What supplies does a beginner need to knit a scarf?

Question

I have no experience with knitting, but would like to knit something. What sort of supplies do I need, other than needles and yarn? Also, what size needles is recommended for knitting scarves or for beginners?

Answer 1

On the label of 99% of yarns, there is a "gauge recommendation". It tells you how many stitches and how many rows are in a 4" swatch with a certain sized needle (and usually crochet hook too). This is only a rough estimate for sizing, but the needle they use is the suggested size. Watch out for both the US #x and the x.xx mm. Needles should be labeled with both too.

I would recommend a smooth yarn for first time knitters. It's easier to see how the stitches fit together and correct mistakes. Needles come in a variety of materials. Spend the extra few dollars and get the clear (glass-like hardness) acrylic or metal needles. The pearly plastic ones are cheap and a pain in the @$$ to work with.

Answer 2

That's about all you need, needles and yarn. I made my first scarf a few weeks ago. I used size 15 needles, and two strands of Lion Brand Homespun in Granite and Edwardian. I find that knitting on the bigger needles is easier at first. I cast on 13 stitches for the scarf, did the whole thing in the garter stitch, and it turned out very nice. Go to www.knittinghelp.com for mini instructional videos. Type in something like, knitting scarves, and you might come up with someone demonstrating how to knit a scarf at www.youtube.com . Good Luck. I wish I could do more to help.

Answer 3

Having no experience, I would recommend you get a pamphlet with simple pattern instructions to make your first one. It will tell you what size needles you will need and recommend what yarn to use, and how much you will need. You can find everything you need at your local yarn shop or craft store. You may want to look at these sites to teach you how to knit.
http://www.allfreecrafts.com/knitting/knitting-instructions.shtml
http://www.craftown.com/knitlesson.htm

Answer 4

Needles and yarn are about it. Size 8 or 10 needles should be fine and a worsted weight yarn. Do you know how to make the various stitches? If not try here:
http://www.learntoknit.com/instructions_kn.php3
Enjoy!!!