How to Knit a Belt From Wool

Knitted belts are in fashion and work up quickly, and can be made by beginners. Wool yarn wears very well. When washing, use cold water, and lay the belt flat to dry. If dried in the dryer the belt will shrink and take on a felted look. The steps are simple and easy to execute. The pattern will look odd in the beginning, but it becomes even and interesting as you proceed. If you are allergic to wool, an acrylic blend or alpaca yarn will work as a substitute.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Wool yarn (one skein)
• Knitting needles (U.S. size 11)
• 2 D-rings
• Yarn needle
• Scissors
• Measuring tape

1. Cast on 10 stitches, leaving a 6-inch tail.

2. Knit one row and purl one row for five rows, ending with a knit row. Purl four rows. This completes the pattern set. Repeat this pattern for 42 inches, or until your belt reaches the right length for you. You should have several extra inches of knitted belt to thread through the D-rings.

3. The last five rows should be knit one row and purl one row, finishing with a knit row. Bind off the stitches and knot the last stitch. Cut the yarn and weave the end into the edge of the belt.

4. 
   D-Rings slipped in place.

   Bunch the belt at the beginning, where the six inches of yarn was left over. Slip both D-rings onto the belt about an inch from the end. Fold the belt end over and thread the tail end of the yarn into the yarn needle. Stitch the fold into place and secure it by knotting the end when you are finished. Weave any leftover yarn into the seam and trim it with scissors.

5. 
   D-Rings secured and the 1" piece of belt sewn in place.

   The knitted belt will be 2 inches wide, but it will become thinner when stretched and drawn through the rings to tighten it in place. If the yarn has curled, iron it flat with the appropriate heat setting on a steam iron.

Tips & Warnings

• Bulky wool yarns make interesting belts. Round rings or beaded rings can be used instead of D-rings.
• Read the packaging carefully if you have allergies.