Stitch Happy Travel Bag & Starter Equipment Knitting Kit

Knitting is a delightful, rewarding hobby that some people pick up quickly but can take a long time to master. The basic supplies you’ll need to start include quality knitting needles, and many beginner knitters start with straight ones made out of bamboo.

These provide the best surface control so that the yarn won’t slip off easily, as they do with metal knitting needles. They’re also solid and durable; a good size for beginners is 10.5 to 11 inches. Larger needles can help you knit faster and easily see your work.

Knitting supplies (notion) are also needed, including a knitting gauge tool. This tool helps knitters check their stitches per inch and helps determine needle size. Stitch markers come in different sizes or hold dropped stitches in place; they also mark the beginnings of rounds, pattern repeats and serve other functions.

A tape measure is also vital to help determine the full width or length of projects. Tape measures for knitting should be 5 feet long. Other essential accessories include a pair of scissors, a knitting row counter and a tapestry needle for finishing your projects. A crochet hook can come in handy for picking up dropped stitches, too.

A well-made knitting kit bag has room for these supplies and more. Look for spacious ones, with pouches and slots to store everything. Some are also made to hold yarn skeins; these are not always included with the kits. A good handle will make the kit easier to carry around, and you can also find ones with convenient features like zippers, or holes to draw the yarn out through.

As for the yarn, beginners won’t want to overspend because the finished pieces may fall short of expectations at first. Choose affordable yarns made from wool or cotton; both are stretchy and durable and come in countless colors. Synthetic yarns are not usually recommended since they aren’t sustainable and may even be flammable. Experts like alpaca and cashmere, too, but these are priced higher.

• A knitting kit should be made from a durable, waterproof material like nylon. You won’t be able to toss it in the washing machine in most cases, but you should be able to wipe away stains.
• If you also like to crochet or do other crafts, look for kits with those tools (such as crochet hooks and tapestry needles).
• Knitting kits make terrific gifts for anyone who knits.
• You’re never too young or old to start learning how to knit. Look for beginner kits that include instructions, and contact your local yarn shop to find out if they have classes — they probably do!