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Practical tips and tricks to help you be a better machine knitter.
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Upcoming Knit Club Meetings

Jul 23

Don't Run out of Yarn

Have you ever gotten near the end of a knitting project in a cold sweat, afraid you didn't have enough yarn to finish? If only you knit the sleeves just a little shorter....

Let's talk about tips for KNOWING how much yarn you need BEFORE you start knitting.

Check out this post

Join us LIVE!

Tuesday, July 30
10am Pacific, 1PM Eastern
Google "What time is it in Phoenix" to compare your time zone.
View Event
Jul 30

Not So Magic Formula

Shaping your knitting and getting the increases and decreases JUST RIGHT can be a challenge. If you are altering a pattern or creating your own, guesswork just doesn't cut it.

Let's talk about shaping without adding, subtracting, multiplying or dividing ANY numbers!

Shorten/lengthen sleeves or shaped garments, add shaped shoulders for better fit, plan triangles interesting shapes and turning corners.

Join us LIVE!

Tuesday, July 30
10am Pacific, 1PM Eastern
Google "What time is it in Phoenix" to compare your time zone.
View Event

Replays

View No matter what kind of knitting patterns you use, there are times when you just want to make a little "tweak" to the dimensions. Maybe you want to shorten the sleeves, add bust darts, or shape the shoulders. Maybe you like to draft your own patterns.

With the Knit it Now Knitters Toolkit, let us do the math so you can get knitting!

Today's Knit Club will focus on practical uses for the tools, so you can knit sweaters that fit!
Want to watch previous shows? Subscribe

View Forget needlebed limitations - get creative and knit for any size!
Let's talk design options, not only for size, but for great fit.
View A quick alternative to shaping sweaters is to use Cut 'n Sew.
  • Forget shaping with complicate stitch patterns
  • Fast results
  • Use sewing patterns
View Add a kangaroo pocket to any knitting pattern. This practical and fun addition will add a designer touch to your sweater.
View Knit 2 strands of yarn together and let the machine position them so you view one color on one side of the knitting and the 2nd color on the other side of the knitting. This technique can be used on both the single and double bed. It's a great way to bulk up finer yarns and play with color
View Knitters often get overwhelmed with the thought of adding buttonholes to their knits. Although there are many tricks for professional buttonholes, remember they are just holes. We want to neatly secure stitches to allow the button to pass through.

Let's talk about some of the many techniques that can be used to create perfect (and functional) buttonholes.
View Punchcards can by mysterious .... how do they work? Let's explore the 1 SECRET to punchcards.

This one fact will change how you think about automatic patterning and help you incorporate more stitch patterns in your knitting
View Considering purchasing an additional knitting machine? At some point on your journey you will think about adding another machine to your workroom.

Maybe you want to use different weight yarn, maybe automatic patterning (punchcard or electronics) are in your future.

Let's talk about machines in general and consider the possibilities of the many different machines that are available to us.
View Measuring and calculating accurate gauge when knitting in tuck can be problematic. Here are 8 tips learned the hard way

We are using the Zoom platform to host our Tuesday Knit Clubs.
If you aren't familiar with Zoom, here's a short video that will help.
View We're taking a week off ... check out the 50+ replays for some Knit Club inspiration.

Follow us on Facebook and catch any impromptu lives. Sue has a new selfie stick to play with....
View Over the last few weeks, we've heard from new knitters who were frustrated and ready to give up.

After we sent an email asking for fellow knitters to give encouragement to the newbies, we've heard from subscribers who are in the same boat.... frustrated, confused, discouraged, unmotivated .... What can we do to help YOU?

  • Where are you on your machine knitting journey?
  • Are you discouraged? Frustrated?
  • Lost your motivation? Why did you start MKing in the first place?
  • How can Knit it Now help YOU?
Please join us today and give us your 2 cents.

View Have you ever found a stitch pattern and thought "that would be perfect for that sweater I've been thinking of knitting!"?
Let's explore stitch patterns and how to incorporate them in garments.
  • Compare gauges
  • Yarn usage with different stitches
  • "Fabric" Considerations
  • Garment construction in pattern
Let's get creative with stitch patterns (no more plain 'ol stockinette) BUT be informed about incorporating stitch patterning in our knitting.
View One of the first surprises for most new machine knitters is the fact that the humble garter stitch is problematic on the knitting machine.

