The Differences Between Continental and English Knitting

Continental knitting and English knitting are two different methods of holding the yarn and manipulating the needles to create knit stitches. Here are the main differences between the two:

Yarn tension: In continental knitting, the yarn is held in the left hand and wrapped around the needle with the right hand. This tends to create a looser tension on the yarn, which can make it easier to work quickly and produce even stitches. In English knitting, the yarn is held in the right hand and wrapped around the needle with the left hand. This tends to create a tighter tension on the yarn, which can make it easier to control the stitches and create more intricate patterns.

Needle placement: In continental knitting, the right-hand needle is inserted into the next stitch from left to right, whereas in English knitting, the right-hand needle is inserted into the next stitch from right to left. This means that the direction of the stitch is reversed between the two methods.

Hand movements: Continental knitting involves more movement of the left hand, which holds the yarn, while the right hand mainly moves the needle. English knitting involves more movement of the right hand, which holds the needle, while the left hand moves the yarn.

Learning curve: Some people find continental knitting easier to learn because it involves fewer hand movements and can be more intuitive for people who crochet or sew. Others find English knitting easier because it allows for more control over the tension of the yarn and the direction of the stitches.

Overall, both continental and English knitting are effective methods of creating knit stitches, and the choice between them is largely a matter of personal preference.

How to bind off knitting continental

Here is how to bind off knitting using the continental method:

• Knit the first two stitches on the left-hand needle.
• Using the tip of the left-hand needle, lift the first stitch over the second stitch and off the needle.
• Knit another stitch on the left-hand needle, and then lift the previous stitch over the newly knit stitch and off the needle.
• Repeat steps 2 and 3 until you have only one stitch remaining on the right-hand needle.
• Cut the yarn, leaving a tail of about 6 inches.
• Thread the tail through the last stitch on the right-hand needle and pull it tight.
• Weave in the end by using a tapestry needle to thread the tail through several stitches on the back of the work, then trimming the end close to the fabric.
• The result should be a neat edge that will not unravel.

How to cast off continental knitting

Here are the steps for casting off in continental knitting:

• Knit the first two stitches on your left-hand needle.
• Insert your left-hand needle into the first stitch on the right-hand needle.
• Lift the first stitch over the second stitch and off the right-hand needle, leaving one stitch on your right-hand needle.
• Knit the next stitch on your left-hand needle, and then repeat step 2.
• Continue steps 3-4 until you have only one stitch remaining on your right-hand needle.
• Cut the yarn, leaving a tail of about 6 inches.
• Thread the tail through the last stitch on the right-hand needle and pull it tight.
• Weave in the end by using a tapestry needle to thread the tail through several stitches on the back of the work, then trimming the end close to the fabric.
• You should now have a finished edge that will not unravel.

How to hold knitting needles continental

Here’s how to hold knitting needles for the continental method:

• Hold your left-hand needle in your left hand, with the pointy end facing to the right.
• Make a loose loop with the yarn and hold it in your left hand, draped over your left index finger and behind your left middle finger.
• Insert the right-hand needle into the first stitch on your left-hand needle from front to back.
• Use your left index finger to push the tip of the right-hand needle through the loop of yarn, then use your middle finger to wrap the yarn around the tip of the right-hand needle from back to front.
• Use your right hand to pull the right-hand needle back through the stitch on the left-hand needle, while using your left index finger to hold the stitch in place on the left-hand needle.
• Slide the stitch off the left-hand needle and onto the right-hand needle.
• Repeat steps 3-6 until you have completed your row or round of knitting.

Remember to keep your tension loose but consistent to avoid distorting your stitches. You may need to experiment with different hand positions and yarn tension to find a comfortable and effective way of holding your needles for the continental method.

How to knit faster continental

There are several tips and techniques you can use to knit faster using the continental method:

Practice: The more you knit, the faster you will become. Practice regularly to improve your speed and efficiency.

Use circular needles: Circular needles can be faster than straight needles because they allow you to knit in the round without having to stop and turn your work.

Keep your movements small: Minimizing the movements of your hands and fingers can help you knit more quickly. Try to use short, efficient motions when manipulating your needles and yarn.

Hold your yarn loosely: A tight grip on the yarn can slow you down and strain your hands. Hold the yarn loosely in your left hand and use the needle to control the tension.

Use the flicking method: The flicking method involves flicking the yarn with your index finger to create new stitches. This can be faster than wrapping the yarn around the needle for each stitch.

Use continental purling: Continental purling can be faster than English purling because it involves fewer movements of the yarn.

