Learning to knit can be a frustrating experience. I am sure most of us have memories of ever lasting, multi coloured scarf projects and jumpers started but never finished. When I teach beginners to knit I always start with an easy project like the Misty Wrist Warmers or Turban. They are both knitted on 5 mm needles using an Aran or Worsted weight yarn. Using needles and yarn that is neither too thin nor too thick is a good idea for beginners. Both of these projects is knit stitch only without increases or decreases, so you can cast on and get going straight away.
A good next step would be the George Hat and Scarf set. This pattern teaches you how to knit basket weave stitch using both the knit and purl stitch. Both the hat and the scarf are knitted using thick needles hence you make fast progress! My pattern calls for two strands of sports weight yarn held together to get the tweed effect but you can easily substitute this for a chunky yarn.
If you fancy developing your knitting skills that little bit further, why not try cabling? The Diana Headband is a fabulous beginners project with a plait consisting of left and right leaning cables. A headband is a great way to learn new skills. It’s a small project and should you make a mistake it’s not too much to unravel! Cabling might look intimidating but it is often found to be easier than knitters initially think. The cables are achieved by stitches being knitted in a different order from the left hand needle. Here’s a nice video explaining the technique.
Many people are using this time in isolation to learn new skills and knitting has increased in popularity lately. However, the current situation can be incredibly overwhelming and please do not feel any pressure to “make the most” of this time. If all you want to do is sleep and watch TV, that’s OK. If you have kids at home, your energy is most likely drained by the time they head for bed, so don’t be hard on yourself if you have no surplus of creativity.
Look after yourself in whatever way that works for you! Kari-Helene xx