To avoid second sleeve syndrome, I do sleeves (and socks) in tandem. One day I work on one sleeve or sock and the next day I work on the other sleeve or sock. It was a real game changer for me!
I do one toe, then the other toe. Depending on the socks, I might with the foot together. Then I do one heel, then the other heel. Then I work the rest of the socks together. I would do the opposite for a cuff down. I'm currently doing leg warmers and I'm just doing them two at a time so that I decrease at the same time. I'm still a new knitter but this made sense. I can see the benefits of switching back and forth on them as well. Might use that for the foot and legs of socks if I don't work them together.
My tip: Don't worry about UFOs (unfinished objects). But when you set them aside, make sure to mark on the pattern where you are and take further notes to self since it could be awhile before you resume (once it was 16 years for me to complete a sweater!). Make sure, too, to bag the UFO with the rest of the yarn for that project so you don't end up using it another way. I also don't feel guilty if I never finish some objects--either frog the yarn and use it for something else or give it to someone who wants to finish it. I don't feel guilty because I got hours and hours of enjoyment out of the UFO and probably learned something along the way.
I'm so glad you mentioned circular needles. I feel the same way about them. And oh my, do I have plenty of half-finished projects! Lately, I have been making myself finish things. It isn't easy. But it is much more satisfying when they are done and I can guiltlessly go on to a new project. I love your work. I wish I had more money to spend on the nicer yarns.
Another advantage is if you buy an interchangeable circular set (I have Chiaogoo which I love), you can use the additional cables as stitch holders. I even have screw on stoppers that I can put at the end of the cable. You can even get away with not moving the stitches if you just replace the needles with stoppers on your cable. Or, you can attach two cables together and slide the stitches over. There is so much versatility!
Starting knitting at 10 years of age ( I am now 80) and there are a few tips I have picked up. I will pass on TWO today. When your hands get hot and sticky while knitting, wash them and run your fingers through your hair to pick up the slight lubrication from your scalp. You can also rub the working tips of your needles through your hair to allow the yarn to slide along more easily This also works with sewing needles when you are having problems with an easy stitching action and it also reduces static. Thanks with your bright and cheery video. So joyful!
Hello from Toronto. I liked your tip for a stretchy bind off but what you demonstrated was not a hem but a regular ribbed trim at the bottom of a sweater. A hem usually refers to a double layer which is turned under and stitched in place. When I have a hem like the neck of a sweater, I usually do not bind off at all, but turn the fabric over and stitch down the live stitches.
My mom was so generous and got me one of this quite expensive knittingneedle set with interchangeable cables which not only were out of my budget but they also look so fancy red mat/dull metallic needles in a red purse i absolutely love them im so gratefull she got them for me! Just started knitting last night and they also work up so nicely
Love your videos, I’m 75 and know the joy and frustration of knitting. Why is it, the disinterest of top down starting the first sleeve and knowing you have to repeat it ! Be brave and strong, if it fits and looks good carry on. I’ve found when I bravely start the second sleeve I wiz through it quickly and it’s easier. Your brain has stored the method, like a learning the script. So the second sleeve should be easier, as long as you haven’t left it for months. Thank you, you are inspiring.
haha I know what you mean! I've got a collection of old straight knitting needles, but haven't bought new ones in years cause I only really use circualr ones nowadays 😆
@@Kutovakika I went through all of them and set them aside to give away or resell, and kept 2 sets. One to use in an art project, and a thin narrow set to use to dig out the center of choux balls for making cream puffs 😂😂😂
No. 10 really hit me -- this is exactly where I am right now! I'm down to the last sleeve of my first sweater and I just can't bring myself to sit down and finish it. Thanks for the inspiration to keep going!
To avoid getting too many items ending up in that cemetery pile, I will limit myself to three active projects at a time. I have to finish atleast one of them if I want to start a new project. This has helped me alot, because I get overwhelmed if there are too many ongoing projects at a time.
Thanks for sharing. I love your work and your attention to details. Your wedding dress was a smash hit at your wedding. I love how the bottom turned out real swishy! 👍 I knitted one sweater years ago, but the collar wasn't as beautifully finished as yours are. I really wanna have a go at an easy pattern and try another one. This winter I knitted a hat, a headband, a pair of warm socks and a beautiful Mitford Hood that I just adore. I'm ready to tackle a sweater now! 🌞😎💜🤍☮️👍🌠
I thought I was a terrible knitter until I started blocking my finished projects. Makes a world of difference. Also, interchangeable circular needle and double-ended needle sets (my preference is wood because it's less slippery) are a money-saver in the long term. If you forget you already have a certain needle size, or misplace it, you end up buying multiples of the same thing. Having everything in a conveniently packed set also means saving a lot of space.
Blocking is magic! My ravelry page has my first shawl, and it is an eyesore! But it's there to record the drastic difference between my first and second project. I've wished more patterns included blocking guidelines.
I'm really happy to share my time with you, especially since I'm not perfectly bilingual in English, but I live very close to Montreal (Quebec-Canada) and I love discovering people who have the same passion and moreover I take the opportunity to discover my future travel destinations
I have been knitting for a long time, doing reading about knitting techniques more of late, and have been knitting in the round for most of the time since I learned about double-point needles. I've never heard of Italian/Tubular bind off. Can you direct me to a learning source, please?
The human mind is fascinating, to say the least. In the case of half-finished projects, there may be a touch of separation anxiety at work; that is, you love a project, you work on it enthusiastically, but as you approach the end, the subconscious won't make finishing it easy, because once it's done, so is the love of knitting that project. I can't tell you how to get over that, but I can share some advice that applies to daily living: sometimes, you have to tell that voice in your head to take a hike, because it's getting in the way of progress. This is what I do for the last bit of a sweater or the second sock, and it usually works for me.
