Knitting – There’s a small population of us at Cal State Long Beach who knit. I’ve run into several students who bring their knitting to school, knitting up socks, scarves and little baby clothes. We share what yarns we have from mohair to wool and always look out for new patterns. But if you’re on a budget and can’t afford the magazines like Vogue Knitting (yes, it exists!), Interweave Press, Rowan, and other publications like Stitch ‘n Bitch knitting and crochet books, it can become troublesome to find patterns.
If you’re interested in taking up knitting, or just need a little creative inspiration, then there are some helpful sources that may interest you.
One of the places I love to go to find patterns is knitty.com. It is a handy website that features a range of patterns for scarves, socks, clothing, children’s clothing and toys. This site is great for beginning knitters; most of the patterns feature charts that if created correctly can help anyone figure out a sock or whatever else one may want to knit.
Another site offering patterns is knittingdaily.com. It’s a site that is part of a company called Interweave, which publishes many magazines, such as Interweave Knits, Interweave Crochet, and Spin-Off. It’s also a member-only site, but once you become a member almost all the patterns are free.
However, if you’re a new knitter and feel overwhelmed by the patterns in the magazine, it’s still a good reference to find answers to your questions. For example, what’s a yarn over? Or what type of cast on should you use?
Knittersreview.com has been around for a few years and is a member-only site too. Yet, once you create your username and password, you’re connected to hoards of other people who knit, spin and crochet. This site is filled with people who have been crafters for years and who are just starting out. There are forums to discuss patterns, questions on patterns, and lists of where to find patterns.
Though most of these sites are members-only, just remember that once a part of this growing community there are people who are more than willing to help answer questions, give advice and join in group activity.
Overall, it is important to remember that when you’re a new knitter, crocheter, spinner or some other type of craft person, that patterns are everywhere, help is everywhere, and don’t forget to have fun.
