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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.
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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.
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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.
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British Hand Knitting Confederation 01535 603450
Knitting & Crochet Guild 01562 754367
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Machine Knitting Monthly
Machine Knitting News |
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Find a local knitting group
or club (see organisations above).
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Take a class or course at your local
adult education centre or craft shop.
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Consult books or magazines
on different types of knitting.
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Check in your local library/paper,
craft shop or education centre for more information.
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Skills and people
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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
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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.
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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
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A ball of wool and a couple of knitting needles is all that is really
essential.
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Most people also follow a prepared pattern (or set of
instructions) at least to start with. More experienced knitters may
develop their own designs.
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Machine knitting requires an investment
in the special equipment.
A place or facilities
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Knitting can be done anywhere, including when travelling, since only a
small space is needed.
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Groups may meet in people's homes, or in
local rooms, halls or schools.
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