Best products from r/knitting

We found 157 comments on r/knitting discussing the most recommended products. We ran sentiment analysis on each of these comments to determine how redditors feel about different products. We found 833 products and ranked them based on the amount of positive reactions they received. Here are the top 20.

Top comments mentioning products on r/knitting:

u/saveferris17 · 6 pointsr/knitting

My husband got me a yarn swift and a yarn winder a few years ago. He had no idea what they were, but heard me muttering under my breath about how awesome they would be and just googled what he heard me say. Yarn swifts are a broad range from here which I would call well made but less expensive: http://www.amazon.com/ChiaoGoo-Amish-Design-Wooden-Yarn-Swift/dp/B0033F0A40 to hand crafted http://www.etsy.com/listing/107541232/windmill-style-sapele-yarn-swift-skein?ref=sr_gallery_3&ga_search_query=yarn+swift&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=ZZ&ga_min=0&ga_max=0&ga_search_type=all

A swift is used in tandem with a winder http://www.amazon.com/Lacis-Wool-Yarn-Winder-Plastic/dp/B000WV5ZJS to wind the really nice yarn that comes from a local yarn store (you wouldn't need it for your standard acrylics that come from Jo-Ann's). Also, most local yarn stores will wind your yarn for you, but the really lucky ladies have their own at home. He also got me lace blocking wires: http://www.knitpicks.com/accessories/Lace_Blocking_Wires__D80589.html
but lace blocking wires are only a good gift if she likes to knit lace. if she's not into lace, no dice. if you're not sure if she likes to knit lace, think of the finished objects she has created. If you could use like snuggly, chunky, thick, warm to describe them, they're not lace. If you see lots of beautiful intricate stitching and designs with holes and a lacey, airy quality to the fabric, then lace blocking wires might be a great gift.

If she's only using looms and not needles yet, then i would suggest a set of interchangeable circular needles. This would be an awesome next step for a loom knitter and allow her to get started with almost any project direction she wanted. You could get her the full set of interchangeable addi turbo needles http://www.skacelknitting.com/s.nl/it.A/id.5403/.f which are like mercedes caliber and any knitter would drool over receiving these as a gift. OR the ferrari of knitting needles are called Signatures. One pair in one size is $40 so choose wisely. i would recommend getting her a set of circulars which she could use to knit circular or flat her choice in something around 7, 8, 9 size.

Finally, if you're just not sure, get her a gift card to a local yarn store (this is really important - not michael's, joann's, but rather a small business. they have way better quality yarn at the local yarn stores and will allow her to get something she wouldn't necessarily buy for herself). trust me, no knitter would ever turn up their nose at such a gift and would be so excited to get to have unexpected yarn funds.

Hope that helps!

u/xRubyWednesday · 6 pointsr/knitting

I have so, so many knitting books, but I have three favorite how-to/reference type books that are probably the most useful knitting books I've ever owned. The first is Teach Yourself Visually - Knitting. It's an excellent book to have because it has huge color photos, lots of techniques and stitch patterns, and basic pattern recipes for tons of projects like hats, mittens, and sweaters that can be adapted to various sizes and styles. It's definitely the best "learn to knit" book I've ever owned, and I still refer back to it.

The second is Cast On, Bind Off by Cap Sease. I prefer this version to the other one, which is by a different author. It's an incredibly useful book. I had no idea there were so many ways to start and end projects! I love being able to check the book for the perfect cast on or bind off, and I love choosing matching ones. The author describes each one perfectly, describes it's attributes, if it's stretchy or firm, best uses, etc, explains how to do it, and includes photos of each.

The third is The Knitting Answer Book by Margaret Radcliffe. It's a pretty small book, so it's perfect to keep in your knitting bag. It's set up in Q&A format, so if you encounter a problem it's easy to find the answer.

I have an addiction to pattern books. My favorites are those published by Interweave. Their pattern books are beautiful! They always have designs that are stylish yet classic. I love their themed books, like Jane Austen Knits, Knitting Wizardry (Harry Potter themed) and Highland Knits (Outlander series themed).

u/spinnetrouble · 8 pointsr/knitting
  1. Not a chart, but here's a great blog post about choosing and substituting yarn fibers and weights to suit your needs.

  2. The Knitter's Book of Yarn is an amazing resource for exactly this topic -- check your library if you're not ready to shell out $23 for it yet.

  3. Look for yarn suggestions in Ravelry's project pages. First look up the pattern you want to knit, then click on the projects tab to see pictures of what other people have worked up. The yarns they've used for their projects are visible right from that page, as long as they've included that information. Example: Cedar Leaf Shawlette project gallery. By browsing the project page, you can get an idea of what you want your FO to look like -- whether you'd like to use variegated, solid, or tonal yarns (or a combination), what colors you'd like the best, what fibers you think have the best drape for the pattern, all that kind of thing!
u/trigly · 2 pointsr/knitting

I've got this one and I'm very happy with it. I received it as a gift, but it rings in at ~$50. My mom said the yarn store ladies told her this one was the best, most reliable one they'd found. I leave it clamped to my desk. I DID draw a little arrow by the crank to remind myself which way to turn. The spindle bit detaches, and you turn it to lock it in place. If you're winding in the wrong direction, the pull of the yarn loosens the spindle, and it can come flying off! Haven't had a single problem since drawing my little arrow though.



I've also go this swift, which I love, and it's even cheaper than the winder. It's really easy to use and I like that it comes apart and stores nicely.

