Knitwit | Chickens in the Road

Jan
28

I want you to know that I haven’t given up on knitting. I know some of you have been concerned, considering all the crocheting I’ve been doing lately. I just needed to get my confidence in yarn back. It’s very rare that I ever give up on something. Even when I should.

I’ve been knitting!

I’ve started–and restarted–countless dishcloths from the Knit Dishcloth Sampler book I found at Michael’s.

Most of these dishcloth patterns are supposed to come out to around 10 or 11 inches square. My dishcloths kept coming out like 18 inches wide. I’d get started, realize I was making a mutant dishcloth, tear it out, try again, try another pattern, try everything! They just kept coming out HUGE. I was using a size 8 needle, as called for in the pattern. The gauge just NEVER came out right.

I crocheted some more to make myself feel better.

In a fit of insanity or perseverance (take your pick), I bought a variety of knitting supplies. My very own knitting stuff!

I don’t even know what these are.

I don’t know what these are either.

I know what these are, but apparently I don’t know how to use them.

And then I got to thinking, as I tucked my brand new, shiny knitting needles away in this very neat little knitting needle holder that was given to me by 52′s sister on my birthday last year…..

My brand new size 8 needles don’t look like the size 8 needles I’ve been using. I’ve been using a pair of size 8 needles that I borrowed from Missy when she taught me how to knit. And then you know what? I noticed that on the top of my new size 8 needles? They have the size engraved on them. WHO KNEW.

And those size 8 needles I borrowed?

THEY’RE SIZE 10 1/2.

Signed,
Too Stupid to be a Knitter

It’s a Ball Blue Book Project day! Today’s Ball Blue Book is sponsored by Historical Romance Author Michelle Willingham and her new book, The Accidental Countess. Visit her here.

To win: Leave a comment on this post and let me know you want it. You can just put (BBB) at the end of your comment or otherwise note that you want to be in the draw. One winner will be drawn by random comment number to receive a Ball Blue Book. Eligible entry cut-off is midnight Eastern (U.S.) time tonight. This post will be updated with the winner no later than 9 AM Eastern (U.S.) time tomorrow. Return to this post to see if you won.

Find out more about the Ball Blue Book Project and become a sponsor.

Update 01/29/10: The winning comment number is #52, Kris S. Email me with your full name and address for shipping!

THIS CONTEST IS CLOSED TO ENTRY.

More posts you might enjoy:

139 Responses
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1-28
1:28
am

Ohhh, such frustration for no reason! I’m glad it got figured out. I must say that I am terrible at getting my knitting to fit the size a pattern says. You are not alone. (BB)

Gen

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1-28
1:51
am

I can totally relate – I just finished a scarf yesterday – my first completed knitting project, although I have bought many a skein of yarn with the best of intentions. I wish I wish I wish I were an amazing knitter! Maybe someday….
Don’t give up – you’ll knit up something wonderful one of these days! (BBB)

Jennifer

Flag this comment
1-28
2:05
am

I knitted a blanket once, a small lap blanket.. Only used one stitch, but I did it!

Love to have the BBB. My son and I want to learn to can..

Debi

Flag this comment
1-28
2:06
am

Your NOT alone I can NEVER get mine to gauge!
~~HUGS~~

Blessings

Flag this comment
1-28
2:27
am

Some day I will learn to knit, crochet, and sew. And play the piano.

BBB please.

Lacey

Flag this comment
1-28
3:49
am

The little blue rubber things go on the top of your needles so that your work doesn’t fall off of them and you don’t poke yourself for those that are accident prone

Sharon Moreno

Flag this comment
1-28
3:51
am

You just have to knit to gauge for the pattern to come out alright some people have to go up a needle size and some have to go down. I personally usually have to go down about two needle sizes. Also different needles can have different outcomes My favorite needles are wooden. Good luck figuring it out.

Alison

Flag this comment
1-28
3:54
am

Gauge is shown on patterns as a guide. I never get gauge because I am a relaxed knitter. I know before I even start I need to change my needle size. I usually need to use the next smallest size needle to get the guage. All good knitters check their guage before starting a project. Different yarns can affect your knitting.

When your knitting potholders you don’t need to worry too much about the finished size of the piece but you do need to think about the fabric of it. Your probably making knitted fabric that is too loose. You don’t want to have loose fabric because the heat will come through to your hands. Therefore you need to use smaller needles.

The cylinders with movable numbers on are row counters. You put one of your needles through the hole in the middle and push it to the oher end of your needle. Then turn one of the ends of the cylinder. This will move the numbers round. Set them to 00. Each time you finish a row you turn the correct end of the row counter to move it on one number. Then you know how many rows you have made. (Don’t count the cast on stitches as a row.)

The other things you don’t know are needle protectors. You put them on the pointed end of your needles when you aren’t knitting. This stops accidental stabbings and keeps the knitting on the needle. I never use them because I keep my knitting project in it’s own bag when I am not knitting. That keeps every one out of danger, the knitting stays on the needles and it keeps clean.

There are lot’s of websites for beginner knitters and you tube has lot’s of “How to” video clips for knitting and crochet.

My best advice for anyone who is beginning these crafts is practise, practise, practise and ask questions.