Because our needles face in one direction and they form uniform stitches in one direction, we can easily produce stockinette stitch (translated knit 1 row, purl 1 row) but to knit every row?

Let's talk about the many ways that we can add garter stitch to our machine knits.
View Machine knitting blankets is more than just rectangles. Let's talk about making larger sizes, alternative shapes and interesting construction techniques.
View You found the perfect hand knitting project. How to knit it on the machine? Ask yourself 3 questions:
  • Is it possible?
  • Is it practical?
  • Are you willing to do what it takes to "translate"?
View
The humble I-Cord (slip cord) can be used for so much more than ties and straps.

From decorative to functional uses, let's talk about I-Cord!

  • Did you know you can cast on and bind off with I-Cord?
  • What about slip cord for a finish-as-you-go edge to your knitting?
  • Straps, bands, ties and frou-frou
Get creative with I-Cord!

Check out our newest Quick Win, Checkerboard Pillow
It uses I-cord in the seam as an embellishment.
View Knitting V-neck sweaters isn't hard ... perfecting the finishing can be a challenge.
By examining a poor excuse for a v-neck, let's explore some tips for a professional finish.
View Break out of the ribbing rut! Your cuffs and welts don't HAVE to be ribbed!
Machine Knitters have lots of alternatives to ribbing. Let's explore a few and expand your horizons

View Where do you turn for knitting patterns? With so many choices, do you get confused by pattern styles and terminology?
  • Software, magazines, vintage patterns, Knit it Now patterns ... what's best for you?
  • Machine knitting patterns, hand knitting patterns ... what's the difference?

NOTE: Check your time! Google "What time is it in Phoenix" to compare
View Let's talk Tuck! A basic technique that can be worked on any knitting machine.

Tuck ads texture and width and the possibilities are nearly endless!

Manual Machine, Punchcard or Electronic ... you CAN knit Tuck!
View Let's talk Stitch Patterning!
  • Using the Stitch World Books for any machine (with and without Designaknit)
  • Upside down and backwards
  • Manual Machines
View
This week's Knit Club was cancelled.

Last week's Knit Club scratched the surface of knitting in pattern on the machine.
This week let's get into some more specifics:
  • Using the Stitch World Books for any machine (with and without Designaknit)
  • Upside down and backwards
  • Manual Machines
View Let's explore automatic stitch patterning.  Punchcards, electronics, tuck, lace, slip, fairisle, weaving... so many choices so little time!

Stitch patterning allows us to add texture and color to our knitting.  No more boring, plain 'ol stockinette!  Master stitch patterning!

Whether you have a punchcard, push button, electronic or manual machine, there is a huge wealth of patterning inspiration available to you. Learn to "translate" for your machine.
View Are you new to MKing? Are you stuck in a rut with the basics?
Let's look at all the different ways to start and end your knitting.
  • Practical and fancy cast on methods
  • No ribbing allowed! Explore hem treatments
View Raglan Sleeve Sweaters are knitters' favorites. This week, let's talk Raglans!
  • Pattern Design Differences
  • Construction Options (top down, bottom up)
  • Decorative Shaping
Don't just blindly choose and follow a pattern. Learn about how raglan patterns are written, so you can knit the perfect sweater for you!
View Knitting perfect set in Sleeves just takes practice.
  • 3 Reasons for Ugly Sleeves (hint: it may not be your fault)
  • Perfect your techniques
  • Top Down Sleeves (love 'em or hate 'em)
View As machine knitters, we spend a lot of time knitting rectangles and squares. Knitting circles opens up a world of design possibilities. Let's explore some circular inspiration!
View
Very few adult women today will fit into the vintage patterns written for 32" bust.

Let's talk about options for knitting for today's woman.
  • Plus Sizing
  • Not Enough Needles
  • Design Suggestions
View
Did you accomplish what you set out to do with your knitting machine this year?

Are you happy with the progress you are making?