Of course, there are tons of other options out there. But I'm really happy with both of these!

u/holdencauliflower_ · 1 pointr/knitting

I started learning to knit in April after seeing someone on Instagram share this pattern and it really inspired me. After spending three months making nothing but these bags, I felt confident enough to make these for my future sister-in-law's birthday. The smaller bags follow the pattern pretty exactly, and the larger bag nearly doubles it in all but length.

I made this with JubileeYarn Minnesota's Sport Weight Cotton Select in Tidal Wave. The smaller bags took about half a skein each and the big bag took almost a whole skein. I purchased the yarn on Amazon because it was cheaper (and had more color options) than my local big box craft store, and I've loved it. I really recommend it as a nice cheap option for fine cotton and I plan on buying more colors from them as I continue to make more of these bags as gifts (and redoing the ones I learned to knit on, haha). 
Pattern: https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/weightless-produce-bag-20
Yarn: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00P89OCG6/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

u/sleepytotoro · 3 pointsr/knitting

I started with the book Stitch n Bitch which is a great intro. I soon realized that I don't learn well from diagrams, so I would watch Youtube videos while reading. The first thing I knit was a garter stitch scarf from that book.

Then I joined Ravelry. Ravelry is like an entire Reddit just for knitting/crocheting, with every resource you could want. There are thousands of great free patterns. It was overwhelming to me at first, so I picked the most popular easy patterns, like the Honey Cowl and Barley Hat.

Happy knitting :)

u/badmonkey247 · 1 pointr/knitting

I would get get two 32-inch circular needles in the same small size, probably US 1's. That way she can have two socks going with magic loop method, or she can try out socks on two circulars (which is my preferred method, so I often mention it).

A couple skeins of fingering. I suggest getting a midpriced yarn for a first effort, such as Opal 4-fach, Reggia, or Zitron Trekking, and perhaps a deluxe sock yarn such as Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock. These yarns are found in yarn specialty stores (Local Yarn Store or LYS), not big box stores.

There are a lot more yarn choices available online, but you're out of time.

Perhaps the wisest thing to do would be to get her a gift certificate to KnitPicks and then sit down with her one day to make up an order. They sell good workhorse yarns and good mid-range needles and notions.

For instructions, consider Ann Budd's Beginner Sock Book but honestly, I think Lifestyle Toe-up Socks and Silver's Sock Class, both free online, are fine for learning.

u/GuiltyLion9 · 7 pointsr/knitting

Definitely a swift and a ball winder! They allow you to easily take yarn that's sold in a loose skein and wind it into a "cake" that doesn't get tangled as you knit it. That's a very tedious process to do by hand (and usually requires a helper), and means that she can branch out into buying different yarn. I have this winder (that's worked well for at lest 10 years) and a wooden umbrella swift like this one.

A good project bag is really awesome, I recommend the ones from Slipped Stitches Studio for their excellent quality and lots of pockets. A medium sized bag is versatile.

People tend to have a lot of preferences about needles, and the different kinds are suited to different types of projects and yarn. So unless she's asked for an interchangeable needle set, I'd probably focus on other things. However, I will second the recommendation for Chiaogoo needles, they're my favorite.

​

My other suggestion is a bit more labor intensive but would be very thoughtful - a personalized knitting notions kit:

u/starlaoverdrive · 2 pointsr/knitting

I love Debbie Stoller's Stitch 'n Bitch and Stich 'n Bitch Superstar Knitting! Both include patterns that are actually pretty sweet, so you can practice techniques that directly reference back to where they were explained in the book. I also have Margaret Radcliffe's Circular Knitting Workshop, which is great if you want to take circular knitting to the next level or to delve into new ways of knitting written patterns. She explains how to convert circular knitting to flat knitting, and vice versa. It's pretty awesome! I've always loved reading and I feel like these are my top three reference/fun knit-related reads. Vogue Knitting is an excellent, all-around reference and technique book...but unfortunately it's not available for Kindle.

Ooh! Almost forgot! Amy Herzog's Knit to Flatter is an excellent sweater/cardigan learning tool! She explains the different body types/shapes and which sweater shapes are most complementary. There's also her Custom Fit pattern on Ravelry, but I haven't bought it.

If you're really into learning how to use knitting to create different shapes and the why of knitting, these would be the books I recommend. TECHknitter is my absolute most-referenced learning tool for knitting if you haven't checked out her blog yet. There was a post about a book possibly coming out in the future but I feel like that was ages ago, so who knows. If all of her knowledge and blog posts were succinctly bound together you can bet your ass I would buy it!

u/christinaf25 · 1 pointr/knitting

I LOVE to youtube everything. Stitch technique? Clarification? youtube. I don't have many books, but I did just get 400 Knitting Stitches by Potter Craft and it's pretty friggin' cool. It has almost every single stitch you can think of (even with SUPER basic knit and purl patterns) along with some other techniques, and it's really helped with my ability to read charts.

u/kns89 · 1 pointr/knitting

Cool! I learned how to do colorwork this spring and it was surprisingly easy! You'll do great! I bought this yarn guide and it made it a lot easier for me! Good luck!!

u/AtomicAthena · 3 pointsr/knitting

No OP, but it was much easier than I thought it would be. My first pair were made with bulky yarn so I could knit them up quickly. There's a ton of great sock resources out there, like Silver's Sock Class. There's also a ton of reference books on sock knitting. I personally have Getting Started Knitting Socks by Ann Budd and love it.

u/balsamic_kitten · 1 pointr/knitting

Welcome to knitting!

