The Craft of Knitting

Whenever I knit something new, or
think about all the projects that are still
on the "back-burner", the one thing I
never think about is where did this all
begin?

As of right now, it is thought that knitting
came along sometime in the late Middle
Ages, 1200-1500 A.D. It was brought
into Egypt by nomads, and from there,
carried into lower Europe by way of
Spain. Once there, knitting traveled all
over the European continent.

During the Renaissance, craft guilds were
all the rage, and knitting was established
as a true craft. After all, once the art of
spinning created yarn, then innovative
ways to use the yarn came along.

Different areas of Europe invented
different modes of knitting. The Fair
Isles, a group of islands north of Britain,
give us Fair Isle knitting, one which is
characteristic of knitting with many
colors, and changing colors frequently.

Intricate lace patterns are indicative of
France; fishing communities off the coast
of England gave us the Guernsey style.
Both of these types of knitting are quite
intricate, and the latter very colorful.

Of course, knitting found its way to our
world as well. During the Civil War, both
sides took to producing much needed
items for the soldiers. It was here that
knitting became linked to patriotism; a
link which has only grown stronger over
time.

Once the Industrial Revolution came
along, knitting machines were able to
produce what hand-knitters never could.

Yet, with all the modern innovations
which we live with, there is nothing
quite like settling in with needles, yarn,
and a good pattern. Add some friends,
a sprinkling of good conversation, and
the beautiful world of knitting, is a place
you could live in forever!

Nowadays, we have not only our families,
and friends to knit for. There are so many
needy causes and organizations out there just
looking for a little "hands-on" help.

The Old English definition of the word
"craft" tells us that the word meant
"strength". As we knitters well know,
in learning, enjoying, and passing on,
our beloved craft, therein lies knitting's
strength.

The Shakers certainly had it right when
they said, "Hands to work, hearts to God."

Happy Thanksgiving!

Hi all my knitting enthusiasts,


Even if you don't celebrate Thanksgiving, I do, and I am thankful for you!
I am just sending along my "Happy Thanksgiving" to everyone!

Here's to turkey, and pumpkin pie, and everything in-between! And keep a lookout for Friday's newsletter.

Here is a pretty pattern for a warm Fall scarf, I just thought I would pass along:
I think the golds and dark red are just perfect for this time of year. This scarf was knitted
with nothing more than knits, purls, yo's, and k2tog's. Easy to do, you can finish it in
days!




Here's the pattern:
Use worsted, wool or sport weight yarn.
With size 7 or larger (no larger than 10.5) needles,
CO 34 stitches.

Rows 1, 3, 5 and 7: (RS) K1, *(sl 1, k1, psso, yo) 4 times, k8; rep from * , end k1.
Rows 2, 4, 6 and 8: K1, * k8, p8 rep from *, end k1.
Rows 9, 11, 13, and 15: K1, *k8, (yo, k2tog) 4 times; rep from *, end k1.
Rows 10, 12, 14 and 16: K1, * p8, k8; rep from *, end k1.

Repeat rows 1 - 16 until desired length. BO.
I did 32 rows of each color and then switched to the alternate color. It is a very
pretty pattern, and looks great however you knit it!

Now, here's 3 cute little guys! (Or gals!) They were a hit at the craft fair, and I have these three left over. If anyone would like to buy, they are $15. each. They are cuter in person, and would make a wonderful gift for a little one!
Just email me at The Knit Stitch!







Have a happy Thanksgiving, and a great week!

Easy-As-Pie Knitting Gift Idea #4!

Without us even realizing it, November is quickly passing us by! If you are truly stumped as to what to give everyone this Christmas, fear not! I am here with some knitting suggestions.
In my three previous articles, I have given you some ideas for scarves, ribbon bracelets, and placemats. Just these simple patterns, can be transformed into dozens of one-of-a-kind knitting creations! In fact, you could outfit the entire family and close friends, with some of the nicest gifts they will ever receive!
And to add to our collection, this article will be about knitting baby washcloths. Usually, whenever we think about baby gifts, it is off to the mall we go, to find the latest in infant accessories.But, did you know, you can knit your own baby creations? They will be as soft and cuddly as anything you can find in a store, and, best of all, will be made with love!
Knitting baby items are just so easy to do, and so unexpected!Traditionally, when putting together gifts for baby, the first things you think about are layettes, blankets, and booties. So, now it is time to expand on this theme.
Whenever I knit anything for babies, I love the yarn to be soft and pliable. For washcloths, use a cotton yarn. They are totally washable, and will hold up nicely.
In a few stores, I have also seen terrycloth yarn, which is another great idea for baby items. But, for the baby washcloths that I knit up, the cotton yarn is the best yarn to use. Sugar n Cream, Peaches n Cream or Cotton Tots are my recommendations for the best cotton yarn to knit with.
Use a size 6 straight needle, and, really, no gauge is necessary. Here is the pattern:
Baby Washcloth
Cast on 37 stitches.
Knit four rows.
Rows 1 and 5 (RS): K5, *p3, k5; repeat from * to end.Rows 2 and 4 : P5, *k3, p5; repeat from * to end.Row 3: K5, *p1, yo, p2tog, k5; repeat from * to end.Row 6: Purl.Rows 7 and 11: K1, *p3, k5; repeat from * , end last repeat k1.Rows 8 and 10: P1, *k3, p5; repeat from * end last repeat p1.Row 9: K1, *p1, yo, p2tog, k5; repeat from * , end last repeat k1.Row 12: Purl.
Repeat these 12 rows 4 or 5 times more, until desired length.
Knit four rows. Bind off all stitches.
There you have it, simple, yet very unique, and sure to please! And, with all the colors and color combinations you will have a blast knitting baby washcloths for little nieces and nephews, your friends and all babies-in-waiting! Gifts such as these, are always appreciated, and combine them with baby bottles, rattles, toys, or receiving blankets, and you will have a winner every time!
Remember, we have one more 'easy-as-pie knitting gift' to go, and you will love it! 'Til next week, get knitting!

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Want to use this article in your e-zine or website? You can, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Online knitting entrepreneur, Alice Seidel, publishes the monthly newsletter, "Knit Stitch & Whimsy". If you want to take your knitting to the cutting-edge, get tips and techniques at The Knit Stitch.

One More Hour to Knit!

Well, here it is the end of October, and not only is the month almost done, but I am another year older. Birthdays are great, but they have a way of sneaking up on you, and surprising you with a number that you just can't believe! I'll say no more.....

Now, here is a pretty creation. I made this for my son & "daughter", Rob & Lisa, on the occasion of their wedding. It was easy enough, knitted in panels, and then sewn together. A simple pattern stitch to follow, a few cables and everyone will marvel!

One of my goals for 2007 is to put together a series of patterns--for afghans, for baby items, for special occasions, and for holidays throughout the year, that anyone can knit easily.

I do believe with all the sites online there is too much to see; there seems to be so much info that it becomes confusing, and "where do I begin?" is the only question that comes to mind.

