Knitting and crochet are enjoying a vibrant resurgence of late.   Yarn arts are no longer something left to grandma, as young people everywhere are discovering the crafts.  Getting started is easy, with only a few supplies needed. First, buy a set of straight knitting needles.    Second, it’s wise to use a thick, light-colored yarn with a smooth feel for your first project. 

So you see, it only takes a few bucks to get what you need to knit a project.  Free knitting patterns are widely available.   Online is the easiest place to find free patterns.  All major yarn manufacturers offer free patterns on their official websites.   Often, a free pattern is included on the paper wrapping around store-bought yarn. People running their own yarn blogs write and share patterns for general use.  Several major social networking sites also offer sections with free patterns, as well as useful tips and tricks. 

Once you’ve got a handle on knitting, it might be fun to give felting a try! Felting supplies are easy to come by, and the technique is not at all difficult. It is important to keep in mind that felting shrinks the size of your project, so prior to felting the piece should always be larger than the intended final size.   Felting is ideal for projects that benefit from rigid texturing.  For example, felting is popular for knitted toys as well as knitted handbags.

Felting is achieved through the use of heat and agitation.   This is why most home felting is done in the washing machine.  Setting the machine to the hot water setting and the most vigorous agitation should achieve the results you desire.

The perfect first project, whether felted or not, is the traditional scarf. There are a few reasons why scarves make such a perfect first project. First, you need not worry too much about gauge, or “stitches per inch,” that has a significant affect on the sizing of knitted garments.    Since scarves are not complex garments enveloping the body, whether it comes out thinner or wider than the pattern calls for is unimportant. It still keeps the neck warm! Also, scarves knit up quickly, giving you a sense of accomplishment in a short period of time.

Knitting and other yarn arts are a great activity that can relieve stress. It is portable as well, going with you practically anywhere you decide to go. If you’re seeking out a new hobby, try out knitting!