Learn to knit without looking: Once you are comfortable with the basic motions of knitting, you may be able to knit faster by looking at your work less and relying more on muscle memory.

Remember to maintain good posture and take breaks as needed to avoid straining your hands, neck, and back. Happy knitting!

How to knit left handed continental

To knit left-handed using the continental method, you can follow these steps:

• Hold your yarn in your right hand and your left-hand needle in your left hand.
• Make a slipknot and place it on the left-hand needle.
• Hold the left-hand needle with your palm facing down and the tip pointing to the right.
• Insert the right-hand needle from front to back through the first stitch on the left-hand needle.
• Use your right hand to wrap the yarn counterclockwise around the right-hand needle.
• Use your right hand to pull the right-hand needle and the loop of yarn back through the stitch on the left-hand needle, then slide the stitch off the left-hand needle.
• Repeat steps 4-6 for each stitch across the row.
• To purl, insert the right-hand needle from back to front through the first stitch on the left-hand needle.
• Use your right hand to wrap the yarn counterclockwise around the right-hand needle.
• Use your right hand to push the right-hand needle and the loop of yarn through the stitch on the left-hand needle, then slide the stitch off the left-hand needle.
• Repeat steps 8-10 for each stitch across the row.

Remember to keep your tension consistent and experiment with different hand positions to find what works best for you. With practice, you should be able to knit left-handed using the continental method with ease.

How to knit with two colors continental

Knitting with two colors using the continental method is called stranded knitting or Fair Isle knitting. Here are the basic steps:

• Hold one color of yarn in your left hand and the other color in your right hand.
• With the first color, knit the first stitch as usual.
• When you need to switch to the second color, drop the first color and pick up the second color.
• Hold both colors in your left hand and use the second color to knit the next stitch.
• When you need to switch back to the first color, drop the second color and pick up the first color.
• Hold both colors in your left hand and use the first color to knit the next stitch.
• Continue knitting with both colors, alternating as needed.
• To avoid long floats of unused yarn, carry the unused color along the back of the work, catching it every few stitches to keep it from becoming too loose.
• When you come to the end of a row or round, cut the yarn you are no longer using, leaving a tail of about 6 inches.
• Continue knitting with the remaining color.

Remember to keep your tension consistent and use a needle size that allows the yarn to move smoothly. Stranded knitting can be a bit more challenging than knitting with one color, so practice with simple patterns and gradually increase the complexity as you gain confidence.

Can you knit continental holding yarn in right

Yes, it is possible to knit continental while holding the yarn in your right hand, although it is not the traditional method. This style is sometimes called “combination knitting” or “combined knitting.” Here are the basic steps:

• Hold your working needle in your right hand and your yarn in your left hand.
• Make a slipknot and place it on your right-hand needle.
• Insert your left-hand needle from right to left through the first stitch on the right-hand needle.
• Wrap the yarn clockwise around the right-hand needle using your right hand.
• Insert the right-hand needle through the stitch on the left-hand needle and use your right hand to pull the loop of yarn through the stitch.
• Slide the old stitch off the left-hand needle and onto the right-hand needle.
• Repeat steps 3-6 for each stitch across the row.
• To purl, you can use the same basic technique, but with a few modifications:
• Hold the yarn in your left hand and your working needle in your right hand.
• Insert the right-hand needle from right to left through the first stitch on the left-hand needle.
• Use your left hand to wrap the yarn counterclockwise around the right-hand needle.
• Insert the right-hand needle through the stitch on the left-hand needle and use your left hand to pull the loop of yarn through the stitch.
• Slide the old stitch off the left-hand needle and onto the right-hand needle.
• Repeat steps 2-5 for each stitch across the row.

Keep in mind that this style of knitting can produce a different tension and stitch appearance than traditional continental knitting. It may also be more challenging to follow patterns written for traditional continental or English-style knitting. However, it can be a useful technique to learn and experiment with to find the style that works best for you.

how do you ssk in continental knitting

To work a slip slip knit (SSK) in continental knitting, you can follow these steps:

• Slip the first stitch on the left-hand needle as if to knit.
• Slip the second stitch on the left-hand needle as if to knit.
• Insert the left-hand needle into the front loops of the two slipped stitches from left to right.
• Knit the two slipped stitches together through the back loop with the right-hand needle.
• Slip the resulting stitch from the right-hand needle to the left-hand needle.
• Repeat steps 1-5 for each SSK in the pattern.

SSK is a left-leaning decrease and is commonly used in shaping, such as for decreasing the number of stitches on a sleeve or neckband. It is a useful technique to learn and can add a professional touch to your knitting projects.

