How to Knit Without Errors
When I first learned how to knit, I was the queen of silly mistakes. I can't count how many scarves I made that were a foot wider in the middle than at either end (and let's not even mention the sweater without an opening for your head). After some time, though, I came to realize that there were reasons I was making these errors over and over again.
So if you're plagued by knitting mistakes like I was, let me share the common problems that were keeping me from knitting like a pro.
1. Not checking the gauge
Yeah, yeah, we all know about gauge. Every pattern has a big warning about it, and when we're learning how to knit we don't know what the heck it means so we ignore it. The problem is that once you move onto more complicated projects, checking gauge is essential for success. It doesn't matter if your afghan or scarf is a few inches out, but it sure matters when the sleeves of your sweater are three inches too short!
Take the time to check gauge. It's well worth it.
2. Knitting while watching TV
OK, I admit it. I still do this. But I've learned my lesson. If I'm just learning how to knit a new project or stitch, I turn the set OFF. I only watch TV if I'm doing something where I can put my hands on automatic.
When I first learned how to knit I tried to watch TV and knit unfamiliar stitches. Of course, it was too hard to pay attention to both at the same time. The end result? Knitting that looked awful and a show I hadn't actually paid any attention to. If you're learning something new, take the time to actually learn it.
3. Taking the Internet as gospel
That might sound strange from someone who runs a knitting blog full of free knitting patterns, but believe me. Problems ensue when you assume the Internet can do no wrong. People make mistakes in patterns, so you have to watch out. It's awful when you're knitting something according to the pattern and you get a big hole in it because the original crafter made an error transcribing it. Once you know how to knit really well, keep your eyes peeled for mistakes instead of just trusting your pattern.
These were my three biggest errors. Once I caught them, it was a cinch to learn how to knit without mistakes!