Andrea

Flag this comment
1-28
4:11
am

Uh, Oh! Something is wrong!! Everybody, our Suzanne is not listed in the short list of any category in the “2010 Weblog Awards” contest!!! I think we goofed and spread our nominations too thin over several categories. I think next year we should get organized so that our nominations, and hopefully our votes, will be more productive for Suzannne. How about if she tells us (next year) which one she would like to have, then we all nominate her for that ONE, then if she makes the short list of that one we will all vote for her in that one category. If you want to look, here is some info…
The new contest (the 2010 Weblog Awards): http://2010.bloggies.com/
Tuesday, January 12, 10:00 PM EST Nominations close.
Thursday, January 21 Finalists are announced and voting reopens to all to choose the winner.
Sunday, January 31 (10:00 PM EST) Voting closes.
Winners will be announced in March.
If this has already been addressed in comments, I apologize. I’m fairly diligent about reading comments, but I could have missed some.
Knitting! Thank you, thank you for this post!

Barbee'

Flag this comment
1-28
4:17
am

You (we) will get there with the knitting, we won’t give up, we won’t give up!

Barbee'

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1-28
4:35
am

Well at least you finish your projects. I started to knit my husband a jumper for Christmas, it’s still not finished. (That’s Christmas 1982 by the way )

Rose H

Flag this comment
1-28
4:44
am

Hi Suzanne,
First I want to say how much I enjoy your blog!
Second you can knit, just don’t give up! Every knitter goes through what your going through.
I have found http://www.knittinghelp.com very helpful. They have videos of almost everything.
There’s also a http://www.crochethelp.com (for after you get that knitting thing mastered).
Third if your work is to big go down one or more needle sizes.
And last if “ripping out” wasen’t such a common occurance it wouldn’t have it’s own term “frogging” (rip-it) LOL!

Barb S.

Flag this comment
1-28
5:30
am

10 – 11″= dishcloth
18″ or larger call it a dish towel!!!! if it keeps getting bigger call it a bath towel,,,, a blanket , a housewarmer eventually you have to run out of yarn. Those blue thing look like earplugs. I commend your perseverance!!! I would look like a cat with a ball of yarn!!!

wkf

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1-28
5:31
am

errors in knitting (ha), cross stitch, quilting, and anything else i touch are the reason i have booboo in my name. i’ve come to learn to fix the things that are really obvious or accept the boo boos and make it a game for the others in the family to find!

margiesbooboo

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1-28
5:35
am

Good luck Suzanne! I have always wanted to learn to knit so I am going to try that once I have gotten better at using my sewing machine. There are always so many more things to learn than there is time. BBB

Maureen

Flag this comment
1-28
5:43
am

You are not stupid!! Patterns and gauges are stupid!!

But that’s why they put gauges in the patterns, and the needle size is just what worked for that person that made the pattern and gauge. Just adjust your needles size, break out the ones Missy let you borrow! Go against the “recipe”……you do it all the time in cooking, making it your own, you are allowed in knitting as well!

BBB please!! Thank you Michelle for sponsoring it….I love your books! and can’t wait for the next ones out!!!

CindyP

Flag this comment
1-28
5:53
am

Never give up Suzanne!! NEVER SAY DIE! BANZAI!!!
Oh yeah, BBB!!!!!

Laura in Greenwood, IN

Flag this comment
1-28
6:04
am

You can get the knitting….its something I have always wanted to do but never understood. I have faith you will figure it out.

Please enter me in the BBB.

Patricia Herman

Flag this comment
1-28
6:24
am

LOL! I used a sz H hook instead of F to crochet the ruffle dishcloth and it turned out fine. Guess you cant do that when you knit! I’m sure you’ll get the hang of knitting,maybe you could get you knit tudor back!
BBB

Leah

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1-28
6:28
am

Oh now that is just too funny! I’ve picked up and put down knitting out of frustration so many times, but I’ve picked it up again, and it must be my time, cause I’m flying through things! Even made my first hat. You will get it! Don’t despair!

Jayme aka The Coop Keeper

Flag this comment
1-28
6:46
am

I don’t knit or crochet but you can do it. You can do anything. You are Super Suzanne!! I would love to be crafty enough to do the craft stuff you do but I have to stick to the simpler things as I have a tendency to get very frustrated and give up. Please put me in for the BBB.

Connie Trippett

Flag this comment
1-28
6:47
am

LOL! I am sorry but I had to laugh and you are not stupid!! That is so like something I would do!

Never give up! A tiny bit of metal and yarn is not going to beat you!

I would love the Blue Ball Canning Book!

Runningtrails

Flag this comment
1-28
6:48
am

At least you try, I haven’t tried since I was about 12, that was 32 years ago! You are an inspiration though! I still think I’ll try the candlemaking first.

KimL

Flag this comment
1-28
6:49
am

Remember in high school when we complained that we ‘would NEVER need all that math”? Well… maybe we do need just a little of it!! The math is the hardest part of knitting for me, too especially the whole “Knit two, purl two” pattern – I always mess one of them up! Keep trying!

Rose in VT

Flag this comment
1-28
6:50
am

I would love to learn to knit, but I’ve only learned crochet. I had a lesson at Debbie Macomber’s workshop, but Lord help me, I was a complete mess. I still can’t figure out the basic stitch, using the books as a guide. I need a tutor.

Michelle Willingham

Flag this comment
1-28
6:57
am

Knitting. I taught myself. I do like it because I can take it with me when I have places where I am just sitting for a long time. You tube has lots of knitting video’s to show you how.

Enjoy your yarn art.

BBB please!!!!

