Beginners Knitting
Stressed out about the economic chaos and financial devastation that our world seems to be suffering? Then pick up a pair of knitting needles, grab some yarn and take the first beginners step to knitting. I know, I hear you asking, how can knitting solve all my financial problems? Well for a start it is a great de-stressor. Once you start you will be completely immersed in the process of creating something that you or someone else can wear or just admire. I will even go so far as to say that beginners knitting is good for your health. There is scientific evidence that shows the benefits that come from picking up a pair of knitting needles and knitting something that you can be thoroughly proud of.
Knitting induces a sense of calm and serenity. I’ve also read somewhere that it helps to synchronize the left and right sides of the brain and brings one closer to a meditative state. The gentle clicking and clacking of the needles brings about a soothing rhythm; leading to a more harmonious blood flow and lowered blood pressure.!
Yeah there might be a bit of stress involved in starting something from scratch. But first of all you have to accept the fact that your first attempt may not be perfect. No one should be looking for perfection at this stage. Or any stage for that matter. Practice, practice, practice will lead to great improvement, which is all you want to see. So don’t give up at the first hurdle. Remember we learn from our mistakes and so long as we are trying our best, we’ll get there in the end.
I’m one of those people who normally start off working on a new project really enthusiastically and then lose interest if the results don’t come quickly enough. And learning anything does take a little patience. Funnily enough, as a beginner, knitting, despite my initial incompetence, was one of the few pass times that I actually persevered with. It was all because I followed step by step, hand held instructions. I got so immersed that before I knew it, I had created a thin long scarf, just in time for the cold winter weather. I also found that while knitting, I felt that much more comforted by life. It is such a comforting activity to indulge in.
I’m not just talking to the ladies out there either. I attended a ‘Knit and Stitch’ show recently and was surprised at the amount of men in attendance. Yes there is a strong contingent of men who are avid knitters. In fact it may well have started off as a male pursuit, with advent of fisherman having to knit their nets. Many historians agree that knitting became a growing trend among Arabian sailors and merchants who travelled through out the Mediterranean and apparently, there are a number of knit patterns to prove this. Even in Wikipedia, knitting is listed as being originally a male-only occupation, with the first knitting trade guild being founded in Paris in 1527. A little known fact is that there was also a history of men knitting in the Second World War.
So this beginners knitting blog is for everyone’s benefit; young and old; male and female. All you need are a pair of knitting needles, straight, not curved. Size 8, 81/2 or 9, a ball of yarn or wool, and a set of simple knitting instructions. Always start with the basic stitch; knit one, purl one. Learn how to cast on, the knit stitch, the purl stitch and how to bind off.
Little and often is the best way to go. Try and do a little bit everyday. Once you’ve mastered the basics, beginners knitting will come as second nature. You’ll be able to do it in your sleep. In fact you’ll probably dream about it and the best thing is that, it’s like learning to ride a bike; you’ll never forget how to do it.
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