We know that learning something new can be a bit intimidating, but the joy and satisfaction of knitting are absolutely worth it!

To help you on your way, we've compiled a list of essential tips for beginners, many of which we wish we'd known when we first started!

1. Choose the Right Yarn

Picking the perfect yarn is one of the most important steps. We recommend choosing a yarn that appeals to you both in texture and color. If you don't love the yarn, it might be hard to enjoy the process. For beginners, non-superwash wool is a great choice. It provides enough grip for your needles and helps prevent dropped stitches from slipping away.

2. Opt for the Right Yarn Weight

When it comes to yarn weight, thicker options like double knit, worsted, or chunky yarns are ideal for beginners. These weights are easier to manage than very fine yarns, which require smaller needles and can be tricky to work with. Additionally, lighter-colored yarns are recommended, as they allow you to see your stitches more clearly and make your progress more visible.

3. Go for Wooden Needles

While metal needles may be sleek and shiny, wooden needles are our top recommendation for beginners. They provide a bit more grip, making it easier to keep your stitches on the needles. We've found that this small change can make a huge difference when getting started.

4. Start Simple

There's no need to buy every knitting accessory under the sun when you first start. We suggest keeping it basic—two needles and some yarn are all you truly need. As you grow in your skills, you can invest in fun accessories, but for now, focus on mastering the essentials.

5. Pick a Small First Project

It's tempting to start with a big project like a scarf, but we recommend choosing something smaller to see faster results. A small project like a wrist warmer or a hat will give you that instant gratification and keep you motivated. (Our Beachcomber Wrist Warmers are a fantastic beginner option!)

6. Master the Basics

When it comes to knitting, we've learned that less is more. You only need to know two things to get started: casting on and knitting. Once you've mastered these techniques, you're well on your way to creating fabric. After that, learning how to cast off is the next step.

7. Don't Over-tighten Your Yarn

It's tempting to pull your yarn tight, but try to relax your hands and avoid making your stitches too tight. Tension is key—aim for consistency without strangling the yarn! The more you practice, the more natural it will feel.

8. Use Stitch Markers

We've all been there: you're working on a project, and suddenly, you can't remember which side is the right one. To keep track, try using a stitch marker to mark the right side of your work. This simple tool will help you avoid confusion as you knit.

9. If You Need to Stop Mid-Row

While it's best not to pause in the middle of a row, sometimes life happens. If you must stop, make sure to leave the stitch with the yarn attached on your right-hand needle. This will ensure that you can easily pick up where you left off.

10. Remember, Mistakes Are Fixable!

The best part about knitting? Almost every mistake can be fixed! Whether you've dropped a stitch or made a mistake in your pattern, there are plenty of tutorials out there to help. Don't worry about mistakes—they are just part of the learning process. And if all else fails, you can always rip it out and start again.

We hope these tips help you on your knitting journey! Happy knitting!

11 Essential KNITTING TIPS for NEW KNITTERS

Video by Sheep & Stitch