New to needle crafts

[Jenn4God]

I just recently got into knitting and cross-stitch. I'm doing it as a part of my new idea to only give handmade gifts at Christmas and other holidays. The trouble I'm having with knitting is the 2x2 rib stitch. I'm not sure if I'm doing wrong or if it just takes awhile for the form to take the right shape or even look right. I have gotten up to 6 rows with it and gave up because it just didn't look right. I really would love to knit but I just can't seem to do well with the stitches I have to count like P2 K2 P2 K2 and so on. Any advice?

 

[Munch]

For some reason, my ribbing is never as pronounced as I want it to be. I have the same problem and I've been knitting for a few years. I'm working on a 2x2 ribbed pink scarf right now, but I couldn't see the ribbing until I was about 6" into it. Not sure why, but maybe it's best to stick it out for a while, if you're patient?
As for stitch counting, after you've been doing it for a while, if you're doing a simple pattern (i.e., a 2x2 rib or a moss stitch), you can usually "set it and forget it." For now though, just keep track They make row counters, too, if you need them.

 

[Jenn4God]

Thanks. I have a row counter, it is a big help especially with a husband who likes to distract me by deciding he's hungry when I'm knitting lol. I guess I will just have to be patient and hope it turns out. As far as I know I haven't messed up anywhere so maybe it's like you said, it just takes awhile to look right.

 

[raindrops]

I only do cross-stitch, but want to learn other needle crafts too. Right now I'm working on a small native wolf with a band frame and feathers, it's fun. Good luck with the knitting. Let us know how it turns out.

 

[Jenn4God]

That sounds really pretty. I'm working a very pretty cross scene in cross-stitch right now for my granny-in-law

 

[mrscplus]

For a more "pronounced" ribbing...try knitting into the back of the knit stitches. But not on the pearl stitches.

This gives each knit stitch a half twist, and they stand out a bit. I love the 2 by 2 ribbing, and the look it gives to finished piece.

To knit into the back (and it would be so much easier with graphics), instead of inserting the needle from the front of the needle, you put it into the back of the stitch, and complete the stitch as normal.

 

[leytonstones]

Just wondering how the knitting is coming on ?


Blessings


Ley