I love your videos! You are a passionate knitter and great at sharing your hints and projects!! Your style is my style so I love your projects. Your English is fabulous!!
I just found your channel recently and I listen all day while I'm at work. I love all your content - SO relatable. I crochet but you have inspired me to learn knitting as well! My goal is to eventually make my own sweater - maybe a pattern from your book!
I hear you on the half done projects!😀 I have an afghan done in strips that I started in late 1970’s that I just picked up again to complete. And a baby blanket that I started in 1996, but arthritis put a stop to that till I learned about and bought an ergonomic hook. Much better now. Your point about circular needles is so correct. I invested in a set of interchangeable needles and just finished my first linen stitch and lace shawl. Everything in it was a new learning experience, and I am overjoyed with it. Loved the hair band ideas too. Great video, thank you 😊 JC
What a lovely video. Your tips are great. I too have many unfinished projects and I really relate to your attempts to unravel the psychology of the syndrome ☺️. It was one of my goals to finish them off but it is inevitable that I will follow my inspiration and start a new project when the spirit moves me. It definately feels like a balancing act. Very enjoyable. Thank you
Thank you for the tips they are very helpful 👍 I am looking forward to the book.. however I am dyslexic so your videos are a fantastic way for me to learn. You're a great teacher and a inspiration. Thank you😁👍xx
The last tip about the cemetery of unfinished projects really hit a note! And I’m relieved to hear that I’m not the only one.😅 Those were great tips and some I use regularly also. As far as the straight vs circular needles, I would add that the actual needle length makes a big difference to me too. My hands get cramped using the very short circular needles, so if I can get a little bit of a longer needle on the circular cable it’s more relaxing to hold.
You have explained the “physocology “ of the knitter so well. I relate to your experiences very closely and I have to say you have helped me to be less judgemental of myself especially when you suggest that sometimes we are too hard on ourselves for having unfinished projects. So thank you for that and I like your tip about elastic to improve the shape of a stretched neckline.
🍊 Your tip about pushing through a design came at the perfect time! I’m working on a new design that I loved when starting and now I’m at the stage where I’m not loving it anymore. I’m going to power through because I know I’ll like it in the end!
I really love to listen to your thoughts and seeing your projects😍 its like sitting with a friend who has been bitten by the knitting bug while I enjoy myself knitting🤩
Another thing you can do to avoid switching to another project halfway is - when you get an exciting idea for something new don't jump straight into making it, instead - pattern it, look up ideas, think about possible design solutions. I mainly do embroidery and when you do embroidery you absolutely cannot afford switching to something else if you are planning on ever finishing anything. So when i get a new idea i take notes on what i think would be cool and draw some patterns and make calculations. This lets you take your time thinking about design and keep working on your main stuff while letting steam out at the same time
What beautiful scenes of Stockholm! I learned a lot from your knitting tips, including that it's okay to have a few unfinished projects... I needed some inspiration to just keep knitting.
You videos are incredibly creative and intriguing. I am anxious to see your new book and hoping the things going on in your part of the world will not stall it. Love your teaching techniques. Love your sweater types, appreciate your down to earth philosophy. Thank you for what you do. From cold northern USA.
This video is so valuable! I started knitting two years ago, and I was making a scarf, I walked into a mainstream store and chose straight needles in a 4.5mm with absolutely no understand of gauge, yarn or needles. I got half way through the scarf and decided knitting wasn’t for me. I recently took up crochet about 4 months ago and have been enjoying it but I much prefer the stitches of knitting because they’re more appealing to my eye, they’re not as loose and they’re not so monotonous. So I’ve invested in some Chiaogoo circular needles after a LOT of research and I’m hoping it will take my knitting experience from bad to brilliant. As I’ve found with many of my other hobbies and my acrylic art, you really do need to invest in the tools to have a great experience. So here I am, awaiting my needles to ship & I’m trying to learn as much about knitting before they get here while experimenting on those drab 4.5mm straight needles (ew) 🤣 thanks Kika x I’ve also found that I hate the mainstream yarns and I’ve definitely been diving headfirst into luxury yarn 😳
Oh yes I’ve heard lots of good things about the Chiagoo needles so I think you made a really smart choice! 😍😍 would love to hear your experience once they arrive 😀
@@Kutovakika oh my goodness, they’re honestly amazing! I love how they aren’t too slippery, they’re just right. I ordered the small set and now I’m just building my whole set individually, I have purchased the 2.25mm, 3mm, 5.5mm and 6mm so far. I just did a large order of notions so I can’t wait for those to arrive as well. You’ve inspired me so much! I’m knitting a top down raglan sweater with Drops in an alpaca blend and silk mohair in the chalk colour. Couldn’t be happier!
🍊🍊🍊 Love your knitting videos, Kika! These tips are so helpful! I seriously CANNOT wait for your knitting book - I'm still a beginner but all your knits are so aspirational! PS - Stockholm looks BEAUTIFUL!
I'm in awe of how beautiful your sweater projects are, and some day I want to grow up to be just like you! (I'm a baby knitter who is not practicing as much as I should, but you are an inspiration to me)
Started watching for the knitting tips, stayed for the life coaching tips 😚 I also experience mixed feelings about places I lived in the past, and I feel that emotional ‘charge’ in objects especially things I made. Thank you for sharing from a personal perspective, as well as the excellent tips 🧶 your enthusiasm makes me want to get knitting right now!
Terrific tips for even this 45 years of knitting knitter! Where have you been all my life stitch wire!? And elastic plastic thread perfect for a beret band that knitted up too loosely years ago so never found its way into wearing. Thanks for the joyful education.
