The Needle Abyss

My apartment is littered with knitting needles. I have a single DPN on the desk, a circular needle in the kitchen (not really sure why, though….) and many, many needles in the Clover case in the coffee table cubby. This is not including, however, needles in use, the needles in my yarn baskets, and the needles in my KIP bag. Something definitely needs to change.
I remember buying the Clover needle case. ( http://tinyurl.com/3c7vj7r ) “Finally! I can keep my needles organized!” Haha- wow. If anything, this case has hindered my needle organization. It was great when I first got it- a full three months into my knitting career, when I had maybe five sets of needles. But now that I’ve squeezed as many of the smaller ones into the 2inches by one inch case, but I don’t think I could get another size 2 in if I tried- let alone all of my needles over a size 8. Now that my needles are scattered across my apartment, I think its time to get creative.
The ideas listed in this article are only those of my own- I would love to know what my readers are doing to tame their needles! Be sure to comment and share your tips!

• The quilter method:
o This idea is based on the pattern I found in the Stitch n Bitch Handbook. It is essentially fabric sewn with mini pockets in order of size. Pretty- but not the best if you are new to the sewing machine.
• The excuse-to-knit-something-easy method:
o This method can be quite fun if you’re in need of some method knitting. Cast on enough stitches to give you a knitted width of about 16 inches. Knit with a sturdy yarn in garter stitch until it’s as long as you need. Sew a button on the cast on end and make a loop on the bind off end to give you a way to close it securely. Then, just poke the tip of the needle in about one inch from the edge to where it is under about 3 stitches, then again at the other end to hold it together. Repeat as necessary, then roll up and secure with the button for easy storage. I got this idea from one of my paintbrush kits. This can work for straight needles and circular needles, but you might want to loop the cord of the circs so it doesn’t get caught on anything while rolling.
• The shoebox/memory box/photo box/you get the point method:
o This one is great for people who have lots of storage space and lots of needles especially in the same size. Now, when I say shoebox I’m not talking about the Shape-Ups box or an 8 inch stiletto box. (Though those would work fantastically for circs!) I mean more along the lines of those comfy, cute-flats-I wear-to-the-grocery-store boxes. You can get boxes that are already pretty in the scrapbooking sections of most stores, or you can decorate your own if you don’t like having a bunch of shoeboxes where people can see them (Just paint them with a water based paint or decoupage them!). Make one box for every 2 sizes or so. You can keep sets together with the tiny rubber bands you get for hair, chopstick holders, and attached point protectors for easier access.
• The what-most-of-us-will-probably-do method (also known as the buy it method):
o Just buy it! You can buy pre-decorated boxes, pre-sewn versions of the quilter method, or use an old scarf for the excuse-to-knit-something-easy method, assuming you have a scarf that is wide enough.

Remember- the knitter that organized knitter is the happy knitter. Knit happy!

Jelly Yarns (by Kathleen G)

 

Jelly Yarn®

• 100% vinyl

•  Fine Jelly Yarn 85 yds , Bulky Jelly Yarn 65 yds,  Super Fine Jelly Yarn 50 yds

•  Waterproof

•  Glow in the Dark, Black Light Reactive neon colors

• Gauge:

New Super Fine (thread weight)

Knit Gauge: (ktbl) 28 sts and 64 rows = 4″ – US 6 (4mm)

Crochet Gauge: (sc) 22 sts and 10 rows = 4″ – F (3.75mm)

Fine Jelly Yarn (sport weight)

Knit Gauge: (k) 24 sts and 40 rows = 4″ – US 6 (4mm) needles

Knit Gauge Double Strand: (k) 14 sts and 33 rows = 4″ – US10.5 (6.5mm) needles

Crochet Gauge: (sc) 16 sts and 10 rows = 4″ – US H (5mm) hook

Bulky Jelly Yarn (worsted weight)

Knit Gauge: (k) 14 sts and 32 rows = 4″ – US 10 (6mm) needles

Knit Gauge Double Strand: (k) 10 sts and 8 rows = 4″ – US 13 (9mm) needles

Crochet Gauge: (sc) 12 sts and 14 rows = 4″ – US J (6mm) hook

If you’re looking for something fun, colorful and unique to knit or crochet, think outside the yarn box with Jelly Yarn! But what exactly IS Jelly Yarn?

