Knitting
What is it?     What you need     Getting started     Find out more

 

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What is it?

  • This is one of the most popular home based textile crafts.  The basic aim is to turn wool thread into a garment or piece of cloth, using large blunt needles and a series of special stitches.  

  • Machine knitting is also popular.  Sweaters, gloves, scarves, and children's clothes, are common as end products of knitting, but more complex items, ranging from dresses to soft toys, are often produced in this way.  

  • Knitting is an old established tradition, which is mostly done for pleasure and practical use, but some people also enter their work in competitions and exhibitions.

Find out more

Organisations

British Hand Knitting Confederation  01535 603450
Knitting & Crochet Guild  01562 754367

 

Magazines
Machine Knitting Monthly 
Machine Knitting News 

Getting started

  • Find a local knitting group or club (see organisations above).

  • Take a class or course at your local adult education centre or craft shop.

  • Consult books or magazines on different types of knitting.

  • Check in your local library/paper, craft shop or education centre for more information.

What you need

Skills and people
  • Knitting is easy to take up, though there are many special skills and complex patterns that can be learnt if you want.  This is an activity done by people of all ages and both sexes  

  • Most people knit at home, either alone or with family and friends.  Some also belong to informal knitting groups, where they can exchange ideas, expertise and patterns.  

  • Members of a knitting group can be of all ages.  They are more likely to be women, though quite a number of men do take up this activity.

Equipment or clothing
  • A ball of wool and a couple of knitting needles is all that is really essential.  

  • Most people also follow a prepared pattern (or set of instructions) at least to start with.  More experienced knitters may develop their own designs.  

  • Machine knitting requires an investment in the special equipment.

A place or facilities
  • Knitting can be done anywhere, including when travelling, since only a small space is needed.  

  • Groups may meet in people's homes, or in local rooms, halls or schools.

Have a go - get started now

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