Are you a beginner in knitting? Haven’t tried working on fabrics as large as a sweater? Do not be intimidated, because the truth is, you can actually do it!
The knitting journey has a number of mountains that you are meant to conquer. Learning and growth come whenever you committedly overcome each mountain that tests your skills and enhances your abilities. If you have learned how to knit a scarf, then congratulations! You have triumphed.
But, you don’t just get stuck there. No, not for many scarves only. You are meant for much greater things. You can do so much better! So, that the right thing to do is to jump into the next level. If a sweater is your choice for your next project, that’s great! We’ll help you win your next milestone with some tips on how to knit a sweater. If you’re ready, let’s go!
Tip #1: Get familiar with the basic skills.
As you get started on a new sweater project, it’s best to begin with knowing the basics. Casting on, binding off, knitting and purling, seaming or knitting in the round, reading charts and patterns, etc. This is definitely a time-saver.
Imagine working on something without understanding the terminologies used, that every time you encounter a foreign word, you would stop to look its meaning up first? It will keep you from gaining your momentum in knitting. So, learn all the basics, before getting officially started!
Tip #2: Choose a sweater design and pattern.
Sweaters are supposed to make people feel cozy and warm. So, in order to create the sweater that you want for yourself or for another, pick a design and pattern that will definitely give you the qualities you’re looking for in a sweater. Consider the fiber, yarn weight, the fit and length, the sleeves and other factors. Also, it is wise to pick a pattern that is perfect for your knitting skill level. If you want to challenge yourself, still, it is okay to go for a non-average design and pattern.
Tip #3: Pick your sweater size.
If the sweater is for yourself, you should get the required dimensions for your sweater. If it’s for a friend, a kid, a spouse, or anybody else, then make sure you got their accurate and right body measurements. Also, see to it that you will allot some allowances to avoid a too-tight sweater.
Tip #4: Knit a gauge swatch.
Most knitters would want to skip this part, but this is one of the most important tips we’ll be giving you. In connection with the previous tip, you need to get the right sweater fit! In order to do that, you have to get the same gauge as that of your sweater pattern.
Knitting a swatch simulates the fabric of your finished product. You will need to use the same size of materials, same yarn, same needles. Also, some blocking techniques will help you get precise with your final gauge measurement.
Tip #5: Know the seams.
Seam-to-seam, raglan, flat, top-down yoke, etc. There are quite a number of ways of knitting a sweater. If there are specific instructions on the pattern about the seams you should go for, then go for them. But if there’s a particular type of variation that you are comfortable in doing, do not hesitate to do it. There are a lot of seaming techniques. Yet, top-down, seamless is one of the basic sweater knits that will work well with beginners.
Tip #6: Don’t rush.
Only machines can do things both rapidly and accurately. Addi express knitting machine has proven that in the bulk production of sweaters. But you’re a human, not a machine.
In any circumstances, we all know that rushing will hardly give us our desired results. While it can help you beat a deadline, most of the time, the output is not at the best quality. Knitting is a slow and intricate process, to achieve the ideal outcome, you must know how to get along with time and the detailed work. Time is your friend, not your foe. So, take it real slow to avoid mistakes and to enhance the quality of work.
Tip #7: Knit with friends, if possible.
If you’re more comfortable doing your knitting hobby with some friends (who are knitters too) around, then it might be best if you can ask them to join you. Having people to do knitting with is amazing and encouraging at the same time. Or maybe, you can ask some of them to help you with stitching some patterns!
Tip #8: Work with a knitting kit.
What’s inside a knitting kit? A sweater pattern, and a yarn that’s tailored to that pattern. For first-timers, it is highly recommended that you use a knitting kit (that is if you want to) because it will save you a lot of time as it helps you with getting the right gauge. Also, with a pattern provided, you will not have a hard time trying to decide on which is which. You will only focus on what’s you’ve picked, and work your way towards finishing it.
Wrapping It Up
Finally, relax! Just do your best and enjoy each phase of knitting. Do not get distracted with the thought of perfection. You’ll get there, once you’ve won your first attempt! Sweater knitting is one of the most exciting activities you will ever do. Especially if you are much into fashion, the end-product will surprise and reward you!