Knitting Question?

Question

I was wondering if it is normal to see through my knit works? I use the proper needles for the yarn and everything, but I always seem to be able to see through my yarn. When I compare my work to things that I bought from the store, that have been knitted, you can't see through them. Am I doing something wrong?

Answer 1

Hand knits and machine knits will always be different. Don't compare one to the other. However, it depends on how much you can see through your knitting, what kind of yarn you're using, and stuff like that. I knit with plain old worsted weight (like Red Heart Classic) most of the time, and can see light through my knitting when I hold the piece up to the window. However, I can't see my hand through it when the knit piece is on my lap. For sweaters, my knit is tight enough not to be seen through when I'm wearing it. That's the main thing that matters to me, after all.

With Red Heart Light and Lofty, the given gauge was really loose, I've used smaller needles than recommended with following projects. With some of the eyelash yarns (like Fancy Fur or Fun Fur or Boa) you can see straight through them when you've done everything just right. Don't try to make shirts from these unless you're an exhibitionist.

It really depends on the type of yarn and the item you're making. Some things will be see-through, while others won't. Email me with specific questions, if you like.

Answer 2

If you aren't happy with the fabric you're making (or you aren't getting the same number of stitches per inch as called for in a pattern), try knitting with a different size needle. If your knitting seems too loose, try a smaller needle size. If it seems crowded and tight, try a larger needle.

When I first started knitting, I had the same issues as you do. I sometimes had to go two needle sizes smaller to get the right gauge. As I got better, my knitting naturally got tighter. Now, as an experienced knitter, I often (but not always) get the fabric I want with the suggested needle size.

The needle size on the yarn label or pattern is just a good suggestion for a jumping-off point. You are the boss of your knitting - you can make it the way you want. Take charge and have fun!

Answer 3

You may knit like me (or crochet) I always start out with the needles suggested but ultimately I have to go down to smaller ones, at least one size smaller substitue #8 for #7, somestimes ever 2 sizes. I knit and crochet quite loose even tho I don't feele that I am doing it that way..A nice tight knit looks a lot better and holds it shape better. Good luck!

Answer 4

It sounds like your tension may be loose. Most patterns have a tension guide where they say to try knitting a piece first and they'll give you the no of stitches to try and the no of rows and tell you what size it should be. It's usually about 2 in by 2in. Try knitting the tension piece and if it's too big, try a size smaller in needles.

Answer 5

If you're a new knitter, then you are probably knitting too loosely. once you get the hang of it you shouldn't be able to see through your work.

If that doesn't work then switch the needles, the yarn might be a diffrent guage

Answer 6

Are you a new knitter? Sometimes it takes a while to really getting the hang of how tight your stitches should be. Your pattern should have a guide on it. It will tell you do a certain number of stiches and then tell you how big of a square it should be. If what you produce is bigger or smaller you should adjust the gauge of the needles you are using to make the correct size square.