I'm still fairly beginner too. I just bought this book - recommended on this sub -and I'm finding it super helpful for all of that knowledge on picking yarn/needles, basic stitches, how to fix mistakes, etc. I wish I'd had it when I first got started.

http://www.amazon.com/Stitch-Bitch-The-Knitters-Handbook/dp/0761128182

Good luck, and have fun!

u/driftwood_arpeggio · 1 pointr/knitting

I use an umbrella Swift (from knit picks), which works nicely, but ask the other comment mentioned you need a place to clamp it down. I mostly got that one because it was on sale when I was looking, but I think most of them probably work equally well. I like my umbrella Swift because I live in an apartment, so space is at a premium. This is the ball winder I have. Amazon tells me I've had it since 2005 and use it quite a bit and it's held up fine.

There's more expensive models of ball winders that are good if you're winding a lot of volume (either # skeins of yarn or particularly large ones), but for normal use I haven't had problems with mine.

u/Crushnaut · 1 pointr/knitting

This appears to be the book you are suggesting. That looks good. Lots of good reviews too!

I have been poking around Ravelry. There are a lot of cool free patterns that I think she would like. There are also a couple pay patterns I might grab because they really suit the interests she listed.

Thanks for the suggestions!

u/StringOfLights · 1 pointr/knitting

When I learned to knit way back in the day (before YouTube existed), I used Stitch 'n Bitch and liked it a lot. I didn't go crazy with those included patterns, but I made a few of them. I mostly used the book for a reference.

For me it clicked when I understood how the stitches worked. It wasn't so much pattern acronyms or how to use the needles, it was knowing the construction of knit and purl stitches. Then the more complicated stuff fell into place. I think Stitch 'n Bitch actually goes through that.

I also really love Knitty. I ate that place up, especially before Ravelry existed. The site can be a little annoying to navigate, but they have a good selection of articles explaining different techniques. I love how their patterns are sorted by difficulty.

I'm sure Ravelry and YouTube are also amazing for learning, but I haven't used them!

u/ekateclark · 7 pointsr/knitting

Second the recommendation for Ravelry.

My favorite answer-every-question-about-knitting book is The Knitting Answer Book. It has pictures where pictures are needed and otherwise not, explains knit-speak pretty clearly, and is easy to reference when I'm halfway through a project and don't understand what to do next.

Also:

  • A purl stitch is a backwards knit stitch. So, instead of putting the right-hand need behind the left, you put it in front (R to L through the stitch). From there it's the same: wrap the yarn, pull it through, and move on to the next stitch.

  • Knitting with two strands just means you hold, for example, a blue strand of yarn and a green strand of yarn at the same time, knitting as though they are only one strand. It can create a pretty cool pattern if you do it with two colors; it also creates a thicker knit.
u/yarnskeinporchswings · 1 pointr/knitting

I have used the kids mats in the past but generally put a sheet between them and the project, just to be safe. You might not see any color rub off when you just wipe over them, but you are putting a wet piece of fabric in direct contact with the boards for several hours.

My personal kit includes these gym mats. I find that the gym mats tend to be built thicker and more durable than the kids play ones, as they're meant to protect floors from some pretty heavy exercise equipment. The price per square foot is a little better with these, too.

My blocking kit is this one. By the way, if you've never blocked with wires before, be prepared for them to Change. Your. Life. So much easier to get clean symmetry, and good grief no more pin fingers. Switching to wires literally cut out 75% of the time I spent shaping.

I've blocked with cats before, and they generally go insane when you close the door, so I know that can be challenging. The ideal scenario would be to put the blocking boards on a bed (out of toddler reach) with the door closed. If you have to keep it in a kitty-zone, I would keep a spray bottle of water handy and just keep an eye on the piece while it's drying, and when a cat comes to investigate, give him a little spray. If any water gets on the piece, it's no big deal.

u/2Legit-2Knit · 1 pointr/knitting

This is the one I have: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0078T6KQY/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1425689600&sr=8-1&keywords=stanwood+yarn+winder&pi=AC_SX200_QL40&dpPl=1&dpID=41LAOteg7DL&ref=plSrch
It's a little pricy but partly because it's a 10oz winder instead of the normal 4oz ones. I had huge skeins of Red Heart SS that it caked nicely. Amazon also sells the 4oz version of this one if you don't need one this big. I know it's expensive but I have to caution you against going cheap on a winder if you can help it. I bought one of those cheap $20 winders off Ebay and it was a piece of junk. It wound loosely and broke after maybe 15 skeins. The one I linked to is a beast - metal parts and very sturdy. You get what you pay for when it comes to winders.

u/cburrhead · 1 pointr/knitting

A starter kit is a great gift idea, props to you! I'd like to suggest Vogue Knitting as a fantastic reference book! It's got all the instructions for beginners, plus instructions for tons and tons of more complicated techniques as she gets more into it.

u/tricksy_trixie · 3 pointsr/knitting

This is when it's helpful to knit with other people - while it's definitely possible to teach yourself how to knit on your own, it's way easier if you have a person that can actually show you what to do! I taught myself to knit using YouTube videos and books. For books, this is one that I know some people like. This book is also a popular option. The website www.knittinghelp.com has a lot of good videos for basics.

u/lochnessie15 · 4 pointsr/knitting

To add onto your ball winder comment, if someone gets yarn in hank form (one big loop twisted onto itself - this is a good explanation), to get it into a usable ball/cake form, they need both a ball winder and a swift. A swift holds the big loop of yarn and spins freely as the yarn's wound into a ball. Swifts usually come in one of two forms - an Amish swift (~$30 on Amazon) or an umbrella swift (~$50 - Knit Picks also has a popular one here). Which type of swift mostly comes down to personal preference; both types can work well.