Diane

Flag this comment
1-28
7:20
am

Suzanne,

Start simple with the knitting – make a scarf. Forget all the gauge stuff, just knit a row as wide as you want your scarf, then turn back. Keep going until it’s the length you want. Use no fancy stitches. End.

Karen Anne

Flag this comment
1-28
7:20
am

I have tried to knit numerous times but I have finally put it away for good. I can crochet anything as long as I have a pattern. I never have been one to make up my own. And I made your hamburger buns the other day. LOVED THEM! And even better, my two teenage children loved them! BBB please.

Amy

Flag this comment
1-28
7:27
am

(BBB)

Patty

Flag this comment
1-28
7:31
am

Suzanne, you WILL be able to learn to knit. Think positive. Don’t say I can’t because because as long as you believe this, you won’t. Actually, I think crochet is harder because it has many more stitches to learn where as knitting has only two…knit and purl. YOU CAN DO THIS!! BBB

NorthCountryGirl

Flag this comment
1-28
7:37
am

First, the little blue eraser type things are stoppers for your needle ends. It keeps the points from poking things like holes in your knitting bag, and it keeps your stitches from falling off. The little cylinders…they are row counters. If you are following a pattern, you don’t have to remember what row you are on…the counter does it for you.
You seem to be doing just fine. Just remember that the tension is the secret. If you don’t have the right tension, stitches will be really loose, or so tight that your needle squeaks when you try to get it into the next stitch. And sometimes you will have tight and loose stitches…which will make a dishcloth really funky…and out of shape.
Glad you are trying knitting again. I prefer the sticks. I used to be a hooker, but the sticks are so much better. (I call crocheters “hookers”. Well….that is what they do…they hook!

Cindy H.

Flag this comment
1-28
7:39
am

Suzanne, you are not too stupid to knit! While I prefer to crochet over knitting, I always end up having to use a size smaller crochet hook to meet the gauge the pattern calls for. If I can knit anyone can knit…trust me!

Dianna McBride

Flag this comment
1-28
7:46
am

Knitting… It has been tough for me too. I have watched a “how-to” on the Internet, but I quickly forgot! I went promptly back to crocheting… Although, I have an older woman willing to teach me! The weather and her health haven’t cooperated very much… so maybe SOMEDAY I will learn too…

Sarah

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1-28
7:48
am

Oh yeah, I just noticed! BBB! Please! Thanks so much!

Sarah

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1-28
7:51
am

Ha! I, too, am a crocheter who has tried to learn to knit. Unlike you, I gave up! Like sewing, knitting makes me nuts! BBB

Peggy

Flag this comment
1-28
7:54
am

I’m still impressed. I can’t knit or crochet. I know it’s all the rage and even the Hollywood starlets are doing it, but sometimes my time and sanity are best spent elsewhere. I do enjoy seeing your projects.

Susan

Susan at Charm of the Carolines

Flag this comment
1-28
8:00
am

Don’t feel too silly about the gauge issue; most patterns come with a note on how big a square so many stitches should make, and I only sometimes get the right gauge even with the right size needle (and it only sometimes matters, really!). Everyone’s different! )

Beth

Flag this comment
1-28
8:08
am

I love that dishcloth pattern book! Remember that if your gauge doesn’t come out right just switch to a different size needle. If you have too many stitches, go up a size or 2. If you have too few, go down in size. And don’t feel bad about thinking you are using 1 size when you are actually using another. I have done that on more than one occasion!

Ang.

Flag this comment
1-28
8:17
am

I was lucky my Gran taught me to knit, but I have tried to teach myself to crochet. As long as the pattern goes around in a circle I am O.K. but if it is square I get tangled up and go in the wrong direction, dumb huh. It will get better. BBB please.

Joyce

Flag this comment
1-28
8:20
am

You’re making me want to learn too so i can feel your pain! I want to start with crocheting first though. BBB Please!!

nikki

Flag this comment
1-28
8:21
am

Keep trying Suzanne! I’m a fairly new knitter myself…can knit and pearl..that’s about it..but I’ve made a few scarves now!
I do have to say that I much prefer wooden needles to the metal ones. I have all of my grandmothers metal knitting needles and her crochet hooks (I haven’t figured crocheting out yet. The metal needles are much more slippery than the wood…easier to drop stitches with.
I’d love the BBB by the way!

BethAnn

Flag this comment
1-28
8:23
am

Good Morning Suzanne. Hoping for a BBB win today.

Billy

Flag this comment
1-28
8:24
am

LOL – very funny post! Back to the dishcloths now??? BBB please.

Karen

Flag this comment
1-28
8:27
am

The little things with numbers are for keeping trace of rows. They can sit on your needles at the bottom and you just turn them when you complete a row. And the other rubbery thingies (LOL!) I believe are for putting on the ends of your needles to keep stitches from coming off when you are not using them. Keep knitting!

Lisa L.

Flag this comment
1-28
8:30
am

LOL…I know exactly how you feel Suzanne!!! I’m still working on a sweater for my grandson that I got stuck on back in December just because of wording in the instructions. You’d think I’d be able to figure it out but so far…NOPE! At least you finally figured it out…YA…you go girl!!!! I’d like to try and win your BBB

Chic

Flag this comment
1-28
8:30
am

After reading your post I am one step closer to trying knitting and crocheting!!!

