My Top 3 YouTube channels for knitters.
Hello friends,
Picture this: you're cozying up with your latest knitting project, yarn slipping through your fingers, and a warm cup of tea by your side. What's missing? A little something to keep your mind as busy as your hands.
We knitters often have our go-to background noise - whether it's music, an audiobook, or just the comforting hum of our own thoughts.
But today, I want to share with you 3 of my absolute favorite YouTube channels - ones that will not only keep you company but will also help you become an even more confident and skilled knitter.
1. Wool Needles Hands: A fresh perspective.
Let's start with Tayler from Wool Needles Hands. Her videos are like a warm chat over coffee with a good friend who just happens to be an amazing knitter. Tayler has a knack for picking the most intriguing topics—whether it's choosing the perfect yarn or diving into a new project, her enthusiasm is contagious.
To introduce you to her style, I picked this video: "First time knitting socks? Start here". Since many of you are beginner knitters, I thought this would be both useful and enjoyable. And if you're as smitten with her style as I am, her channel is filled with gems that will inspire and educate you without a hint of boring theory.
2. Technique Tuesday with Roxanne Richardson: The masterclass.
If you're looking to delve deeper into knitting techniques and theory, Roxanne Richardson's channel is a must-visit. Her "Technique Tuesday" series is a treasure trove of knowledge, covering everything from picking up stitches to creating intricate cables. Roxanne's clear explanations and step-by-step demonstrations make even the most complex techniques seem achievable.
One of my top picks is her video on "Picking Up Stitches Along a Finished Edge". Roxanne has a way of making even the trickiest techniques seem manageable, and I find myself turning to her videos whenever I need a little extra guidance. She's the kind of teacher who makes you feel like you can tackle anything with a pair of needles.
3. Nimble Needles: The knitting Wikipedia
Last but certainly not least, I want to introduce you to Norman from Nimble Needles. His in-depth tutorials are a godsend when you want to understand the "why" and "how" behind every stitch and technique. Whether you're trying to troubleshoot a problem or learn a new technique from scratch, Norman has probably already covered it, in detail, on his channel.
New to Norman? To give you a taste of what Norman has to offer, I recommend checking out his "10 knitting tips that really make you a better knitter" video. Tip number 9, on how to fix tension, has been a game-changer for me.
🎁 Bonus: Mastering the Magic Loop method.
Patterns call for a variety of needle sizes and lengths, but there’s a technique that can help you get by with less - Magic Loop. It’s a brilliant method, but I know that many knitters, including myself, have struggled to grasp it at first.
In my video tutorials, I always share a link to a talented knitter who explains the Magic Loop method in a beginner-friendly way. If you've never tried it but want to learn, check out her video.
And for those tackling sleeves, I’ve got another video that walks you through using Magic Loop for them too.
I hope you find these channels as inspiring and helpful as I do. And now, I’d love to hear from you! Do you have any favorite YouTube channels or knitting influencers who have made a difference in your knitting journey? Feel free to reply to this emal.
📔 Pattern of the week.
This week, I stumbled upon the Iben Sweater by Camilla Vad, a beautiful circular yoke sweater that many of you will find charming.
When you see all the gorgeous projects other knitters have completed, it’s easy to understand why this pattern is so beloved. And I love how some knitters have styled it with a crisp shirt underneath.
The pattern is surprisingly straightforward. It’s only 4 pages long, but the instructions are clear and easy to follow.
However, I wouldn't recommend this as your very first sweater project. If you're new to sweater knitting, starting with a more detailed pattern might be a smoother learning experience.
Additionally, the Iben Sweater is knit with two strands of yarn, including kid-mohair. While kid-mohair is beautifully soft and luxurious, it can be a bit tricky to unravel if you make a mistake.
🧶 Yarn substitution tips.
If you’re thinking of giving the Iben Sweater a try, but aren't sure about the recommended yarn, here's a tip: you can substitute it with 1 strand of Drops Flora and 1 strand of Drops Kid Silk.
This combination will provide a similar look and feel to the original yarn.
Just remember, as always, to knit a swatch to check your gauge before diving into the project.
Drops Flora offers a beautiful range of colors, and there's even better news: Drops is currently offering a 30% discount on all yarns with alpaca! This offer is valid until September 17, 2024, at your local Drops yarn reseller.
I've already taken advantage of this sale and stocked up on Drops Soft Tweed for some upcoming designs - after all, it’s hard to resist a good deal on quality yarn!
❤️ I hope this Esenote was useful and inspiring.
Warm regards,
Julia Piro
Knitwear Designer & Esenotes Curator
P.S. Looking for even more inspiration? Follow me on Instagram or Facebook!