There are a lot of easy patterns out there, so I will round them up and see what fits. Also, yarn information is important; what with all the different types of yarn and especially, all the varieties that are available, it can be downright mind-boggling trying to figure out what is best to knit with.

An example of a simple, but elegant pattern stitch is at the left. This consists of nothing more than 4 rows, with a "drop-stitch" on row 3. Instead of running out to the mall for another inane Christmas gift, which seems so tiresome after a while, learn to knit simple stitches like these for scarves, or belts, even hats. You could make a couple of panels and use them in an afghan, also. The more you look around, the more ideas will come to you.

Back to Christmas.....wouldn't it be marvelous, if we would stop spending so much money in the big stores, making them richer, so they can throw us minimum-wage jobs, and just learn to knit?! Why do we have to buy $3000. gifts for Christmas or any holiday? Cars with big red bows on them, sitting in the driveway; how stupid is this? Diamonds, which would set anybody back about a year's pay, too many of us feel obligated to purchase. We need to get back to basics in this country; back to morals, and values that make us proud.

One of the best, and most useful things we can do, is to work at a craft. Knitting as craft. That's where I'll pick up next time.

Happy Halloween, and don't stay out too late looking for the Great Pumpkin!

Something Out of the Blue

Time is just a-flyin' as usual. With all the soggy weather we have had of late, my most creative thoughts & whims have stagnated terribly.

In another couple of months I will be joining in a craft fair, (don't you just LOVE these!) at my church, St. Patrick's in Milford, PA. It will be on November 11, so if you are close by, please stop in. This will be my first craft fair at St. P's; we have not been parishioners that long, but I love to get involved in those things which are dear to my heart. And with Christmas on the way.....
ah!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Most of what I will have for sale are baby items: washcloths, bottle cozies, and a few hand-knit blankies. Also, some pocket scarves and ribbon bracelets. As much as I can get knitted, really! And you will also be able to pick up a real copy of my ebook, "Ready Or Knit...Here I Come!", which will be in bound form for the very reasonable price of $19.97. Of course, if you mention you found me on my blog, there is a 25% discount!

I wanted to post this thing, well, actually, a neck warmer or small scarf, if you will. I put a few patterns together, and am very happy with the outcome.

I knitted this up in a beautiful yarn, not too costly, called "Cool Crochet" (get out!) by Bernat. I used the Denim color, and I'm not too fond of denim in general, but they really should have named this color something else, as it does not look like denim at all!

It knitted up beautifully, and you can make it as long as you like. I thought it looked so pretty, something you saw on clothes from the Victorian era, so I named it my "Victorian scarf."

So, until next time, I will leave you with the pattern: Enjoy!

Victorian Scarf
Size 4 needles.
CO 30 sts.
Knit 1 row.
Row 1 (RS): K2, P3, K2, P3, K2, P3, K2, K11, yo twice, K2.
Row 2: K2, (K1, P1, K1, P1, K1) into "yo twice", P7, K4, P2, *K1, P1, K1, P2,
repeat from * to end.
Row 3: K2, P3, K2, P3, K2, P3, K2, K3, SSK, K13.
Row 4: K2, P11, K4, P2, *K1, P1, K1, P2, repeat from * to end.
Row 5: K2, P3, K2, P3, K2, P3, K2, K3, SSK, K5, (YO, K1) 5 times, YO, K2.
Row 6: K2, P16, K4, P2, *K1, P1, K1, P2, repeat from * to end.
Row 7: K2, P3, K2, P3, K2, P3, K2, K3, SSK, K17.
Row 8: K2, P15, K4, P2, *K1, P1, K1, P2, repeat from * to end.
Row 9: K2, P3, K2, P3, K2, P3, K2, K3, SSK, K3, (YO, K2tog) 6 times, K1.
Row 10: K2, P14, K4, P2, *K1, P1, K1, P2, repeat from * to end.
Row 11: K2, P3, K2, P3, K2, P3, K2 K3, SSK, K15.
Row 12: K2, P13, K4, P2, *K1, P1, K1, P2, repeat from * to end.
Row 13: K2, P3, K2, P3, K2, P3, K2 K3, SSK, (YO, K2 tog) 6 times, yo, K2.
Row 14: K 19, P2, *K1, P1, K1, P2, repeat from * to end
Row 15: K2, P3, K2, P3, K2, P3, K2, Knit to end.
Row 16: BO 6 sts., K12, P2, *K1, P1, K1, P2, repeat from * to end.

Knit rows 1 - 16 for 16 "points" or desired lengths. Bind off. Weave in the ends.

*5* Most Popular Knitting Stitch Types!

Welcome to the wonderful world of knitting! Even if you've been here for a while, there is always something new about this most fascinating craft!
Let me start by introducing you to the five stitch types that I believe are at the very heart of knitting!
Learning to knit, you know, is nothing more than learning different knitting stitch types.
Wherever I roam on the Web, many of the same questions arise. Over and over again, I come across forums and discussions with the same types of concerns.
In this article, I will attempt to explain some of the basic knitting stitches and everything they encompass.
I will talk about 'the knit stitch', 'the purl stitch', 'knit 2 together', 'yarn-over', and 'stockinette stitch'.
These five stitches, I believe, form the very foundation of knitting. Learn, and perfect, each one of these, and you will be well on your way to becoming an expert in knitting!
All other patterns emerge from these few stitches. So, let's begin!
'The Knit Stitch'. Have you ever looked at something knitted? I mean, really looked? If you have, you will see one side of the knitting looks different from the other.
Knitting follows structures. The knit stitch is formed by making loops which interweave with one another; one after another.
The knit stitch will resemble little "v" patterns when viewed from the knit side of a pattern.
To form a "knit stitch" you use one needle to pull a loop of yarn through the existing stitch on the other needle. (You can knit with more than two needles, but that's a discussion for another day.)
Holding both needles in your hands, insert the right needle, from"front to back" into the first stitch on the left needle.Keeping the yarn at the back, bring it "over" the tip of the needle, counterclockwise. Pull the yarn down, and catch it with the right needle.
Slip the "old" stitch off the left needle and you have a new stitch on the right needle! A knit stitch!
Sometimes, a pattern will say that the knit side is the right side or RS of your work. Other times, it will tell you it is the wrong side or WS.
Either way, it is good to know those two abbreviations.
'The Purl Stitch'. The purl stitch will resemble what looks like"brick-face" when viewed from the purl side of a pattern.
Unlike the knit stitch, with the purl stitch, you hold the yarn to the "front" of your knitting.
Insert the right needle from "back to front" into the first stitch on the left needle. With your right index finger, wrap yarn counterclockwise around and down the right needle.
Draw the right needle and yarn backwards through the "old"stitch. Slip off the old stitch. A new stitch forms. A purl stitch!
'Knit 2 Together.' Now, this is easy! Just knit two together! Insert the right needle into the second stitch from the tip of the left needle, making sure to "catch" the first stitch with it.
Bring your yarn over and up, then down, catch your yarn, slip the old stitches off, and you have a new stitch in their place.
You will have only one new stitch from two. Knitting two together is often used to decrease stitches or to create an open-work pattern.
'Yarn-over'. Adding a yarn-over, or YO, is also used when creating open-work designs. To do a yarn-over after a knit stitch, just bring your yarn across your work from the back to the front. Then, knit the next stitch.
You will see an extra "stitch" on the row. When you come to that stitch in your next row of knitting, it will not look anchored like the others. That's because you put it there, all of itself.
Knit it like you would knit any stitch. As you go, you will see that yarn-overs create "holes" or openwork designs in yourknitting.
'Stockinette Stitch'. This stitch is knitting's most common. All it consists of is knitting one row, then purling the next, and so on, and so on.
The stockinette stitch is exactly where every knitter should begin. And stick with until you know your stitches well!
So there you have it! *5* most popular knitting stitch types!
Get knitting!