Consider me for the BBB

Thanks,
Mary

Mary from Baton Rouge

Flag this comment
1-28
8:30
am

I too want to learn to knit. As a little girl I asked my grandma to teach me and she was moving so fast I thought she would stab herself with the needles. It made my head spin so I went to my mom who taught me how to crochet. BTW…. thanks Barb S. for the website for crocheting and knitting help. I plan to check them out.
My help desk ( my mom) is no longer here to answer all my questions aso its nice to know there is help out there.

Brenda

Flag this comment
1-28
8:31
am

One of my resolutions for the year is to learn to knit socks. It’s tough going! Keep up the good work, I know you can do this.

BBB please.

Sarita

Flag this comment
1-28
8:34
am

You are too funny. Your descriptions when you try new things is priceless. Thanks for the morning humor! I knit a little and enjoy crocheting, I have ripped out round three of my latest crochet project at least six times and still don’t have it. I would give up if you weren’t so inspirational!
Would love the BBB.

Sandra

Flag this comment
1-28
8:36
am

That was to funny!!! And so like something I would do,
Thanks for the giggle-I really needed it this morning.
Please add me to the BBB list.
RYs

Rys

Flag this comment
1-28
8:41
am

You’re not too stupid to be a knitter, it just takes time and every knitter has made plenty of mistakes. Trust me, I lost count as to how many times I had to start over…
BBB pretty please.

Anke

Flag this comment
1-28
8:43
am

Good for you for not giving up on knitting. You can do it!!

I just discovered your blog in the last week and have really enjoyed it. I am also learning a lot. Can’t wait to try Grandmother Bread. Breadmaking to me is like knitting to you. I always kill the yeast.

Please enter me in the Ball Blue book drawing. I tried canning for the first time last summer and loved it. I made two kinds of jelly and a batch of pickles. Can’t wait to try it again in 2010. Hey! It rhymes.

Good luck with the knitting.

Kris S

Flag this comment
1-28
8:50
am

It’s good to be able to laugh at ourselves You’re certainly not stupid…we all know that! You’ll get it eventually. The more you practice, the more you’ll learn and the better you’ll get.
One thing you might not know: English needle sizes are different from US sizes, so if any UK needles cross your path you might be confused. I grew up with a knitting mom in Australia and so my needles are mostly English sizes. Luckily, there are conversion charts out there….but you may never encounter that problem.
I’d love to be entered in the BBB drawing, thanks.

kerri

Flag this comment
1-28
8:53
am

Oh, I’ve tried learning how to knit with a book, but I NEED a person! I’m so proud of you! BBB

Lisa Cummings

Flag this comment
1-28
8:56
am

I don’t knit either. I don’t have the patience!
I love to crochet!

I’d love to be in the drawing for the BBB.

Deanna

Deanna

Flag this comment
1-28
8:59
am

Have you checked out bamboo knitting needles? I like them much better than the metal. My work stays put and doesnt slip as much. From what I have seen, they are about the same price. Some really crafty folks put glass beads on the end to dress them up. Very cute. Good luck! (PS Lion Yarn has a cool website.)

Victoria

Flag this comment
1-28
9:12
am

Ha! As a very beginner knitter (only went to one stitch ‘n’ bitch meeting and learned how to cast on and make a knit stitch) I ignore gauge except to say: the fluffier the yarn, the bigger the needle! And don’t worry about starting off wide – I just started a new project (with stripes!) and even after all this, the beginning of my scarf is 1 1/2 times wider than the end! Just be patient, and keep trying. I would love to see your knitting projects.

Katie

Flag this comment
1-28
9:14
am

I really want to learn to knit and hopefully will be trying to learn soon. BBB Please.

Amanda

Flag this comment
1-28
9:23
am

I am just not a knitter but SO want to be one. I am a canner though and SO want a BBB too!!
Thanks Suzeanne for providing such an awesome site. You are a daily inspiration to this toy farmer girl.

Just Kris

Flag this comment
1-28
9:25
am

Suzanne, I applaud your persaverence! I have been knitting for almost 20 yrs and I still have days like that! I am totally impressed with those that can knit and crochet! I can NOT crochet, at all and it feels like ever.. But you have encouraged me to try, try, try again!

Angela Pierce

Flag this comment
1-28
9:28
am

The title of this post suddenly had a song from Rudolph going though my head “Why am I such a misfit, I am not just a nitwit”. You are much more determined than I. Good luck with your knitting adventures. (BBB)

Heidi

Flag this comment
1-28
9:29
am

I have always wanted to be able to knit. I just can’t keep the yarn on the needles. I would love to have the BBB book.

CrystalGB

Flag this comment
1-28
9:38
am

I love crocheting but have never tried knitting. I enjoy quilting and spend most of my spare time doing that. I’m embroidering two quilt tops now but it will probably be years before I am through with them. Oh well, I enjoy it and now that I don’t work outside my home I enjoy doing what I want when I want. Would love to win the Ball Blue Book. Enjoy your blog every day. Keep up the good work.

Betty Moore

Flag this comment
1-28
9:39
am

I haven’t knitted in so many years but I think the blue things that look like ear plugs are knitting needle plugs, to plug the end to hold the stitches on when you walk away from the knitting. I have been thinking of doing some crochet again too, I will have to look through your blog to find your crochet posts. You have so much in your blog!

Technobabe

Flag this comment
1-28
9:47
am

The only thing I can knitt so far is houseslippers. But I can now do hats and scarves with the loom knitter. Its fun and fast.i would love the Ball Book.

