Ready to knit? Let’s tackle the knit stitch! Part 2 of our Beginner Series builds on yesterday’s cast-on tutorial. Find more knitting tutorials here.
Welcome back to the Beginner Series! If you’ve found yourself here after yesterday’s cast-on tutorial, congratulations—you’re officially on the road to becoming a knitter. Today, we’re diving into the knit stitch, the cornerstone of countless patterns and the key to unlocking your knitting potential. Whether you’re left-handed or right-handed, I’ve got you covered, including a left-handed YouTube tutorial I created just for my fellow lefties.
Throughout this tutorial, you’ll see photos and video demos where I used Cascade 220 Superwash yarn (affiliate link) and my favorite needles from KnitPicks (affiliate link). Let’s grab those tools and learn how to knit the knit stitch!
What Is the Knit Stitch?
The knit stitch is the first fundamental building block of knitting. It creates a smooth, flat fabric when worked back and forth (garter stitch) or as part of a more intricate pattern. If you master this, you can knit scarves, blankets, and so much more. Trust me—it’s easier than it looks.
Setting the Stage: What You’ll Need
Before we dive into how to knit, let’s make sure we’ve got everything ready:
- Yarn: I used Cascade 220 Superwash (affiliate link) in the images and video. You can use similar medium-weight yarn for practice.
- Needles: I recommend KnitPicks needles (affiliate link), like the ones featured in my tutorial. Size 8 US (4.5mm) is perfect for beginners.
- Patience and enthusiasm: It’s all part of the journey!
Step-by-Step Guide to the Knit Stitch
1. Start with a Cast-On Row
If you joined us for yesterday’s tutorial, you’ve already learned how to cast on. If not, hop over to my cast-on tutorial (here) on the blog or watch the video. Casting on sets the foundation for your first row.
2. Hold Your Needles
- Right-handed knitters: Hold the needle with the stitches in your left hand and the empty needle in your right.
- Left-handed knitters: Reverse this, or check out my left-handed YouTube tutorial for a demo.
3. Insert the Right Needle
Insert the tip of the empty needle into the first stitch on the left needle, going from front to back. It’s like poking a friend on the shoulder—but gentler!
4. Wrap the Yarn
Take the working yarn (attached to your ball) and wrap it counterclockwise around the tip of the right needle. In my images, you’ll notice I used Cascade 220 Superwash yarn (affiliate link) for its smooth texture and ease of use.
5. Pull Through the Loop
Now comes the magic moment. Pull the wrapped yarn through the stitch, creating a new loop on your right needle.
6. Slip the Stitch Off
Slide the original stitch off the left needle. Boom—you’ve just knit a stitch!
Repeat steps 3-6 for each stitch on your row. Once you’ve worked all the stitches, you’ll transfer your needles: the full needle becomes the empty one, and it’s time to do it again.
Common Challenges When Learning How to Knit
Tension Troubles
Finding the right tension is like learning to ride a bike—it takes practice. If your stitches are too tight, loosen your grip on the yarn. If they’re too loose, tighten up a bit.
Dropped Stitches
Oops! If a stitch falls off your needle, don’t panic. Use a crochet hook or your needle tip to pick it back up. It’s all part of the process.
Twisted Stitches
Be sure your yarn wraps around the needle the same way every time. Consistency is key to avoiding twists.
Why the Knit Stitch Matters
The knit stitch is the bread and butter of knitting. Once you’ve got it down, you can move on to its partner-in-crime, the purl stitch. Together, they’re the dynamic duo of the knitting world. Garter stitch, stockinette stitch, ribbing—these all start with mastering how to knit the knit stitch.
Tips for Success
- Practice Makes Perfect: Dedicate a little time each day to practicing your knit stitch.
- Use a Mirror: If you’re left-handed, watching a right-handed demonstration in a mirror can be a game-changer. Or you can just watch my youtube tutorial (here)
- Take Breaks: Your hands and brain need rest. Knitting is fun, not a race!
Left-Handed Knitting Love
As a left-handed knitter myself, I know the struggle of flipping instructions designed for right-handed folks. That’s why I created a left-handed YouTube tutorial showing exactly how to knit the knit stitch from a lefty’s perspective.
If you’re left-handed, don’t let that discourage you. You’re part of an exclusive club of creative rebels, and I’m here to cheer you on every stitch of the way.
Practice Makes Progress
To practice your new knit stitch skills, why not start a simple project? A garter stitch scarf is perfect for beginners. All you need is yarn, needles, and your newfound knowledge of how to knit.
What’s Next in the Beginner Series?
Now that you’ve learned how to knit the knit stitch, get ready for tomorrow’s post where we’ll tackle the purl stitch. It’s the yin to knitting’s yang and opens up even more possibilities.
In the meantime, don’t forget to check out my knitting tutorials page for more resources. Whether you’re right-handed, left-handed, or somewhere in between, there’s something for everyone.
Learning how to knit the knit stitch is your first big leap into the wonderful world of knitting. Remember, every master knitter started right where you are now. So grab your yarn, practice your knit stitch, and enjoy the journey. I’ll see you tomorrow for part three of the Beginner Series!
What will you make first with your knit stitch skills? Share your progress in the comments or tag me on Instagram—I’d love to cheer you on!
Affiliate Disclaimer:
This description contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase through these links. Thank you for supporting my blog!