For more info on knitting, (and purling, knitting 2 tog., yarn-overs, and stockinette stitches) plus a whole lot more, just click on over to The Knit Stitch! See you there.

Knitting Is All In Your Head!

What, you say? In my head?! I am up to my elbows in eyelash yarn,
I can't find my place in the row, and my knitting needles are about to
duel with each other!
How then, can knitting be all in my head?
Onguard! Listen up!
If you are new to knitting, or have been away from this wondrous craft
for a while, there is a TON of information out there to learn!
Now, before you say "arghhhhh!!", let me explain.
If you 're like me, you love visiting craft stores.
I am truly in seventh heaven whilst meandering from aisle
to aisle in my local yarn shop or craft store.
Of course, once I come to the knitting aisles, I'm really bedazzled!
Once, a long time ago, there wasn't much to see, knitwise, in stores.
Nowadays, your head spins. Row upon row of yarn: wool, arylic, fun fur,
cotton, eyelash, ribbon, chenille, linen, boucle, silk, polyester, mohair,
and a whole host of others, can look positivelybeguiling, yet leave you
perfectly befuddled.
Usually, not far off are how-to books, knitting magazines, even video's
that all promise you will be knitting effortlessly in notime at all!
Wrong!
Like piano playing or violin lessons, knitting is a skill.
If you practice your skill, no matter what it is, you will become better at it;
it's just a fact of life!
You, yes you, have to do the work. If you have a sister, or a mother who loves to knit,
and you marvel at the beautiful afghans, or sweaters that seem to fall off their knitting needles, just remember:
It took a lot of practice to get there!
If you exercise every day, run 5 miles, jog around town, love going to
the gym, you know what I'm talking about!
There's commitment there! Perserverance, stamina when you feel like
quitting, going anyway when you're not in the mood. And why?
Because you love it! Because it makes you feel better, look good, stay healthy.
You can come up with a hundred reasons why you do the things you love.
You probably didn't always love them, either. Over time, they became important
to you; "grew" on you, if you will, but were actions that produced results.
And those results made you feel good.
Over the years, I've worn many hats, daughter, wife,mother, aunt, student, graduate student, patient, administrative assistant, customer service rep,
receptionist, co-worker, innkeeper, ebiz developer, friend, and many others.
And I've learned to do most things well. But, there are a few things I do very well. Exceptionally so. When I was 15, even 25, these were things not even on my radar screen.
One of these "things" is knitting.
It started for me like it does for most everyone else. As a hobby; something different to learn, something unique.
Then, it turned into something else. It evolved into a fascination with stitches, and color, and creating. In time, fascination gave way to passion.
Passion is where something lives in your very being. Where, little by little,
you realize that you really do know more, so much more, than most about a particular subject. And all you want to do is to make it come alive for others, the way it has come
alive for yourself.
That's usually where we all run into the veritable brick wall.
Nothing stops us like inaction. Halted in place, we really don't know what to do next,
or how to proceed.
It's not unusual. It's the same for you and for me. We all live with the same challenges, the same fears, the same facts of life.
It is what each of us does with that information, that makes all the difference.
If you're really passionate about knitting, then visit mywebsite, http://www.theknitstitch.com, sign up for my newsletter or buy my ebook. You can learn so much!
And before I go, let me introduce you to an acquaintance of mine.
His name is Jim Edwards, and if you've never heard of him, let me be the first one to send you his way.
He has something terrific to say about life's challenges! It's about getting rid of your mental blocks, and if you'd like to read more about it, then hop on over to http://www.IGottaTellYou.com/what-holds-you-back.pdf
So, if you want to learn to knit, or to do anything else well,
just remember,
it's all in your head!

"Knit-finity"

As summer wanes, I love to muse on all things knitting. We live in such an uproarious world; days come and go with little of anything harmonious fitting into the hours.
We all need, we all crave our own special space, our own little nook, somewhere just for us. And that's ok. Often we need to re-charge ourselves, plug into life's energizing chords, to get ourselves going again.
Think how time has changed. Where once it took weeks to traverse from one city to another, now we do it in just hours. The"calm"in our lives is always waiting in the wings; only rarely do we bring it out to sit center-stage.
There is a reason baseball is such a long game; back in its heyday there was nothing more sublime than to bask in the aura of a well-played game with friends and family. If it took all afternoon, that was a good thing.
Look at the old homes in your town, and most of them are favored with front porches. Lovely to look at, and the place to gather with others to recoup the days' graces and to recount all its pleasures.
Letter writing was once the art of the day. Being as important, long ago, as email is to us now, we think of writing letters as time-comsuming. But, in the days before television, radio, and cars, time needed to be filled up with worthy endeavors.
Life may not have been as modern as today, but it had other resources many of which we are re-discovering in a new century.
Even the Bible tells us that we should "aspire to live quietly, to mind your own affairs, and to work with your hands".
Myriad gifts pass through our lives; knitting is mine. It puts me in mind of great cathedrals; they all began with the laying of one stone. So my precious creations begin with one stitch. Foundations are what we make them.
Once learned, knitting is a cherished talent; one used to create for yourself, for your loved ones, your dear friends, even those you don't know and will never meet.
Never again will you look at store-bought apparel in the same way! When special occasions drift through your life, you will be ready with your own memorable masterpieces.
Knitting brings inspiration; in the inimitable words ofAndy Griffith it's "just pure gala!"
If you need space and time in your life to gather in your very self, then learn knitting. As the yarn passes through your fingers, youwill recognize it as your own very special gift to the world.
Knitting is its own distinctive prayer and meditation; crafted by you. As you go, there is so much to knit! So many people to help, and all your handiwork given with your unique mark upon it.
I once read in a magazine that "to live with history is a rare thing. It's thrilling to know how things are put together and why they survive."
All knitters instinctively know the way to peace. It is more than turning off the TV or turning down the music; it's in picking up your knitting needles.
Solace awaits; blessings abound. Go knit, so you can knit into knit-finity.