Bonnie

Flag this comment
1-28
9:49
am

I think that’s one of the things I love about you the most…your ability to laugh at yourself!

Nancy

Flag this comment
1-28
9:49
am

I crocheted for years and love it. My sister is the knitter and I have tried and tried to master it but like you nothing comes out quite right. I am thinking about lessons…..I am sure you will become a master knitter…so good at everything you tackle!

5kathleen2

Flag this comment
1-28
9:49
am

I think you are doing a very good job with your knitting. One thing I admire about you Suzanne is you don’t give up when you want to do something really bad! I like that. It inspires me to never give up on something that means a lot to me. No matter how hard it seems….just keep trying and eventually you can do it!

Deb

Debnfla3

Flag this comment
1-28
9:50
am

A simple mistake means a simple solution….pick up those needles and go for it! BBB please.

Townie Farm Girl

Flag this comment
1-28
9:59
am

BBB Please!

Emily

Flag this comment
1-28
10:00
am

I only crochet….I have no idea how to knit, so you are one step ahead of me. I still love those little Jam jar cozies. I am waiting to finish an afghan and than I will start on that project. (BBB)

Maria in CT

Flag this comment
1-28
10:03
am

I am a crochet’er, too! No knitting needles to be found in my home. But, I am enjoying reading about your efforts! It looks so confusing!

Happy farming,

Kelly
BBB

MrsC

Flag this comment
1-28
10:06
am

I’m knitting my first pair of socks on double point needles (DPNs). It is a challenge. I haven’t done any knitting in about 30 years! I’m still on the FIRST ROW! My feet swell and I had to figure out how to enlarge the sock patterns for my feet. I’m not good at math, even simple knitting math!

Those blue rubbery things go over the points on the needle to keep the stitches from falling off. Ask me how I know.

If your dishcloths are still too large after using the size 8 needle, go to a smaller needle. I usually have to go down one size to make gauge.

Please enter me in the BBB!

thank you!

Mel Meister

Flag this comment
1-28
10:06
am

Best of luck. You are an inspiration. BBB Please.

anne

Flag this comment
1-28
10:07
am

Gauge is my biggest knitting issue as well. *sigh* It always sends me running back to crochet and sewing.

Moi

Flag this comment
1-28
10:09
am

Oh no! What did we do wrong with the Weblog Awards?! I agree with the person above who said we need to be more organized!!!!! So sorry, Suzanne! ‘Cuz we know that you deserved it….we just didn’t know what we were doing. So sorry.

Jo

Flag this comment
1-28
10:13
am

I like CindyP’s analogy with the “recipe” & as a friend of mine told me when i was learning to crochet, even if you dont make the stitches right but keep doing them the same way and repeat you are making a pattern! I have since crocheted 2 baby blankets – now im afraid to try a different pattern! its on my “dare debbie” list though…. maybe this weekend… supposed to snow up here!
BBB please! Thank you Michelle! Will have to check out the books – need something to read too while waiting for a book the library ordered for me.

QuietStorm

Flag this comment
1-28
10:18
am

This is totally something I would do. I desperately want to knit and crochet, but can’t figure it out. It makes me feel like a loser crafter.

Heather

Flag this comment
1-28
10:22
am

Your knitting struggles will make you a better knitter, because your intuition (thanks to previous “experiences”) will help you. At least, that’s what I keep telling myself! Keep playing with yarn, Suzanne; suddenly it will practically knit itself. BBB

dorothy

Flag this comment
1-28
10:35
am

Oh Suzanne! THAT’S HILARIOUS!! Don’t worry, I’m SURE I would’ve made the very same error!

I enrolled in a four-week knitting class to begin on Feb. 5. I’m excited! I’m going to knit a baby blanket for my sister. She’s expecting come August!

BBB

Gini

Flag this comment
1-28
10:39
am

Funny story! It sounds like something I’d do. Please enter me in the Blue Ball Book giveaway! Thanks.

Nancy

Flag this comment
1-28
10:40
am

Yay, knitting! I’ve been teaching myself with limited success, and finally broke down and am taking a class at a local “Fiber Arts Studio” (how very.) You may have already tried these, but have you looked into bamboo/birch/other wood needles? I’ve found them wonderful – warm, less slippery and on the whole really nice to work with.

Erin D.

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1-28
10:45
am

I can’t knit worth a dime either, don’t feel bad. BBB please!

Andrea Maddiex

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1-28
10:56
am

Don’t give up! BBB

geena

Flag this comment
1-28
11:03
am

You’re too funny. Not only have I recently taken up knitting after my 19 year old daughter TAUGHT HERSELF using YouTube as her guide, but I just knit a cotton dishcloth last night so I could practice without wasting any more good yarn. Oh yes, while my daughter knits hats, scarves and socks AND gets a straight A average, I struggle with a simple garter stitch. Oh the shame.

I hear your pain. But don’t give up!!

BBB!

Pamela

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1-28
11:10
am

You’re doing great, Suzanne! You’ll be a knitting fiend in no time. (BBB)

Aedrielle

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1-28
11:10
am

Love your projects Suzanne! Please enter me for the BBB! Thank You!