u/UndulatingHills · 2 pointsr/knitting

Perhaps not specific to your problem, but somewhat related: One of my favorite resource books is the Knitters Book of Yarn by Clara Parkes. If you ever want to learn about the makeup of all fiber types, why some are scratchy or why wool felts, what makes for good durability or why your tightly-spun yarns tend to bias when knitting stockinette, this is for you. It also includes 40 patterns written with certain fibers in mind. It's changed the way I think about choosing yarn for all my knitting projects. I'd highly recommend it!

u/Scrapbookee · 1 pointr/knitting

I have the Knit Picks winder, which works wonders for me.

Recently got a swift and it's not the most amazing thing but it was $16 which is right in my price range! Here is the Amazon link.

I got this swift because another reddit user commented that they got it and it's worked for them for three years. Obviously because it's plastic and thin metal you need to be careful when using it and store it safely, but it fits right back in the box and I love it so far.

u/savagebean · 3 pointsr/knitting

I was perusing this book of cast-ons and bind-offs at a local knit-group the other day and it's really pretty awesome. If you're an Amazon Prime member, it's free for kindles.

u/cochineal · 3 pointsr/knitting


I have both, but mostly because I dye a lot of yarn. I love them and use them fairly frequently, but I was fine with just a swift until about a year ago, and even then I wouldn't bother getting it out half the time and just wind yarn off of my knees or my husband's hands if I could get him to sit still long enough. They are a nice luxury, but not necessary unless you are dealing with bulk winding. I have a generic wooden swift from my LYS and this winder. One warning though, a lot of the tables in my house are too thick for the clamps to stay secure which is really annoying, so make sure you have somewhere to attach them.

u/gheissenberger · 3 pointsr/knitting

Yeah, you are most likely not pulling the yarn to the front when purling.

You want to look at the whole row before starting and make sure each stitch is hanging neatly with one loop of thread over the needle. If there is a loose bit of thread hanging over the end, or one of the stitches is pulled half up over the needle so you have both of the stitch "legs" up on the needle, then you need to rearrange your yarn.

Holding the needle with the stitches on it in your left hand, pull the yarn down and to the front before you start purling. That's it!

P.S. Here is a great book for beginning knitters:
http://www.amazon.com/Stitch-Bitch-The-Knitters-Handbook/dp/0761128182

u/wallyrabbito · 1 pointr/knitting

They're these: Knitter's Pride Knit Blockers & Pin Kit. I have a bunch of T-pins but these are a lot nicer to use, unfortunately they're more expensive. I also wish I had 2 sets of them. These are the blocking mats: KnitIQ Blocking Mats - they're nice and thick with grid markings to help you straighten your piece, pretty handy.

u/shinypinkflamingo · 1 pointr/knitting

The heel flap is worked flat, usually with a slipped stitch texture and over half your stitches. The other half will just hang out until you're done with the heel flap and turning the heel. When you turn the heel, you work short rows which give a little pocket for your heel. Then you will pick up and knit up one side of the heel flap, across the instep (top), and then down the other side of the heel flap. The beginning of your row will now be in the center of your heel and you will begin decreasing out the extra stitches on either side of your instep, creating the gusset.

I highly recommend you get a good sock knitting reference like Getting Started Knitting Socks. The pictures and explanations will help a lot.

u/Closet_Geek_ · 2 pointsr/knitting

If your wife has a sense of humor, this was my favorite book when I was starting out. Has great illustrations and straight forward patterns. My first sweater was a pattern out of there, and I managed just fine.

u/SometimesQueer · 2 pointsr/knitting

Sorry for the nightmare fuel, oops. :)

I'd love to try out different winders, to see if the problem is indeed me or the machine, but that's unlikely. Have you any in particular you'd suggest looking at?

I was hoping to save up for the Cadillac of ball winders (Nancy's Knit Knacks Heavy Duty Ball Winder) but the exchange rate is currently atrocious for Canadians.

I've read decent things about Stanford Needlecraft's Large Metal Winder, as kind of a middle price pointed winder.

u/gal-crispy · 1 pointr/knitting

You could get a book like Stitch n Bitch, and maybe pick a pattern from it and get the supplies for it. I learned from this book and it was pretty good for the basics. Some of the patterns seem nicer too.

u/ejchristian86 · 12 pointsr/knitting

I would recommend a book or 2 in addition to YouTube. When learning a new knitting technique, I find it really helpful to look at still images or illustrations first, then watch a video to see it in action.

OP, I learned how to knit though a combination of Debbie Stoller's Stitch n Bitch and knittinghelp.com.

It's definitely possible. Just break it down into manageable chunks and do small swatches as you learn. I was knitting simple scarves the first week and moving on to hats and other things within a month. Soon you'll be making cabled sweaters and fancy blankets and all sorts of crazy knits!

