The secrets to getting gauge and knitting perfect swatches [5 common mistakes]

Тәжірибелік нұсқаулар және стиль

A step-by-step tutorial on knitting gauge swatches and how to get gauge no matter if you knit flat or in the round. Read the full tutorial here: nimble-needles.com/tutorials/...
My knitting needles: amzn.to/3pHJ69c
My yarn: bit.ly/354ESkw
Link to square gauge rulers: bit.ly/3oOpkf7
*Note: As an Etsy & Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying
Whenever you want to knit a pattern, you have to knit a gauge swatch first so you can get gauge. Meaning you can produce the exact same fabric the designer used as a building block for the pattern. But a lot of knitters struggle with this process and this video will show you 5 very important reasons why you may not be able to get gauge - and easy tips and tricks to avoid that. A lot of people use bad rulers, knit too small swatches, knit flat swatches for projects in the round, don't block their swatches, or use a wrong stitch pattern. There are so many reasons why you may not be able to get gauge - or you even may succeed but your project still doesn't fit.
And it's my honest opinion that only through understanding what you are doing - and the limitations of the process - will you be able to knit sweaters, etc that fit. Gauge is very hazy kind of undefined thing and once you realize that you actually need to measure and compare, you will be able to become a better knitter.
Here's the tutorial on knitting neater ribbings: nimble-needles.com/tutorials/...
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction to knitting gauge swatches
1:27 Not getting gauge the first time is no big deal
1:58 Problem 1: Knitting too small swatches
3:53 Problem 2: Flat swatches for projects in the round
6:12 Problem 3: Not washing, blocking or weighting your swatch
7:11 Problem 4: Using the wrong knitting stitch pattern
9:25 Solution 1: Change needle size or brand
10:49 Solution 2: Use a different needle material to knit
11:41 Solution 3: Change yarn
13:06 Solution 4: Change your tensioning method
15:33 Part III: Why getting gauge is an illusion
16:11 There's no blocking standard
17:30 No way to know how to count fractional stitches
19:24 The solution to the conundrum
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Пікірлер: 417

  • @NimbleNeedles
    @NimbleNeedles2 жыл бұрын

    ☕️ Support my work and buy me a cup of coffee: www.buymeacoffee.com/nimbleneedlez 🧑‍🎓Free knitting school: nimble-needles.com/learn-to-knit-for-beginners/ 🧶 My knitting tools: nimble-needles.com/wool-and-tools/my-knitting-toolkit-essential-items-i-need-for-every-project/ 👕 More patterns: nimble-needles.com/free-knitting-patterns/ 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/nimbleneedlez/

  • @gcwarkenyout
    @gcwarkenyout Жыл бұрын

    I am not a robot nor a knitting machine, I'm an individual crafter expressing my personality! Thank you so much Norman for reminding me of that 💜💚🖤

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    Жыл бұрын

    an important insight! Glad I was able to remind you

  • @Bunny-ch2ul
    @Bunny-ch2ul2 жыл бұрын

    If you're having trouble with gauge, you can always make a different size. If you're knitting too tightly, nothing says you can't make a sweater that's a size larger, and remove a pattern repeat so it's not too long. You're making something custom, and what the designer created might not be perfect for you even if you get the gauge right. Their idea of a size 40 and your idea of a size 40 might not line up. The right gauge is the gauge that you think looks best, and leads to a piece that fits you well.

  • @Songbirdstress

    @Songbirdstress

    Жыл бұрын

    Not a great knitter, but I get the best needle size for my knitting the pattern and the wool, then recalculate the no of stitches. Back in the day you could get 1/4 size needles and that helped a lot. I wish I had kept them.

  • @annofgreencables

    @annofgreencables

    Жыл бұрын

    I still have some cabled and straight 1/4 sizes needles. Been knitting for 60 years and never have enough needles😊 If people in your area do yard and garage sales there could be some there. Or the Thrift Stores.

  • @abbocris
    @abbocris9 ай бұрын

    Norman, you have really helped me today. I have been knitting most of my life; I understand the importance of getting gauge, especially for garments that need to fit. I know all the ways to change gauge. But despite my best efforts, I knit an entire sleeve, blocked it, dried it and THEN decided it was going to be too small. I was very sad thinking of frogging a whole sleeve. The pattern has set-in sleeves and lots of cables, mixed with stockinette stitch. So measuring gauge accurately is very difficult. But your show helped me to realize that it’s okay to start over, and it’s okay that there is a certain amount of just doing your best to meet gauge, then trying on the garment as you go, and making adjustments as necessary. I feel much better now. Thank you for your wonderful show.