Keep YOUR knitting on the "Cutting Edge" with FREE patterns. The place where smart knitters gather resourcesand share stories. FREE Details ==>http://www.theknitstitch.com

5 Best Reasons To Knit!

It's early August, and I can almost hear sleigh bells.Can't you? Don't look now, but summer is on the wane! Without even knowing it, the days are growing shorter,already! Cool breezes are blowing and some foliage is actually going away.
But wait! There is a solution....instead of gettingdepressed, you need to do something. Like take up a hobby.
I can't think of anything better than learning to knit!
I don't care about all those other crafts and DIY projects;learn knitting and you can kiss those paintballs goodbye!
If you don't believe me, then let me give you *5* goodreasons why:
#1 You can feel just like a knitting apprentice! Afterall, in centuries past an apprentice was someone learning a craft,and if you are new to knitting, then you're an apprentice! Eventhe Donald couldn't argue with that!
With knitting, there is a TON of information, and no matterhow often you knit, or how much you think you know, there is alwayssomething new.
And that's good, because you never want to run out of ideas.
#2 Years ago there was a TV commercial for "Shake N Bake",which featured a little girl in the kitchen with Mom, and all shesaid was "Shake n Bake...and I helped".
Now, I know that has nothing to do with knitting. However,the best part of that, is when a friend asks you where youbought your pretty little purse, or new scarf, you can say,"I knitted it myself."
Old commercial, same premise. Take it from me, when youknit-it-yourself, it feels good!
#3 The Four Seasons. Knitting is strictly non-committal. It doesn't care what month it is or what holiday isapproaching, there is always something fun to knit.
Halloween, autumn, Independence Day, Valentine's Day,graduations, weddings, take-your-dog-to-work-day, christenings,Christmas, you name the day, and there is a knitting patternout there for it!
Your knitting creations are always one-of-a-kind, not to beseen in any store or mall. So, when you're knitting thatChristmas stocking on the train home from work, you neverknow who you will be inspiring next.
#4 Unless you have been living under a rock or way outpast left field, you know how expensive gasoline is getting!Daily, the price goes higher.
So, instead of getting in your gas-guzzling vehicle, andcruising around town, to no avail, take up knitting. Get aneighborhood group together, or start a club in your dorm or condo.
Buy some cheapy yarn, and needles, and download my ebook, "Ready Or Knit, Here I Come!" from [www.TheKnitStitch.com]and you will be amazed at the fun to be had!
#5 Knitting is good for you! We all live very stressfullives.
If it's not one thing, it's the other; and every-day lifecan be tough. Sometimes a bubble bath, or mood music just doesn'tcut it.
Knitting can help. The mere click of the needles issoothing music.
Knitting one row, then another, creating stitches, patterns,projects, and seeing it all come together makes for satisfactionindeed.
It doesn't all happen at once. Many projects take weeks,and months to complete, if you want to do them right.
But, that's the essence of knitting.
Working with your hands, you are creating something rightfrom the first stitch. You watch it come to life as you go, andlittle by little, your knitting becomes reality.
Exercise is great, yet, doing something for your soul, isjust as important.
So, if you want to slow down, and find meaning in your lifeagain, try knitting.
So, there you have it, 5 best reason to knit!
But, don't take my word for it, try it for yourself!
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Knitting's Top *10* Abbreviations!

Doesn't it seem that everywhere you look, there is anotherTop Tenlist?
Just turn on your TV, and there goes Jennifer Aniston, orBrad Pitt, and, even people like Marilyn Monroe, still seen posing onthe redcarpet, always being talked about as in the Top Ten!
Food shows, home shows, boat shows, MTV, Letterman, you nameit,everyone has a Top Ten list!
So, for the record, let there be a Top Ten for knitting,too!
Knitting has scads of abbreviations, so many in fact, youcan loseyourself in the art of initialism.
Some abbreviations are used so seldom as to be almostunknown, "won",for instance, means "wool over needle", which I have neverseenbefore!
Any time you are working with a knitting pattern, theseabbreviationsare sure to be there. Now, you will know what they mean!
So, take heart! The most important ones are as follows:
(and for good reason, as you will shortly find out --)
#10 -- sl - means "slip". As in slip the next stitchfrom the left needle to the right. You do not see this abbreviationtoo much, but, if you are working in a lacy pattern, it will bethere.Also, any time a pattern calls for variations, "sl" can beoneof the abbreviations used.
#9 -- beg - means "beginning". Usually when determininglength,you will see this used. Most patterns have you measuringlength fromthe beginning, but, some patterns measure from other areassuch as ribbing, or shoulder, or neck.
#8 -- RS - and no those aren't my husband's initials,(well, notin this guise, anyway). RS = right side. It is extremelyvital toalways be aware of what side you are knitting on; especiallywhencable stitches or other specialty stitches are being used.
#7 -- St st - now, doesn't that look redundant!Actually, itstands for Stockinette stitch, which is the signature stitchofknitting! When you knit one row, then purl the next, and dothosetwo rows over and over, you are knitting the Stockinettestitch.
#6 -- K2tog - means "knit 2 together." You may bedecreasingstitches on a row, or making "holes", so to speak; whateverit is,k2tog will help get the job done. Holes, in knitting, makeyourwork take on an openwork look, or a lace design.
#5 -- YO - means to "yarn over." Again, when knittinglacy patterns which call for an openwork design, the YO is front-pagestuff! In fact, YO is the very essence of openwork design.
#4 -- BO - means to "bind off." Once in a while youwill see it as "cast off"; they both mean the same thing. When youare finished with your knitting, you will BO all thestitches onthe needle and begin your finishing techniques.
#3 -- CO - means to "cast on." This is your foundationrow, where you begin your knitting. Any time you begin a newsegmentto your knitting project, you will always start with CO.
#2 -- P - is for purl. The purl stitch is, of course,"knitted"into the front of your needle, and the yarn is also held tothefront. Some beginners find the purl stitch a little hardertowork than the knit stitch. With practice, the purl stitchis a breeze!
#1 -- K - is for knit. The knit stitch is what it's allabout!A simple stitch into the back of the needle, combined withother stitch variations will make the most divine creations underthe sun! Knitting every row gives you what is called the garterstitch, not be mistaken with that harmless, backyard snake!
So, there you have it!
These Top Ten knitting abbreviations only make up the mostcommon,and popular abbreviations. Knitting has lots more wherethey comefrom!
Until next time, ready, set, knit!