How long does it take to learn continental knitting

The time it takes to learn continental knitting can vary depending on a variety of factors, such as your previous experience with knitting, your dexterity, and your dedication to practice. Some people may pick up the technique quickly, while others may take longer to become comfortable with it.

Generally, it may take a few days or weeks to get the hang of continental knitting and start to feel comfortable with the new technique. It is important to practice regularly, starting with simple projects and gradually increasing the complexity as your skills improve.

With consistent practice and patience, you can become proficient in continental knitting in a matter of weeks or months. However, it is important to remember that learning a new skill takes time and effort, and progress may not always be linear. Be kind to yourself, take breaks when needed, and enjoy the process of learning a new way to express your creativity through knitting.

How much faster is continental knitting

The speed of knitting is dependent on various factors such as the knitter’s personal style, level of experience, and the complexity of the pattern. However, it is commonly believed that continental knitting can be faster than English/American-style knitting due to the more efficient and fluid movements of the hands.

In continental knitting, the left hand holds the working yarn, which is used to make the stitches, while the right hand is responsible for maneuvering the needle. This allows for a smoother and quicker motion, as the knitter doesn’t need to constantly move the yarn between their hands for each stitch.

Additionally, continental knitters often use smaller, more lightweight needles and hold the needles more loosely, which can also increase their speed.

However, it is important to note that individual differences in knitting style and skill can have a significant impact on speed. Some English-style knitters may be faster than some continental-style knitters and vice versa. The most important thing is to find the style that works best for you and allows you to enjoy the process of knitting.

How to bind off knitting english

To bind off knitting in English style, you can follow these steps:

• Knit the first two stitches on your left-hand needle.
• Insert your left-hand needle into the first stitch you knitted and lift it over the second stitch and off the right-hand needle. You should now have one stitch remaining on your right-hand needle.
• Knit the next stitch on your left-hand needle.
• Repeat steps 2-3 until you reach the end of the row.
• Cut the working yarn, leaving a tail that is about six inches long.
• Thread the tail onto a tapestry needle.
• Insert the tapestry needle into the last stitch on your right-hand needle as if to purl.
• Pull the yarn through the stitch and then insert the needle into the second stitch on the left-hand needle as if to knit.
• Lift the stitch on the left-hand needle over the stitch you just worked and off the needle.
• Repeat step 9 with the remaining stitches until you have one stitch remaining.
• Cut the yarn, leaving a tail of several inches.
• Pull the tail through the last stitch to secure it, and weave in any remaining ends.
• This should create a clean and secure edge for your knitting project.

How to cast off continental english

It’s not entirely clear what you mean by “cast off continental English.” It’s possible that you are referring to the term “bind off” instead of “cast off,” as “bind off” is the term commonly used in the United States, while “cast off” is more commonly used in the United Kingdom. If that is the case, please refer to my previous response on how to bind off in English style.

If you are asking how to cast on stitches using both continental and English styles, you can do so by holding one needle in your left hand and the other in your right hand, and alternating between the two methods. For example, you can cast on the first stitch using the long-tail cast-on method in English style, and then switch to continental style for the second stitch and continue alternating between the two methods. This technique can create a more even tension in your cast-on row and is often used in stranded colorwork or when working with a particularly slippery or stretchy yarn.

If you have a more specific question or clarification, please feel free to ask.

How to knit faster English 

There are several techniques and tips that can help you knit faster in English style:

Practice regularly: Like with any skill, the more you practice knitting, the faster you’ll become. Try to knit for at least a few minutes every day, and gradually increase the amount of time you spend knitting.

Use lightweight needles: Smaller, lighter needles can make it easier to move them quickly and smoothly through your stitches.

Hold your needles loosely: Holding your needles too tightly can slow you down and make it harder to move them through your stitches. Try to hold your needles loosely and comfortably in your hands.

Use the flicking technique: Instead of moving your entire hand and wrist to wrap the yarn around the needle, try using a flicking motion with just your index finger to make the stitch. This can be faster and more efficient.

Try Continental knitting: While it may take some time to learn, some knitters find that Continental knitting is faster than English style. You can try practicing both styles and see which one works best for you.

Use circular or interchangeable needles: These types of needles allow you to knit in the round or work on larger projects without having to stop and switch to a new needle. This can save time and make your knitting more efficient.

Remember, the most important thing is to find a knitting speed that works for you and allows you to enjoy the process. Don’t get too caught up in trying to knit as fast as possible, and remember to take breaks and stretch your hands and wrists regularly.

