Unraveling the Yarn: A Dive into Knit Lingo Series – Part 1

Welcome to the first installment of my new series, “Unraveling the Yarn.” This series is for someone just beginning their knitting journey and learning the ropes. I will walk you through the world of knitting lingo, the basics of knitting, and some free beginner patterns. This first post goes over the very first thing a new knitter will need to decide — will you hold the working yarn in your right or left hand?

See the video at the bottom to see the two styles in action.

Subscribe to get alerts when new tutorials are released.

The Two Styles

English Style Knitting: This term is often used to describe the right-handed knitting style, particularly in the United States and the UK. In English-style knitting, the yarn is typically held in the right hand, and the stitches are formed using a throwing motion.

Continental Knitting: This style involves holding the yarn in the left hand. In Continental knitting, the needle is inserted into the stitch, and the yarn is picked with the right needle to form the stitch.

In addition to “English Style Knitting” for right-handed knitting and “Continental Knitting” for left-handed knitting, there are a few more terms and variations associated with these knitting styles:

Right-Handed Knitting (English Style Knitting):

1. Throwing Style: This term is used to describe the motion of “throwing” the yarn around the needle with the right hand. It emphasizes the overhand movement of the yarn.
2. American Style Knitting: In some contexts, particularly when differentiating between knitting styles in the U.S. and Europe, the term “American Style Knitting” might be used to refer to right-handed knitting.

Left-Handed Knitting (Continental Style):

1. Picking Style: Continental knitting is often referred to as “picking” because the yarn is lifted or “picked” with the right needle to form the stitches. This term emphasizes the underhand movement of the yarn.
2. German Style Knitting: Some people use the term “German Style Knitting” interchangeably with Continental knitting, particularly when referring to the method prevalent in German-speaking countries.

Remember that these terms are not always strictly interchangeable, and the choice of terminology can vary based on regional preferences, individual preferences, and knitting communities. The important thing is to find a knitting style that feels comfortable and enjoyable for you, regardless of the specific name used to describe it.

Listed below are some pros and cons that might help you choose between the two.

The Right Path vs. the Left Lane:

Right-Handed Knitting Pros:

• Right-handed knitting is the conventional method taught in many beginner knitting classes, making it widely accessible for newcomers.
• It can feel more comfortable for right-handed people.
• Some people believe that the stitches tend to be more uniform due to the repetitive motion of wrapping the yarn around the needle with the right hand.

Right-Handed Knitting Cons:

• Some argue that right-handed knitting may be slower because your yarn has farther to travel.
• Can be strenuous on your hands and wrists based on your motions (but the same can be true for left-hand knitting).
• Purl stitches can be more cumbersome and difficult.

Left-Handed Knitting Pros:

• It can be faster for some due to its shorter yarn travel.
• Easier to move from knit to purl stitches.
• Feels more natural for crocheters or left-handed people.

Left-Handed Knitting Cons:

• For those accustomed to right-handed knitting (or are a right-handed person), switching to the left hand may pose an initial challenge.
• Maintaining even tension can be tricky for beginners, potentially leading to uneven stitches.
• Can be strenuous on your hands and wrists based on your motions.

Choosing Your Path

Deciding whether to knit with the right or left hand ultimately boils down to personal preference. Some knitters find a sense of rhythm and comfort in the traditional right-handed approach, while others swear by the efficiency and fluidity of the left-handed Continental style. Some knitters may even choose to use a combination of both styles, depending on the project or if they are trying to reduce strain to the hands and body.

As we embark on this journey through the knit lingo series, keep in mind that there is no right or wrong way to hold your yarn; it’s about discovering what feels most natural and enjoyable for you. Experiment with both methods, embrace the learning process and let your knitting style evolve organically.

Join us in the next installment of “Unraveling the Yarn” as we explore more knit lingo and delve into the diverse techniques that make the world of knitting endlessly captivating. Happy knitting!

Video Tutorial

Subscribe to get alerts when new tutorials are released.