Knitting Trends - Part 2

Here is my article on "Learn Knitting's *6* Yarn Secrets" --
There is nothing like a good yarn, so the story goes! All jokes aside, learning any skill or craft takes time, time you should be devoting to finding out all about it.
To learn knitting is no different. Just getting the hang of holding both needles at once, or working with a cable needle, or just perfecting your knit stitch and purl stitch, can take a long time. And that’s ok; nobody said you have to know it all immediately.
Along the way, however, it is fun to delve into all the secondary ideas and information. Knowing just a little bit about yarn can go a long way!
This article will walk you through *6* yarn secrets; intrigues for even the "craftiest" of knitters.
Secret #1: Always know what you are knitting with! This may sound too simple to be true, but you would be surprised.
Most projects will be knit with "classic" yarns. These are worsted or sport weight, wool, and cotton. All the rest are merely variations on a theme.
If you have a hankering for something fun fur or ribbon-y, eyelash, or wispy lace; save that thought until you know knitting well!!
Secret #2: When buying yarn, always buy by yardage, and not by weight. This is one I didn’t even know when first starting out!
Yarns, like people, are of different weights; they can vary all over the place. But, it is the length that is important with each skein; it should be clearly marked and if it is not, then ask for that information.
Secret #3: Always, always, buy enough yarn at one time, for your knitting project! Do not expect to go back to the store two months from now and find the exact color yarn you bought initially.
Yarns are dyed in lots, and when a yarn store runs out of a particular color, they will order it again; but, the dye lot will be different and the subtlety in the color will be very apparent; take my word for it!
So, if you want that pink sweater to look uniformly pink, just buy the yarn, all the yarn!
And check to see that all the "lot #’s" are the same. And, I will always buy that extra skein, and have never been disappointed.
Secret #4: Don’t know what to do with all those odd-balls? (And I’m not talking about your relatives, now.)
Well, let’s see, you could knit a few placemats, baby washcloths, mittens, coasters, bookmarks, Christmas ornaments, sachets, doll clothes, knitted pins or fancy little handbags, buttons, flowers, tea cozies, table runners, fluffy wristbands (little girls love these!), a cat collar or dog sweater, a scarf or afghan jumble, and if you can think up anything else, knit away!
Secret #5: Get organized! This is one of my best-kept secrets. Only, not anymore.
Record all of your knitting projects. A simple spreadsheet, or word processor, will do the trick.
Save your labels! This way, when you are finished with your knitting, you can input all the necessary information in order to knit it again, or pass it along to a fellow knitter!
There are even software programs available now, like Needle Trax, to help you keep all your knitting projects organized with simple point and click technology.
Secret #6: A true knitter, like any good craftster, always has too much of everything, and not enough space to hold it all!
Thank goodness for plastic, I always knew there was a purpose for it. Storage bins come in many varieties, so visit your local shops or even eBay for the best prices around.
Once you have enough storage bins available, then you can sort to your hearts’ content! And you will love feeling so harmonious!
Harmony begets creativity every time; so with these *6* yarn secrets, there is no excuse anymore for not being your knitting best.
May your knitting basket always be full!

Knitting Trends - Part 1

Can you believe it's almost the middle of the month? July!!!!! What is going on here? Time seems to be running away!! And before it does, let me tell you about some interesting facts where knitting is concerned.
Did you know that knitting has become very trendy, very fashionable, very Hot-t-t-t again? The history of knitting goes back a long, long way and I won't bore you with the facts & figures today, BUT, there is a wonderful history to knitting that we should all take advantage of; in fact, that topic is one I will definitely be keeping for another day!
Yarns, of course, have become so diverse and colorful; and in some cases, very expensive. If, you have never walked into a true yarn store, set aside a Saturday with your best friends or sisters, daughters, and go! You will be amazed at all you see! A veritable feast for the eyes! And make sure you take along your checkbook or credit cards because yarns are pricey. But, worth it!
When I lived in New Hampshire, I visited Harrisville, which is in the southwest corner of the state; it is an absolute treasure of a town. It looks exactly as it did in the 1850's, and that is how the townspeople want it! Harrisville Designs is housed in an old brick mill and you can spend hours browsing through all the yarns and weaving and knitting supplies they have there. It is not unusual to pick up a yarn, hand-dyed, of the most luxorious fiber, and read the price of $69. off the price tag. Many yarns are less, and some are even more; but if you are really knitting an item that is truly special to you, your money will be well spent. In fact, I can't think of much else that would qualify for spending your well-earned money that way! When you are finished with your project, it will be one-of-a-kind, for sure! For more information about Harrisville, just visit them at www.Harrisville.com
Next post, I will give you some pointers as to what yarns are good for which knitting projects, which knitting yarns you should buy, and why, and why knitting is good for the guys as well!
After all, if Cary Grant can knit, why not every other man, too? If you don't believe me, just take a look at "Mr. Lucky" from the year 1943! And if ever there was a man, it was Cary Grant! So why not Bode Miller or Johnny Depp or your husband or brother or son? Hey, it's a heck of a lot cheaper then online poker!!
Til next time, keep on knitting or learn to knit at www.TheKnitStitch.com

Free Knitting Patterns!

Did you know that you can go to my website, www.TheKnitStitch.com and get a hold of 10 FREE knitting patterns? They are a mixed bag, really, but have some of the newest yarns and patterns I could find. These knitting patterns are all so easy to knit, so have fun creating new, fun items.
Right now, it looks to me as if some of the eyelash, fluffy, or ribbon yarn is really hot! Ribbon yarn is very easy to use, so if you haven't used these before, try the ribbon yarn first. Any simple scarf pattern, or any knitting pattern at all, can be worked up in ribbon yarn and look fantastic. Try knitting simple wristlets for the little girls in your family; kids love these quirky little items. The fuzzier, and more colorful, the better! Or a simple hat or cap for the boys is always a hit as well!
By just incorporating a few new knitting techniques -- why, you can become a regular knitting factory! I could say knitting machine, but I don't like to be compared to robotical instruments, and I don't think you do either!
Tell me what you think!

Happy Birthday Paul!

"Will you still need me, will you still feed me, -
when I'm 64"
As an eternal Paul McCartney fan, I cannot believe the day has come! Paul is really what he sings about. He was so cute way back then, and he is still so cute in 2006!

All these years, for all of us, marriages, children, homes, events, deaths, births, music, knitting.
And right there in the song what does he say, "You can knit a sweater by the fireside, Sunday mornings go for a ride."
Nothing better than to sit by a fireside, knitting.

Creating lyrics, scarves, melodies, afghans; it's all the same, really, just a variation on the theme of life. We are what we weave into our hearts; we leave here those strands, to be picked up by others and continued. That's life.

You remember the line, "You'll be older, too. Aaah, and if you say the word, I could stay with you." And the Beatles, and Wings, and Paul, have always been there for us.

It has been one of the blessings of my life, that I have walked the years with Paul McCartney and his music. Happy Birthday Paul and many more!

