How to Knit for Kids

Knitting for kids requires making clothes they like.

Knitting books are filled with adorable patterns for toddlers and children, from darling sweaters to charming caps. But knitting for kids isn't as simple as following a pattern. All your hard work goes to waste if the child you're knitting for won't wear the clothes you knit. Avoid wasting your effort by choosing knitting projects your kids will enjoy and look good in.

Things You'll Need

• Kid-friendly yarns
• Knitting patterns

Instructions

1. Choose comfortable yarns. Children won't wear itchy, scratchy knitwear, so avoid pure wool or scratchy acrylics. Choose soft wool blends, cottons or new fibers such as bamboo and corn. Knit a test swatch and see if the fabric is soft and smooth.

2. Make sure the yarn is washable. Sure, silk and linen yarns can produce some knock-out sweaters, but for children's wear you need yarn you can toss in the laundry. Cotton denim and super-washed wool blends will stand up to wear and tear from kids and washing machines.

3. Choose the right size. Opt for loose rather than tight. No child likes feeling like a sausage in a homemade sweater. You don't want a baggy sweater, but you need to allow a little room for a sudden growth spurt.

4. Mimic modern fashion. Though you may think the knitted jumper just like the one you wore as a child is adorable, your son or daughter would rather have something that doesn't scream "my mother made this." Look for fashion-forward designs that mimic the styles in stores. You can find yarns in denim and faded cottons that are perfect for these styles.

5. Involve the kid in question in the knitting project. Ask the child to help you choose yarn and patterns. If the child has a say in the matter he'll be more likely to wear the finished result with pride.

6. Start small. If your child is unsure about wearing homemade knit goods, start with small projects such as scarves or socks. You can go wild with colorful yarns and patterns without embarrassing a child who isn't yet ready for a hand-knit sweater or jumper.

References

• "New Knits on the Block: A Guide to Knitting What Kids Really Want;" Vicki Howell and Cory Ryan; 2005
• "Cool Knits for Kids;" Kate Gunn and Robyn MacDonald; 2008