Beaded Knitting - Knitting Stitches that Add Sparkle and Shine
Quit doing the same old thing! Learn a fun new knitting stitch with beads
Looking for new knitting stitches? I know -- this happens to me all the time. Knitting is fun, but after doing the same projects over and over, it's fun do try something new and different. Here's an idea -- try beaded knitting.
I love beaded knitting. With this technique, you can add beads right into the body of your project or just add it as trim to the edges of the latest sweater you've knitted. Once you get the hang of this stitch, you can add beads anywhere you want for extra detail.
Here are some tips to get you started
Tip #1 -- Thread the beads onto the knitting yarn before beginning. Start by making sure the holes in the beads are big enough for the yarn to pass through twice.
Tip #2 -- Japanese beads have larger holes than Czech seed beads so look for these beads when choosing.
Tip #3 -- Make sure the beads you choose have smooth edges so they don't cut your yarn as you work with them.
Tip #4 -- Thread up more beads than you think you'll need so you don't run out.
Tip #5 -- Work the stitches on either side of a bead firmly. This will hold the bead in place and make your work look neater.
Tip #6 -- Don't work beads into your seam allowances or you'll have a hard time when joining pieces.
Now let's get started beading
This is a simple technique where you thread beads onto yarn and they rest there until you need a bead.
Step 1 -- Thread the end of your yarn into a sewing needle and scoop up the beads with the tip of the needle.
Step 2 -- On the right side of the knitted fabric, knit to the position for the first bead. Bring the yarn to the front between the tips of the needles.
Step 3 -- Push your bead down until it rests in front of the next stitch.
Step 4 -- Take the tip of your right needle from right to left through the next stitch.
Step 5 -- Slip the stitch onto your right needle. Take the yarn to the back between the tips of the needles, leaving the bead in front of the slipped stitch.
Step 6 -- Continue to the position for the next bead and secure it just like you did before.
That's all! Who said learning new knitting stitches was hard? This is a simple way to add sparkle and shine to any project and you learn a new technique at the same time.