It was my first time watching you, and I really love your upbeat energy! I can certainly relate to the WIPs, I have many, some of which are a decade old, I’m afraid to say. Mostly, that comes from attending class at my local LYS, where the owner, Eva (Eva’s Needlework) is always knitting up some luscious thing that everyone gets hot to do. I can’t keep up, and I support her by shopping frequently. Such a problem to have! :P
That was a great video! Very helpful, thank you. I actually paused the video and went to Etsy to search for the hollow cables to use as stitch holders and bought some before returning to this video! I’m so excited for these new knitting tools, they’re genius!
Really enjoy this video, resonates to look back and see how far we have gone, also the cemetery... I though I was the only one! and felt bad all this time
Thanks for the cast-off method. I really needed this. I had been using 2-3 sizes bigger needle but even this was not stretchy enough for the little baby booties I make for a local charity (Bundles of Love).
This is the first of your videos I’ve see/ such great tips. So glad I’m not the only person who struggles with the end of projects and stitch holders- I need to get one! Thank you!
I just found this TEN TIPS video and am so glad I did. I am a crocheter trying to learn to knit, and I am finishing my first triangle shawl. I am on the last row, ready to bind off and saw the section about a stretchy bind off; I know the regular bind off would be fine for this shawl, but I will try the stretchy one so I know what to do with sweaters! I love your enthusiasm and your gorgeous knits and just subscribed to your channel. I am excited to watch your previous videos. Thank you!
Thanks for all the tips -- especially the one about the blocking! I have a number of sweaters that don't fit properly so I will try blocking them. I usually abandon a project when something goes wrong and I am too lazy to rip it out and fix the problem. I also seem to lose interest in a sweater when I begin working on the sleeves -- they require a lot of attention (row counting and decreases), I have to manage 4 needles, AND there are two of them -- TRIPLE TROUBLE in my book! However, it is very satisfying to finish a sweater, so I just remember that! Looking forward to your book -- I love your designs!
🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼 Love these types of videos. And you are such a bundle of joy to watch. Such a pure spirit. I crochet and I’m still finding value here and enjoying it. Makes me want to get into knitting again. And those sweaters you designed long ago that you showed at the beginning are 🤩👌🏼.
Hey, I am from Brazil And I am really Happy for having found your Channel. Knitting Is a hobby of mine, And I love the idea of honoring my latě mother every time I am doing some art And craft Project, for She taught me These Things. Thanks for sharing your art with us.
Again, super helpful tips! Thank you for sharing and for your refreshing honesty about life and feelings as you knit! Very relatable on that last tip.❤
I am so much like you, I have several projects on the go and have only finished one so far but will persevere and finish them all before I start another one! Thank you for the inspiration, I love all your video’s 😃xx
Great video, thank you! In regards to needle preference- I’ve come to prefer the stainless. The way the yarn glides has made my stitches way more consistent and even. When I tried with bamboo or wood I would get hung up and end up choking my stitches out 😅
Great tips! I taught myself to knit 2 years ago. Still learning and trying new things. If I were to win the needle set, I would knit a pair of mittens! Maybe the Spruce mittens pattern….
I have recently discovered you on here and I'm really enjoying watching you and love your energy and your honesty (and your cats!). I have ordered your book and I'm very much looking forward to it arriving. I have only been knitting for four years (and I'm 66) and feel a bit sad that I didn't come to it much earlier in life so good for you for having it in your life from an early age. Your tips have hit home with me as I was doing well in my knitting (I thought!) but then I had a couple of major disasters so feeling a bit glum about it at the moment. I like natural fibres which makes mistakes rather expensive as well. I have just invested in a circular knitting kit - as you suggest - and was wondering if I'd been a bit silly to do that but I now feel encouraged by your advice. I will regroup and try to pull together some of the advice and tips so that hopefully my next knit is not another disaster. I do have a local knitting shop which has been invaluable and of course this lovely community has helped. Regarding running out of steam before the end of a project, for me, even knowing that helps. I can say to myself 'this is me, running out of steam, so push through' a bit of self-talk can help me as my intention is not to have that happen. I have still got a couple of unfinished bits so I can't say it always works but it does help me. Thank you for your lovely presence.
Thank you for sharing your tips. I really appreciate the encouragement about the loss of excitement with a project. I am currently knitting a cardigan without a pattern. I have included some waist shaping that I am not really satisfied with. I know now that I will rip back and redo the shaping. I was disappointed and discouraged. But I will press on...after I knit a set of slippers for a friend's birthday. After this "mental break" project, the slippers, not the sweater, I will pull up my boot straps and go back to work with renewed energy. Thank you everyone for your shared tips and helps. Happy kniiting. Make something beautiful.
I saw your video where you made your wedding dress and just fell in love with your videos. I am a crocheter that wants to fall in love with knitting. I hope I will find the passion for it
Thanks for the helpful video. I loved the hair and and elastic thread tips.💕 PS I loved seeing your stack of sweaters in the background. Your color palette is so soothing. I look sickly if I wear those colors. Lol
I love project bags! I enjoy having every project in its own home & easily transportable through the house or if I go anywhere... I may spend way to much on them 😛😂 But a budget friendly bag, get a large piece of fabric from the craft store & you can tie it on one side, then the other & boom, project bag
Thank you for the tip on a stretchy bind off. I had recently made a sweater for one daughter and had such a tight sleeve cuff that I needed to undo the bind off and try again. Now I'm making a sweater for other daughter and I used your bind off for the body hem. Way better! Also trying your tips for no holes at the Underarm joining.
