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Back to Basics: Knitting Fundamentals for the Back-to-School Season
As we transition into the back-to-school season, there’s a sense of getting back to routines and sharpening skills. For knitters, whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience under your belt, it’s the perfect time to revisit and refine your foundational knitting techniques. The knitting basics, like estimating yarn length, casting on and binding off, knit and purl stitches, and controlling tension, are essential to every project—big or small. Let’s dive into these crucial skills, and explore how The Knitting Guild Association (TKGA) can help you level up with their Mini Courses.
1. Estimating Yarn for Your Cast On
Ever run out of yarn before completing your cast on? You’re not alone. Estimating the right length of yarn for casting on can be tricky, especially when using the long-tail method. This technique requires a good amount of yarn, and guessing how much you’ll need often leads to either too much waste or not enough tail to finish the job. If this is something you struggle with, check out Joyce Jones’ article we’ve made available for free!
2. Casting On: Laying the Foundation
Casting on is more than just the starting point for your project; it’s the foundation of your entire piece. A neat, even cast on edge will set the tone for your knitting and provide a sturdy base for the following stitches. Just as important as casting on, binding off is the final touch that secures your work. It can be tempting to rush through these steps when you’re excited to start or finish a project, but taking the time to begin and finish neatly is worth it. If you feel unsure about which method to use or how to perfect them, this is a great time to take advantage of TKGA’s Mini Course on Casting On and Binding Off Techniques.
3. Mastering the Knit and Purl Stitches
Knitting is fundamentally built on two stitches: knit and purl. Whether you’re working on a simple scarf or an intricate lace shawl, these stitches form the backbone of every knitting pattern. Knowing how to alternate between them smoothly and without tension issues is key to creating even fabric.
The knit and purl stitches also open the door to endless pattern possibilities. Whether it’s ribbing, garter stitch, or stockinette stitch, the way you alternate these stitches creates texture and design in your fabric. If you’re feeling rusty, consider registering for Learn to Knit, one of TKGA’s Hand Knitting Correspondence Courses where you can receive guided practice and expert feedback!
4. Finishing Strong
Picking up stitches for the arm, neck or button bands doesn’t have to be intimidating! We have a Mini Course for that: Picking Up Stitches! Holes and the thumbhole or underarms will be gone for good after you learn the techniques in Beautiful Joins Mini Course. Good garment finishing is the mark of a good knitter and a quality garment. In the Professional Finishing Course you will learn scores of hints and tips while you work with a number of finishing techniques designed to take your finishing skills to a professional level.
5. Controlling Tension
Tension is one of those aspects of knitting that can make or break the success of a project. If your tension is too tight, your stitches may become difficult to work with, and the finished fabric may feel stiff. If it’s too loose, your stitches might look sloppy, and the final product could lack structure.
Achieving consistent tension takes practice, and it’s influenced by factors such as your yarn, needles, and knitting style. If tension has been a challenge for you, take a look at the Taming Edge Stitch Tension in Stockinette Stitch Mini Course or Taming Tension.
Learn More with TKGA’s Education Courses
If you feel like you need a refresher on any of these essential skills, TKGA’s Educational Courses are an excellent resource. These courses are designed to help knitters of all levels hone their technique, providing you with the knowledge and confidence to tackle any project. Whether you’re brushing up on cast on techniques, mastering the perfect bind off, or learning to control your tension, these courses offer clear, focused instruction that can take your knitting to the next level. Let’s make this season the time to perfect your craft!
This was so helpful. I didn’t realize TKGA had mini-courses!