How to cast off english

To cast off in English style, follow these steps:

• Knit the first two stitches on your left-hand needle.
• Using your left-hand needle, lift the first stitch you knit over the second stitch and off the right-hand needle. You should now have one stitch remaining on your right-hand needle.
• Knit the next stitch on your left-hand needle.
• Repeat steps 2-3 until you reach the end of the row.
• Cut the yarn, leaving a tail that is about six inches long.
• Thread the tail onto a tapestry needle.
• Insert the tapestry needle into the last stitch on your right-hand needle as if to purl.
• Pull the yarn through the stitch and then insert the needle into the second stitch on the left-hand needle as if to knit.
• Lift the stitch on the left-hand needle over the stitch you just worked and off the needle.
• Repeat step 9 with the remaining stitches until you have one stitch remaining.
• Cut the yarn, leaving a tail of several inches.
• Pull the tail through the last stitch to secure it, and weave in any remaining ends.
• This should create a clean and secure edge for your knitting project.

How to knit English style

To knit in English style, follow these steps:

• Hold the yarn in your right hand, with the tail end of the yarn draped over your index finger and the working end of the yarn draped over your middle finger and secured with your ring finger and pinky.
• Insert the right-hand needle into the first stitch on the left-hand needle from front to back.
• Using your right hand, wrap the working end of the yarn around the right-hand needle from back to front, crossing over the tail end of the yarn.
• Pull the right-hand needle and the wrapped yarn back through the stitch on the left-hand needle, creating a new stitch on the right-hand needle.
• Slide the old stitch off the left-hand needle and onto the right-hand needle.
• Repeat steps 2-5 for each stitch until you reach the end of the row.
• Turn the work around and repeat steps 2-6 for each row.

It may take some practice to get comfortable with the movements and tension of English style knitting, but with time and patience, you can master this technique. Remember to hold your needles loosely and to keep an even tension on your yarn to create a smooth and consistent fabric.

How to hold knitting needles English style

To hold your knitting needles in English style, follow these steps:

• Hold the needle with the cast-on stitches in your left hand. The needle should rest on your thigh or on a table in front of you.
• Hold the empty needle in your right hand, with the point facing the left.
• Insert the right-hand needle into the first stitch on the left-hand needle, from left to right.
• Hold the left-hand needle with your left thumb and forefinger, just above the stitch you are working on.
• Use your right hand to wrap the working yarn around the right-hand needle, moving from the back of the right-hand needle to the front.
• Use the right-hand needle to pull the yarn through the stitch on the left-hand needle.
• Slide the old stitch off the left-hand needle and onto the right-hand needle.
• Repeat steps 3-7 for each stitch until you reach the end of the row.

Remember to hold your needles loosely and comfortably in your hands, and to maintain an even tension on your yarn to create a smooth and consistent fabric. With practice, you’ll find the grip and movements that work best for you.

How to knit English rib in the round

To knit English rib in the round, follow these steps:

• Cast on an even number of stitches, making sure to join them in the round.
• Knit one stitch and purl one stitch across the first round.
• On the second round, knit the purl stitches and purl the knit stitches, making sure to keep the same knit and purl pattern across the entire round.
• Repeat step 3 for as many rounds as you want your English rib fabric to be.

English rib creates a textured, ribbed fabric that is thicker than regular stockinette stitch, so keep this in mind when choosing your yarn and needle size. Additionally, because the pattern is reversible, it is perfect for scarves, hats, and other items where both sides will be visible.

How do I translate English knitting patterns to us English

If you have an English knitting pattern and you want to translate it into US English, you will need to make a few adjustments. Here are some key differences between the two:

Needle sizes: In the UK, knitting needles are sized in millimeters, while in the US, they are sized in inches. To convert from millimeters to inches, simply divide the millimeter size by 25.4. For example, a UK size 6 needle would be equivalent to a US size 10 needle.

Yarn weight: Yarn weight classifications differ slightly between the UK and the US. For example, in the UK, a DK weight yarn is equivalent to a light worsted weight yarn in the US. Be sure to check the yarn weight chart in your pattern to see the recommended yarn weight and corresponding needle size.

Terminology: Some knitting terms differ between the UK and the US. For example, in the UK, a knit stitch is referred to as a plain stitch, while in the US, it is called a knit stitch. It’s important to understand these differences to avoid confusion when following a pattern.

Measurements: The UK uses the metric system for measurements, while the US uses the imperial system. Be sure to convert any measurements, such as gauge, stitch counts, or finished dimensions, as necessary.