Thank you again for a great knitting video with valuable tips! I've never seen such elastic stitch holders; I got so excited, so I had to pause your video 🙈 and purchase a couple of them in a webshop 😅 I also have those critical moments when I tend to give up. Still, when now being more conscious about it, and maybe changing to another work for a while, I think there will be no more of that. Fingers crossed 🤞🏻 😅 Hugs 🤗🤗
Maybe one thing to do about the 'second sleeve syndrome' is to knit them both at the same time using magic loop method. I have started several sweaters and because of all the 'pieces & parts' I've laid them aside and have never picked them up again and now I have lots of half-done sweaters to frog so I can re-use the yarn. So, I am currently looking for a sweater that is knit all in one piece - top-down style and I will knit both the sleeves at the same time too. I too always have several projects going at once ... a traveling project, a baby gift project, a prayer shawl or blanket project, or a yearlong MKAL project that I have to take a break from to wait for the next month's pattern to come out, but I rarely do anything for myself. Well, I decided that I wanted to design a throw or coverlet for our king-sized bed for this winter and so far, because I'm designing it as I go and it for us, I've stayed with it a little longer. I love watching your videos; they inspire me so much, thank you!
I agree with your tips and some I learned from! I am on my second sleeve of a sweater and just want it done! My inspiration is going but by need to finish is there! Thank you!
Wow, I've never seen such elastic stitch holders. They look really convenient 😃 I usually keep my work on the cables from interchangeable needles but this method looks great as well. Talking of 'cemetery of unfinished projects', I have a similar thing with some yarns bought 4-5 years ago, not for the project, just for their beauty. Sometimes, lose interest in them gradually( if I don't start a project right away.
I was always such a slow knitter that it’s such hard work. My mother had a complex way in which she put the wool on her fingers, multiple fingers that my young including teenage mind did not get the hang of it. I regret now I did not insist in her teaching me slowly. Oddly as an adult I tried spinning on her new spinning wheel, and I had a memory vision of being taught by a mother and I immediately put yarn over my fingers in a complex pattern and thinned the fleece to make increasingly fine twisted thread and I could adjust the twist..not what was needed as she was making a beautiful hooked mat from her natural fleece in different colours. I am glad you showed you way of managing your left hand with thread. It’s faster than my primitive method. I made exquisite 3 ply garter stitch hat and booties with embroidery thread flowers made with knot stitch and green leaves from a french pattern for my baby though.
This was very valuable. You've answered some questions I had about a few different things. Thank you for your help and inspiration. You're amazing! 😎🧶🧶🧶🌞🕊️😻👍
Lately I've been watching "podcast" (not well names as they are vlogs, not audio-podcasts...sorry, just a tiny rant), to knit by, but so many of them are poorly planned & slow paced, that I find my attentuin wandering & my knitting energy waning. I find your videos both, interestung and visually appealing! Your energy is lively through out the whole video. Thank you for the tips & the snap views of both Stockholm & Helsinki.
So glad I found your bubbly and fresh channel. Actually have never seen your bind off method. Very helpful. Thank You! Keep going. Looking forward to your published book.
When I was a young child my mum used to knit both sleeves at the same time, using two balls of wool and the same set of needles. I used to think it was amazing.
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To avoid second sleeve syndrome, I do sleeves (and socks) in tandem. One day I work on one sleeve or sock and the next day I work on the other sleeve or sock. It was a real game changer for me!
I knit the sleeves at the same time so I am sure the decreasing or color additions as I get near the cuff are the same.
I do one toe, then the other toe. Depending on the socks, I might with the foot together. Then I do one heel, then the other heel. Then I work the rest of the socks together. I would do the opposite for a cuff down.
I'm currently doing leg warmers and I'm just doing them two at a time so that I decrease at the same time.
I'm still a new knitter but this made sense.
I can see the benefits of switching back and forth on them as well. Might use that for the foot and legs of socks if I don't work them together.
I always work 2 sleeves at once, that way they are always the same length. I just have to keep the 2 balls of yarn separate which is no real problem.
This is a great idea! I’ll have to try that the next time I do a sweater… I don’t usually feel that way on socks, but I’ll definitely keep it in mind!
That is so smart!!
My tip: Don't worry about UFOs (unfinished objects). But when you set them aside, make sure to mark on the pattern where you are and take further notes to self since it could be awhile before you resume (once it was 16 years for me to complete a sweater!). Make sure, too, to bag the UFO with the rest of the yarn for that project so you don't end up using it another way. I also don't feel guilty if I never finish some objects--either frog the yarn and use it for something else or give it to someone who wants to finish it. I don't feel guilty because I got hours and hours of enjoyment out of the UFO and probably learned something along the way.
I'm so glad you mentioned circular needles. I feel the same way about them. And oh my, do I have plenty of half-finished projects! Lately, I have been making myself finish things. It isn't easy. But it is much more satisfying when they are done and I can guiltlessly go on to a new project. I love your work. I wish I had more money to spend on the nicer yarns.
Well, I'm always totally guiltless even if I have 7 projects on the go, I wasn't even aware one should feel guilt about it! ;)
Another advantage is if you buy an interchangeable circular set (I have Chiaogoo which I love), you can use the additional cables as stitch holders. I even have screw on stoppers that I can put at the end of the cable. You can even get away with not moving the stitches if you just replace the needles with stoppers on your cable. Or, you can attach two cables together and slide the stitches over. There is so much versatility!
Starting knitting at 10 years of age ( I am now 80) and there are a few tips I have picked up. I will pass on TWO today. When your hands get hot and sticky while knitting, wash them and run your fingers through your hair to pick up the slight lubrication from your scalp. You can also rub the working tips of your needles through your hair to allow the yarn to slide along more easily This also works with sewing needles when you are having problems with an easy stitching action and it also reduces static. Thanks with your bright and cheery video. So joyful!
For wooden needles you can rub it against wax from candles!!
