Knit Your First Pattern – Pride Squared Part 1- How to Read a Knitting Pattern

Learn how to read a knitting pattern with this quick and easy step by step tutorial that breaks down the maze of information that is the knitting pattern!

How to Read Your First Knitting Pattern
Knitting is not just a hobby; it’s an adventure filled with twists and turns, much like the yarns we so lovingly craft into beautiful creations. Today, we embark on a journey – “Knit Your First Pattern: Pride Squared Part 1”, a tutorial that promises not just to educate but to entertain with its trademark drag queen flair.

Decoding the Knitting Pattern Language
Let’s start by demystifying the typical format for standard knitting patterns. Reading your first pattern might seem like interpreting ancient hieroglyphs, but fear not! We’ll break down every twist and turn of these cryptic instructions with humor and ease. Watch the video above for visual examples, but most patterns break down as follows:
1. Pattern notes and copyright info
2. Supplies, gauge, and pattern key
3. Pattern instructions
4. Charted instructions (if applicable)
5. Final notes

Knitting Abbreviations Unraveled
Next up, we tackle the shorthand of knitting – abbreviations! These little acronyms might seem daunting at first, but they’re really just a knitter’s secret code. From “K” for knit to “P” for purl, we’ll unravel every mystery. Here’s a list of 11 common knitting abbreviations. You most likely won’t use all of these in every pattern (this pattern only uses 5 of them), but it’s great to familiarize yourself with them now!
1. K – Knit
2. P – Purl
3. St – Stitch
4. YO – Yarn Over
5. K2tog – Knit Two Together
6. SSK – Slip, Slip, Knit
7. PSSO – Pass Slipped Stitch Over
8. CO – Cast On
9. BO – Bind Off
10. RS – Right Side (of the work)
11. WS- Wrong Side (of the work)

Casting On: The First Step in Knitting
Casting on is like the opening scene of your favorite TV show – it specifically sets the stage for all the drama and beauty to follow. We’ll review this essential step in this video, but if you want a more in depth tutorial, be sure to check out my “Learn to Knit: Part 2 – How to Cast On” video!

Knitting Terms Demystified: Gauge
Now, let’s dive into the knitty-gritty of knitting terms, with a special focus on gauge. Another funny word, but understanding gauge is crucial for your knitting success, and we’ll explain them in a way that’s as fun as it is informative. In a nut shell, gauge is how big or small a person particularly knits. For this kind of pattern, gauge isn’t too big of a deal because the final result doesn’t need to fit any particular person to be useful. However, in any sort of garment or accessory, determining your gauge is crucial to making sure your final product comes out the same size the designer intended.

Swatching: The Secret to Perfect Knitting
We’ll explore the importance of gauge and swatching in depth. Swatching may seem like a tedious step, but it’s the secret ingredient to perfect knitting. In order to make a gauge swatch, I’ll typically use the yarn I’m using for the final product and the suggested needle size, and then cast on 25-30 stitches ( CO 30st if we’re using our abbrevations 😉 ). Secondly I’ll knit a few rows in garter stitch (knitting every stitch every row) to help prevent curling at the cast on edge.
After that, I’ll knit 30 rows or so in stockinette, or in whatever stitch pattern the pattern calls for, maintaining a 5 stitch garter stitch edge on each side in order to prevent curling. Lastly, I’ll knit a few more rows in garter stitch and bind off. This usually provides ample space to measure 4in/4in stockinette stitch, which is the standard for determining gauge. Likewise, stockinette stitch is one of the most common stitch patterns you’ll see in garments

Preview: Knit Your First Pattern: Pride Squared Part 2
As we wrap up this tutorial, we’ll give you a sneak peek into “Knit Your First Pattern: Pride Squared Part 2”. Get ready for more fun, more learning, and more knitting because next we go over slipping your first stitch, and how to change colors in your knitting!

In conclusion, we hope this tutorial brings a smile to your face and confidence to your knitting needles. Remember, every stitch is a story, and you’re the author of your own cozy, colorful tale.

FAQs
What’s the best way to start learning to knit?
Firstly, begin with the basics like casting on, knit stitch, and purl stitch. Practice makes perfect! After you’ve got the hang of those, you can subsequently push yourself to learning new skills and making all sorts of beautiful garments.
How do I read a knitting pattern correctly?
Read through the whole pattern once, so you know the full road map you’re taking. Then, take it step by step. Familiarize yourself with common abbreviations and instructions.
Can I knit home decor items as a beginner?
Absolutely! First start with simple patterns like this or my Fuzzy Felted Friends pattern and build those skills to challenge yourself more and more in the long run.
Why is gauge important in knitting?
Gauge ensures your finished product is the right size and fit. Additionally, knitting a gauge swatch gives you experience with a particular yarn and lets you know if there are any tricks or surprises to it.
How can I make my knitting more fun?
Begin by experimenting with colorful yarns, and trying new patterns, and then start knitting with friends!