Lynette

Flag this comment
1-28
11:12
am

The blue rubber thingys are for 52′s ears, so he can’t hear the swear words you will no doubt be saying as you are pulling out another mistake. lol

trish

Flag this comment
1-28
11:23
am

Faith in you restored!!!! You CAN knit! Blue rubbery thingys, put on end of kneedles when you are not wotking on a project so your project wont slip off of the needles, round red thingy” stitch or row counter”. Also… sould have advised you that the wooden or bamboo kneedles are MUCH easier to knit wit, not so slippery. Buy wooden or bamboo in the future……Knit on!

cgReno

Flag this comment
1-28
11:26
am

Now, that sounds like something I would do! You will do fine, Suzanne! We have faith in you!

SuseM

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1-28
11:26
am

OOPS! Please enter me for the BBB drawing!

SuseM

Flag this comment
1-28
11:28
am

I am going to take a knitting class this year but I have serious doubts in my ability to keep count of rows, stitches, etc with five kids running around the house. LOL

I’d love to win a BBB.

Janessa

Flag this comment
1-28
11:34
am

yes, knitting can be complicated; I have been knitting for years, but still get confused by needle sizes, gauges, and stitches. hang in there Suzanne! looking forward to seeing your completed knitting project, whatever it is! BBB!!!

Miss Becky

Flag this comment
1-28
11:39
am

Amen Sister – you are not alone!!!
BBB Please ;-)

Leisha

Flag this comment
1-28
11:41
am

I’ve come straight to the bottom to leave my comment/will go back and read the rest later.
I laughed out loud after reading this mornings post-it’s happened to me too!!!
The needle difference would surely explain the larger size of the end product.
All will turn out well for you now that this discovery has been made.
You’ll be turning out beautiful, correct size, items.

jan-n-tn

Flag this comment
1-28
11:43
am

Sorry, I meant to add please BBB me.

jan-n-tn

Flag this comment
1-28
11:50
am

Needlework can be so rewarding and oh so frustrating at the same time. Don’t give up!!!! I’d like that BBB too.

marymac

Flag this comment
1-28
11:58
am

HaHa…another good blog…Just laughed and laughed…You rock Lady.

TXLady

Flag this comment
1-28
12:03
pm

Good luck on the knitting. Glad you figured out what was wrong with the needles. I know you’ll master knitting! BBB!!

Patty

Flag this comment
1-28
12:04
pm

When crocheting, I crochet so loosely that I have to use a smaller size crochet needle. I’m sure I would have the same problem with knitting needles. Glad your problem was a simple fix, once you figured it out.
It took me awhile to figure out to get the same guage I had to use a smaller needle.
(BB)

Becky

Flag this comment
1-28
12:08
pm

You’re not stupid! Maybe a little slow, but you have had goat lust all around and who could think straight around that?! Please enter me in the drawing for the BBB!

Donna

Flag this comment
1-28
12:20
pm

Suzanne, you are not stupid, you are learning. I can see myself doing the same thing, and have had my share of “duh!” moments when doing something. I would love to learn to knit or crochet. I admire the people who were able to teach themselves using a book or video.
I need one on one teaching… over and over, and over , and over…
well, you get the picture!

Gail

Flag this comment
1-28
12:27
pm

In a couple of your pictures there is a lovely Boye plastic gauge for measuring the number of stitches per inch. Even more important, is the range of descending hole size across the top of the gauge … I live with one of these because I knit near exclusively with doublepoint needles. There is NO number on a doublepoint! I’ve even encountered odd sizes on older needles from my grandmother’s steel doublepoints (did that change over time?). When in doubt, shove a needle into holes till it just fits … and be prepared to change to another pair if the gauge doesn’t match pattern. Although, truly, I agree with a former poster … a washcloth could certainly become a hand towel. It’ll just devour a little more yarn …. hang in there!

Ruth - north CA

Flag this comment
1-28
12:27
pm

I have never knitted before but bought my first pair of needles at the weekend and some wool (yarn your side of the pond ). This weekend I intend to try and get my head round it – I feel a mutant scarf coming on! Glad to know I’m by no means alone. Good luck to us all.

PS – Please enter me for the BBB.

Ruthdigs

Flag this comment
1-28
1:14
pm

Dear Too Stupid -
The first thingy is a row/stitch counter. The second thingy (s) are to put on the ends of your needles so the stitches don’s fall off. Both might be things you are not ready for…yet.

I have faith. Try the washcloth again with the REAL size eight needles. Imagine the joy when they come out the right size!

melanie

Flag this comment
1-28
1:28
pm

BBB please!

Melanie

Flag this comment
1-28
1:29
pm

I love it! I struggle with knitting, too, and seem to do more ripping out than actual knitting. Oddly, though, I really enjoy it.

jenn

Flag this comment
1-28
1:34
pm

Good news: I taught myself how to knit and how to crochet at 9 years old! Bad news: I never figured out how to create anything other than a scarf. I haven’t touched any of it since and will now leave it to the professionals.

Good luck.

Lynn

Flag this comment
1-28
1:47
pm

That’s funny that you didn’t know to look at the size on the top of the needle, but I’ve done some serious dumb stuff. The other thing is that if your work is coming out too big, go to a smaller needle. Course, if you only have one pair, you’d have to shorten your stitch count.

I watched Alton Brown make cottage cheese last night on food network. He says if you make your own, you’ll never want store bought again. It just didn’t look like it made very much out of a whole gallon of milk. Looked like it might cost about 3 or 4 times what storebought does.