Hello from Toronto. I liked your tip for a stretchy bind off but what you demonstrated was not a hem but a regular ribbed trim at the bottom of a sweater. A hem usually refers to a double layer which is turned under and stitched in place. When I have a hem like the neck of a sweater, I usually do not bind off at all, but turn the fabric over and stitch down the live stitches.
Oh my goodness my hands get sticky so often, thank you so much from a 20 year old knitter!
As someone with hyperhydrosis, bless you 😭💗
I used to do that when I used diaper pins with my children.
My mom was so generous and got me one of this quite expensive knittingneedle set with interchangeable cables which not only were out of my budget but they also look so fancy red mat/dull metallic needles in a red purse i absolutely love them im so gratefull she got them for me! Just started knitting last night and they also work up so nicely
Love your videos, I’m 75 and know the joy and frustration of knitting. Why is it, the disinterest of top down starting the first sleeve and knowing you have to repeat it ! Be brave and strong, if it fits and looks good carry on. I’ve found when I bravely start the second sleeve I wiz through it quickly and it’s easier. Your brain has stored the method, like a learning the script. So the second sleeve should be easier, as long as you haven’t left it for months. Thank you, you are inspiring.
I love that you're doing more knitting content. Also big yes on the circular needles. When I found those, I banished straight needles from my life 😂😂😂
haha I know what you mean! I've got a collection of old straight knitting needles, but haven't bought new ones in years cause I only really use circualr ones nowadays 😆
@@Kutovakika I went through all of them and set them aside to give away or resell, and kept 2 sets. One to use in an art project, and a thin narrow set to use to dig out the center of choux balls for making cream puffs 😂😂😂
I use both maby cuz I'm crazy and need both to knit for reasons
I did both sleeves of garments at same time, seemed the way it was best for me.
No. 10 really hit me -- this is exactly where I am right now! I'm down to the last sleeve of my first sweater and I just can't bring myself to sit down and finish it. Thanks for the inspiration to keep going!
Oh I know exactly the feeling, I have 2 swetaers that are all done except for the sleeves...why oh why is it so hard to just finish them!? 😂
@@Kutovakika knit them into short sleeves?
@@Kutovakika p
@@whoknitter4673 no, never!😆
Hairbands as stitch savers; amazing! I have been knitting for 20 years and never thought of that one. Thank you
To avoid getting too many items ending up in that cemetery pile, I will limit myself to three active projects at a time. I have to finish atleast one of them if I want to start a new project. This has helped me alot, because I get overwhelmed if there are too many ongoing projects at a time.
I do two projects t a time while thinking of the third or fourth or fifth.
Didn’t know how much I want to knit a sweater until I started watching your videos yesterday. So inspiring. Ordering your book ❤
Thanks for sharing. I love your work and your attention to details. Your wedding dress was a smash hit at your wedding. I love how the bottom turned out real swishy! 👍
I knitted one sweater years ago, but the collar wasn't as beautifully finished as yours are. I really wanna have a go at an easy pattern and try another one.
This winter I knitted a hat, a headband, a pair of warm socks and a beautiful Mitford Hood that I just adore. I'm ready to tackle a sweater now! 🌞😎💜🤍☮️👍🌠
I love this! So many “tip” videos are just blah blah blah. This is personal experience in detail, so very helpful! Thank you!
Besides your practical suggestions, your enthusiasm for knitting is so contagious❤️
ITS A SHORT TIME I FOUND YOUR BLOG. Ι ENJOY YOUR PLEASANT SPIRIT, ENERGY SO MUCH. THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR EXPRERIENCE WITH US.
I love the pink sweater with the bobbles behind you. Really appreciate your tips especially using elastic thread for winged out hems or collars.😁💖
The unfinished projects! I've come to realize that I love the planning and process more than the product. Most creatives can probably identify.
I thought I was a terrible knitter until I started blocking my finished projects. Makes a world of difference. Also, interchangeable circular needle and double-ended needle sets (my preference is wood because it's less slippery) are a money-saver in the long term. If you forget you already have a certain needle size, or misplace it, you end up buying multiples of the same thing. Having everything in a conveniently packed set also means saving a lot of space.
Blocking is magic! My ravelry page has my first shawl, and it is an eyesore! But it's there to record the drastic difference between my first and second project. I've wished more patterns included blocking guidelines.
Thank you for all the helpful advice. I miss my Mum as she taught me to knit and always sorted my mistakes!!. I really enjoy your vids. 😀
I'm really happy to share my time with you, especially since I'm not perfectly bilingual in English, but I live very close to Montreal (Quebec-Canada) and I love discovering people who have the same passion and moreover I take the opportunity to discover my future travel destinations
An Italian/Tubular bind off is my favourite for hems! It keeps the pattern of the 1x1 ribbing and gives a very professional/seamless look!
definitely! I also use Italian bind off method for 2x2 ribbing!
I have been knitting for a long time, doing reading about knitting techniques more of late, and have been knitting in the round for most of the time since I learned about double-point needles. I've never heard of Italian/Tubular bind off. Can you direct me to a learning source, please?
I have been knitting for decades and I learned 4 new things today.
I love your channel!
The human mind is fascinating, to say the least. In the case of half-finished projects, there may be a touch of separation anxiety at work; that is, you love a project, you work on it enthusiastically, but as you approach the end, the subconscious won't make finishing it easy, because once it's done, so is the love of knitting that project. I can't tell you how to get over that, but I can share some advice that applies to daily living: sometimes, you have to tell that voice in your head to take a hike, because it's getting in the way of progress. This is what I do for the last bit of a sweater or the second sock, and it usually works for me.
I love your editing style. Thanks for this video it made me happy.