5 Steps To Becoming A Knitter!

So, you’re sitting on the bus home from work, or
maybe the ferry, or the train, just fascinated with the
young woman across from you working on her knitting. The
color purple, needles flying away, it looks so complicated,
but so beautiful! You’re intrigued, and you’re
thinking....I wish I knew how to do that!
Well, you can learn knitting if you wish. Let
me be your fairy godmother! I can grant your knitting
wish, without so much as waving a magic wand! But, if you
insist, just imagine that silvery scepter and a bit of
abracadabra twirling over your head, infusing you with all
kinds of knitting secrets!
The 5 Easy Steps To Becoming A Knitter are as
follows:
1) You need to get motivated! Think back to
the first time you learned to ride a bicycle. Maybe you
used training wheels for a while, or your mom or dad just
hung on the side until you were ready to go it alone. But,
there came a time when you knew...this is it! And away you
went, solo, for the first time! You were scared, sure, but
you were also absolutely determined to see it through
without landing on the ground! You were motivated!
That same feeling is present in everything we do.
The degree of intensity is the only difference. If you
really want to learn to knit, or do anything else for that
matter, something inside will be nagging at you to find out
more.
Pick up a knitting magazine and find the simplest
pattern there, or go online to a few of the better pattern
sites. Choose a simple scarf, block afghan, purse, or vest
to start with.
2) Put time aside. You do for everything else,
don’t you? You always have that extra hour for “American
Idol” or “CSI”, so you need to put time aside for knitting,
too. Of course, once it becomes second nature to you,
knitting goes just great with TV or picnics, or train
rides, or whatever. If you can find time to shop at the
mall three times this week, and you really want to learn
knitting, you will find the time!
3) Are you willing to learn new skills? Now
that’s a silly question, because we all learn new skills
all the time, only we don’t pay it much attention. If you
work for a living or take classes, or mind babies, or run
your own company, then you have your own special set of
skills. The best part here is that you can fill up on as
many new skills as you like and never have to worry about
calories! Unlike school, there is no homework either!
4) Are you willing to make mistakes? If you’re
not, don’t try knitting! Don’t try anything new, as a
matter of fact! If you think about it, everything you have
ever done in your life you made mistakes at. Learning to
walk, talk, use a cellphone, drive a car, take a test,
speak a foreign language, drive out-of-state, be a parent,
or be a child, mistakes are all around us! That’s how we
learn. So, take a chance on you! You will be pleasantly
surprised!
5) Pick up a simple knitting guide to help you
learn best! I can’t think of one better than my own, of
course, “Ready Or Knit...Here I Come!” which can be found
at my website, www.TheKnitStitch.com. This guide will
walk you through all you need to know about learning to
knit, complete with patterns, information on yarns, accessories,
and lots of helpful tips to get you going!
So, remember, if you really, really, really, want
to learn knitting, follow these 5 simple steps and the next
time you are on your way home on that bus, ferry or train,
it will be your purple (or red or yellow) yarn, and your
needles flying, and I can just bet you this: there will be
someone watching saying, “I wish I knew how to do that!”

Easy Knitting For Summer!

Now that we are a few weeks from summer, and thanks to my son for being born on the first day of that season, so I don't have to wonder when it starts, here are a few easy patterns for the warm weather. Nothing heavy sitting in your lap on those 90+ degree days, just fun, easy stuff that you can take anywhere at all. No excuses for sitting there with idle hands!

So, the next time you're stuck in that shore traffic, break out the knitting!

These little bracelets are knitted up in no time using any of the many fun yarns you can find in any yarn store or department. I used a size 4 and 5 needle, cast on about 9 stitches and knitted every row. Make it to fit little wrists or larger wrist, it's up to you!

The top picture was done using Lion Brand "Fancy Fur" and the bracelets below that were knitted with Lion Brand "Incredible" ribbon yarn. Both yarns are so easy to knit with; when finished, just sew the seam and you're done!

It's not too early to be thinking about Christmas and the other December holidays. Or how about birthday parties, or pool parties, or camp-outs, or for no reason at all?

Blowing In The Wind

It goes without saying, or should, that learning to knit is as simple or as complicated as you want it to be. Stitches can be simple or maddingly convoluted; just as picking out which pattern to knit can also be a chore, if you let it. Needles and accessories can drive you crazy if you let them; but don't let them. Keep everything as simple as you can; that's the only secret to doing anything well.

Then there is the subject of yarn. If you've ever tried to untangle yourself from a completely twisted skein of the stuff, then you know what I'm talking about. Some yarn, like some people, is difficult indeed. Try to follow your way out of one of those yarn mazes, and you'll have better success losing your mind! Bent, crisscross, tangled, contorted; these words don't give the whole endeavor justice. If you're familiar with Larry David's "stop and chat", then you know the only thing left to do is to "stop and snip". Unless you have the next week, uninterrupted, to devote to such inanity! I don't usually give it 5 minutes.

I work too hard on my knitting to keep anything from letting me get to the finish line. Opportunities abound every day to just keep knitting! You can be in your home or your car; sitting in traffic lines with no where to go; isn't that a little like purgatory? Sometimes the radio helps, sometimes it just makes things worse. So bring your knitting and never let anything stop you again!

With May slowing rolling to a close hurricane season is on the horizon. According to the National Hurricane Center, there could be another active season to look forward to. But, take it as a challenge and don't let it get you down!! Be prepared as best you can, and if you must leave home for a while, don't forget your knitting! Nothing soothes the soul better than listening to the calming click of your knitting needles. Maybe that's why women through the centuries chose to keep knitting when the necessity for it had actually passed; they knew something about life, that sometimes we forget. Sanity can be found in the simplest things; knitting is simple.

Next week, be sure to check out my brand new article on yarns; how they differ, how they are alike, which one is best to use for different projects. It will be posted at my website, The Knit Stitch.com

That's it for now -- tell me what you think!

Oprah, Cakes, and Chels

Mmmmmmmmmmmm-mmmmmm!!

Have you taken a peek at the luscious cakes that Oprah is revealing on her show this week? Have you ever seen more beautiful confections than those T-cakes, red velvet cakes or cinnamon raisin scones? Sweet potato pie, anyone? I'm hungry just thinking about it!

You know, it reminds me of looking at knitting yarns. The colors of yarns today are simply gorgeous! The textures, too, are something to see. So many different types of yarn; looking at them you would think they are impossible to knit with. The ribbon yarns are some of my favorites; easy to use, and they look much more complicated when knitted up then they really are. You can definitely fool everyone, where your knitting prowess is concerned, with ribbon yarn!

The cutie staring at you up above is none other than my little cupcake, Chelsea! Isn't she just a calendar dog? She's almost 11 years old!! She loves to smile for the camera, too!!

Of all the items I've been knitting over the years, I've yet to knit Chels anything! But, why cover up beauty?! Her spots are just right and her red flea collar is all she needs. Dog patterns abound on the Web, so be sure to find yourself some. A good place to start is Knitting Patterns Central.
You could spend all day browsing through....................................................

And when you are ready for bed just jump into your jammies and be comfortable!



And keep knitting! Later!

Monday Musings

Tell me ..... what do Patrick Kennedy, Donald Rumsfeld and Tony Blair have in common? No, don't tell me they're all men, famous in their own ways, or even that two of them are American and one is not. There is something they don't do. (At least I don't think they do.)

Give up? It's K-N-I-T!! They don't know how to knit! Maybe their wives know, but they never learned. Could be, that's what's wrong with the world. Too many men don't knit. They'd rather play with guns.