Shirley

Flag this comment
1-28
1:57
pm

I can’t knit either and I don’t know wether I really want to learn it :-)
It looks just like a lot of work….
But I know how to preserve and would love to win the BBB Book :-)

Pat

Flag this comment
1-28
2:26
pm

I am not a fantastic knitter, but was told once if you knit tight, use a larger needle, if knit loose, use a smaller needle than instructions call for. Could not for the life of me crochet your dish cloth. Went online for basic instructions and after many many tries gave up and just made one alternating rows of single and double crochet. Don’t give up on knitting, I’ve made dozens of scarves, an afghan and some cute tiny teddie bear sweaters that I took a class for at the library. I also have knitted 150 hats for Head Start and the homeless in our area., So keep at it. BBB!

Joy

Flag this comment
1-28
2:55
pm

I’m learning to crochet and I’m starting to think I’m too stupid for crocheting. Maybe I should try knitting instead. Or maybe I should just wait and try canning in the summer and fall…(BBB)

Debbie in Memphis

Flag this comment
1-28
3:10
pm

Hahaha! If it makes you feel any better, I know how to read the size on my needles, and my dishcloths still never come out the size the pattern says they will. I just change the number of stitches to make them a reasonable size (most patterns have repeats, so I usually reduce the repeats by one). Fortunately, I’m pretty good at numbers, so adjusting the pattern doesn’t bother me too much.

BBB

Ulrike

Flag this comment
1-28
3:18
pm

Don’t give up on knitting…I use a sz.7 needle for all my dishcloths..they are tighter and hold up better than with a sz.8 but they are alittle smaller. I crocheted for 35 years before picking up knitting. Love Love Love your blog and reading it with my morning coffee. Thanks for all the tutorials and fun.

KnittySue

Flag this comment
1-28
3:41
pm

I taught myself how to knit by watching YouTube. I went on to teach myself how to use DPN’s so I could teach myself how to make socks – why? I don’t know. Just wanted to learn to do it. Used a website that had a lot of pictures and separate pages for each section of the sock-making process. Just keep plugging along.

One of the easiest patterns for a dishcloth is to cast on 4 stitches. Then knit 1 (K1), yarn-over (YO)(literally place the yarn over the needles without knitting it), then knit to the end of the row.(K to end).
Turn your work and keep doing this pattern (K1, YO, K to end)until you have 40 stitches on the needle.

Then you start your decreases. K1, Knit two stitches together (K2tog)(put your needle through two stitches instead of one and knit as if there was only 1 stitch there.) and then K to end.
Turn you work over and repeat(K1, K2tog, K to end)until you have 4 stitches left. Bind off those 4 stitches and you’re done. These make nice face cloths as well, though for face cloths, some people knit to 50 stitches. Personally, I use 40 for both cloths and it works great. There’s a tutorial on my blog about how to knit this pattern along with pictures.

I’d love the BBB.

Darlene in North Georgia

Flag this comment
1-28
3:53
pm

I found your blog today…cannot wait to spend some time digesting all your wonderful talents! I originally just came here to win that ball blue book, but now, well, I haven’t knitted since I was a girl scout…over 40 yrs ago, but now, with all the lovely things I saw in just a few moments, I am totally inspired!!!!

Grammygingerbread

Flag this comment
1-28
4:04
pm

I have tried to learn to knit without success twice. The first time, a woman at my church volunteered to teach both my mother and I. It was pretty bad, I had problems casting on and it went downhill from there. I think got a book and video thinking that perhaps I just needed privacy to learn….didn’t do any better. I’ve now decided that it’s time to fork over the big cash and go to our local knitting shop and pay for lessons there.

I’d love the BBB

Maria D.

Flag this comment
1-28
4:41
pm

Don’t rip them out! Keep going. You’ll have a weird dishcloth, but at least you’ll have finished something. Don’t rip one out. Just finish it no matter what it looks like.

BBB

Natalie O.

Flag this comment
1-28
5:19
pm

Thanks for the laugh, I can’t get the knitting thing either. I can crochet not too well but I can and Knitting seems backwards! Whatever. You do amazing things and if you want to you WILL get it.

leneskate

Flag this comment
1-28
6:18
pm

I feel your pain! I learned the basics of knit and crochet as a child but always thought knitting was easier, because I thought crochet was about working in rounds and I just couldn’t get the hang of that. I never really went further with either of them until my late 30s/early 40s and started crocheting, and now don’t knit at all.

I’ve progressed some, but still have trouble working in rounds (although I can do a mean granny square now!)

Marie Anne

Flag this comment
1-28
6:28
pm

ah, the joys of knitting. I cannot tell you how many projects I have started with great enthusiasm….the problem is, I LOVE to buy yarn…. The little round thinggies with the numbers are row counters (and stitch counters)…and the blue earplug things are for putting on to the ends of double-ended needles when you are knitting articles like socks….(I would wait a while before you try those if I were you…) and did you know that U.S. needle sizes are different from U.K. ones and European ones are different yet again…
I believe you have inspired me to pick up the “Pedicure Socks” I started knitting for my daughter…

lovetogait

Flag this comment
1-28
7:33
pm

laughing my butt off!! keep at it, knitting dishcloths is my “crack” you will get in the groove…now pick me for the BBB

Lisa Lee

Flag this comment
1-28
7:37
pm

Even with the called for needles sometimes you have to go up or down a needles size depending on your tension, I knit quite loosely so usually have to go down a size or to get the gauge right lol. Hang in there , you’ll get it. (BBB)

WolfWalker

Flag this comment
1-28
9:05
pm

Thank you for having another Ball Book giveaway! I’d love to win of course! Thank you to the sponsor!

