The most common method to classify knitting styles is again to divide them into two groups: continental or English. This is not always the whole truth, however, as there are many other varieties of knitting styles, each with their own particular characteristics and patterns. Let’s begin with the most popular ones.
Continental knitting, sometimes called English knitting, is when the yarn is held in both hands instead of on the needles. Here the needles are the workhorses, used to pull and tug as the yarn is drawn through the loops on the needles. Thus, both hands are involved here. In Continental knitting the pattern usually comes first, followed by the written description, then the name of the stitch, followed finally by the name of the knitting brand.
One other very popular type of knitting style is the hooked knitting style, sometimes called American knitting or British knitting. In this type of knitting, the yarn is worked into a ring, and then passed through a hook, from the hook it is drawn through the loops on the needles. The yarn does not pass through the fingers, but rather remains on the hook, being pulled through the loops on the needles. A variation of the hooked knitting style is the European knitting style, in which the yarn hooks itself into the crocheting loop, and is pulled through the loops on the needles.
Within these three basic styles there are many others. One type of knitting style that was popular only in America until very recently, called the “box stitch,” uses loops of varying widths on the needles. Many of the loops may be knit together like a single continuous loop, forming a ring. The American version is different, in that the loops are drawn through the same process as the ring. There are many variations of the box stitch, called the cross-stitch, and some variations can be quite elaborate.
Another basic method of knitting is needlepoint. In needlepoint, a series of small loops are drawn over, and across the needle. The smaller loops are “knotted” together at the head of each needle. When completed, the knot is pulled tight, thus joining the series of loops on each needle. In the best pieces of handmade needlepoint, there will be a repeating pattern, which is referred to as a stitch.
In the last two areas mentioned, we have four basic types of knitting styles: flat knitting, cable knitting, needlepoint, and cross-stitched knitting. Each has its own unique characteristics. For example, cable knitting is characterized by short length yarn, and the stitches are made by interlocking loops of varying diameter. Flat knitting, often called English knitting, uses a looser weave, and there is usually little or no back or front yarn. Needlepoint knitting is done by knitting from one needle, which is usually very fine.
These four basic types of knitting styles are just the tip of the iceberg. Of course, there are many more available today. Anyone who is interested in knitting should do some research to learn about the various types of knitting available. It doesn’t matter whether you are knitting for yourself, or as a way to make gifts for family members. You can find a knitting style that is perfect for you. The three knitting styles above are great jumping off points for gaining a better understanding of how knitting is done.
As you gain knowledge of different knitting styles, you will also begin to understand how to knit different projects, such as sweaters, blankets, throws, scarves, bags, and much more. Once you become familiar with all the possibilities, you may even decide to open your own knitting store. This would be a great opportunity for you to show off your talents and sell your work. You can even combine two or more of the knitting styles to make even more unique and personal creations.
Leave a Reply