Edit to add: Whatever you do, don't knit your first project with Lion Brand Homespun. For some reason, a lot of new knitters (myself included) reach for that yarn for early projects and it just never works properly. Use a simple soft acrylic or wool-blend. Red Heart Soft is a decent choice and quite affordable.

u/cthulhu-kitty · 1 pointr/knitting

i hold my yarn in my right hand, and usually hold it with my index and middle fingers, then loop it over the back of my ring finger and then under the pinky. it helps with slipping.

another thing that looks totally weird but works once you get the hang of it is a knitting thimble. i've had this one for about two years and i love it: LoRan Norwegian Knitting Thimble - Amazon Link

u/UndeadMsScarlet · 5 pointsr/knitting

As to your second question - I have a Stanwood Needlecraft winder I am quite happy with. [(Amazon link.)] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004B44PYI/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1) I originally bought one from Knit Picks, which I returned because the gears kept catching, and then bought this one from Amazon due to its high number of positive reviews. I've had no issues with it in the just over two years I've had it.

ETA: It does look like it might be slightly cheaper to buy it [directly from Stanwood] (http://www.stanwoodimports.com/stanwood-needlecraft-compact-yarn-ball-winder-hand-operated-ybw-a/) right now, even with shipping vs Prime. (We're talking a matter of a couple bucks, though - when it calculated shipping for me, it was $3 less than Amazon.)

u/kaliena · 1 pointr/knitting

On mobile.

Book about yarn - if you like diving into knowledge!

The Knitter's Book of Yarn: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing, Using, and Enjoying Yarn https://www.amazon.com/dp/0307352161/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_3.aNwb10BQCV

If you want to know about something google it and the word techknitter. Amazing blog - so much knowledge - hard to navigate.

u/icraftbuticurse · 23 pointsr/knitting

It’s called a knitting thimble! It keeps your strands straight and makes it easier to pick up each color. I got mine “free” (plus shipping) on Wish, looks like Amazon has them, too

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00114OO10/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_1tQxDbJW68T1H

u/Ashleyisreallycool · 1 pointr/knitting

I just bought this one for myself and it's so amazing! It works like a dream and can make a nice big cake.
I had so much fun the day it came in! It took a bit to get used to how to coordinate to make it as smooth a process as possible but it really has made rolling yarn so fun and fast.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0078T6KQY?psc=1&ref=yo_pop_mb_yo_pop_mb_pd_t2

This is the swift I've asked for Xmas. Haven't used it but I found the reviews convincing https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000IG1I8O/?coliid=I3IASUJR0TQZ93&colid=9OZ9DLU4OTV2&psc=0&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it

u/legs2yaya · 2 pointsr/knitting

There are some good books out there! I like the Stitch 'n Bitch ones (the patterns are so dated, though) and the Knitter's Companion (I think the illustrations are pretty clear in this one). I found this one called The Knitting Answer Book in a Sam's Club I don't know how long ago. I'm not sure how great it is because I've been able to find answers in the others and online. These books + Youtube are how I taught myself.

u/kalypsobean · 1 pointr/knitting

This one has a few pages of zig zag cables, and a decent variety otherwise, but I always recommend having a few different ones since no two ever really cover the same ground, and no one is truly comprehensive. If you have a bookstore or LYS, flipping through them to find one who writes them out in a way you can understand is also a really good bet.

u/Bhrunhilda · 2 pointsr/knitting

I wouldn't get a winder without a swift. You won't be able to wind evenly without a swift.

I bought This One

Stanwood is recommended here. I just wish I had bought the actual one that is recommended here the Large Stanwood

For $20 more, it's definitely worth it.

u/gogogogogg · 3 pointsr/knitting

Also, try your local library for knitting books. (Mine is excellent.) Videos normally concentrate on one topic, without much talking around the topic. Books develop stage by stage, and have time to tell you why things are done that way and what alternatives you could use -- making it much easier to learn to do your own thing.

Libraries (or bookshops) let you compare books to see which style you like. These two are often recommended: Teach yourself Visually Knitting and the Stitch 'n Bitch Knitter's Handbook. These two also seem good: Debbie Bliss Knitter's Book of Knowledge and Knitting in Plain English.

u/Nefera · 1 pointr/knitting

I've got 400 Knitting Stitches, and it's served me pretty well. Stitch patterns are organized based on categories (knit+purl/cables/lace/colourwork/slipped stitches), pictures are clear, instructions are in both written and chart format. It's been worth its price tag for me.

u/MissCarlotta · 1 pointr/knitting

I have the first four Barbara Walker Treasury books, and Vogue Knitting that is pretty amazing.

u/hazelnutcream · 5 pointsr/knitting

Here are my top picks:

Amish swift I have this one. Barring fire, there is nothing that can damage these.

Cheap metal straight knitting needles Susan Bates are vastly superior to Boye. The paint on the Boye has a tendency to scratch and snag the yarn at the tips. Google is failing me here, but I especially like the Susan Bates Quicksilver ones that narrow back down after the initial few inches. Especially with heavy projects, they help to keep the weight balanced.

u/CupcakeOctopus · 2 pointsr/knitting

I have Vogue Knitting and I really like it. It's a good general-purpose knitting book, has good pictures and explanations.

u/zomboi · 1 pointr/knitting

You are not the only guy that knits. Plenty of men knit. I knit and as far as I know I am a guy, have been knitting for over a decade. I would suggest signing up for a Ravelry account, there is a bunch of male knitters there and thousands of very cool free patterns.

To begin: I would suggest getting the Stitch n Bitch book, it begins out very very basic and the patterns gradually get harder. If you don't understand how to do something youtube or knittinghelp to see a person actually do it. If you still cannot understand how to do it drop into a yarn shop or go to a knitting group (you should be able to find a local one close to you on ravelry or yahoo or meetup.org).

