Be forewarned: once you start, knitting may become a captivating hobby that’s hard to put down.
The timeless appeal of knitting stems from its practicality, portability, and the therapeutic benefits it offers for mental well-being, serving as an effective form of meditation and relaxation.
Knitting is often associated with comfort and homeliness, providing a sense of stability. As people worldwide navigate self-isolation, many are finding solace in knitting and other crafts, using them as a respite from the constant stream of COVID-19 updates.
Even servicemen and women, such as US sailors and marines in the Persian Gulf, have found solace in knitting as a way to cope with the stress of being stationed on the US Bataan during the pandemic.
The Art of Casting On
Though the origins of hand knitting are shrouded in mystery, evidence of its precursor, a single-needle method known as nålbinding, has been discovered in Israel, dating back over 8,500 years.
The technique reached Europe via the Vikings, who favored it for its portability and efficiency in producing durable garments. Early knitting needles were crafted from wood, bone, and antler.
By the 1100s, knitting had evolved into the two-needle looping and knotting technique that persists to this day. The word “knitting” is thought to derive from the Dutch word “knutten” and the Old-English verb “cnyttan,” both meaning “to knot.”
By the 1300s, many of the knitting techniques we use today were well-established across Europe. The 15th century saw the rise of knitting with four and five needles to create seamless, tubular garments.
A Beginner’s Guide
Learning to knit is a straightforward process, and numerous YouTube tutorials are available to guide beginners.
Starting with larger needles and chunky yarn can be more encouraging for novices, as it allows for quicker project completion and easier mastery of the technique. The fundamental skills to learn are how to cast on, execute the plain stitch (or knit stitch), and cast off.
As your confidence grows, resources like Knitting for Dummies can help you learn to read knitting patterns and tackle projects like a basic beanie or even a simple sweater.
Engaging with online knitting communities such as Ravelry can connect you with fellow enthusiasts, provide access to inspiring patterns, and introduce you to a variety of yarns.
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