Your knitting look great! Keep up the good job!

Shar

Flag this comment
1-28
9:43
pm

I commend you for your perserverance. I loved the jam cozy you made. I have plans to make some for gifts along with my jam. I have knitted 7 scarves for all my daughters – yes, I have 7 daughters and 3 sons. I would love the BBB. I love your Blog.

Sue L

Flag this comment
1-28
10:15
pm

Look at this…125 comments! My goodness, you have a lot of support and company!
I have knitting needles, I have crochet hooks. I have knitted dishcloths. Plain ol’ dishcloths, nothing fancy to them at all. I also crocheted one. I like the speed of crochet. Knitting frustrates me. I really really want to conquer knitting!

claudia w

Flag this comment
1-28
10:16
pm

OH! Is the BBB still going on??? I still would love to have one! Thank you!

claudia w

Flag this comment
1-28
11:05
pm

LOL I have done that with crochet hooks! I was too dumb to look at the hook and thought I had to locate the packaging to know the size.

Jessica

Flag this comment
1-28
11:15
pm

I see you also have 3 stitch holders and a knitting gauge….girl, you really do plan on becoming a knitter!! I don’t have a gauge and I’ve been knitting for over 40 years. And that is a right smart needle holder that 52′s sister gave you.
The needle protectors are made exclusively for your cats. You put a protector on your needle, lay down your work, and the next cat that happens by grabs it with his/her teeth, pulls it off, and bats it around until it winds up under the refrigerator. Just thought I’d let you know that everyone else doesn’t really have a clue as to the purpose of a needle protector. lol

princessvanessa

Flag this comment
1-28
11:28
pm

I have to get together with my sister and start learning to crochet. She doesn’t like to knit so I will have to find somebody else to teach me that or try the instructional videos. I really want to make the crocheted dishcloth and the jar cozy. BBB please. Thanks

MMT

Flag this comment
1-29
9:51
am

One of my favorite knitters to watch and learn from is the KnitWitch on YouTube. She is very concise and the camera angle is excellant so that you can manipulate your wool in the same fashion.

Also, I wouldn’t be half the knitter I am if it weren’t for my Knitting Guru Jane. You need to find yourself a guru in the area and pray that she/he will take you under his/her wing. It will keep you from pulling your hair out, I promise!

Laura

Flag this comment
1-29
9:53
am

Love my knitting needles -especially wooden ones-but the gentle clacking of metal ones remind me so of my mom .and I’ve ordered a homemade polymer covered crochet hook with designs on it from Esty

rain

Flag this comment
1-29
10:38
am

Another good story!

I have been intrigued about making my own dishclothes–since i neither knit or crochet, I guess I could try either. Which is more versatile, assuming I can actually learn to do it.

The blue thingies, BTW are for the end of your needles so you don’t poke your eye out or have the yarn slip off when you are not working on your project.

Debbie in PA

Flag this comment
1-29
4:37
pm

I stumbled across your blog and I’m instantly hooked! I am a first time knitter (do we need to start a club?) and I can share in what you shared; This post had me giggling,then laughing out loud and then realizing I have a scarf in progress that for as many cold weather days we have had in my area, I have yet to complete at least this one scarf to put it to use.

LOVE this, including the mutant dishcloth that I have to say, I will always connect with your blog as “Oh that’s the blog about the mutant dishcloth”. LOL

Twinkle Mom @ Sunflower Faith

Flag this comment
1-29
5:18
pm

dont give up

lisab

Flag this comment
2-2
5:24
pm

Yeah, after YEARs of thinking knitting was way too complicated, I finally got online and watched some how-to videos. I think that is one of the MOST “duh” moments I’ve ever had…right up there with not wanting to make my own baby food cuz I thought it was too hard…yeah.

Shelly D.

Flag this comment
2-7
3:10
am

O.K. I can’t Stand it anymore ; I was waiting for Darlene in North Georgia to amend her comment but…
On the second half of the Dish Cloth Pattern it should read: Knit 1 (K1), Knit 2 together (K2tog), Yarn over (YO), Knit 2 together (K2tog), knit to the end. The second K2tog is your decrease and without it your dish cloth would remain the same width.
Depending how big your hands are, I prefer 45 stitches. I also prefer 2 stitches on the border; meaning: [Cast on 4 stitches knit one row turn. K2 YO knit to end turn. Continue till you have 40 to 45 stitches on your needle. THEN knit 1, knit 2 together, YO, knit 2 together, knit to end turn. Till you have 4 stitches. Bind off.]
Since the dish cloth is worked corner to diagonal corner the size is controlled by your increases (YO) and decreases(K2tog).
Also when you knit on both sides (Garter Stitch) it makes a thicker fabric. And no purling!
On Darleen’s Blog the pattern is correct.
Suzanne if you have any questions let me know.
Barbara Shipper

Barb S.

Flag this comment
2-2
8:48
am

A friend taught me basic knitting when I was young, keep saying I’m gonna try it again, now that I am older I have an appreciation for crafts of all kinds and the people who have these skills. Thanks fo the inspiration.BBB

Crystal George

Flag this comment
2-18
9:50
pm

I am also trying to teach myself to knit. Have you tried Continental style? I understand it is great for those of us who learned to crochet first.

Amerayl

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