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Stories, technique and yarn talk for makers. New articles every week.
Knitting abbreviations: the complete glossary (US & UK)
Every knitting abbreviation explained in plain English: k, p, k2tog, ssk, yo, M1 and more. A free, searchable US/UK glossary you can keep open while you knit.
Kfb: knit front and back
Kfb (knit front and back) is the easiest knitting increase: knit into the front and back of the same stitch to make two from one. Steps, uses and mistakes.
German short rows: the double stitch, step by step
German short rows shape knitting with a simple "double stitch" instead of wraps. Learn the method step by step, how to work the DS later, and why knitters prefer it.
What is DK weight yarn?
DK ("double knitting") is a light, category 3 yarn, slightly thinner than worsted. Its gauge, needle size, what to make with it, and how it compares.
SSK: the left-leaning decrease
SSK (slip, slip, knit) turns two stitches into one with a left lean. Learn it step by step, why the slips must be knitwise, and when to use it instead of k2tog.
K2tog: the right-leaning decrease
K2tog (knit two together) is the simplest knitting decrease: knit two stitches as one, leaning right. Learn it step by step and when to pair it with ssk.
M1L and M1R: mirrored increases explained
M1L and M1R are nearly invisible mirrored increases made from the bar between stitches. Learn both step by step, and how to avoid the hole that ruins them.
What is worsted weight yarn?
Worsted weight is the most popular yarn weight, a medium, category 4 yarn. Its gauge, needle size, what to make with it, and how it compares to aran and DK.
I-cord: how to knit a cord
An i-cord is a small knitted tube made on two double-pointed needles: knit, slide, do not turn. Learn the technique and its uses, from drawstrings to edgings.
Yarn weights explained: the complete chart (0 to 7)
A clear yarn weight chart from lace to jumbo, with gauge, recommended needle sizes and what each weight is best for. Plus how to find the weight of any yarn.
What is fingering weight yarn?
Fingering weight is a fine, category 1 yarn, the standard for socks and shawls. Its gauge, needle size, what to make with it, and its other names.
Magic loop: small circles on one long circular
Magic loop lets you knit socks, sleeves and mittens in the round on one long circular needle. The setup, the working sequence, and how to stop ladders at the loop points.
How to knit: a complete beginner's guide
Learn the four skills that make up every knitting project: cast on, knit, purl, bind off. Follow our step-by-step path from first stitch to first scarf.
Blocking knitting: wet, steam and spray, explained
Blocking is washing and shaping your finished knitting so the stitches even out and the piece takes its final size. When to wet block, steam or spray, step by step.
How to read a knitting pattern (a beginner's guide)
Knitting patterns look like code until someone explains them. Learn to read gauge, abbreviations, brackets, repeats and sizing, step by step, with examples.
Knit vs purl: what's the difference?
Knit and purl are the two basic knitting stitches, and they are the same stitch seen from opposite sides. Learn how to tell them apart and what each one makes.
How to purl (the purl stitch)
The purl stitch is the knit stitch in reverse. Learn to purl step by step, and combine it with knit stitches to make stockinette and ribbing.
What you need to start knitting
A short list of what a beginner needs to start knitting: which needles, which yarn, and the few notions worth buying. No expensive kit required.
How to read a knitting chart
A knitting chart is a picture of your fabric. Learn to read the grid, the symbols, and which way to go, flat and in the round, with clear examples.
How to knit the knit stitch
The knit stitch is the first and most important stitch in knitting. Learn it step by step, Continental style, with the simple "in, pick, through, off" motion, and make your first fabric.
Knitting needle sizes: conversion chart (US, UK & mm)
Convert knitting needle sizes between US, UK (old Imperial) and metric mm in one clear chart. Plus which needle size to use for each yarn weight.
How to cast on (knitting)
Casting on is how you put the first stitches on your needle. Learn the easiest beginner method step by step, plus when to use long-tail, cable and stretchy cast ons.
How to bind off (cast off)
Binding off secures your stitches so your knitting will not unravel. Learn the standard bind off step by step, plus when to use a stretchy bind off instead.