The Learn To Knit Starter Kit
I have created a kit with all the basics needed to learn how to knit. It includes yarn, needles, some basic notions, and most importantly a pattern that teaches all the basics.
The Yarn
The kit comes with two skeins of Lankava Lysti Aran-weight sock yarn. Thicker yarn means bigger needles and stitches. Bigger stitches are easier to work with. However, I didn't want to go too thick and limit what you would be able to make with your tools next.
The kit has two skeins. This means you can make the Stitch Discovery Scarf and also have enough yarn for a second project. You could use it to learn how to make socks with Sock School.Â
The Needles
I've included three sets of needles in the kit. It might seem like too much at first glance, but I have a very good reason. There are lots of different kinds of needles out there. And which ones are the "best" is a very personal choice. I can't include all the different options in this kit, but I do want to offer a variety for you to try out.Â
I've picked KnitPro Dreamz for the kit, because those are my favorite needles. They're light-weight, smooth, and durable (that's not to say you can't break them if you sit on them). The Dreamz line offers all different kinds of needles so it is easier to determine which style you like without wondering if it's really the material.Â
Straight Needles
The kit includes a pair of KnitPro Dreamz 10″ Single Point Needles. These are that traditional style that most people initially think of when anyone says "knitting needles": points on one end, and a stopper on the other. They're long enough to hold the stitches for the Stitch Discovery Scarf, and the stoppers keep your stitches from falling off the ends.Â
Circular Needles
Next in the kit is a set of KnitPro Dreamz 32″ Circular Needles. Circular needles have needle tips that are attached to each other with a cable. They can be used for both knitting flat, or in the round (in a closed circle). The 32-inch length is a versatile option, allowing you to work various sizes of projects and even practice the Magic Loop technique.Â
Double Pointed Needles
The kit also includes a set of KnitPro Dreamz 6″ Double Pointed Needles. Double pointed needles, or DPNs, are used on in-the-round projects with a small circumference like socks, mittens, sleeves, etc. Four needles hold the stitches (which really creates a square), and the fifth one is used to work the stitches. The Stitch Discovery Scarf does not use the DPNs, but once you've mastered that pattern, you can use the skills you've learned in Sock School.
Notions
The kit also includes several tools and notions. At least one of them is a must-have, some may consider one or two of them frivolous, but all of them will be useful.Â
On the must-have list are the darning needle and stitch markers. The steel darning needle is something you will use with every project, because it is the easiest way that I know of to weave in ends once the project is completed.
Locking stitch markers are versatile because they can be slipped onto the needles or attached to stitches. The Stitch Discovery Scarf doesn't specifically need stitch markers, but you can practice using them by marking the chart repeats once you get to that point.Â
On the more frivolous side of tools are the elephant gauge and cutter and the stitch holder cord. The elephant has notches around its edges that you can use to check the size of needles and crochet hooks, and the middle is used for determining your gauge (the number of stitches within 4 inches). Under his trunk he has a blade that is handy when needing to cut your yarn. You can of course achieve the same results with a measuring tape and scissors, but why wouldn't you want a purple elephant?
Stitch Holder Cord divides opinions in the knitting world. It's certainly not a need since a bit of waste yarn can do the same thing it does, but it is certainly more convenient. Sometimes you have to move stitches off your needles. You want to try on your work in progress, or you need the needles for another project, or the pattern calls to put a few stitches on hold while you work a different section. Stitch holder cord is hollow so you can stick it onto the end of your needles and slide your stitches on and off the needles easily.Â
The Pattern
This kit is built around my Stitch Discovery Scarf pattern. This pattern teaches you everything from knitting and purling to basic increases and decreases. Each step has links to video tutorials, and you can of course always reach out to me with any questions.Â
The Final Touch
The last thing in the kit is a This Took Forever Tag. The faux leather tag is made of cellulose and latex so it is washable. And it clearly lets everyone know how hard you have worked on your project. You can attach it to your Stitch Discovery Scarf, or save it for another future project.Â
Get Started!
Ready to learn how to knit? Pick your yarn color and order a Learn To Knit Starter Kit, and I'll get it shipped to you ASAP!
