Knits are textiles that are created by maneuvering yarn into various amounts of loops and stitches interlocking them until they eventually become garments.
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How Knitting Was Introduced
The history of knitting dates all the way back to the 11th century CE in Egypt, in which the Ancient Egyptians made socks and other garments, along with various textiles with bold colors. Surprisingly, when the method of knitting was first introduced to the Europeans later in the 1200s-1700s, the activity was solely for men.
Knitting Went From a Necessity to a Hobby
After the Industrial Revolution and the invention of the knitting loom, although knitting by hand was almost impossible for such a large demand, it began to grow in popularity as a hobby. During the World Wars knitting was an essential way of clothing, to preserve money, and keep warm.
During that period knitting was recognized as a staple, books on knitting and mending were published, designers such as Coco Chanel, have set and recognized a fashionable tone for knitting that we know and love today.
Knowing the Weight of the Yarn is Helpful
Weights determine the thickness of your yarn the higher the weight the thicker the yarn. Here is a guide to help you pick the best weight for your project.
#0 -1
A 0-1 weight yarn or lace, is typically the thinnest yarn you can possibly knit with. You can make lightweight shawls and scarves with this weight of yarn.
#2 – 3
2-3 weight yarns are slightly thicker than 0-1 weight yarns and are perfect for making socks, and mittens, allowing a more intricate detail.
#3-4
3-4 weight yarns are usually the most beginner-friendly, and neutral weights of yarn. Mainly because you could make almost anything with them.
#5-6
5-6 weight yarns are very bulky, this is the yarn most people use to acquire, the chunky knit cable hats, and sweaters making them unbelievably cozy.
#7
7 weight yarns are the thickest of the yarns, so big in fact, you can practically knit with your bare hands. Making it a quick and fun way to make blankets and rugs.
You can usually find the weight of your yarn listed on the back of its label.
Other Materials You Can Knit With
There are many yarns in different materials in which you can knit from, picking out the right yarn made from the right material is essential to the project you are doing. Here are some materials that can be knitted.
Wool is Very Popular With Knitters
Wool is a popular material used for knitters, it’s incredibly soft and durable lasting for a long time. There are different kinds of wool and different processes for each.
Due to the softness of the fabric, some say it may take a little longer for beginners to learn, due to the fact it may be slippery on your needles, but it won’t take very long to learn. This fabric is also extremely warm, so it’s perfect for sweaters, hats, and blankets; and can come in an assortment of weights.
Cotton is Great For Beginners
Cotton yarn is derived from the actual plant making it soft, breathable, and strong. It’s great for beginners to make dishcloths, doilies, and summer garments to get a feel for the craft.
Acrylic Yarn is the Most Popular
This yarn is one of the most popular, due to its fun colors, and lower price point. The yarn is machine washable, and holds color very nicely, making it very unlikely to fade.
This yarn is also a great start for beginners, the texture can be soft as well with still having the ability to have a great grip on your needles. This yarn comes in a variety of weights, meaning it’s ideal for making almost any project.
Cashmere is the Softest and Most Luxurious Yarns
Cashmere is one of the softest, most luxurious yarns, and materials you could ever use for any project. Cashmere is made from the undercoat of a goat’s fur coat making it very difficult to separate from the goat’s outer layer.
Roughly 4 goats can make one sweater, and 2 can make a great spool of yarn, which is why the price point is a bit higher than most. Cashmere is perfect for jumpers, sweaters, and blankets because of its softness.
Knitting is a wonderful craft that can help you create, and use your imagination, as well as a great way to bond. This list will be able to help you pick the best yarn, so you can not only start to make beautiful pieces of clothing and garments but memories as well.