How to Read a Knit Pattern
Knitting is a wonderfully creative and relaxing craft, but diving into your first project can feel a bit daunting, especially when confronted with the complexities of a knit pattern. The good news is that learning to read a knit pattern is simpler than it seems, and once you master the basics, a whole world of knitting projects will open up to you. Here’s how to get started.
1. Understand the Basics
Before you start, familiarize yourself with some common knitting terms and abbreviations. Most patterns use shorthand to save space, so knowing what these mean is essential. Here are a few examples:
- BO: Bind off
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CO: Cast off
- K: Knit
- M: Marker
- PM: Place marker
- P: Purl
- Rep: Repeat
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RS: Right side
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SM: Slip marker
- WS: Wrong side
Patterns typically include a key or legend explaining the abbreviations used, so keep this handy as you work.
2. Gather the Materials
Every pattern begins with a list of materials and tools you’ll need. This typically includes:
- The type and amount of yarn.
- The size and type of knitting needles.
- Additional tools like stitch markers, tapestry needles, or cable needles.
Double-check that you have the correct materials to avoid any mid-project surprises.
3. Decode the Pattern Structure
Most knit patterns follow a standard structure:
- Introduction: A brief description of the project and its difficulty level.
- Gauge: This is the number of stitches and rows per inch using the recommended yarn and needle size. It’s crucial to match this to ensure your project turns out the correct size.
- Instructions: Step-by-step directions to complete the project. These may include charts, written instructions, or both.
- Finishing: Guidance on how to assemble and finish your project, such as sewing seams or weaving in ends.
4. Read the Pattern Before You Start
Take a moment to read through the entire pattern before picking up your needles. This helps you understand the overall flow and spot any techniques you may need to look up.
5. Master Repeats and Stitch Counts
Many patterns include repeats, indicated by asterisks (*) or parentheses. For example:
*K2, P2; repeat from * across the row
This means you knit two stitches, purl two stitches, and then repeat the sequence across the entire row. Pay close attention to the stitch count at the end of each row or section to ensure accuracy.
6. Understand Charts
If your pattern includes charts, they’re usually read from bottom to top and right to left (for right-handed knitters). Each square represents a stitch, and symbols indicate specific techniques. Refer to the chart legend for clarity.
7. Use Stitch Markers
Stitch markers are invaluable tools for knitters. These small, often colorful rings help you keep track of important points in your knitting, such as the beginning of a round, the start of a pattern repeat, or a specific stitch in a row. They are especially useful for maintaining accuracy in complex designs or when knitting in the round. Stitch markers are also invaluable for keeping track of pattern repeats or sections.
You can find stitch markers here!
8. Practice Makes Perfect
Reading patterns is a skill that improves with practice. Start with simpler projects and gradually work your way up to more complex designs.
Check out our video below where we show you how to read a knit pattern, specifically the Appalachian Baby Blanket pattern!
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