Jelly Yarn was developed by Kathleen Greco while writing her first knitting book titled, Yummy Yarns (Watson Guptill). She had an idea for a purse that when knit, resembled glossy black patent leather. Using her background in plastics, she was able to develop and produce the yarn she envisioned, and Black Licorice Jelly Yarn was born.

Bright colors named after candies and ices soon followed: Hot Pink Candy, Blue Taffy, Lemon-Lime Ice, Raspberry Sorbet, and Pink Peppermint Glow, just to name a few. There now are 13 neon, opaque, metallic, and glow-in-the-dark colorways.

Jelly Yarn is a 100% vinyl, solid round strand. It’s very flexible, waterproof and is formulated for knitting and crochet. This contemporary glossy yarn is ideal for fashion-fun knitting or crocheting for adults and kids. Patterns are available for accessories including: purses, handbags, beach bags, belts, bracelets, ornaments, hair accessories, toys, and coral reef projects.

Tips For Knitting or Crocheting with Jelly Yarn

• The best knit stitch for creating a flat texture in Jelly Yarn is the Knit Through the Back Loop stitch. 

• Metal needles or hooks are recommended when working with Jelly Yarn. Susan Bates® Silvalume® metal needles or hooks are preferred well because of the smooth satin surface, but any metal will work.

• To make your knit or crochet fabric more durable, carry along a strand of Fine Jelly Yarn with your fiber yarn.

• If your tension is too tight, your stitches may not slide on the metal needle easily. To help make the stitches glide easily, we recommend using a little hand lotion, Burt’s Bees Hand Salve, or Vinylex, vinyl protectant applied along the stitches on the needle or hook.

• Knitting or crocheting with Jelly Yarn is a little different then fiber yarn. Instead of weaving ends, make a double knot (square knot) to prevent the stitches from unraveling after the 1st cast on stitch, when joining yarns and, after binding off.

• Blocking Jelly Yarn is easy. Heat the piece, with a hair dryer on low, for a few seconds. Place the piece on a flat hard surface and make the sides even. Tape the edges of the piece to the surface (optional). Place a weight such as a dictionary or phone book on top overnight. Assemble as instructed in the pattern.

Jelly Yarn 20 Cool Projects for Girls to Knit & Crochet (Krause Publishers) features an amazing array of purses, jewelry, belts, pet collar, and other fun projects crafted with Jelly Yarns. http://www.jellyyarns.com/books.html

Bonus: The bright neon and glow colors are idea for kids to learn how to knit or crochet!

Burt’s Bees Hand Salve, or Vinylex free sample is included with Jelly Yarn purchase. There are many knit and crochet free patterns available on the Jelly Yarn website.

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Summer-time knitting! (by Aubrey Mayes)

   

 

It’s that time of year again! Yes- summer! Know what that means? Christmas knitting! Yes, I know it seems like a long ways away, but I assure you, it’s closer than it seems.

There are only about 150 days left until Christmas, and that’s only 150 days to knit. If you are like me and panicking about the looming perpetual deadline, here are some tips for you.

1. Santa isn’t the only one that needs a list, and check it more than twice. I suggest making a master list with projects, then separate lists for yarn type, yarn color and needle size;  receiver personal information (age, measurements, favorite colors, fiber allergies), and completion status. Microsoft Excel is amazing for this. (openoffice.org has a free office suite that is compatible with any version of Microsoft Office. )
2. Knit a little every day. I have a bit of PADD, or Project Attention Deficit Disorder, so I have many projects going at once. I try to do at least a few rows every day. Need to fit a little extra time in? Well, a full article is coming soon about that, but here are some tips: I knit on the bus, in waiting rooms, and while watching movies, whether in the theater or at home. I also listen to audio books so I can enjoy my Harry Potter and fiber fun at the same time.
3. Stay calm, organized, and prepared. Now is the best time to stock up- grab some plastic storage tubs to keep FOs in (toss in some lightly scented soap bars to keep them smelling fresh!), and keep the project yarn together and separated from each other for quick and easy access. I mean, let’s face it- nothing kills motivation like having to clean. Store the needed needles with the yarn to be sure they are free for use.  Make photocopies of the patterns (esp. if they are from library books!) and store them with the yarn. Stock up on notions and post its (for tracking a place in a pattern).
4. Winter is the best time for yarn, so have fun with all of the fibers, colors, and textures! Step out of the sock box and test yourself. Learn something new, revive something old, and just have fun with it!