  • @silkehuybrechts7832
    @silkehuybrechts78322 жыл бұрын

    After a few weeks of learning how to knit, I wanted to start my first sweater. No matter how many swatches I made, how many different needle sizes I tried, I could never seem to get gauge. I felt like a failure, like I wasn't good enough at knitting, like I would never be able to create a garment. You telling me that it's a testament to my unique creativity, is exactly what I needed. You also reminded me that frogging isn't a failure, it's an invaluable learning opportunity. This video is so encouraging. Thank you!

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    trust me Silke, I frog a lot, I too struggle with my gauge....yet here I am! :)

  • @silkehuybrechts7832

    @silkehuybrechts7832

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@NimbleNeedles Thank you for the encouragement! :)

  • @terriraney8685
    @terriraney86852 жыл бұрын

    I learn so much from your videos and really appreciate your messages about the imperfections that are inherent in any handmade creative process ... "you are not a robot or a knitting machine"

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    Perfection too is just a definition. And I prefer organic textures over 100% uniformity every day. 🥰

  • @knitcrochettiger361
    @knitcrochettiger3612 жыл бұрын

    also, if you knit in the round...either mutliple DPNs or Magic Loop on a circular....to avoid the ladders, use the walking method....either save the last stitch of the row to transfer over to become the first stitch on the next needle....or you can do the opposite, work the first stitch of the next needle to become the last stitch of the previous.....both methods require a stitch marker at the beginning of the row so you don't lose it....but walking the stitch can help you adjust tension to avoid laddering

  • @nadiaarsenijevic8594

    @nadiaarsenijevic8594

    Жыл бұрын

    In order to avoid using stitch markers I knit a few stitches with the previous dpn and then transfer those stitches on the fifth dpn and then continue knitting with it! I takes a bit more time but you don't have to worry about the beginning of your round!

  • @EmilysTeaCup
    @EmilysTeaCup2 жыл бұрын

    I am a perfectionist and get so overwhelmed by gauge swatching, even watching this video was a little stressful 😅 I really appreciated your wrap up, I do find it reassuring, sometimes I feel like a bad knitter if I dont swatch. But I am very willing to frog and adjust as I knit, I think I just need to try some different methods until I find one that works for me.

  • @michellem9444
    @michellem94442 жыл бұрын

    Also, your own personal tension will change throughout your lifetime. Most people start loose as beginners, and tighten up over time. Then there are issues like I have, where I've developed joint pain and have begun to knit more loosely. So this tendency to change can affect you a lot if you have a large WIP that you've been working on and off over a long period of time.

  • @holeanta

    @holeanta

    11 ай бұрын

    Really? I always thought that most people start very tight because they are very stressed, nervous, frustrated etc. and it affects their movements. It more of an anecdata, most people I talked to were very tight knitters and crocheters at the beginning. But I don't know, I wouldn't be surprised if I had been completely wrong.

  • @ustjayenjay2542

    @ustjayenjay2542

    7 ай бұрын

    I started out both Very tight because I couldn't get remotely consistent results unless I garotted the needle/hook for every stitch. I had to wear bandaids on my pointer finger where the yarn was tensioned because it would end up rubbing my skin raw. As I got more experienced, I was able to loosen up and still achieve consistent tension.

  • @ShintogaDeathAngel

    @ShintogaDeathAngel

    6 ай бұрын

    @@holeanta I definitely started out as a tight knitter, or, to be more precise, as a very beginner knitter, the practice pieces got tighter as I worked initially - I still knit to a fairly tight tension, but it is at least consistent now.

  • @dorym8045
    @dorym80452 жыл бұрын

    Oh Norman, Thank you again for a great explanation/instruction video. I am in the middle of the first socks I have ever knitted with fingering weight yarn (always used DK before). I carefully knit a swatch and got gauge on the needle size I was trying. But now that I am more than half way through the first sock, my gauge is much smaller. And now, thanks to your video I can identify the two problems with my swatch: I did it flat in the traditional manner AND I used Karbonz needles for the swatch but switched to the same size in metal circular for the actual sock. Double whammy. Now I know your wonderful idea for knitting a flat swatch without turning and purling every other row AND to watch for subtle needle size/texture differences (i.e. stay with the exact needle you swatched with). I do like a number of other knitting channels on KZread and I usually get useful information from most of them but you have the best detail videos which work best for me when I am struggling with something.

