The basic knitting instructions that I will always remember are ‘in, over, through, out.’
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When I was a child and learning to knit, I remember my mum chanting these words to me, until eventually, my brain started chanting them on its own. As with learning to do anything, repetition and concentration are the keys to success. Once you know what you are doing it is simple and you do it without even thinking.
Knitting is like driving, after enough practise, you start to do it on auto pilot.
Basic Knitting Instructions
This video will explain in detail how to cast on, knit and then cast off again.
I must admit however that I have never seen this method of casting on. I usually do it with two knitting needles, but maybe this way is actually a bit easier.
Why In, Over, Through, Out?
When you put the needle into the stitch that is the ‘in.’
When you take the wool over the needle that is the ‘over.’
‘Through’ is when you take the needle through from the back to the front or the front to the back.
When you push the stitch off of the needle that is ‘out.’
Once you have mastered the basic knitting instructions in garter stitch, it is time to change it up a bit and master purl stitch.
Don’t get too frightened by the name, purl stitch is simply garter stitch but the needle goes in through the front of the stitch instead of the back.
You can find out how to knit purl by clicking here.
I can’t do this!
It is normal to feel frustrated and like you will never get the hang of it at first, but believe me, if you persevere you will be so proud of yourself.
Like any skill, knitting does take some time to master and feel comfortable with, but once you do, you will never look back.
Hope these basic knitting instructions help you to become the best knitter that you can be. Please feel free to ask any questions that you may have below this post.
Can I Buy A Book That Will Teach Me To Knit?
Luckily the answer to this one is a resounding yes. There are a lot of us who prefer to have something tangible to refer to as you need to, and although online videos are great, having something like a book to refer back to always helps.
Here are some resources that you can purchase online that will help you on your knitting journey. Simply click on the title or the picture to find out more about how you can get your hands on one of these books.
How To Knit: A Complete Guide for Absolute Beginners
* Easy to follow illustrations.
* Fun and simple projects to make.
* Learn a variety of stitches and skills.
* Perfect for absolute beginners.
* Projects include hats, scarves, mittens, baby blankets, scented hearts, granny squares and more!
How to Knit: Learn the Basic Stitches and Techniques. A Storey BASICS Title
Bestor’s simple, fully illustrated instructions lead you through the basics of knitting, right from choosing the right needles and yarn to reading a knitting pattern.
You’ll quickly learn techniques to expertly cast on, execute knit and purl stitches, bind off, block finished projects, and much more.
Even if you’ve never held a pair of knitting needles before, this easy-to-follow guide will have you knitting in no time!
Teach Yourself VISUALLY Knitting
Now, updated with brand-new patterns, even more helpful photos, and expanded coverage of knitting techniques, Teach Yourself VISUALLY Knitting, 2nd Edition, is the go-to knitting book for crafters who learn faster by seeing and doing than by wading through tedious instruction books.
You’ll get visual guidance on the basic knit and purl stitches and advance to bobbles, cables, lace, and fancy colorwork. Photo by photo and stitch by stitch, you’ll learn how to knit socks, hats, mittens, sweaters, and other masterpieces in no time.
Knitting for the Absolute Beginner (Absolute Beginner Craft)
Now in a handy small format that fits comfortably in a bag and wire-bound so that it lies open while you are working.
There is a useful fold-out flap at the back that provides a quick and easy reference to all the abbreviations used in the patterns.
All the essential techniques are covered, including basic garter and stocking stitch, casting on and casting off, and increasing and decreasing, all clearly explained using step-by-step photographs and simple instructions.
Alison’s designs have a timeless appeal that will delight knitters of all ages, and there are projects for children as well as adults.
Within a few pages you will be knitting a fabulous stripy scarf, and by the end of the book you will be able to knit yourself a gorgeous cable-knit cardigan!
Knitting for the Absolute Beginner is full of helpful tips, basic knitting instructions and simple projects.
This is a ‘must-have’ book for anyone who would love to knit but doesn’t know how to or where to start.
If you have any questions, please ask in the comment section below.