Happy knitting…err I mean Knit Happy!

 

   

Twist & Shout! (by Erika Purcell)

No not dancing..twisting fiber.   Making yarn.  I promised myself 2010 would be the year I learned to spin my own yarn.  You know, cross something off my bucket list.  Maybe I’ll even buy a spinning wheel.   Who knows?

Naughty Knitterz seem to be most interested in two things.  Some are trading in their knitting needles and learning how to crochet.  Some are starting to spin yarn.  A few Naughty Knitterz are experienced yarn spinners.

I know nothing about twisting fiber but I have always been intrigued by the contraptions used to make yarn.  Spinning wheels fascinate me.  One of the first people to join the circle was Karin from eastern Australia who wrote an article entitled “Relax and Enjoy the Spin“.  Her article was my first exposure to spinning wheels. 

Karin wrote about how she came to own a Ashford spinning wheel and at a v ery reasonable price.  After reading Karin’s piece I became interested in learning more about spinning yarn and about the different types of spinning wheels available.  First thing I did was to look on eBay to see if I could find any Ashford spinning wheels. 

Ashford is described as the VW of spinning wheels.  Ashford spinning wheels are manufactured in New Zealand.  I thought it would be best to see if there was a wheel made closer to where I live.  My concern was getting spare parts.  I quickly learned spinning wheels are made all around the world and spare parts are available everywhere and online. 

The next thing I did was to ”Google“ spinning wheels.  I also looked on ”Youtube” to see what videos I could find there.  I was overwhelmed with all the information available.  There are a bunch of different types and brands of spinning wheels.  I found two articles which I recommend you read if you’re interested in a wheel of your own. 

The first is entitled “Choosing a spinning wheel“.   I found another must read article  about spinning wheels on The Woolery web site. After reading both I decided I wanted a folding wheel for its size and portability.  Here is a another article comparing the different folding spinning wheels.

The one thing I learned fast was buying a spinning wheel was not a decision to be made quickly.  Once I decided which type and brand I wanted, I decided to look around to see if I could find a used wheel.  The other thing I learned was that selecting a spinning wheel that’s right for you is not the end of your journey.  It is only the beginning.  Next, you’ll need to learn to use it.  You will find a good how a spinning wheel works video on the site which is a place you can start.

Start by deciding what type of yarn you want to make the most of.  Using a small hand spinning wheel is where I chose to begin.  Whatever you do remember to Relax & Enjoy the Spin! and as the song says ”Ride a painted pony…Let the spinning wheel fly!” 

Good Luck & Knit Happy!

Five tricks to using DPNs without pain (by Robyn Devine)

Picking up your first pair of double-pointed needles can be both incredibly scary and supremely exhilarating. To make something using them instantly makes one feel like an expert knitter but to charge forward and use them takes a fair amount of “yarn balls”!

While it can seem overwhelming – why did five of them come in the pack, how do I go from one to the other? – mastering them is much easier than you may think. All you need are a few helpful hints to get you pointed (HAH!) in the right direction. Here are five tips I’ve picked up along the path to mastering my DPNs.

Trick #1 – Be sure your stitches aren’t twisted before you join for working in the round! This same advice goes for knitting with circular needles – by twisting the stitches around the needles, you end up knitting a Mobius at best, and a hot mess at worst. Take a few extra minutes to be sure your stitches are situated properly before you begin, and you’ll have much fewer headaches as you knit along.

Trick #2 – To prevent the “jog” that happens when switching between needles, move your stitches from one needle to the other. Most first-time users of double-pointed needles will comment on looser stitches at the change point between their needles. To prevent this, simply knit the first stitch off each needle onto the last needle, rather than onto your new needle.

Trick #3 – Use three different colored needles so you always know where you’re at in your round (ex: red, then yellow, then blue, done. Yellow, then blue, then red, done!) One of the biggest mistakes I made when learning to use DPNs was losing track of which round I was on. By using different colored needles, I was able to track where I was at in the process and keep my rounds straight!