Thank you so much 😃
I love your videos! You are a passionate knitter and great at sharing your hints and projects!! Your style is my style so I love your projects. Your English is fabulous!!
I just found your channel recently and I listen all day while I'm at work. I love all your content - SO relatable. I crochet but you have inspired me to learn knitting as well! My goal is to eventually make my own sweater - maybe a pattern from your book!
I hear you on the half done projects!😀 I have an afghan done in strips that I started in late 1970’s that I just picked up again to complete. And a baby blanket that I started in 1996, but arthritis put a stop to that till I learned about and bought an ergonomic hook. Much better now. Your point about circular needles is so correct. I invested in a set of interchangeable needles and just finished my first linen stitch and lace shawl. Everything in it was a new learning experience, and I am overjoyed with it. Loved the hair band ideas too. Great video, thank you 😊 JC
What a lovely video. Your tips are great. I too have many unfinished projects and I really relate to your attempts to unravel the psychology of the syndrome ☺️. It was one of my goals to finish them off but it is inevitable that I will follow my inspiration and start a new project when the spirit moves me. It definately feels like a balancing act. Very enjoyable. Thank you
Your knitted/ crochet dress was stunning.. Thanks for all the tips..
Circular needles have helped me get over shoulder pain and I can knit for many hours every day. Thank you for your tips🐑
Thank you for the tips they are very helpful 👍 I am looking forward to the book.. however I am dyslexic so your videos are a fantastic way for me to learn. You're a great teacher and a inspiration. Thank you😁👍xx
The last tip about the cemetery of unfinished projects really hit a note! And I’m relieved to hear that I’m not the only one.😅 Those were great tips and some I use regularly also. As far as the straight vs circular needles, I would add that the actual needle length makes a big difference to me too. My hands get cramped using the very short circular needles, so if I can get a little bit of a longer needle on the circular cable it’s more relaxing to hold.
You have explained the “physocology “ of the knitter so well. I relate to your experiences very closely and I have to say you have helped me to be less judgemental of myself especially when you suggest that sometimes we are too hard on ourselves for having unfinished projects. So thank you for that and I like your tip about elastic to improve the shape of a stretched neckline.
🍊 Your tip about pushing through a design came at the perfect time! I’m working on a new design that I loved when starting and now I’m at the stage where I’m not loving it anymore. I’m going to power through because I know I’ll like it in the end!
I really love to listen to your thoughts and seeing your projects😍 its like sitting with a friend who has been bitten by the knitting bug while I enjoy myself knitting🤩
Another thing you can do to avoid switching to another project halfway is - when you get an exciting idea for something new don't jump straight into making it, instead - pattern it, look up ideas, think about possible design solutions. I mainly do embroidery and when you do embroidery you absolutely cannot afford switching to something else if you are planning on ever finishing anything. So when i get a new idea i take notes on what i think would be cool and draw some patterns and make calculations. This lets you take your time thinking about design and keep working on your main stuff while letting steam out at the same time
What beautiful scenes of Stockholm! I learned a lot from your knitting tips, including that it's okay to have a few unfinished projects... I needed some inspiration to just keep knitting.
I just found your videos and I love it. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and enthusiasm!
You videos are incredibly creative and intriguing. I am anxious to see your new book and hoping the things going on in your part of the world will not stall it. Love your teaching techniques. Love your sweater types, appreciate your down to earth philosophy. Thank you for what you do. From cold northern USA.
This video is so valuable! I started knitting two years ago, and I was making a scarf, I walked into a mainstream store and chose straight needles in a 4.5mm with absolutely no understand of gauge, yarn or needles. I got half way through the scarf and decided knitting wasn’t for me.
I recently took up crochet about 4 months ago and have been enjoying it but I much prefer the stitches of knitting because they’re more appealing to my eye, they’re not as loose and they’re not so monotonous. So I’ve invested in some Chiaogoo circular needles after a LOT of research and I’m hoping it will take my knitting experience from bad to brilliant. As I’ve found with many of my other hobbies and my acrylic art, you really do need to invest in the tools to have a great experience.
So here I am, awaiting my needles to ship & I’m trying to learn as much about knitting before they get here while experimenting on those drab 4.5mm straight needles (ew) 🤣 thanks Kika x
I’ve also found that I hate the mainstream yarns and I’ve definitely been diving headfirst into luxury yarn 😳
Oh yes I’ve heard lots of good things about the Chiagoo needles so I think you made a really smart choice! 😍😍 would love to hear your experience once they arrive 😀
You will LOVE your chiagoos!
@@Kutovakika oh my goodness, they’re honestly amazing! I love how they aren’t too slippery, they’re just right. I ordered the small set and now I’m just building my whole set individually, I have purchased the 2.25mm, 3mm, 5.5mm and 6mm so far. I just did a large order of notions so I can’t wait for those to arrive as well.
You’ve inspired me so much! I’m knitting a top down raglan sweater with Drops in an alpaca blend and silk mohair in the chalk colour. Couldn’t be happier!
🍊🍊🍊 Love your knitting videos, Kika! These tips are so helpful! I seriously CANNOT wait for your knitting book - I'm still a beginner but all your knits are so aspirational! PS - Stockholm looks BEAUTIFUL!
I'm in awe of how beautiful your sweater projects are, and some day I want to grow up to be just like you! (I'm a baby knitter who is not practicing as much as I should, but you are an inspiration to me)
Started watching for the knitting tips, stayed for the life coaching tips 😚 I also experience mixed feelings about places I lived in the past, and I feel that emotional ‘charge’ in objects especially things I made. Thank you for sharing from a personal perspective, as well as the excellent tips 🧶 your enthusiasm makes me want to get knitting right now!
I am with you. I have finished contacts on every aspect I am with you.
