Knitting is one of my many crafting-related hobbies and I know a lot of other people in the doll community share the love of needles as well. A lot of great doll fashion crafters also knit, it’s great hobby and you can do it almost anywhere (just like crocheting, which I did blog about back in September 2010).

There are a lot of great resources available for beginner knitters, all you need is a pair of knitting needles (or just two smooth skewers) and some yarn (or string). My first project was a garter stitch scarf, but you needn’t be that boring! Like crochet, knitting has different terminology for UK or US terms, there’s also different sizing methods for the needles themselves and different ways to describe the types of yarn (ply, weight).

You can get your supplies for learning how to knit (yarn and needles) at most any craft stores, at yarn shops (expensive!) or at thrift stores (be sure that both needles are the same size – they can get bagged incorrectly!). You can find free patterns online at sites like Ravelry or just poking around. You can find fantastic resources at a public library or also on the internet! Some great websites to help you get started are:

• knittinghelp.com
• knittingonthenet.com

Don’t be discouraged if you’re not knitting fantastic lace dresses for your Blythes from the start – everyone needs to start somewhere and it’s always important to learn the basics and fundamentals before branching off into newer things.

For those looking for a free pattern with very little shaping, you can check out the Knit Empire Dress pattern here on BlytheLife.com. The skills you use in that pattern are casting on, knit stitches, purl stitches, cast off, cast on in a row and casting off.

If you’re a knitter and you have any hints or tips for beginner knitters here on BlytheLife.com, please share in the comments section!