If you've always wanted to learn to knit but couldn't get the hang of working with knitting needles, Knifty Knitter patterns may be the solution you've been searching for. With the Knifty Knitter loom, you can make everything from hats and scarves to blankets and fun holiday décor items.
Knifty Knitter Patterns Online
The Knifty Knitter circular loom set comes with instructions for making a basic hat design, while the long loom set comes with a scarf pattern. These are good first projects for the novice knitter, but eventually you'll want to branch out and try making other types of items.
- Loom Knitting Designs has free patterns for a holiday stocking ornament, dish scrubbie, and mittens.
- Loom Knit has free patterns for ear warmers, slippers, mittens, ponchos, and dishcloths, as well as a number of patterns available for purchase.
- Loom Knitting Patterns has a large directory of pattern links for people interested in loom knitting. Many of the designs can be made using the Knifty Knitter looms.
- Loom Knitter's Classroom, a Yahoo! group, is dedicated to helping crafters improve their skills in loom knitting. Free private "classes" are available to help you learn to make specific types of projects.
Additional Knifty Knitter Resources
For more ideas on projects you can make using your Knifty Knitter looms, try the following helpful reference books:
- Learn to Knit on Circle Looms by Denise Layman
- Loom Knitting Primer: A Beginner's Guide to Knitting on a Loom, With Over 30 Fun Projects by Isela Phelps
- Loom Knitting Pattern Book: 38 Easy, No-Needle Designs for All Loom Knitters by Isela Phelps
- Learn New Stitches on Circle Looms by Anne Bipes
- Looney for Looms (for the Kindle) by Lisa Spangenburg
Depending upon your location, your local craft or yarn store may also have classes available in loom knitting techniques or projects you can make with the Knifty Knitter.
About the Knifty Knitter
The term "Knifty Knitter" is used to refer to a brand of knitting looms. They are designed to be used with loom knitting patterns, also known as frame knitting, peg knitting, rake knitting, or Amish loom knitting patterns.
Loom Types
There are several different types of Knifty Knitter looms. Some of these include:
- A four piece circular set, with a blue, red, green, and yellow loom that is typically used for making hats for both children and adults
- A four piece long loom set, with light blue, green, yellow, and red looms that can be used to knit scarves and blankets of varying sizes
- A pink spool loom that can be used to make tiny doll hats, belts, purse handles, or tube scarves
- A long orange loom for making pom-poms to accent your projects
- A small orange round loom for making flowers to embellish other Knifty Knitter items
Most patterns will specify which loom you need, such as the red circular loom for making a child's hat. However, patterns for blankets, tote bags, and other items that do not need to be a specific size can easily be made on a different loom if needed.
Tips for Choosing Patterns
After purchasing a loom set like the Knifty Knitter you'll be eager to jump in and knit many different items. While there are projects available for all skill levels, it's important to select the right pattern for your own level of experience with the loom. Gradually moving on to more difficult projects will ensure that you master every new technique as you go, and won't get frustrated by a set of instructions that are beyond your capabilities. Keep the following tips in mind when choosing a pattern:
- Before you begin any project, carefully read through the instructions. This way you'll know what to expect and be comfortable with the layout. You'll also be able to tell at a glance whether or not you have all of the supplies needed to complete the pattern.
- Generally speaking, simpler patterns meant for beginners will have fewer steps than those geared to more advanced knitters. If you're just starting out, look for quick and easy projects.
- Things like knitting and adding embellishments, making pom-poms, and using multiple looms for a single project all add to the difficulty of a pattern. As you become more skilled with the Knifty Knitter, look for patterns that incorporate these elements to continue challenging yourself.
- If you find a pattern on a website, check to see if there are comments or ratings posted by other crafters. These comments can give you an idea of the skill set needed to complete the project.
Expand Your Pattern Collection
The Knifty Knitter is faster and easier than knitting the old fashioned way, but you can still create beautiful and intricately designed items with a loom knitting set. As you become more proficient in using the loom, continue to expand your pattern collection with new and challenging projects.
