle.
The Purl Stitch
1. Position Your Needles: Start with the same needle position as in the knit stitch.
2. Insert the Needle: Insert the right needle into the first stitch on the left needle from right to left.
3. Wrap the Yarn: With your left hand, bring the working yarn over the right needle.
4. Pull Through: Pull the wrapped yarn through the stitch, creating a new stitch on the right needle.
5. Slide Off: Slide the old stitch off the left needle. Continue until all stitches are purled.
Binding Off
Once you’ve completed your project, you will need to bind off to secure your stitches. Here’s a simple method to bind off in continental knitting.
Binding Off Steps
1. Knit the First Two Stitches: Start by knitting the first two stitches on your left needle.
2. Lift the First Stitch: Using your left needle, lift the first stitch over the second stitch and off the needle.
3. Knit Another Stitch: Knit another stitch from the left needle.
4. Repeat: Continue this process of knitting the next stitch and lifting the previous stitch over until you have one stitch left on your right needle.
5. Cut the Yarn: Leave a tail of about six inches, then pull the last stitch to secure it.
Tips for Success in Continental Knitting
As a beginner, it’s helpful to keep a few tips in mind as you embark on your knitting journey:
1. Practice Regularly: Like any skill, knitting improves with practice. Set aside time each week to knit.
2. Maintain Tension: Pay attention to how you hold your yarn and needles. Consistent tension leads to even stitches.
3. Choose Simple Projects: Start with basic patterns, such as scarves or dishcloths, to build your confidence.
4. Use the Right Tools: Ensure your needles are comfortable in your hands. If they are too slippery or too dull, it can hinder your progress.
5. Join a Community: Consider joining a local knitting group or an online forum where you can ask questions and share your progress.
Conclusion
With these continental knitting instructions for beginners, you now have the foundation to start your knitting journey. Remember, patience and practice are key. As you become more comfortable with the techniques, you can explore more complex patterns and stitches. Happy knitting!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is continental knitting and how does it differ from other knitting techniques?
Continental knitting is a technique where the working yarn is held in the left hand, allowing knitters to use a pinching motion to create stitches. This method differs from English knitting, where the yarn is held in the right hand and wrapped around the needle.
What materials do I need to start continental knitting?
To start continental knitting, you will need a pair of knitting needles (preferably size 7-9 for beginners), a ball of yarn (medium weight is recommended), and a pair of scissors. Optional tools include a stitch marker and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends.
How do I hold the yarn and needles for continental knitting?
In continental knitting, hold the needle with your right hand and the yarn with your left hand. Use your left thumb and index finger to pinch the yarn, allowing it to flow easily while you knit, and keep the working yarn positioned over your fingers for easy access.
What is the basic stitch pattern for beginners in continental knitting?
The basic stitch pattern for beginners is the knit stitch. To create it, insert the right needle into the first stitch on the left needle, wrap the yarn around the right needle, and pull the yarn through to create a new stitch. This is followed by slipping the old stitch off the left needle.
How can I transition from knitting to purling in continental knitting?
To transition to purling in continental knitting, hold the yarn in front of the work instead of behind it. Insert the right needle into the stitch from the front, wrap the yarn around the needle, and pull it through to form a new stitch, then slide the old stitch off the left needle.
Are there any common mistakes to avoid when starting continental knitting?
Yes, common mistakes include holding the yarn too tightly, which can make it difficult to create stitches, and not pinching the yarn correctly, which can lead to dropped stitches. Practice maintaining a relaxed grip and ensuring consistent tension as you knit.
