As we navigate how to play our role in this time of social distancing, finding healthy and independently done hobbies is a must. However, figuring out enjoyable hobbies to do, for the most part, from home can be a tricky task. At least that might be the case until the wonderful world of knitting is discovered.
That’s right, knitting is the hobby that will keep you occupied, proactive, and fulfilled. Not to mention all the associated health benefits of knitting, such as:
- Improving concentration
- Relieving stress
- Strengthening and training the mind
- Stimulating your reward center by creating sense of purpose
Just the therapeutic elements of knitting make it the perfect hobby to help us get through these difficult times we’re facing as a society. Instead of scrolling through the never-ending reel of stressful news stories, give your mind some peace by turning your attention to knitting your way to tranquil focus on a more proactive task at hand.
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The Supplies to GetStarted
Another reason why knitting makes for a great hobby is that it is inexpensive and budget-friendly. Getting started is easier than you may think, for any beginner to the craft, a basic list of the knitting supplies that will be needed are:
- Choice of yarn
- Knitting needles
- A sewing needle
- Pair of scissors
- A crochet hook (to fix snagged yarn)
Best of all, there’s no need to leave home in search of a craft store for supplies. Find everything you could possibly need to get started knitting from the comfort of home, like yarn in every imaginable color to endless options of different patterns for projects to try. You can easily procure the yarns and other craft supplies you need from online shops like www.marymaxim.com.
Once all the necessary supplies have been gathered, the next step is to start getting familiar with the different types of knitting stitches there are to try and use.
The Basic Stitches to Learn
There is a wide variety of different stitch techniques when it comes to knitting. The good news is there are plenty of easy knitting stitches to help you get started and build your skills over time. Before you pick up the knitting needles, get to know some of knitting’s most basic stitches, such as:
- Knit Stitch
- Garter Stitch
- Rib Stitch, and
- Stockinette Stitch
In general, beginners should start with learning the Knit Stitch because it is the simplest. Then use the Knit Stitch technique to make a Garter Stitch pattern, which is simply doing rows of the knit stitch. After mastering the Knit and Garter Stitch, kick it up a notch by introducing purling with a Stockinette Stitch or make a stretchy pattern with a Rib Stitch.
The Best Advice for Knitting Beginners
Starting with a project too advanced will likely discourage you to continue knitting before giving this hobby a chance. In other words, don’t make a sweater your first knitting project to attempt. Try something simple like a drink coaster or mug cozy with a button closure. When it comes to initial knitting projects to try, the best advice is to keep it as simple as possible.
