Jacklien Fernendus
Author for handknitty.com
I have worked in the knitting industry for the past 15 years. When I was a child, my grandma used to knit and enjoy spending time with them on an easy chair in the winter to keep them warm and occupied. Now that I work in the modern knitting & Fashion industry, I see the same fascination in my 4-year-old daughter’s eyes when seeing me working.
Take your skills to the next level with advanced knitting techniques.
Knitting has become much more than just a hobby. It’s a way of life, a form of self-expression, and a chance to show off your creativity. While knitting is already a rewarding and fulfilling experience, you can take it to the next level by exploring advanced techniques like double knitting, entrelac, and brioche.
In this article, we’ll delve into these advanced knitting techniques, discussing what they are, their benefits, and how you can get started with them.
Double Knitting
Double knitting is a technique that involves creating a double-sided fabric by knitting two layers at the same time. The fabric created is thicker, warmer, and reversible. Double knitting can be used for making scarves, blankets, and even sweaters.
The pros of double knitting include the fact that the fabric is reversible, that the knitting is dense, and the resulting fabric is warm. The cons include that it takes more time to complete and it requires a little bit of skill and patience.
If you’re interested in learning double knitting, start by practicing with small projects like coasters or dishcloths. Be sure to use contrasting colors for your yarn to help differentiate between the two sides of your fabric. With practice and patience, you’ll be able to master this technique and create beautiful and unique pieces.
Entrelac Knitting
Entrelac knitting is a technique that creates a woven effect that looks like a basket weave. It’s a technique that uses a series of triangles and rectangles to create a unique pattern. Entrelac knitting is used for making scarves, bags, and blankets.
The benefits of entrelac knitting are that it creates a beautiful and unique texture, that the pattern is reversible, and that it can be used with a variety of yarns. The cons are that it requires some skill and patience to learn.
To get started with entrelac knitting, start with a small project like a scarf or a washcloth. You will need to know how to knit and purl, as well as increase and decrease stitches. There are plenty of resources available online to help you learn the technique, and with practice, you’ll be able to create stunning and unique pieces.
Brioche Knitting
Brioche knitting is a technique that creates a reversible, squishy, and textured fabric. It involves knitting with two colors at the same time and creating a unique stitch pattern. Brioche knitting is often used for making scarves, hats, and sweaters.
The benefits of brioche knitting include that it creates a unique and interesting texture, that the fabric is reversible, and that it can be used with a variety of yarns. The cons include that it requires some skill and patience to learn.
To get started with brioche knitting, choose a pattern that you’re interested in and familiarize yourself with the basic stitches. You’ll need to know how to knit and purl, as well as how to slip stitches and work yarn overs. It’s recommended that you start with a small project like a hat or a cowl to get the hang of the technique before moving on to larger projects.
Conclusion
In conclusion, knitting is a wonderful and fulfilling hobby that offers a range of benefits beyond just creating beautiful and practical items. By exploring advanced knitting techniques like double knitting, entrelac, and brioche, you can take your knitting to the next level and create even more unique and personalized items. While it may take some time and patience to master these techniques, the results are well worth it and can bring a great sense of satisfaction and pride.
FAQs
Is double knitting suitable for beginners?
Double knitting can be challenging for beginners but it’s definitely possible to learn with some practice and patience. It’s recommended that you start with small projects and gradually work your way up to larger ones.
How long does it take to learn entrelac knitting?
The amount of time it takes to learn entrelac knitting can vary depending on the individual. With practice and patience, you can expect to get the hang of it within a few weeks.
What types of yarn are best for brioche knitting?
Any type of yarn can be used for brioche knitting, but it’s best to choose yarns with good stitch definition and a smooth texture to showcase the unique stitch pattern.
Can these advanced knitting techniques be used for making different items?
Absolutely! Double knitting, entrelac, and brioche knitting can be used for making a variety of items like scarves, hats, blankets, and even sweaters.
What is the best way to learn these advanced knitting techniques?
There are many resources available online, including video tutorials and written instructions, that can help you learn these advanced knitting techniques. It’s also helpful to practice with small projects and gradually work your way up to larger ones. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes and keep practicing until you get the hang of it.