Trick #4 – When decreasing for a hat, the space between needles can count as a stitch marker! This equates to less stitch markers used, and an obvious point for decreases!

Trick #5 – If you have trouble joining for working in the round, cast on with two sizes larger of a DPN, and then switch all stitches to the right sized needles. You’d be amazed at how much more room you feel you have!

Test out these tips one at a time or employ them all at once and you’ll find your double-pointed knitting adventures becoming easier and easier!

 

Knitting with wood, sticks & branches (by Knitting Doc)

My fifth birthday was quickly approaching. He kept calling them “knitting needles.” Some were brown and tan. Others, gray, black and very long. But the only needles I knew were the ones from the Dr.’s office which hurt.

Ah, Grandpap was my hero! What fond memories I have. My family called me a toe-head who was energetic, highly motivated and self-driven. For several years, I had watched Grandpap sit by the hour and move those hands so fast using roving and yarn from the sheep he raised on the farm. Being the eager little kid who always was curious and wanting to learn new things, I begged him to teach me to knit. It was one of those eye opening moments. He looked at me and just smiled in delight.

He grew up in Germany where all the boys and girls in elementary school were taught to knit as part of the normal curriculum. “Well,” he said. “I learned to knit when I was a boy so there’s no reason you shouldn’t learn how to do it too. It’s something that’ll help you and that you can do for the rest of your life. And don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do it. So, let’s go do some whittling!”

At the time, I obviously didn’t get the full gist of what he was saying — five year olds aren’t fully aware of stereotypes. I just knew Grandpap could do no wrong in my eyes. If he taught me how to milk cows, ‘slop’ the pigs, herd sheep, gather eggs and pull weeds, then knitting was no different.

Whittling? It all started to make sense. Grandpap whittled a lot. But Grandma said I was too young to be playing with a knife. I have vague memories of watching him whittle but never paid too much attention to it. Wow! When he said, “Let’s go do some whittling,” it all clicked!!!! All that time he was making his own wooden knitting needles. Not from dowels, but from wood, sticks, branches, etc. I still have that vivid image of us going to look for some wood to make me my own pair of knitting needles. He said he would have to make them bigger than his so that I could learn better. Since, I wanted to have the same ones which he had, I threw a little temper tantrum…..yuk! He was so loving and patient. “You’ll understand some day but it’ll be harder for you to wrap that sheep hair around the needle if it is too small.” And right he was!

Initially, Grandpap taught me to knit using the “throw” or English technique with very large needles in order to learn the mechanics and physics of knitting. Shortly, thereafter, I switched to Continental knitting so I could go “as fast as he could.” I remember the thrill of staying up late night after night practicing the long tail cast on for hours. I now laugh whenever I think of how frayed that precious yarn became after unraveling for the 10^th time.

Funny. I could relate to “sheep hair” as a kid. Roving and wool as more abstract terms came later. I had watched Grandma clean, card and spin the ‘sheep hair’ many times but it wasn’t all that exciting to me as a kid. Now I long for those peaceful, loving moments spent with two wonderful people. Working with nature. Watching the lambs grow to adulthood. Shearing. Preparing the wool. Then using it to complete a garment to wear.

As I think about it right now, I was learning about life cycles. Biology, nature, mathematics, etc., all the while just thinking I was having fun with yarn and needles.

Fifty six years later I am still passionately knitting every day. I’ve weathered through some of those awkward years of being teased as a young man knitting. That stopped rather quickly after the bullies learned that I could do other “guy” things. Eventually, some of them asked me to teach them. Be true to yourself!

I’ve gone through the gamut of knitting throughout the years. Except for lace. Over the past several months, I’ve finally decided to go for it. Now I’m addicted to it. I didn’t know any better when I learned to knit and ended up cutting my own hair and trying to spin it. Guess I just figured that if it can be done with sheep hair then any hair will do! Sadly, though, I must say that after repeated attempts at learning to spin, I have never been able to do it. And it bugs me trying to figure out why! It looks so simple and smooth. Grandpap used to say, “Now just don’t worry about it. God will give you other gifts down the road.” How right he was.

It feels like Elizabeth Zimmerman and I were brother and sister. Having said that, “Knit on!”