Let's talk about why (or why not) and see what Knit it Now can do to help you make great strides on your MK journey in 2019

This will be the last LIVE for 2018 ... we'll resume on Tuesday, January 8 (same time, same place) ... Happy Holidays!
View We've all had them ... disasters!
Dry your tears and LEARN from your disasters. Before you "frog" it (or toss it) - take time to examine what went wrong.
View Scarf Inspiration on any machine
View The often over-looked technique of Knitweave creates beautiful knitted fabrics with lots of possibilities.
Unlike traditional weaving, think of weaving on the machine as "laying-in" a second yarn on top of the knitting.
It is a decorative technique that can be used to create interesting textures with any machine and incorporate yarn that may not be suitable for your machine.
Have a small amount thick, fancy (possibly expensive) yarn? Use it in your machine knitting with Knitweave!
View Do you find yourself saying "I just don't have time for knitting"?

This seems to be a common thread in the Knit Club Forum recently.

Let's put our heads together and share tips for how YOU get things done and MAKE time for your favorite hobby.
View What could be more fun than knitting for babies? Sweaters and blankets can provide for quick knitting and allow for your creativity!

Knit it Now offers, courses, patterns, and inspiration for baby knitting.
Check what Knit it Now has available for you.

Let's talk about knitting for babies!

View
HELP!
  • Why did you join Knit it Now?
  • Why do you follow us?
  • What are your machine knitting goals?
  • How can we help YOU?
We changed today's topic from the baby sweater ... if you are interested, please contact me directly.
View
We often get these questions from new knitters:

Do I need special yarn for my machine?
What yarn can I use with my machine?
Do I have to re-wind yarn in balls or center pull skeins?

Let's explore the topic of yarn! We'll dispel some myths, outline some facts, and get in trouble voicing some strong opinions on the subject
If you are an experience knitter, please join in with your words of wisdom for other knitters.
View
Of course machine knitters can use (many) hand knitting patterns successfully! Using both a simple example and L'Enveloppe (a challenge), let's explore the steps

View Cables are traditional favorites of knitters both hand and machine. You CAN knit cables on the machine ... no matter what machine you have.

Recommended Reading:
Exciting Cable and Tuck Stitch Combinations Printed Book
Learn Contemporary Cables Download
View Maybe you're considering purchasing a ribber for your machine or maybe you have one and haven't used it.

Let's talk about how adding a ribber to your MK setup can expand your horizons.

Did you know you can do much more than plain 'ol 1x1 ribbing?
View DesignaKnit and Garment Designer are both excellent software packages that are useful for your machine knitting.
  • Do you NEED software?
  • What do you want to use it for?
  • Differences between the DAK and GD
This is NOT a sales pitch for either package. The focus will be on helping you determine IF software can help you be a better knitter.
View Fast Knitting - Creative Canvas - Useful project!
Not too short, not too long ... just right length.
Off the shoulder or neck close warmth.

Make your poncho the way YOU want it PLUS use any machine, any yarn and any stitch pattern!
View Mock ribbing is a technique that often gets overlooked. Let's look at this versatile and useful technique with fresh eyes.
View Add a soft, flattering touch to the hems of your sweaters. Curve the sides with short row shaping.Work the hem finish of your choice, then shape the sides for a designer touch.
View Thanks to all of our subscribers, new and returning! We are releasing our newest bonus course that will inspire machine knitters of all skill levels.

In the show this week, we'll talk about the the new course and all of the benefits of a Knit it Now Subscription, including some hidden "Easter Eggs" that you may not know are available to you.
View What are YOUR favorite books for knitting? ... both machine and hand.

We have a few that are on top if the stack ... what what are yours?
View After shaping necklines, adding neckbands is probably the most challenging part of machine knitting sweaters.
Let's dive into some tips for neckband perfection
  • How many stitches to pick up
  • 1 piece of 2 pieces
  • Getting the band to lie flat
  • Finishing options
  • Think outside the box
View It's never too early (or late) to start Christmas knitting. Let's talk stockings!
  • Design inspiriation
  • Construction tips
  • Mini stockings for practice
Can't wait till Tuesday? Check out the Knit-1 eBook Christmas Socks Ready for immediate download.
View To successfully knit garments it takes more than just throwing yarn at the machine and hoping for the best.
For machine knitters, the actual knitting can take less time than the planning and preparation.

Let's talk about the steps to take that will make your next project an all-around success!

View Newbie or experienced, sometimes all we want is a quick, practical SUCCESS!

