Knitting has been a method of making cloth for centuries. Lately, it has shed its image of being an activity for grandmothers and has been enjoying a resurgence of popularity with people of all ages. The simple craft of making stitches from yarn with a couple of pointed sticks allows one to create items that are both practical and beautiful. Whether you prefer wash and wear or fine luxury fibers, you can always find something new to knit.

Most people associate knitting with bulky sweaters or pastel baby blankets. Knitting can make much more than that, however.

Some people like to try their hand at many different projects. They may make a scarf one week, and a delicate sweater set the next. Others specialize in a certain type of item, like socks. Hand knitted socks certainly can be a luxury.

Still others combine knitting with other arts. By knitting large versions of patterns for mittens, slippers and handbags, the finished pieces can be shrunk in the washing machine to create durable felted items that will last for years.
The most amazing works of knitted art must be the incredible spiderweb lace shawls, however. They are so delicate... it is almost like they are made of gossamer themselves. These shawls are usually made of luxury fibers like cashmere, mohair and the softest of wools.

Most knitted articles can be made out of either fine wools that require special care or out of acrylic yarns. Acrylic yarns are more affordable and more readily available at nearby stores. They are a terrific fiber to begin with due to their low cost and forgiving nature. Once you've gained some skills with your knitting needles, you may wish to try your hand on some more luxurious fibers. Merino wool is incredibly soft, and superwash merino is perfect for socks... it doesn't shrink.

Wool blends that include angora, mohair or cashmere are wonderful for hats, sweaters, scarves and other warm items. Wool yarns come in all weights and colors just like acrylics, so you are limited only by your imagination and your budget.

If you are just beginning to learn to knit, you may want to begin with a kit of some kind that will guide you along and teach you to read a knitting pattern while you learn the basic stitches. You can find these beginning kits for hats and scarves in almost any craft shop. Once you know the two basic stitches of knit and purl, you'll be ready to try a more complex pattern.

Most of the intricate work done in knitting involves these two stitches in one form or another. As you gain confidence, you can attempt a larger or more intricate project. Don't overlook the finishing details. This can make the difference between a beautiful knitted piece and something that looks unkempt and unfinished. This includes small tasks such as weaving in the tail ends of your yarn and blocking your finished piece in the proper shape. You'll be so proud of your accomplishments when you are able to finish your project and wear it. Soon you'll be able to make gifts for friends and family that will be treasured for years to come.