Knittingdoc

Process Knitting (by Mary Fran Riley)

There are many ways to approach knitting.  Making finished objects,  making hundreds of swatches to learn various techniques and knitting for the process.

I love a beautiful hand knit project as much as the next gal (or guy).  I really do!   I have three sweaters on needles, a pair of slippers begging to be sewn together and felted, a pattern waiting to be typed and yarn for about ten other specific projects calling my name.   I am a process knitter.  What’s that?  I knit because I love the action of knitting and not for the contentment of completing finished pieces.

When I knit I become part of what I am knitting. It is a movement and a flow. The knitting itself is the point, not the finished product. It is about a connection I get to a project.  It’s about the satisfaction I get using my hands to create something.   A kind of satisfaction I don’t get from my creative industry job.  It is a break from the sterility of computers and the perfection they give.

I have a short attention span and always get bored with a project long before it’s done.  Including hats.  After I have experienced the best there is about a pattern, I am ready to move on. I usually finish hats when I run out of short circular needles and need them for another project that I so very much need to knit.

I always have my knitting with me and knit every chance I get – air planes, trains and cars are my friends.  Long boring meetings and college classes provide great opportunities for me to knit away!

My aversion to getting to the end of a project might be because of my deadline driven professional life.  Sometimes it’s just nice to create and not have the pressure hanging over the process.  Sometimes I feel I should be creating better goals for myself and try to finish more of my projects.  I’m afraid that by doing this I will taint my pure connection to the act of knitting.  I will turn knitting into a task that is always looming.

So, I will continue on my path to knit with every type of fiber that I can find followed by an attempt to learn as many techniques and stitches along the way.  Maybe, just maybe, all of this will end up in a higher project completion rate for me.  Maybe it won’t and I am ok with that too.

I am certain I’m not the only knitter out there who knits for its calming effects.   I hope I am not the only person who knits just to knit and not to make a finished work piece.

Not All Needles Are Created Equal (by Aubrey Mayes)

We’ve all been there. Perusing our LYS or hobby/craft store, our heart all a-flutter with the prospect of the new pattern we just found, looking for perfect needles. But what exactly is the perfect needle? How do you determine which set to buy? It may seem like an obvious answer for some, but these are actually some of the most repeated questions I receive. Just like you wouldn’t buy the first yarn you see, the same should go for the trusty needles you depend on for your craft. There are many types of knitting needles, and all have their merits- and downfalls.

When purchasing new needles, always be sure it is a brand you trust. If it looks like something that would crack under the pressure you would put on it, then it’s probably not a financially sound choice. Also, though they may be more expensive up front, they do make sets of interchangeable circs, and I must say that they are worth the money in the long run. Interchangeable circs come in virtually any size, are usually made of quality materials, and do not generally need to be replaced as often as others may need to.

The first kind of needles I bought for myself came from EBay- a nicely sized lot of various gauges of needles, all plastic, save for an afghan set- which only cost around $5, including shipping. These needles demonstrate the importance of quality when it comes to the material the needles are made from. Slowly, one by one, all but two pairs of those EBay needles have broken. The plastic used in the needles was very low quality, and it could not handle the strain of garter stitch coaster knitting, let alone anything that required a purl stitch. It was not until I was stranded in the middle of a project with one and a half size 5 needles that I realized the importance of quality.

            Not all plastic needles are poor quality. They are still not my personal preference, but they can be a little easier on the hands, and can come in handy when knitting something quickly, without dropping stitches. On the upside, plastic needles can be less expensive, and are definitely a good buy in a penny-pinch. On the downside, they can break very easily if they are very flimsy or have a small gauge. For instance, a size 2 may not endure as long as a size 10. When shopping for plastic needles, here are the things you should ask yourself:

• Is the plastic strong enough even in a small gauge to complete my project?
• Are the tips strong enough to not snip off as it enters a tighter stitch?
• They may be the best deal, but is the lack of quality worth the price drop?

Granted, just because they are plastic, it does not mean they will snap on their first project- to the contrary, many brands have high quality needles at low prices, just be sure you know what you’re buying.