Congrats on being manly enough to knit.

u/justduck · 1 pointr/knitting

I borrowed them (and the wires) from my friend. They are by Knitter's Pride and and called Knit Blockers and Pin Kit . They come in a little box in two sizes. I am probably going to buy a set of my own, as it was much easier (and less time consuming) than all those T-pins I usually use.

u/dragon34 · 2 pointsr/knitting

I haven't done color work, but I have done double knitting with two strands, and I got one of these.

http://www.amazon.com/LoRan-KT-2-Norwegian-Knitting-Thimble/dp/B00114OO10

I have one of these too:
http://www.amazon.com/Clover-348-Yarn-Guide/dp/B000YZ1XPM/

I liked the thimble better until I lost weight and it didn't stay on my finger anymore :(

For me it was the throwing of the yarn with my right hand that caused the problem. Using the yarn guides took a bit of adjustment, and I am definitely slower when using them, but my wrist doesn't hurt!

u/rcreveli · 1 pointr/knitting

It's still a bit challenging. according to my knitting group I need a Norwegian Knitting Thimble to make my life perfect :)

u/elemcee · 3 pointsr/knitting

I have the first edition of Teach Yourself VISUALLY Knitting. It's very good, with lots of great close-up photos.

u/senesced · 9 pointsr/knitting

I'd recommend an Amish swift if your budget allows for one. It was a real game changer for me, and it's really easy to assemble / disassemble and stow away when not in use.

This is the Amish swift I purchased off of Amazon. I use it with the same knitpicks ball winder (I think) I see in your photo.

u/gfixler · 3 pointsr/knitting

$50 is for a fancy wooden one. I've had this $16 one for about a year now, and it's worked great on hundreds of cakes. Staci Perry had this slightly more involved $18 one in the past, though she does have a nice wooden one now.

u/fractal_middle_earth · 2 pointsr/knitting

I referenced this book a lot when I did some practice swatches before I jumped on this big project, and it had some great CO and BO tips and techniques. I think I used the ones I found there. For CO I just did a long tail cast on using the opposite color to anchor each loop. For BO I pulled each stitch over the next two in the row, which gives a really nice set of v shapes in alternating colors.

u/ProvidenceMojo · 3 pointsr/knitting

There’s a great illusion scarf pattern in the beginner’s knitting book Stitch and Bitch. It was one of my first successful knits — highly recommend!

https://www.amazon.com/Stitch-n-Bitch-Knitters-Handbook/dp/0761128182

u/clo823 · 2 pointsr/knitting

I love my Stanwood swift. Works well and is not going to break the bank.

u/Lizkimber · 3 pointsr/knitting

Best wool winder, ever, IMHO all the plastic ones tend to jump.. Is this

http://www.amazon.com/Stanwood-Needlecraft-String-Winder-10-Ounce/dp/B0078T6KQY

It's awesome, smooth, solid and worth every penny. I went through a number of plastic ones cos they jumped or tangled or slipped, since getting this, I've wound miles and miles of yarn, and it's still perfect.. Oh and the handle isn't nobly so isn't painful to hold for ages too.

I got me a cheap swift, it works well, but hasn't as yet had much of longevity test

http://www.amazon.com/YazyCraft-Umbrella-Yarn-Winder/dp/B00FS9PTOU/ref=sr_1_20?s=arts-crafts&ie=UTF8&qid=1396465971&sr=1-20&keywords=Swift

u/CrimsonQuill157 · 2 pointsr/knitting

A swift is only necessary if you are winding hanks of yarn. I would be afraid the yarn would tangle without a swift if winding a hank. There's a relatively inexpensive swift on Amazon here: Umbrella Swift I have it and while no, it isn't as visually attractive as the nice wooden ones, it works very well and stores easily.

u/Pineandsparrow · 2 pointsr/knitting

I use these and either these or these. Soak it for about 30 minutes, then press out as much of the water as you can with your hands (squeeze gently, don’t wring it) and then using two towels (step on it!). Then arrange the mat pieces into a long strip on the carpet or a table (protect it with a towel or something) and stretch it as long as you’d like and as wide as it’ll go and pin it to the board in even sections. If you do end up blocking it, take before and after photos so you can see the difference. This is my favorite part 🙃

u/fatpinkchicken · 3 pointsr/knitting

http://www.amazon.com/Stitch-Bitch-The-Knitters-Handbook/dp/0761128182

That was the beginner book I was given and it was very helpful and fun.

u/littledingo · 5 pointsr/knitting

I had bought 4 different small plastic winders that all broke within weeks of purchase, then I got this winder. I can definitely say it is worth every penny and I have not had any problems with it since purchase 2 years ago. I love this beast.

u/AbigailBeatrix · 1 pointr/knitting

Huh. Weirdly lucky that it fit over several of the feet without being too loose/tight.

After having some bad luck with a cheap umbrella swift, I finally spent a little bit extra to get myself an Amish-style swift. I have this one (which I highly recommend- it's great quality) but you can get cheaper ones or even build your own!

u/diagetic_getdown · 2 pointsr/knitting

I ordered an Amish swift off Amazon and I love it. No moving parts so I don't feel like it'll break easily plus it comes apart and packs quite small. It's also a bit cheaper too.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0067MMCD8/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?qid=1417140197&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SX200_QL40

u/anatomizethat · 4 pointsr/knitting

And in case anyone wants to see, here's what I've managed so far.

Some were balls that I unwound on to the swift and then rewound, some were loose, center-pull cakes, some were center-pull skeins, some were normal skeins. In every case...I am happy.

