by Corey Palmer

Over the years, and I mean many years, knitting has been used as both a past time and a way to make clothing and other much needed items. Basically, needles are used to knot and loop the yarn in a specific way that turns the loops and knots into a piece of knitted fabric.

Yarn can be knitted into a large variety of pieces of clothing like sweaters, hats, mittens and the like. Blankets can also be made from knitting. And who do you know that has never owned a knitted scarf? I’d say everyone has had a scarf knitted for them in their lifetime — or at least bought one at one time.

In order to get different patterns and styles of knitted pieces, different types and sizes of needles are used. Even some needles are circular in shape to get circular knitted patterns. There are also many knitting patterns available that you can follow in order to make different pieces. These knitting patterns can be found at all yarn and hobby stores.

Another way that fabrics can be knitted in by the use of a knitting machine. A knitting machine consists of a frame, loom and and machine. Some of these mechanical machines are even computerized and can do a wide variety of different types of stitches and patterns.

Before the computerized knitting machines came along, people sometimes used looms. These were sometimes huge machines that were used to weave together either thread or yarn to make different fabrics or textiles.

If you are looking to learn how to knit, the good thing is that it is very easy to learn and rewarding when you begin to make your own creations. The best part is that usually you do not have to go too far to learn. Just visit a relative or friend that you know who already knits. Ask around in your family. Sometimes you can also find groups where people get together to socialize while doing some knitting. This is a great way to learn new techniques in knitting as well.

There are actually classes available in some cities. Just check your local newspaper ads or check the radio.

Learn how to knit and you will not only have a great hobby to pass the time, but you will have a great new wardrobe as well! Pretty soon you will be wearing that new scarf or sweater and enjoying the warmth that it provides.

About the Author:
Corey Palmer is a craft store owner that has a wide variety of yarn for knitting. Check out some crochet hooks, knitting in lace patterns, and knitting needle point protectors.

By Jo Black

I originally taught myself to crochet because so many of my favorite knitting patterns included crocheted edges.

Since then I’ve discovered that crochet can be a lovely addition to your knitting, providing anything from girly, fancy lace to simple, neat edges. In this article, I’ll show you just how easy it is to add a simple crocheted edge to your knitting.

This edging is by far the simplest to do and is a great one to add neatness to your knitting. It creates a tight, flat edging – especially useful if you want a crisp, clean look.

Adding a crocheted edge to knitting
Start by holding your crochet hook is your right hand (use the same size hook as you have knitting needle:

So if you were using a 4mm knitting needle, use a 4mm crochet hook. Make a loop and wrap it round your hook. Then put the hook through one of the loops on the bottom edge of your knitting. Wrap the yarn around the hook from right to left.  Pull the bottom loop up over the new loop (created by wrapping the yarn over from right to left as you’ve just done) and over the top of the hook. Wrap your yarn around from right to left again, and repeat the above step, leaving 1 loop on the hook.

Carry on doing this double crochet stitch into every stitch along the outside edge of your knitting. When you reach the end of the section you want to edge, simply cut your yarn and remove the loop from your hook. Then thread the yarn through the loop and pull tight. This will stop the yarn from unraveling.

This is probably the simplest and easiest crochet stitch to get to grips with and produces a nice neat edge.

To see the full articles along with pictures visit: http://jo2308.typepad.com/blissedoutknitting/.

Jo Black has a passion for knitting and craft and believes that everyone can find their bliss through knitting. She’s a working Mum living in England with her son, partner, and a rather large stash of knitting yarn!

Article Source: Jo Black => How To Add A Simple Crochet Edge To Your Knitting