Although I have been knitting for years and gotten pretty efficient at it, I still love it when I learn a new trick that makes the process easier. My favorite trick has really changed my knitting process. I used to always carry paper and pencil and make little marks or tallies on my pattern to keep track of where I was. My friend A. shared this little tip with me:
When knitting a pattern with multiple rows, write the directions for each row on an index card (I use 1/2 index cards as they are more compact). Punch a hole in the corner of the cards and hold them together with a key ring. When you finish knitting a row, flip that card to the back. Now, when you pick up your knitting you will know what row you are on! It seems so simple! Why didn't I think of that? This tip is especially good for sock projects where the rest of the pattern is a formula that is pretty easy to remember after you have knit a few pair.
I was knitting socks with A. the other day; she was knitting the foot of the sock and had the leg part folded up. I knew there had to be a reason for this, so I asked. Well, it turns out that it is easier to knit the sock when the leg is folded up. The yarn doesn't get caught and it can turn around easier if it is not down in your lap. Go ahead, try it! So simple, yet it really speeds things along.
Really, why didn't I think of that!?
What simple tips have you learned lately?
