Need a summer hobby? Try knitting

Interested in learning a new craft during summer break? Look no further than knitting.

Finding the perfect yarn

• There are endless yarn choices. From the ultra-fine lace weight to chunky roving yarn, there are a multitude of options for knitters to choose from. For your first project beginning with a medium-weight yarn will be the easiest choice. This weight of yarn is as its name suggests — in the middle and most comfortable for beginning knitters.
• Find a color of yarn you’re excited about. Variegated yarns have multiple colors in the skein. Simple stockinette or garter stitch patterns work great with variegated yarn. Plus, the simplicity of these types of patterns is perfect for beginning knitters. Yarns with solid colors are best for textured knitting like cable and lace techniques. Certain yarns are even ombre or self-striping, allowing knitters to create a striped look with only one skein of yarn.

Gathering supplies

• To begin knitting, gather a few basic supplies. Knitting needles — either circular or straight are suitable — in a size appropriate to the weight of the selected yarn will be needed. For finishing, find sharp craft scissors, or even a household pair, and a darning needle.
• Some extra supplies that might be helpful are stitch markers to keep track of stitch count, a soft ruler for measuring, and needle protectors to help keep your stitches on your needles when in storage.
• A 100 percent wool, worsted weight yarn with size 8 or 9 knitting needles would be a great place to begin for the beginning knitter. Usually, it’s easier to learn on wooden or bamboo needles, as the metal varieties may be too slippery for a beginner and could be frustrating during the learning curve.

First knitting projects

• Find a beginner’s pattern: While learning how to read a knitting pattern might seem initially intimidating, they are a fantastic option for novice knitters. Certain knitting designers write incredibly easy-to-understand patterns with in-depth instructions and comprehensive how-to support guides. Ravelry , a free, online crafting website, has almost 225,000 free knitting patterns available for download.
• Knit kits: Knit kits are popular options for beginning knitters. These kits include everything one needs to complete a specific project including the necessary amount of yarn, appropriately sized needles, and pattern instructions. While these kits are convenient for first-time knitters, they are typically more expensive and only available in select yarn colors.
• Knitting classes: Local yarn shops typically offer beginner knitting classes. Although these are paid, participants receive in-person instructions on beginning knitting and one-on-one support from experienced knitting instructors.

During the fall semester, stop by the Fiber Arts Collective to connect with fellow crafters. This is held every Tuesday from 3-5 p.m. in The Perspective Gallery. Materials and instructional support are provided to attendees.

Written by Anja Hemesath, a graduating senior, a student writer for Virginia Tech Marketing and Communications, and a long-time knitter