Terrific tips for even this 45 years of knitting knitter! Where have you been all my life stitch wire!? And elastic plastic thread perfect for a beret band that knitted up too loosely years ago so never found its way into wearing. Thanks for the joyful education.
It was my first time watching you, and I really love your upbeat energy! I can certainly relate to the WIPs, I have many, some of which are a decade old, I’m afraid to say. Mostly, that comes from attending class at my local LYS, where the owner, Eva (Eva’s Needlework) is always knitting up some luscious thing that everyone gets hot to do. I can’t keep up, and I support her by shopping frequently. Such a problem to have! :P
Thank you for your fun video. I'm a very old knitter (have knitted for at least 60 years) but still find there are new ideas and tips to learn.
That was a great video! Very helpful, thank you. I actually paused the video and went to Etsy to search for the hollow cables to use as stitch holders and bought some before returning to this video! I’m so excited for these new knitting tools, they’re genius!
It’s a total game changer!! 😍😍
Really enjoy this video, resonates to look back and see how far we have gone, also the cemetery... I though I was the only one! and felt bad all this time
Thank you for showing all the video footage of Stockholm. I was there in the Summer of 2018. It is a beautiful city.
Thanks for the cast-off method. I really needed this. I had been using 2-3 sizes bigger needle but even this was not stretchy enough for the little baby booties I make for a local charity (Bundles of Love).
Beautiful colours, I can wear these and natural deep vegetable greens.
This is the first of your videos I’ve see/ such great tips. So glad I’m not the only person who struggles with the end of projects and stitch holders- I need to get one! Thank you!
Great video! Thank you! You inspire me to knit. I also bought your book. Please make a part 2 of this.
I just found this TEN TIPS video and am so glad I did. I am a crocheter trying to learn to knit, and I am finishing my first triangle shawl. I am on the last row, ready to bind off and saw the section about a stretchy bind off; I know the regular bind off would be fine for this shawl, but I will try the stretchy one so I know what to do with sweaters!
I love your enthusiasm and your gorgeous knits and just subscribed to your channel. I am excited to watch your previous videos. Thank you!
Thanks for all the tips -- especially the one about the blocking! I have a number of sweaters that don't fit properly so I will try blocking them. I usually abandon a project when something goes wrong and I am too lazy to rip it out and fix the problem. I also seem to lose interest in a sweater when I begin working on the sleeves -- they require a lot of attention (row counting and decreases), I have to manage 4 needles, AND there are two of them -- TRIPLE TROUBLE in my book! However, it is very satisfying to finish a sweater, so I just remember that! Looking forward to your book -- I love your designs!
🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼 Love these types of videos. And you are such a bundle of joy to watch. Such a pure spirit. I crochet and I’m still finding value here and enjoying it. Makes me want to get into knitting again. And those sweaters you designed long ago that you showed at the beginning are 🤩👌🏼.
Love your knitting videos, please keep them coming
O, nästa gång när du är i Stockholm säg till så kanske vi kan fika och stycka/virka tillsammans om du vill. Så trevlig att titta på dina video 🥰
I love these tips thank you so much.
I learned so much
Hey, I am from Brazil And I am really Happy for having found your Channel. Knitting Is a hobby of mine, And I love the idea of honoring my latě mother every time I am doing some art And craft Project, for She taught me These Things. Thanks for sharing your art with us.
Again, super helpful tips! Thank you for sharing and for your refreshing honesty about life and feelings as you knit! Very relatable on that last tip.❤
Second shelf pink sweater on the top with the nubbins is sooooo pretty. Good tips!
hairband stitch stopper. genius!!!
I am so much like you, I have several projects on the go and have only finished one so far but will persevere and finish them all before I start another one! Thank you for the inspiration, I love all your video’s 😃xx
Great video, thank you!
In regards to needle preference- I’ve come to prefer the stainless. The way the yarn glides has made my stitches way more consistent and even. When I tried with bamboo or wood I would get hung up and end up choking my stitches out 😅
Stainless as opposed to ? wooden needles?
Great tips! I taught myself to knit 2 years ago. Still learning and trying new things. If I were to win the needle set, I would knit a pair of mittens! Maybe the Spruce mittens pattern….
I have recently discovered you on here and I'm really enjoying watching you and love your energy and your honesty (and your cats!). I have ordered your book and I'm very much looking forward to it arriving. I have only been knitting for four years (and I'm 66) and feel a bit sad that I didn't come to it much earlier in life so good for you for having it in your life from an early age. Your tips have hit home with me as I was doing well in my knitting (I thought!) but then I had a couple of major disasters so feeling a bit glum about it at the moment. I like natural fibres which makes mistakes rather expensive as well. I have just invested in a circular knitting kit - as you suggest - and was wondering if I'd been a bit silly to do that but I now feel encouraged by your advice. I will regroup and try to pull together some of the advice and tips so that hopefully my next knit is not another disaster. I do have a local knitting shop which has been invaluable and of course this lovely community has helped. Regarding running out of steam before the end of a project, for me, even knowing that helps. I can say to myself 'this is me, running out of steam, so push through' a bit of self-talk can help me as my intention is not to have that happen. I have still got a couple of unfinished bits so I can't say it always works but it does help me. Thank you for your lovely presence.
Thank you for sharing your tips. I really appreciate the encouragement about the loss of excitement with a project. I am currently knitting a cardigan without a pattern. I have included some waist shaping that I am not really satisfied with. I know now that I will rip back and redo the shaping. I was disappointed and discouraged. But I will press on...after I knit a set of slippers for a friend's birthday. After this "mental break" project, the slippers, not the sweater, I will pull up my boot straps and go back to work with renewed energy. Thank you everyone for your shared tips and helps. Happy kniiting. Make something beautiful.
