Once you have mastered knit and purl a whole world of different combinations are literally at your fingertips. That must be part of the magic of stitch dictionaries, revealing and explaining how knitted fabric can be shaped. Conventionally, instructions are charted for working back and forth in rows – but what about converting this for the yoke of your top down jumper? Or inserting these instructions to change a pattern knit in the round? Here to solve all your stitch pattern problems is the new, and appropriately named, Up, Down, All-Around Stitch Dictionary. Be sure to read to the end of …

Up, Down, All Around Stitch Dictionary Read more »

I was recently reminded how confusing the issues around blocking finished knits can be. To wet block or steam? Use blocking wires or not? Iron, steam or leave to dry? Many people I come across also believe that the stated needles and gauge on a pattern are set in stone. They understand they can substitute a similar weight yarn but don’t feel they have permission to experiment with the needles and gauge. This isn’t true. It may be more complicated to do this when knitting a fitted garment but it is a pleasure to do when knitting shawls, scarves and …

Top Tips for Blocking Your Knits! Read more »