MAKE IT CUTE

Knitting—it's not just for grandmothers anymore!

The holidays are creeping up on us, and we're about to have plenty of free time to fill. What better way to spend it than with a new hobby? You might even make some gifts along the way! Keep reading for everything you need to know before you get started.

You're doing your brain a favor.
Take it from Mental Health America—knitting has so many benefits. It's proven to help with anxiety and to ease chronic pain. It's the ideal activity to stay simultaneously mindful *and* productive. When you get the hang of knitting, you can sit back, relax and let your hands do all the work while you binge-watch the new Gossip Girl episodes. 

Getting Started
The key to trying *anything* for the first time is to keep an open mind (it's cliché for a reason). Your first project (and even your second and third ones) might not go as planned. Don't stress—it's all part of the process. The more you practice, the better you'll get, and you'll be moving from scarves to sweaters in no time. 

The supplies you use will depend on what you're making. For example, a scarf will probably call for much thicker yard (or "heavily-weighted" yard as said in the knitting world ) than a sock. The same thing applies to needles. Nevertheless, nearly every project calls for yarn, needles, and scissors.

When you're learning how to knit, following the directions are essential. Whether it's a printed pattern or a step-by-step video, you'll want something that you can follow throughout the process. We love Sheep & Stitch, a niche knitting YouTube channel with tons of videos with to help you complete projects, build your individual skills and learn techniques.  

Gathering supplies, following tutorials and taking the chance on a new hobby sets you up for success on your knitting journey! If you stay consistent (even if you're only knitting on Sunday afternoons), your skills can only improve from here. Taking a week or two to master the basics is all you need to start mastering a new life skill. You can *always* cross a few people off your gift-giving list by giving them thoughtful homemade knitwear!

We can't wait to see your creations! Tag us in all your crafting pics on Insta @girlslifemag. 

GIFs via Giphy
Slider via Miriam Alonso

by Riley Yates | 12/14/2021