The majority of the Western world knits two ways–English or Continental. The basic difference is which hand holds the yarn.
1. English knitting originated in France (go figure) but became widely used in England and its colonies. English knitters hold the yarn in their right hand. That’s the important distinction.
2. Continental knitting originated on the continent of Europe, mostly in Germany. Continental knitters hold the yarn in their left hand. I learned to knit this way.
Both English and Continental knitting produce exactly the same product. You can’t tell by looking at a knitted object if the knitter held the yarn in the right or left hand, so it’s a matter of preference. Because I learned the Continental way, that’s how I teach, and those are the videos I will put on my website, unless noted. So when you can, choose videos that demonstrate your favorite way to hold the yarn and don’t get confused if a video or book is showing the yarn in the “wrong” hand.
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from Crafts Americana is a good investment. Interchangeable circulars are really a necessity of you plan on becoming a knitter. They may seem expensive, but you'll end up spending this much on individual needles that will sit in your drawer for years after you finally decide to buy this set. :) I've tried other brands over the years, and this really is my favorite.
This first book has a lot of knitting stitches and patterns that can be applied to hats or scarves or place mats, etc. I love browsing through this book and trying new things.
The above is spiral bound so it lays open, leaving your hands free to knit as you follow instructions. It's very clear and concise. I like that.
This book teaches you knitting techniques as you make different squares. The squares can then be joined to make an afghan. I learned to knit with this book and have adapted the squares into pillow and hat designs.
Everything you need to know about yarn and all the choices out there!