Machine knitting doesn't have to involve days of planning. We do this to get done QUICK!

Let's talk about fun, easy and quick projects that any MKer can knit.
View When you got started machine knitting, what is the ONE thing you wish you knew?

Many of us are "self-taught" picking up bits and pieces of information here and there.

If you could share just ONE thing with a newbie ... what would it be?
View Stockinette, Slip, Tuck, Lace all make beautiful fabrics. Each has it’s own characteristics, but which one uses more yarn?

Follow along on our experiment.
We have a partial cone of yarn ... which stitch type would make the best use of the yarn we have available?
View Sneak Preview of our newest course.
  • Do hesitate to knit sweaters for you because they don't fit?
  • Are you frustrated with using different charting method or patterns?
  • Would you like to discover a pattern that is a "blueprint" made JUST FOR YOU?
The Fit Once ... Get Knitting Course walks you through all the steps to create a wearable "muslin" for yourself. It covers everything from planning, to mastering knitting techniques, to building a
Perfect Fit™, to knitting and finishing a sweater you will wear!
Looking for success in your knitting? Join us Live on Tuesday. (A recording will be available, too)
View Let's talk about alternative ravel cord materials and uses for a machine knitters best friend ... ravel cord.
View If you've been knitting for a while, you may have acquired some "skinny" yarn. Too fine to knit alone, what can you do with it? Let's explore some techniques that put "skinny" yarn to use!
View How to know how much yarn to purchase for a project? When knitting with cones, the decision is usually do I need 1 or 2 cones? Since we've been using more and more hand knitting yarn, a more accurate estimate is needed. Let's talk about yarn estimates ... from guessing to knowing for sure!
View We're taking some time out of the office ... let's talk machine knitting ... from Oakland!
View Adding a hood to any sweater pattern can be easy. There are a few things to consider when designing a hood ... especially for machine knitters. This overview will give you confidence to create your own custom hoodie sweater!
View You just ripped out a row of knitting, or put some knitting back on the bed from waste yarn or the garter bar. Perhaps you did a bit of shaping and now your carriage is on the opposite side of the working yarn.
Positioning the carriage is an essential skill for machine knitters.

Here are 3 things you can do....
View This is a hand-manipulated, lacy, openwork technique that can be done on any knitting machine, with any yarn. No punchcards or programming. It's reversible, making it a great choice for scarves or shawls. Watch as we work the partial knitting that makes this so beautiful!
This hand manipulated stitch pattern is a great way to gain confidence with your machine.
View The back and front of our sweaters don't have to match. If we are knitting to cover a body shape that isn't quite perfect ... we may need to add both length and width to the front only.
View New Course! Learn to get great fit with any knitting pattern. Make it fit YOU!
  • Knit it Now Dynamic Patterns
  • Traditional Knitting Patterns
  • Charting Devices
  • DesignaKnit
View The width of knitting produced by our machines is limited to the number of needles available on the machine. Lets talk about a few ways to work around the needlebed size limitation.
View "I hate hung hems"!

Let's look at 3 ways to make hung hems not only acceptable, but exceptional!
View Machine knitters can get things done ... fast! Why not dedicate some time to create something fabulous and hone your skills at the same time? Check out our newest "Weekend Project" with lots of options for making it your own!
View It's happened to us all ... the work drops off the machine (always at the worst moment). We drop stitches or knit in a knot.

Don't feel alone! Take a deep breath, take a walk and come back to the machine with fresh eyes and "just do it" to get back on track.
  • Tips for preventing problems
  • Techniques for fixing boo-boos
  • When to start over
View A quick visit to Stitches West knitting conference.
View Live event: Machine knit perfect set in sleeves with a 5 Day Challenge. Have you struggled with set in sleeves? Do you avoid knitting sweaters with set in sleeves? Join the Challenge that includes: - 5 Days of practice exercises - Dynamic Pattern for any machine - Private Forum for questions and success stories - Daily Live Videos for personalized help
View You are the designer! Use the Knit it Now "Blueprint" and course. You'll have all the instruction and tools to create an heirloom tree skirt for your family.

In this live event:
  • Compare the 2 pattern styles
  • Discuss options for finishing
  • Discuss design opportunities on the machine
  • Share inspiration and ideas for making this your own