Category Archives: knitting

First attempt

knitting

After watching some really helpful videos at Knittinghelp, I decided to give a few rows a try.

But first, what style of stitch, English or Continental? Knitting help says to pick whichever, but clearly seems to be pulling for Continental. I also think that’s what my Mom tried to teach me. So, I go with that. I cast on, which is surprisingly easy (and eerily familiar), then knit back and forth a few times. Whee! It feels a little magical to take yarn and turn it into something. Filled with confidence, I watch the video for purling. I watch it again. Then I continue knitting.

Because I’m not counting stitches, it takes me awhile to notice it is getting harder and harder to squeeze my little project onto the needles. But, even when I do notice (why won’t this stitch go on the needle?), I’m not sure what’s going wrong. But, I flail with the needles in a way that seems to stem the tide of extra stitches. I learn to cast off and survey the damage:

Hmmm… I’m pretty sure it’s supposed to have fewer corners.

And whatever I am doing at the ends is not pretty.

I’m going to try again with a narrower “scarf” and count the stitches this time.

Learning to knit, 25 years later

Beer, knitting

When I was a kid, my mom tried valiantly to teach me how to knit. Repeatedly. Then, when I was a college student we tried again. First grandchild? Again. Second grandchild? Once more into the breach.

Still nothing.

But, this time is going to be different.*

My friend and I are going to learn together… So here is the chronicle of our attempts and trying this one more time.

Oh, and my husband Redbeard and I brew beer. We certainly find it entertaining (especially when drinking beer is also involved) and so thought, what are two good things that go good together? Knitting. And beer. So, here we go.

*No, really.