And also for those interested, both the swift and the winder are Stanwoods.

u/weffey · 3 pointsr/knitting

You don't need to knit continental to do fair isle. I sure don't and sure as hell have done fair ilse. It does require decent yarn management skills, but one of these will help.

More importantly: your gauge will be different and resist the urge to pull the slack yarn tight.

u/lothlin · 2 pointsr/knitting

alternatively, there's some cheap yarn swifts on amazon - I bought this one https://www.amazon.com/Cutehill-Umbrella-Operated-Knitting-Winding/dp/B00VGD39O4/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1539610044&sr=8-2&keywords=yarn+swift . Its definitely not the greatest swift in the world but it does the job surprisingly well

u/And_go · 5 pointsr/knitting

Came here to post exactly this. They make learning rather interesting and fun, and the patterns are more in style than a lot of the books I've read. Amazon link, if anyone is interested.

u/goombahshapeless · 6 pointsr/knitting

Oh! just remembered this: you can get yarn guides that slide on your finer that made knitting fair isle a little easier. I got this one from amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Clover-348-Yarn-Guide/dp/B000YZ1XPM

u/Kaeleira · 10 pointsr/knitting

You can get away with pretty basic or improvised materials for blocking most things. For beanies/toques you can use a balloon and a bowl, and slouchy hats/berets can be blocked on a plate. For socks, gloves and mitts you can make your own blocking forms with cardboard and tape.
For flat items I started off with nothing more than regular straight pins and my bed! After a couple of years though, I decided to upgrade.

My recommended supplies are T-pins and blocking mats, with the option for blocking wires as well. T-pins are sturdier than regular sewing pins, and the heads are better at holding down knitted fabric. Blocking mats provide a flat surface that you can push the pins through without accidentally distorting the shape of your project. Blocking wires cut down on the number of pins needed to create a straight edge, and they help with creating symmetrical angles/shapes.

You could probably get T-pins in any craft store, and they're also sold as office supplies. Kids' foam play mats are the same material as "blocking mats" for knitting, and way easier to get a hold of. You can even make your own blocking wires from MIG welding supplies, or order a blocking kit from Amazon.co.uk. Other than the blocking wires, you should be able to buy everything you need in department stores. Hope this helps!

u/reishka · 7 pointsr/knitting

Yarn Swift. There's two kinds: an Umbrella swift, and an Amish swift. The ubmrella swift has a mechanism that "opens up" like an umbrella, and holds your hank in a loop. They usually attach to a surface like a countertop or tabletop. The Amish swift doesn't attach to a counter or table, but rests upon it, and has little "arms" that holds your hank in an open loop. You stick your hank on the swift, then cut the ties (don't cut the ties before it's on the swift, that's asking for trouble), then use a ball winder or your hands to form your ball/cake/whatever.

As long as you cut the ties AFTER the yarn is on the swift, you should have a relatively easy time. Though, that assumes that the dyer/manufacturer of the hank didn't screw it up when dyeing and or tying the hank. But if the dyer/manufacturer screwed up, there's not much you can do about that, swift or no swift.

u/dj-baby-bok-choy · 2 pointsr/knitting

First off, thumbs up on the name. :P Genetics win.

Secondly, if you're okay with book recs (people have covered the knitting websites I know of and have used), try this book:

Teach Yourself VISUALLY Knitting

I have the Stitch & Bitch books and while they're okay I've learned that the B&W pictures can be difficult to follow. TYVK has nice color illustrations and a couple patterns.

I also like the Knitting for Dummies videos on YouTube if you need more visual assistance.

u/ariakerrick · 1 pointr/knitting

Sorry I didn't reply sooner, I've been super ill!

But, anyway, here is the book: http://smile.amazon.com/Cast-Bind-Off-Step-Step/dp/1603427244. I really highly recommend it. I've used it over and over and it isn't too expensive. The kindle version is only 2.99 and the spiral bound is just over 10 bucks!

u/sma934 · 2 pointsr/knitting

There is a set of blocking pins out there that would go very well with this technique. They will help keep the sweater at the size you want while it dries.

u/Arianafer · 7 pointsr/knitting

What they said! ^^ I got it for Christmas this last year. I believe I got gifted this one from Amazon. I've used it to untangle my frogging messes, and for winding skeins into pretty little ball blobs.

u/the_asian_girl · 1 pointr/knitting

I love my Stanwood winder...I got tired of fighting slippery yarn on my KnitPicks winder. Yeah, it's pricey, but I've gotten my money's worth from it.

https://www.amazon.com/Stanwood-Needlecraft-String-Winder-10-Ounce/dp/B0078T6KQY

I got my wooden umbrella swift for $20 from eBay...it shipped from China and took a month before it finally arrived.

u/mercantile519 · 1 pointr/knitting

i'm almost certain this is the set i purchased a while back. under $20, and it will last you pretty much indefinitely, as long as you don't step on the wires.

u/notlaika · 1 pointr/knitting

Here's the most comprehensive, but really any general knitting book beyond the most basic will have a few :)

u/themodernvictorian · 4 pointsr/knitting

I taught myself to knit from Stitch 'n Bitch. After that it was all practice and experimentation. I really enjoyed practicing knitting things from The Ultimate Sourcebook of Knitting and Crochet Stitches.

u/housewifeuncuffed · 1 pointr/knitting

I have a Stanwood that I absolutely love. It runs smoothly and I don't see how anything on it could break. I'm not sure what price range you're looking at, so this model may be out of your budget.


I don't own a swift, so no recommendations there.




