Knitting Basics Glossary
In this weeks behind the jargon blog post we are looking at the basic terminology of knitting and what it means.
Here is a glossary of all the basics you need to know to be a knitting pro!
Casting On: The process of creating the first row of stitches on the needle. There are several different techniques to how you do this. Lucy, our Art & Crafts manager's preferred method is the loop method. The loop method involves making a loop around your thumb and then putting it over your knitting needle to make your stiches. This is very simple and quick.
Knit Stitch: The basic stitch in knitting where the needle is inserted into the front of the loop and the yarn is pulled through to create a new stitch.
Purl Stitch: The basic stitch in knitting where the needle is inserted into the back of the loop and the yarn is pulled through to create a new stitch.
Stocking Stitch: A common stitch pattern in which one row is knit and the next row is purled, creating a smooth, flat fabric with one side (the knit side) featuring "V" shaped stitches and the other side (the purl side) featuring bumps.
Garter Stitch: A simple stitch pattern where every row is knit, resulting in a fabric that is reversible and has a bumpy texture.
Casting Off: The process of finishing a piece of knitting by creating a row of stitches that secure the loops and prevent further unravelling.
Yarn Over: A technique used to create an extra stitch in knitting by wrapping the yarn over the needle before knitting the next stitch. This is different to increasing your stiches.
Decrease: A technique used to reduce the number of stitches in a row by knitting or purling two stitches together.
Increase: A technique used to add stitches to a row by knitting or purling into the same stitch twice or by using a yarn over.
Stitch Marker: A small plastic or metal ring that is placed on the needle to mark a specific stitch or pattern repeat.
Row Counter: A device used to keep track of the number of rows or repeats in a knitting project.
Blocking: The process of wetting, shaping, and drying a finished knitted piece to even out the stitches and give the fabric a more polished look.
This glossary covers only the basics in knitting techniques.
If you would like more information about other stitches or knitting terms, feel free to visit us in-store, where we will be happy to help!
- 1st March 2023