The reason I bring this up is because knowing a craft is so satisfying. It takes us right back to our essence; creating something with our hands, which wasn't there before, and has been solely thought up by us. It can even sound a little scary when put that way! But, that's what makes knitters so nice!

They know their own minds. We know full well what we are made of. We've learned a craft; practised it to the point where we have become very good at it, and hopefully, share it with others. Knitting, like any craft, takes time. Usually a scarf or a sweater, or an afghan or baby item, placemats, shrugs, or ornaments are not knitted in one sitting. More like a month of sittings, if we find the time. Yet, with each passing day, a little more has been done; another section of rows completed; an arm, or another square knitted off. We keep on going until we can finally put the needles down and either sew things together or put on the finishing touches.

Then, we step back and admire! We've created something! Simple yarn and needles, with simple instructions, we did it! And it looks so complicated, that's the fun part; that we can knit it so well, that it looks so hard-d-d-d-d!!!! But, it's easy, so easy anyone can do it!

Even Patrick Kennedy, Donald Rumsfeld and Tony Blair!
What do you think?

Out of Gas? -- Try Knitting!

I can remember growing up. Almost no one I knew knitted. My grandmother crocheted, and if I asked her once, I asked her one hundred times to teach me how to crochet. She would patiently show me the basic stitches, but I could never get the hang of how to crochet!

Finally, I just gave up. Then in high school, I found a great little, green book on learning to knit. And I taught myself. Back then, of course, my best girlfriend knitted as did her mother and younger sister. So we would always be exchanging how-to's and advice, but once I moved out of that circle I was all alone in a knit-less world.

That's why it's so inspiring to see so many newbies knitting! And one of them can be you!

Everyone should learn to knit! It doesn't matter if you are 12 years old or 12 years past sixty. Learn to knit! I can't begin to tell you what fun it is, what benefit to your stress levels you can gain, how portable it is, how many items you can create with the simplest of stitches!

If you need a helping hand, try my ebook, "Ready Or Knit,... Here I Come!" -- you can find it at http://www.theknitstitch.com

Let's start a whole new mind-set in 2006. Instead of hopping in our vehicles, wasting gas (not to mention mileage), plop down in an easy chair with your friends and start knitting! I can't think of anything nicer, more relaxing, more of what we're here for, than to create with our hands in the company of friends or family!

You know, there is always something or someone to buy a gift for. We all have birthdays, graduations, holidays, weddings, babys, picnics, celebrations, anniversaries, happenings, new pets, new homes, and just no occasions at all, to be buying gifts for.

Home-made is nicest of all. Years ago, that word sounded cheap, tacky, like you didn't have enough money, so you made something yourself. But, if you get really good at knitting, your family and friends will want your "home-made" stuff. And they won't be able to get enough of it!

So, who cares, if you are 15 or 50, or if your name is Stephanie or Stephen, just learn to knit!

You'll be glad you did!

Mother's Day musings

I cannot believe that April is almost a memory. Seems as if a month just starts and it's almost over.
This year as we come to the month of May it has an extra-special significance for me. It will be my first Mother's Day without my mom, and the first anniversary of her death is at the end of May. To think we have travelled almost an entire year away from that point is remarkable indeed. So many hours and days have been spun into our lives, so many weeks have been woven into our beings. And on it goes.
To mark special remembrances, especially Mother's Day, do something really special for your mom. I can't think of anything more special than something handmade by you. The care and the time you take will be well worth it when you see the look on her face when she opens your gift.
Above is a wonderful scarf pattern, which I devised, and which doesn't take long to knit at all!
After you knit Part A, be sure to pull down on those stitches; it will make them come to life. That's the secret to knitting "dropped stitches" - you need to adjust those rows just a little.

Loving Lace Scarf
2 skeins of a soft worsted-weight yarn
(ex. - Red Heart TLC)
Size 7 straight needles

CO 36 stitches.
Part A:
Rows 1 and 2: Knit.
Row 3: (RS) K6, *yo twice, k1, yo 3 times, k1, yo 4 times, k1,
yo 3 times, k1, yo twice, k6; repeat from * to end.
Row 4: Knit, dropping all the yo's off the needle.
Rows 5 and 6: Knit.
Row 7: K1, *yo twice, k1, yo 3 times, k1, yo 4 times, k1,
yo 3 times, k1, yo twice, k6; repeat from * to end.
Row 8: Repeat row 4.
Repeat these 8 rows, twice more; work will be approx. 5" long.
Pattern changes to a zig-zag pattern.
Part B:
Row 1: (RS) K3 *K2, p3, k2tog, yo, k3; repeat from * to last 3 sts, K3.
Row 2 and all WS rows: K3, p30, k3.
Row 3: K3 *K1, p3, k2tog, yo, k4; repeat from * to last 3 sts, K3.
Row 5: K3, *p3, k2tog, yo, k5; repeat from * to last 3 sts, K3.
Row 7: K3, *k3, yo, ssk, p3, k2; repeat from * to last 3 sts. K3.
Row 9: K3, *k4, yo, ssk, p3, k1; repeat from * to last 3 sts, K3.
Row 11: K3, *k5, yo, ssk, p3; repeat from * to last 3 sts, K3.
Row 12: K3, p30, k3.
Repeat these 12 rows until scarf measures 50" from beginning.
Repeat Part A for another 5".
BO all stitches.
No need for fringe because of intricacy of pattern itself.

This scarf can be knitted in a weekend or 3-4 evenings. It's very pretty, so make an extra for yourself.
Please tell me about your own Mother's Day musings.

Charity websites For You

What a beautiful day! Sunny, dry, and about 70 degrees. All the ornamental trees and shrubs look so pretty, which puts me in mind of Mother's Day which isn't too far away.

As promised, if you go to http://www.theknitstitch.com/charity.htm you will find some
terrific sites all dedicated to helping those in need. Please be generous with your time and projects for there are so many worthy causes.

Next week I'm bringing you a few unique patterns for Mother's Day gifts. Especially things for remembrance. This is my first Mother's Day without my own beloved mother. There are times I would give anything just to hear the sound of her voice again. I am grateful for my memories though, and for my own children, who have been the center of my heart for many years now!

So let me go look through my treasure trove of knitting "stuff" for patterns dear to my heart!

*7* Surefire Strategies to Get You Knitting!