​

u/trickstergods · 3 pointsr/knitting

There are also blocking wires that can make straight edges a lot easier.

u/ky_yelley · 2 pointsr/knitting

For starters I'd recommend the Knitter's Book of Yarn and the Knitter's Book of Wool, both by Clara Parkes. Both are incredibly informative and have some great patterns to boot. I consider both of these required reading for anyone even remotely serious about knitting.

If you want to get really serious about wool, the Fleece and Fiber Sourcebook goes into crazy detail about the different breeds of sheep and the wool they produce. This book is extreme though, covers a lot of things that you probably would never encounter at your average LYS. It's more geared towards spinners than knitters.

u/DrColor · 2 pointsr/knitting

Console yourself by searching for and buying a new wonder. I got this one and it has been working very nicely.

Stanwood Needlecraft Large Metal... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0078T6KQY?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

u/nkh86 · 2 pointsr/knitting

I have a swift similar to this one: Amish Style Wooden Yarn Swift

It isn't the fanciest thing in the world, and generally I prefer using the upright ones, but it gets the job done, and it's really portable since it breaks down into individual straight pieces and can be kept in a bag.

As for a winder, I would *not* recommend this one or anything similar: Marrywindix Ball Winder

It's extremely unsteady, the yarn feeder needs to be held in place while you're using it, and yarn constantly slips and winds up wrapping around the top/bottom, and generally becoming a tangled mess.

u/JolieTricotrice · 1 pointr/knitting

This one is good, and cheaper than the one on Knit picks.

u/[deleted] · 2 pointsr/knitting

My mom got me an amish swift which is cheaper than an umbrella swift. I think she got one on ebay for $20!

I actually prefer that one to the umbrella swift for storage purposes - it folds right up.

u/emma1961 · 11 pointsr/knitting

I have a Stanwood. Considerably more expensive but very heavy duty and well made plus it will do really big skeins. Stanwood

u/mulberrybushes · 2 pointsr/knitting

u/OkPacking your comment has been removed because of amazon links or shortlinks. You can avoid this by posting non-commercial / non-redirect links like the ones you see below, or by just removing the links altogether and leaving the text parts.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XKRH5H5

https://www.amazon.com/Knitters-Pride-KP800415-Knit-Blockers/dp/B00M7509M0/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&qid=1527201703

u/KnittyMcKnitFace · 2 pointsr/knitting

I have this one and it's served me well.

I've wound lace weight all the way to two strands of bulky (loops and threads charisma) held double and haven't had any issues.

u/Lady_Hippo · 3 pointsr/knitting

You're totally fine using a variety of manufacturers. I would suggest keep the plies and fiber the same though. That will make for a more consistent look across the shawl. Different fibers (or fiber blends) will stretch and drape very differently, which could result in a very wonky shawl when you go to block it.

If you are interested in how fiber and ply affect the final product, I'm totally obsessed with Clara Parkes Knitter's Book of Yarn. It will make you feel totally prepared to choose yarns beyond the pattern recommendation.

u/singyouallmysins · 3 pointsr/knitting

Thanks!

I bought the American Craft Knit and Lace Blocking Wires Kit from Amazon because it was cheap and I wasn't sure if I would like them. They're thinner than I expected, but blocked my DK-weight yarn just fine. I used 4 of the 36" wires for this project.

u/KidArtemis · 1 pointr/knitting

I got this one Stanwood Needlecraft Tabletop Amish Style Wooden Yarn Swift, 2.5-6-Feet (YW-3) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0067MMCD8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_PwjkDb2MRQVK9

u/Obeacian · 0 pointsr/knitting

Is it similar to this?

Stanwood Needlecraft Tabletop Amish Style Wooden Yarn Swift, 2.5-6-Feet https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0067MMCD8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_4ci6xbGMK8E5T

u/samcatbear · 1 pointr/knitting

I have this and it's just under £10 on Amazon:
400 Knitting Stitches: A Complete Dictionary of Essential Stitch Patterns https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/0307462730/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_PhPEDbXMXMP34

u/rebarex · 2 pointsr/knitting

A combination of the book Teach Yourself Visually Knitting and youtube. Especially youtube.

u/missmisfit · 2 pointsr/knitting

I taught myself using this book:http://www.amazon.com/Stitch-Bitch-The-Knitters-Handbook/dp/0761128182

Also some yarn shops will teach you if you purchase your supplies from them, or they may have classes

u/txvoodoo · 2 pointsr/knitting

2 books that have helped me very much:

https://smile.amazon.com/Increase-Decrease-Step-Step-Technique/dp/1612123317/

And https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/1603427244/

I use youtube all the time too, but once I've seen a technique, these books stay near me while knitting. Also, they work when the internet doesn't. :D

u/PoledraDog · 1 pointr/knitting

Probably not the exact model, but mine is similar to this one

u/BridgetAmelia · 2 pointsr/knitting

I had the knit picks one, but now I am waiting on this to arrive.

The knit pick one is not made for heavy use and has a smaller capacity. I have a knitting machine so I needed one that could keep up with me.

u/LittleHelperRobot · 3 pointsr/knitting

Non-mobile: this to arrive

^That's ^why ^I'm ^here, ^I ^don't ^judge ^you. ^PM ^/u/xl0 ^if ^I'm ^causing ^any ^trouble. ^WUT?

u/Skeletoxin · 3 pointsr/knitting

Thanks, but the link turns up an error. Is this the book in question?

u/bicycle_dreams · 7 pointsr/knitting