            Aluminum needles are very popular with the knitters I have met. They usually cost a little more, but I must admit, I do love them myself. They generally have a long usage life, and are easily cleaned. They are also some of the best for knitting quickly, due to the slick surface. This quality can also be their downfall, as the slick exterior makes it easier to drop stitches, especially if you aren’t fully paying attention to what you are knitting (i.e. at a movie or a knitting circle) You can also not carry these onto an airplane or in federal buildings. When it comes to buying aluminum needles, I adore Susan Bates needles- not very expensive, high quality, and very durable. I also prefer aluminum needles when it comes to circs and DPNs, because it makes working in the round flow a bit better.  Here are some questions you should ask yourself when shopping for aluminum needles:

• Am I buying these needles to use multiple times, or for a single project? (Esp. helpful when looking at prices)
• Are these quality needles, or just showy?

 Bamboo needles are really having a heyday, and I must admit, I am an avid supporter of bamboo needles. For instance, bamboo replenishes itself quicker that other trees, so I don’t feel as though I am damaging the environment as much. They also allow for quick knitting, but without the tendency to drop stitches like aluminum needles do. They are also a lot easier on your hands than aluminum needles, which can be especially helpful if you are a knitter with arthritis or carpal tunnel. On the other hand, they can be a bit more susceptible to breaking, though bamboo is highly sturdy and dependable. Also, dogs are very prone to chewing on them, and that is one test they do not endure well (Ask my size 8s…).  When you go to buy bamboo needles, ask yourself these questions:

• Is this a respected and reliable brand?
• Is this something I can keep out of my pets reach?
• Is this brand an environmentally friendly choice?

Some helpful, general tips:

• Never buy needles you question before your project is cast on.
• Lowest price does not always mean lowest quality, and highest price certainly doesn’t mean highest quality.
• Don’t buy needles based solely someone else’s opinion or your own opinion. Always follow instinct, but don’t always allow your instinct to be driven by trends.
• Remember that needles are not only a financial investment, but an investment in your project. How can you expect a quality finished object if you are not using quality needles?
• Remember to always check gauge and length, whether the set is straight or circular.

 Happy knitting!

What’s the best-kept secret of entrelac? (by Ina Gilmore)

The first time I saw a picture of entrelac, I knew I would try it. You see, baskets intrigue me.  Mostly I like to fill them with necessities: like my yarn stash.  I suspect I’ve always wanted to make some, but haven’t found the time or the space. So, I do the next best thing: I knit.

When I found the basket weave cable, I thought that was the best I could do. Little did I know entrelac was waiting for me to discover.

Basically, it’s knitting short rows on the diagonal to form tiers of rectangles and triangles that appear to weave in and out like a woven basket. This effect is strongest with stockinette stitch, although entrelac can also be made in garter stitch.

 

After making entrelac several times, what are some of my favorite secrets? 

1. With stockinette entrelac, the front and back are even more pronounced than regular stockinette stitch. This is true especially if you change colors.  If you’re like me, and like both sides of your scarf to look like a right side, you may not want to make a scarf by changing colors.
2. On the other hand, garter entrelac is reversible. Which makes it nice for a first attempt. You may want to try knitting a small project like a dishcloth, as in this pattern called Garterlac. 
   

   Garterlac Dishcloth

    

3. Cast on loosely. There are a variety of ways to do this, and all seem about the same to many experts. My personal favorite is casting on with a crochet hook and adding an extra chain betwee n the stitches. Laura provides knitting instructions for her technique.  
4. Entrelac is great practice for short rows. So what? Well, short rows are needed for turning a heel, and can be inserted to customize a fit around a curve. You know, like for rounded shoulders or an ample bosom.
5. Alternating between two colors on the tiers in stockinette entrelac really makes the three dimensional aspect of the pattern “pop.”
6. After a while, the stitch becomes automatic. With this, you may find yourself forgetting whether you’re on the front or back, and may even knit a few stitches or blocks in the wrong direction. 
7. Entrelac is a great technique to practice knitting backwards also. Instead of turning each short row and purling. In stockinette entrelac, you can knit backwards the purl rows from the right side. This saves turning your work, which often is an advantage if your project is large. Or maybe you just want to practice knitting backwards.

 And then there are the ultimate secrets of entrelac: It’s not as hard as it looks and it’s addicting!

