Knitting is a creative and practical technique that can not only create beautiful works of art, but also make daily necessities.

Today, we will specifically introduce a common hand knitting technique - basic plain weave, and provide detailed materials and step-by-step instructions to help you master this technique step by step.

Required materials

Before we start knitting, we need to prepare some basic materials:

1. Knitting tools

Knitting needles (knitting needles or crochet hooks):

If using knitting needles, choose the appropriate needle size (such as 4.0mm or 5.0mm), and the thickness of the needle should match the selected wire material.

If using a crochet hook, you can choose a crochet hook that is suitable for the thickness of the yarn (such as 4.0mm).

2. Yarn:

Choose the right yarn, usually medium-thick yarn (such as "medium-thick cotton thread" or "wool thread"). For example, to make a scarf, you need about 100 grams of yarn (depending on the density and size of the fabric, you can increase or decrease it appropriately).

3. Scissors:

Used to cut the thread ends.

4. Sewing needles:

Used to sew the edges of the finished knitted product, or to connect two knitted parts.

5. Fabric measuring tools:

Such as rulers, scales, etc., used to measure the length and width of the knitting.

Step 1: Prepare the starting loop and cast on

1. Make the starting loop:

Wrap one end of the yarn into a small loop and place it between the thumb and index finger of your left hand, making sure the loop is loose.

2. Cast on:

Use the knitting needle to pass through the loop and hold the yarn to complete the first stitch. Continue to pass the yarn through the loop and around the knitting needle to form the second stitch.

Repeat this process until you have enough stitches. For a small scarf or wristband, it is recommended to start with about 30-40 stitches.

Step 2: Start knitting plain weave

1. Knitting the first row:

Plain stitch: Pick up the first needle with your right hand and hold the second needle lightly with your left hand. Insert the right needle through the first needle and pass the yarn clockwise around it, pulling it out to form a new stitch. Repeat this step until you have knitted the first row.

2. Knitting the second row:

For the second row, all the knitting operations are the same as the first row. At this time, the left hand will remain still, and the right hand will be responsible for inserting each stitch and knitting.

3. Alternating knitting:

Repeat the alternating knitting of the first and second rows until you have knitted the length you want.

For example, to make a scarf, the ideal length is 150cm. You can judge how many rows you have knitted by measuring the length of each row to ensure that the finished length is as expected.

Step 3: Finish the knitting and tie it up

1. Casting off:

When you have finished knitting and have reached the desired length, start to tie it up. To cast off, bring the last two stitches together, making sure each thread is pulled tight to avoid loose edges.

For every two stitches, pass the knitting needle through them one by one to secure them. Pull the last thread tight and cut it.

2. Sewing off:

Use a sewing needle to hide the thread ends on both sides inside the knitting. This not only makes the knitting look neater, but also prevents the yarn from coming loose.

3. Finishing:

Check if the final product is as expected by measuring the size (such as the length of the scarf). If there is anything that needs to be adjusted, you can trim it appropriately.

Tips: How to choose the right yarn and needles?

1. Choose the right yarn:

When choosing yarn, first consider the purpose of the fabric. For example, wool yarn is suitable for winter products because it has good warmth retention, while cotton yarn is more suitable for making light summer clothes.

2. Needle selection:

The thickness of the knitting needle directly affects the density and elasticity of the fabric. If you choose a thicker needle, the knitted fabric will be looser, suitable for making breathable clothing or decorations. If you use a thinner needle, the fabric will be tighter, suitable for making products with strong warmth retention.

Knitting technology, everyone can learn

Knitting is a creative and practical skill that opens the door to endless possibilities. With just a few simple tools and easy-to-follow steps, we can create beautiful and functional pieces. As you dive into the world of knitting, you'll experience the joy of making something with your own hands. Embrace the process, experiment with different patterns, and see your efforts come to life in unique and rewarding ways. So, why wait? Begin your knitting journey today!

How to knit Continental style

Video by Jessica McDonald