I enjoy jour tutorials very much
I saw your video where you made your wedding dress and just fell in love with your videos. I am a crocheter that wants to fall in love with knitting. I hope I will find the passion for it
Thanks for the helpful video. I loved the hair and and elastic thread tips.💕 PS I loved seeing your stack of sweaters in the background. Your color palette is so soothing. I look sickly if I wear those colors. Lol
I'm soooo excited about your book! Can't wait!
You are absolutely charming! Good luck with getting your book finished.
I love project bags! I enjoy having every project in its own home & easily transportable through the house or if I go anywhere... I may spend way to much on them 😛😂
But a budget friendly bag, get a large piece of fabric from the craft store & you can tie it on one side, then the other & boom, project bag
You are so delightful and encouraging. Thank you
Thank you for the tip on a stretchy bind off. I had recently made a sweater for one daughter and had such a tight sleeve cuff that I needed to undo the bind off and try again. Now I'm making a sweater for other daughter and I used your bind off for the body hem. Way better! Also trying your tips for no holes at the Underarm joining.
Thank you again for a great knitting video with valuable tips! I've never seen such elastic stitch holders; I got so excited, so I had to pause your video 🙈 and purchase a couple of them in a webshop 😅 I also have those critical moments when I tend to give up. Still, when now being more conscious about it, and maybe changing to another work for a while, I think there will be no more of that. Fingers crossed 🤞🏻 😅 Hugs 🤗🤗
Where did you get the stitch holders? I couldn't find them.
I use the little cups on a pair of ear buds,, works very well.
Maybe one thing to do about the 'second sleeve syndrome' is to knit them both at the same time using magic loop method. I have started several sweaters and because of all the 'pieces & parts' I've laid them aside and have never picked them up again and now I have lots of half-done sweaters to frog so I can re-use the yarn. So, I am currently looking for a sweater that is knit all in one piece - top-down style and I will knit both the sleeves at the same time too. I too always have several projects going at once ... a traveling project, a baby gift project, a prayer shawl or blanket project, or a yearlong MKAL project that I have to take a break from to wait for the next month's pattern to come out, but I rarely do anything for myself. Well, I decided that I wanted to design a throw or coverlet for our king-sized bed for this winter and so far, because I'm designing it as I go and it for us, I've stayed with it a little longer. I love watching your videos; they inspire me so much, thank you!
Such awesome tips. Thank you so much🧡. I just picked up knitting again, so I’m feeling motivated to start my first sweater project!
the hair band is a great tip! Others are too, but this one is gold for me, thank you. :)
Thanks for the tips. I am looking foreward to your book
Ty for these great tips. I love your accent and enthusiasm for knitting! ❤️
I agree with your tips and some I learned from! I am on my second sleeve of a sweater and just want it done! My inspiration is going but by need to finish is there! Thank you!
Wow, I've never seen such elastic stitch holders. They look really convenient 😃 I usually keep my work on the cables from interchangeable needles but this method looks great as well.
Talking of 'cemetery of unfinished projects', I have a similar thing with some yarns bought 4-5 years ago, not for the project, just for their beauty. Sometimes, lose interest in them gradually( if I don't start a project right away.
I am using Scubidu Platic Bands,
Pony Bead laces are very affordable. They are likely the same as above, but cost pennies per yard in an array of colors from earth tones to neons.
I was always such a slow knitter that it’s such hard work. My mother had a complex way in which she put the wool on her fingers, multiple fingers that my young including teenage mind did not get the hang of it. I regret now I did not insist in her teaching me slowly. Oddly as an adult I tried spinning on her new spinning wheel, and I had a memory vision of being taught by a mother and I immediately put yarn over my fingers in a complex pattern and thinned the fleece to make increasingly fine twisted thread and I could adjust the twist..not what was needed as she was making a beautiful hooked mat from her natural fleece in different colours. I am glad you showed you way of managing your left hand with thread. It’s faster than my primitive method. I made exquisite 3 ply garter stitch hat and booties with embroidery thread flowers made with knot stitch and green leaves from a french pattern for my baby though.
AHH so excited for your new video!! I haven’t watched it yet I’m just so excited to see it pop up on my feed💘 thank you for all your hard work!
Oh I'm so excited, thank you for your heartfelt comment 🥰
This was very valuable. You've answered some questions I had about a few different things. Thank you for your help and inspiration. You're amazing! 😎🧶🧶🧶🌞🕊️😻👍
What a gorgeous sweater! I’m a beginner knitter but I hope I can knit something like this someday 🥰🧶
Lately I've been watching "podcast" (not well names as they are vlogs, not audio-podcasts...sorry, just a tiny rant), to knit by, but so many of them are poorly planned & slow paced, that I find my attentuin wandering & my knitting energy waning. I find your videos both, interestung and visually appealing! Your energy is lively through out the whole video. Thank you for the tips & the snap views of both Stockholm & Helsinki.
I'm so glad that I found your videos! I love them
Totally relate to the cemetery of unfinished projects, and exactly where the biggest hurdle is!
So glad I found your bubbly and fresh channel. Actually have never seen your bind off method. Very helpful. Thank You! Keep going. Looking forward to your published book.
Love your tips. Thanks. 😊
What a wonderful Chanel, thank you :)
Such good advice, thank you!
When I was a young child my mum used to knit both sleeves at the same time, using two balls of wool and the same set of needles. I used to think it was amazing.
Stupid question- how does one use the same set of needles on two pieces at once please?
I just watched agin and saw the stitch holders! 🤦🏼♀️ I assume that’s the answer. 😊
New subscriber here. Love your channel! I'm a sock knitter and I'm apprehensive to try them on circulars. But I'm intrigued by them.
Thank you!