Neighborhood Knits - Getting Started with Double-Pointed Needles

Learn basic skills (and some “tricks”) of using double-pointed needles (dpns): casting on, distributing stitches, working in the round, avoiding “ladders” between needles, binding off.  Extras: how to work pattern stitches easily with dpns, trick for working stripes in the round (how to attach new yarn successfully and avoid the “jog” between stripes)

Skill level: Adventurous beginner with basic knitting skills on straight or circular needles, including: cast-on, knit, purl, bind-off

Required Materials: knitting worsted yarn, set of 5 double-pointed needles (dpns) in size US6 or US7, locking stitch marker (or scrap yarn in contrasting color)

Optional Materials: a straight (or circular) needle the same size (or slightly larger) than the dpns; “regular” ring-style stitch markers; a second ball of worsted yarn in a contrasting color for lesson in knitting stripes.

• Note: Aran- or bulky-weight yarn may also be used for this class, adjusting upward in size of needles
• Tip: Wood or bamboo dpns are highly recommended (even for experienced knitters) as these are less “slippery” than most other materials and easier to use as dpns [I do not recommend plastic or acrylic dpns as they are too “sticky”]. Also, 6” or 8” needles are easiest to start with (as opposed to 5” needles).

Teacher: Ada Lai