Hope everyone had a great holiday weekend; and there it goes.....
If you are new to knitting or an ol' pro, there are times when we could all do with a helping hand...
The following are 7 surefire ways to get you knitting in no time!
1) Overcome Your Fear! Yes, fear. Ah, you say, what does fear have to do with knitting?
Maybe nothing. On the other hand, maybe everything. If you are the type of personality who just likes to get in there every time and get your hands dirty, then fear is probably not that big a deal for you.
If you're like me, whenever you start a new project, your tendency will be to want everything about it to be perfect. Guess what? Nothing is ever perfect.
That isn't to say, whenever you do something it looks a mess. Quite the contrary. You take time to see to it that whatever you do, you do your best. That usually doesn't have anything to do with being perfect. After all, if we were all perfect, why would we need to strive better to do anything at all? There would just be no need!
You should recognize within yourself, that “perfect” has no place in your life. Anything worth doing will present mistakes and errors all along the way. How else do we ever learn anything?
2)Calling All Procrastinators! We all put things off, it's just human nature. If we are new to a project, a job, or even a relationship, we think going slow, or hardly moving, is the best route to take.
Well, here's news. It never is. You need to TAKE ACTION and take it now!
Open that knitting magazine to the instruction page, and start reading. It's that simple. Follow the instructions and you will begin to learn how to knit! But, you have to do it, now, (!) and just go forward.
3)Know Your Tools. Beginning knitting is simple, indeed. All you need are a pair of knitting needles. I recommend the metal or bamboo type as they are the easiest to work with. Make sure your needles are the straight version, NOT the circular needles.
Your knitting needles should be size 8, 8-1/2, or 9, preferably. Not too small, and not too big will help you learn faster.
Yarn comes in infinitesimal varieties. Why, you might walk into a yarn shop and never come out, there is such an array of yarn to choose from.
Again, be simple. Choose a worsted-weight yarn. Look on the label which is on each skein of yarn for the words “worsted weight”. Not sport-weight, not fun fur, not chunky or bulky, not cotton, or chenille. Just stick with the worsted weight. And, here's good news, you can choose whichever color you like! There are too many to list here.
4)Learn The Basic Basics Start learning to knit the easy way. Learn how to cast on, learn the knit stitch, learn the purl stitch, and learn how to bind off. That's it!
Do not over complicate your life when learning anything new. Stick to the basics and you will never go wrong!
5)Be Consistent I've been married more than 30 years. That is a long time. It hasn't always been a bed of roses, nor has it ever been awful. But there are always the slow times, the rough times, the nothing-seems-to-be-going-right times. With practice, I and my husband have learned what it takes to be happily married. And we have let all the rest go by.
The same goes for learning to knit. Keep it simple, be consistent, practice, practice, practice!! And no, practice doesn't make perfect; but you will come close.
6)Knitting Is Good For You! I'll bet you didn't know that! But did you know this?!
There is scientific evidence that shows the benefits that come from picking up a pair of knitting needles and creating a knitted sensation. Knitting brings about serenity; it helps to synchronize the left and right sides of the brain; knitting brings one closer to a meditative state. The gentle clicking and clacking of the needles brings about a soothing rhythm.
This soothing rhythm leads to more harmonious blood flow and lowered blood pressure. Our minds and bodies are connected; but your grandmother could have told you that!
7) Do What Works When you are learning to knit, learn one step at a time. When you have learned the knit stitch well, practice it over and over. Use it in various patterns, and designs before moving on to something new. Don't feel that you have to be too fancy or intricate if you don't feel comfortable doing that.
There is always a tendency in this loopy world we live in to try and be more that we are. Do what works, in knitting and in every other way, and you will be pleasantly surprised by the results! For great instructions on how to learn knitting, just go to
http://www.theknitstitch.com
Follow these 7 simple steps to get you knitting today!! You'll be a winner every time!

Learn to Knit....Me?

You know, I was thinking just recently; in this world we live in, there are many things to do. Besides work, I mean. And besides cleaning the house, or paying bills or running our kids all over town. Every one of us deserves a hobby. Something each of us does really really well. So well, in fact, that we infuriate everybody else we know with our hobby knowledge.
That can be you, too. We all need a place and something in that place that is just us. Just ours and no one else's. Something we have learned, and keep adding to; something we may adjust over time, or take to a higher level, but something that we just keep getting better at.
For me that something is knitting. And it can be for you, too. Knitting doesn't have to be selfish; although there are too many nice patterns that I have done up just for myself!
So, you may be wondering, who is there to knit for? Do you have children? How about parents or nieces and nephews? How about your best friend? Or a good neighbor or co-worker? What about your spouse or significant other? And let's not forget our pets! They deserve something knitted and wonderful, too! Or how about all the homeless people, the displaced people, the sick, the dying, the dead?
Believe it or not, we can knit for all of these people. So, pick a group, any group, and next week, take a look at my website, http://www.theknitstitch.com for a special webpage I'm adding. It will have links to charitable sites all over the web, which are all over this country and the world.
We can never be knitting enough, or fast enough, for all the need in this world that there is.
And that's a knitting fact.

Knittings Deep Deep Soul

It's an absolutely beautiful early spring day, even if spring is my least favorite season. Here in northeast PA it stays cold too long for me. I'm working on the day when I can move to a warm beach, turqoise water lapping at my feet, graceful swaying palm trees overhead, a comfortable chair and ---- you guessed it, my knitting!!
You see, you really can take knitting anywhere you go. Do you commute in someone's car or take the train or bus? How about those rides to see family on the weekends or travelling to a friends weekend retreat? On those long interstates, and parkways, over country roads and highways, there is always time to knit.
Here's the best part - it's so easy to learn knitting!! Master a few foundation stitches and there is just a whole world of wonder waiting for you! Once you know how to knit, learn how to purl, then from there you can experiment; learn dropped stitches, or yarnovers, then get really fancy and add some cable stitches. All so easy!! And all still using nothing more than a knit stitch or a purl stitch. Believe me when I tell you it's a piece of cake!
Knitting is such an ancient craft; and that's part of the pull for me. It's a craft, something that seems to be disappearing off of the American landscape these days. Better to run to the store for that scarf or sweater; who needs an afghan anyway?
You'd be surprised.
To learn a craft is to learn something about me. It helps to focus my attention, it takes me out of my comfort zone when I'm challenged by a unique pattern, then it puts me right back there again, pleased with myself that I can do this, and even more pleased with myself that I had the foresight to stretch my horizons. The best part of that is the more I do, the better I get, and the more I want to do.
When you start to learn knitting, just stick with the basics. Practice over and over again those most basic of stitches, knit the simple items first, and you will inevitably get better and better at it. It has to be! When you are really comfortable, that is the payoff. It's when you get to sit in your favorite room, in your favorite chair, and work on your craft.
We weren't given two hands for nothing.

Welcome to my blog!

Here I am...in blogland, finally! At last I've created a space where I can share ideas, random thoughts, and every other insight with all of you, no matter where you are and no matter where I am!

So, just what can you expect from my blog? Great question....glad you asked!

Every week I will be sharing with you.....

1) Updates from The Knit Stitch.com. I will give you techniques and tips about knitting that you probably didn't even know about! Knitting being such an old craft, has a lot of secrets that I will be letting out of the closet.

2) Announcements! Be the first to know when a new ebook is coming out; or find out about new bonuses and resources helpful to your knitting solutions.

3) Plus, my personal opinion on all things knitting that you won't find anyplace else!

If you want to get to know me and what goes on in the life of an Internet knitter, then stay tuned....it only gets better from here!!

So, once again, welcome and please check back on a regular basis for new information and ideas that you can put to good use, instantly, to take your knitting projects to the next level.