“What books would you recommend for a beginner like me?” I just received this question from a blog reader, which I’ve answered, but thought it would make a great blog post.
Over the years I have come across a wide variety of books, online tutorials, and even online classes. But as a person coming into the world of knitting, it is often overwhelming and a little perplexing for them to figure out just where they should start.
I strongly urge those who are interested to start with their local yarn store for beginning knitting lessons, as well as the big box stores like Joanns, Michaels and even Hobby Lobby. Quite often these stores offer beginning knitting lessons for a very low-cost and it gives you the ability to sit with an instructor face to face.
Another option for learning is to simply pick up a book but that can be a challenge as there are tons of “how-to” books out there. I personally have a few favorites that I think are perfect for beginners -
- Teach Yourself Visually – Knitting
- Boye – I Taught Myself Knitting
- The National Needlearts Association – How to Knit
- Chicks with Sticks Guide to Knitting
- Knit Simple: Knitting Workshops – I reviewed this book a while back and it’s great for beginners!
How about an online class where you can learn at your own pace, ask questions from the instructor and other class members? Knit Lab with Stefanie Japel is an excellent online class brought to you by Craftsy.com . This class teaches the basics of knitting, how to increase or decrease, how to make a buttonhole, knit lace, block, seam including and how to read patterns.
Online sources are also a great way to learn and here are a few to check out:
- Knit Picks tutorial collection
- Knitting Help – Great source for new knitters as well as knitters of all stages
- Knitting Pattern Central – Online Instructions
- Tech Knitting - Invaluable collection of in-depth, clear, illustrated explanations of knitting techniques
- Video tutorials at Knitting at Knoon
Once you have decided to learn, you will soon find out there is a wonderful world of supporters out there that will cheer you on, give you advice and help you over knitting obstacles. The fiber community is very “close knit” but very helpful, warm and nurturing. So, don’t ever be afraid to ask for help, it’s out there!
Until next time, happy knitting, crocheting, spinning and crafting!
As a fan of your blog, I wanted to tell you that I nominated you for the Versatile Blogger Award. I have really enjoyed “meeting” you on the blogosphere and appreciate all your input and advice. Here’s what to do next: http://agujasblog.com/2012/06/01/versatile-blogger-award/.
Oh my goodness … thank you Veronica and same here
This is a great list, thanks for sharing.
You’re most welcome
There are so many resources available to the beginners, and if you have internet access you can find a lot of free information. I learned to crochet in 2011, from Teresa Richardson’s crochet tutorials. I loved the fact that each of her videos are done in slow motion, perfect for a beginner.
Knitting isn’t something I didn’t have to worry about, as much, unless it’s learning a new technique. I’ve been knitting for 33 years.
However, I’ll will check out a few of the above knitting videos. I’m currently teaching my nine-year old daughter to knit. And I bet she’ll find some of the ones I selct to be helpful.
I so agree Opal and I hope a few of the links will help your daughter
. I’ll have to check out Teresa Richardson’s tutorials, they sound great.
Oh gosh! Thank you for this!
You are most welcome and I hope it helps
Thanks for your advice. I’m looking for a resource for my 11 year old. He’s traveling this summer and wants to take a ‘learn to knit’ book with him. Kids are so funny!
You’re most welcome and I truly hope it helps out your 11 year old
The book that I have always gone to when I needed to look something up was Vogue Knitting. I find that this book covers just about everything you would every need. Recently I picked up a copy of The Knitter’s Companion and find that it is a good book for beginners. It covers all the basics with short, simple instructions and pictures
Knitter’s Companion is indeed a great source and I totally forgot about Vogue Knitting
Thanks for putting together such a great list of resources Tina. The internet truly is a wonderful resource for crafters. When I was just learning to knit (and its not that long ago either!) I used Knitting Help a lot for learning new techniques.
You’re so welcome and you’re so very correct Simone
Isn’t Knitting Help awesome!! I love their website 