By keeping these differences in mind and making any necessary conversions, you should be able to translate an English knitting pattern into US English.

How to catch floats in fair isle knitting English

When working Fair Isle knitting in English style, catching floats is important to prevent long strands of unused yarn from getting tangled or snagged. Here’s how to catch floats in Fair Isle knitting in English style:

• Hold the yarn you’re working with in your right hand, and the unused yarn in your left hand.
• When you reach a color change, drop the yarn you’ve just used and pick up the next color.
• As you knit across the row, hold the unused yarn along the back of the work, making sure it doesn’t get twisted around the working yarn.
• When you come to a stitch that uses the unused color, hold the working yarn and the unused yarn together with your right hand, and use the right-hand needle to knit the stitch.
• As you knit the stitch, use your left hand to bring the unused yarn up and over the working yarn, catching it in place.
• Continue knitting across the row, catching floats as necessary.
• When you’re finished with a color, weave in the loose end on the back of the work to secure it in place.

Catching floats can take some practice, but with a bit of patience and attention to detail, you’ll soon be able to work Fair Isle knitting in English style with ease.

How to hold yarn double knitting English in the round

When working double knitting in the round using the English style, you can hold the yarns in a couple of different ways. Here’s one method:

• Hold one color of yarn in your left hand and the other color in your right hand.
• Knit the first stitch with the color of yarn in your left hand as if you were knitting in the English style.
• Without dropping the yarn in your left hand, bring the yarn in your right hand to the front of the work between the needles.
• Slip the next stitch purlwise with the yarn in your left hand.
• Bring the yarn in your left hand to the back of the work between the needles.
• Knit the next stitch with the yarn in your right hand as if you were knitting in the English style.
• Repeat steps 3-6 for each stitch until you reach the end of the round.
• Turn the work and repeat steps 2-7 to work the next round.

By holding one color of yarn in each hand, you can easily switch between them to create a double-layered fabric. With practice, you’ll be able to work double knitting in the round using the English style efficiently and with ease.

How to knit a buttonhole English style

Here’s how to knit a basic buttonhole using the English style:

• Decide where you want the buttonhole to be placed on your knitted fabric. Make note of the row number.
• On the right side of the fabric, knit to the row where you want the buttonhole to be.
• Knit the number of stitches you want for the buttonhole. For example, if you want a one-stitch buttonhole, knit one stitch.
• Slip the next stitch knitwise from the left needle to the right needle.
• Knit the next two stitches together. This will create a small gap where the button will be inserted.
• Pass the slipped stitch over the knit two together stitch and off the right needle. This will close the gap and complete the buttonhole.
• Continue knitting the remaining stitches in the row.

You can customize the size and placement of your buttonhole by adjusting the number of stitches you knit before creating the gap. Keep in mind that you may need to reinforce the edges of the buttonhole with a few extra stitches or by sewing a small piece of fabric to the back of the hole to prevent stretching or fraying.

How to knit a buttonhole continental style

Here’s how to knit a basic buttonhole using the Continental style:

• Decide where you want the buttonhole to be placed on your knitted fabric. Make note of the row number.
• On the right side of the fabric, knit to the row where you want the buttonhole to be.
• Knit the number of stitches you want for the buttonhole. For example, if you want a one-stitch buttonhole, knit one stitch.
• Slip the next stitch purlwise from the left needle to the right needle.
• Bring the working yarn to the front of the work between the needles.
• Slip the next stitch purlwise from the left needle to the right needle.
• Bring the working yarn to the back of the work between the needles.
• Knit the next stitch.
• Continue knitting the remaining stitches in the row.

You can customize the size and placement of your buttonhole by adjusting the number of stitches you knit before creating the gap. Keep in mind that you may need to reinforce the edges of the buttonhole with a few extra stitches or by sewing a small piece of fabric to the back of the hole to prevent stretching or fraying.

How to knit English rib in two colors

To knit English rib in two colors, also known as double knitting, using the English style, you will need two different colored yarns and follow these steps:

• Cast on an even number of stitches using both colors held together.
• On the first row, knit 1 stitch with the first color, bring the yarn to the front of the work, purl 1 stitch with the second color. Repeat from * to * across the row.
• On the second row, switch the order of the colors and repeat the same pattern as the first row, knitting with the second color and purling with the first color.
• Continue repeating the first and second rows, switching the color order each time, until the piece is the desired length.

Note: When switching colors, be sure to bring the new color up and under the old color to prevent a gap or hole in your work. Additionally, the edge stitches may curl a bit in English rib, so you may want to consider using a border stitch to prevent this