Ina Gilmore learned to knit as a child.  She enjoys sharing her knitting adventures, tips and techniques. You can find her online at her knitting blog The Knitting Yarn.  You can follow her updates on Twitter at www.twitter.com/theknittingyarn.  You can also find her on Ravelry as theknittingyarn.

Charity Knitting For Beginners (by Robyn Devine)

It seems like only yesterday you picked up a pair of knitting needles for the first time. Maybe it was to finally make a scarf for a friend, or an adorable hat for a new babe. No matter why you picked up the needles, you feel like you’ve got the art of the Knit and the Purl under your belt, and you’re wondering what’s next.

Some are immediately drawn to the intricate color work in Fair Isle knitting, and some are all about the cuddly shapes and sizes of knitted toys. Myself, I was almost immediately drawn to charity knitting. For me, there was no better way to use my newfound skills than to help keep others warm. Whether it was knitting hats for preemies or lap blankets for the elderly, I found my charity knitting taking over my house.

It wasn’t for years that I figured out most knitters around me either don’t knit for charity, or had the desire but didn’t know where to donate. I realize now that my “jump in and see where you land” approach to charity knitting is not the normal path, with most knitters stymied either by the overwhelming needs around them or the lack of donation bins in their area.

What Do People Need?

For new knitters, the challenge can be even harder – still struggling through casting on, binding off, and knitting two together, it can seem too great a hurdle to go from making yourself a scarf to making something for a complete stranger. But have no fear – with a few simple steps you’ll be crafting away for others in no time!

If you’ve got the desire to knit for charity, your first step is to figure out what you like to knit the most. Do you find yourself knitting scarf after colorful scarf? Do your fingers fly around the needles when you cast on a hat? Whatever you love to knit, there’s a charity organization that needs it, I promise. And figuring out what you want to knit, what you love to knit, will make your charity knitting projects more fun. After all, who wants to plug away at a pair of socks when all they really want to be knitting is dish cloths?!

Where To Give

Once you’ve figured out what you want to donate, the trick is to get it to the people who need it most. Lucky for you, I’ve done some of the dirty work, and at the end of this article you’ll find a list of some of my favorite charities, and the items they take.

Looking to donate locally? Start flipping through your phone book! Send an e-mail (or stop by) your local hospital’s NICU (neonatal intensive care unit) and see if they take baby items. Call up a local nursing home or hospice to find out if they’d like some comfort afghans, lap blankets, snuggly caps or slippers. Foster care organizations, AIDS crisis centers, and even your local Humane Society are also great places to ask. In my experience, just about any non-profit organization will take handmade items of some sort – it’s all in matching up your items to the right charity!

Share The Love

Once you’ve gotten in touch with an organization that accepts hand knits, be sure to let others know. If you’ve got a blog, post pictures of the items you’ve made, and let others know where you’re donating them. Hop onto local community boards or attend knit nights at the local yarn shop to recruit other charity-minded people to help out!

Remember, not that long ago you were someone who wanted to help but didn’t know how – now that you’re “in the know”, sharing your expertise is the best way to get others involved.

A Few Places To Start

Want to fast-track your charity knitting? Here’s a few great organizations that are always looking for items. Be sure to head to their websites for specifics!

Warm Woolies – collecting items for orphans across the globe, this charity needs socks, sweaters, and vests made from 100% wool items for sizes from preemie to adult.

The Nest – this organization brings 100% animal fiber items to people struggling through cold winters in Maine.

The Ghana Project – collecting squares to be sewn into blankets for over a decade – the perfect way to use up all your acrylic remnants! These blankets go to children across Africa struggling through painful surgeries.

Homespun Helpers - this group of charity knitters congregates on the web, banding together to knit for a wide variety of charities.

Article author Robyn Devine is a 30-something newlywed who has focused her life on craft, sustainability, and changing the planet for good. Having been a crafter most of her life, it wasn’t until recently she discovered she could meld her love of handmades with her passion to help the world become a better place for all humans, instead of a place that seemed to work only for a privileged few.

She divides her free time between knitting and scrapbooking most days, is in a constant battle with all the clutter threatening to take over her house, and truly believes that with a bit of compassion, some wool, and a slice of pizza, the world could be a happier place for all!  Enjoy Robyn’s blog: http://robyndevine.typepad.com

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