Things You'll Need:
- Knitting Gauge Rulers
- Knitting Patterns
- Knitting Stitch Holders
- Knitting Baskets
- Knitting Needles
- Lamps
- Row Counter
- Yarns
- Highlighter Pens
- Rulers
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Step 1
Consider your skill level when you choose a knitting pattern.
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Step 2
Begin with projects such as a simple scarf or blanket - something that requires only one or two types of stitches. These simple patterns will allow you to practice reading a knitting pattern.
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Step 3
Become familiar with the most common abbreviations. For example, k=knit, p=purl, alt=alternate, beg=beginning, dec=decrease, inc=increase and rep=repeat. (This isn't a comprehensive list of knitting abbreviations, just some common ones.)
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Step 4
Read your pattern instructions completely before you begin to knit. If you find an unfamiliar abbreviation, look to the key that is usually provided for an explanation.
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Step 5
Make sure that you have the yarn, needles and any other materials recommended in your knitting pattern. If you opt for a different yarn, use one that is similar in weight to the suggested yarn. This will help you produce the required gauge.
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Step 6
Knit a sample square to determine whether your knitting style produces the gauge suggested in your pattern. See "How to Gauge Knitting Stitches" for instructions.
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Step 7
Know that most knitting patterns share a similar layout. First you will see the finished dimensions of the knitted article. Next you'll see a list of the required materials, the gauge needed to render the article as described in the pattern and then the knitting instructions.
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Step 8
Use a highlighter to mark the portions of the pattern as you complete them. This will help you keep track of what you have already done.
