I want to learn how to knit!?

Question

What do I need to purchase before I can knit? Any specific book you recommend to teach me how to knit?

I am very new to this (I have wanted to learn how to knit for years, but just decided I need to know) so please no fancy knit-words.

Answer 1

All you need to start is a pair of knitting needles (I would suggest a size 7 or 8 to start) and some yarn. Just get plain old yarn in a color you like...nothing too wispy or with fuzzies hanging off everywhere...they're pretty and very tempting, but more difficult to knit with to start. :) You'll also want a yarn needle with a decent size eye to weave in the ends of your yarn once you've knitted your masterpiece. :) Theeeeen... head on over to:
http://www.learntoknit.com/home.html
Go to "The Basics" and read that page, then click the "Basic Knit Instructions" link near the top of that page. It will teach you what you need to get started.

If you'd like to get a book, my first thought would be a Klutz book. They are designed for kids, so the instructions will be easy-to-follow. Granted, I've never looked through this particular book, but I've always been very pleased with the many Klutz books I've purchesed and seen in the past.
http://www.klutz.com/catalog/product/2420

Once you've gotten your head around the basics of knitting and have practiced a bit, I'd suggest starting on a dishcloth. You'll want to use cotton yarn (so it will be absorbant). A great pattern is featured here (it's the one titled Granmother's Fav.):
http://www.jimsyldesign.com/~dishbout/kpatterns/knitting2.html

Happy knitting! :)

Answer 2

I am a huge fan of Stitch and B*itch as a first book for knitting. the pictures are very clear, and there are plenty of projects to start. You need yarn and needles to start, and that is really all you need. A tape measure is also essential, though you can use a ruler in an emergency, and scissors are helpful. there are lots of free patterns on line, and good websites to help you when you get stuck. to start, try about.knitting.com. there is a site that has videos of people knitting once you have made your first attempt, and even going on google videos or youtube to search for knitting is helpful.
Just remember, a basic knit every row scarf and hat are really useful. Also the best thing about your first project, which many people think you should save for yourself, is that you will NEVER make anything that badly again. It is really good for you!

Answer 3

I went to a local craft store and bought a how-to DVD, size 10 knitting needles (plastic) the metals ones are really slippery, and some cheap yarn to practice with. It took about an afternoon to learn. You might want to find a local knitting group, they have experienced knitters and great tips and sharing. Good Luck.

Answer 4

Before spending money on books, I would visit http://knittinghelp.com/. Even if you just purchase a set of needles (I learned on 10 US) and a skein of yarn and sit down and watch their free videos, you can teach yourself stitches to get started. A must have book in my opinion is Stitch N ***** the knitters handbook by Debbie Stoller. It has a lot of reference information as well as patterns. The pictures are large enough for visual learners and there's very descriptive text as well.

Good Luck with your knitting, it's a great hobby!

Answer 5

Every craft shop has simple step by step instructional books to learn to knit. You will need a set of knitting needles and some yarn to start. It really is not that hard, but you have to be careful you don't drop stictches. I much prefer crotcheting myself.

Answer 6

For your first knitting project, I would recommend Bamboo needles (size 8 would be good for a 1st project) and Brown Sheep Lambs Pride worsted weight yarn.

For how to, if you're not wanting to buy a DVD or book you can go to www.knittinghelp.com for easy instructions and tutorial videos - its all free.

Answer 7

http://www.knittingonthenet.com/