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    Aww..thank you. And you know..sometimes mistakes too are needed so the lesson sticks 😊

  • @helena_maria_._._
    @helena_maria_._._2 жыл бұрын

    Well explained and detailed! Thank you. One thing to remember when gauging and blocking I’ve just learned as a beginner is to measure the before and afters. Which means measure before you wash and after you wash and dry, measure before blocking and after blocking, and especially measure before doing the hang with a tiny weight and after to really see how much difference exists. Good job! Happy knitting from Montreal, Quebec, Canada!

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    Great tips!

  • @deliabottoms285

    @deliabottoms285

    Жыл бұрын

    That is a great idea! I will keep that in mind. :0)

  • @baileybye4010
    @baileybye4010 Жыл бұрын

    I so much appreciate how you emphasize frogging as being part of the process--it makes me feel so much less intimidated by learning new techniques and trying to improve my knitting. Thanks for these! :)

  • @laceykuenzler9271
    @laceykuenzler92712 жыл бұрын

    Okay, why did I never think to stick to the same yarn base that works successfully with my knitting style? This simple suggestion has been overlooked in my craft. Thank you for the common sense. There is definitely yarn that seems to never “turn out” and those that do. Thank you for the suggestion!

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    it makes such a big difference - at takes away quite a lot of the alure of shopping more yarn ^^

  • @irenesupica7449
    @irenesupica7449 Жыл бұрын

    I tried your suggestion to do my ribbing for a hat with smaller needles. I'm making a hat for a charity project, and am now on hat number 90. The ribbing suggestions you made have really helped me. So the ribbing is on size 6 US, and the remainder is on size 8 US. The hat looks so nice. Trying to keep the knitting closer to the tips on the ribbing made a difference, too. Thanks!

  • @ahc1957
    @ahc19572 жыл бұрын

    So glad that you mentioned needle size is not always the same depending on company/brand. As for gauge, sometimes I knit tighter due to stress. When relaxed my knitting is much different. Excellent recommendations. Thank you.

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    same here. it's sometimes a bit frustrating but that's what it is!

  • @ninnettaskaanstrom1960
    @ninnettaskaanstrom19604 ай бұрын

    Love your comment on “no knitting magically fit into a 10x10 square” and your videos are awesome.

  • @ppalmer1952
    @ppalmer19522 жыл бұрын

    I'm one of those weird knitters who are fairly obsessed with gauge. Ive been known to take as long as 2 weeks to get gauge. I change EVERYTHING EXCEPT MYSELF. Norman is so thorough and I love that so much.

  • @melweismann
    @melweismannАй бұрын

    I really, REALLY love that you have thought through all the same considerations/questions that I have asked myself about all the variables that really are inherent in the swatching process - and you also have ANSWERS to those questions! I feel SEEN! Thank you for posting this.

  • @deliabottoms285
    @deliabottoms285 Жыл бұрын

    PS: Great tip on sticking with the yarn that works best for me! That will help stop me from buying yarn simply because I fell in love with the color or softness. Not all yarns work the same. I have seen this happen with my friend who spins her own yarn. She has so much wool that she has several large plastic bins to organize her wool that she bought on impulse. It's too easy to get carried away when shopping.

  • @fanandolla33
    @fanandolla33 Жыл бұрын

    Dearest Norman. I have seen many people and channels, but I love and respect what you do. I like how you engage with people and reply to most messages. It makes me feel as if I knew you personally. I want to invite you a cuppa to say 'danke schon'.

  • @fanandolla33

    @fanandolla33

    Жыл бұрын

    'Invite you to have a cuppa ' I should have said, my wife corrected my English.

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    Жыл бұрын

    It kinda always amazes me how very few creators do that. What's the point in going online, if you don't want to interact with your audience 😅

  • @fanandolla33

    @fanandolla33

    Жыл бұрын

    Hallo, hast du meinen kleinen Beitrag für den Kaffee bekommen? Es wird nicht in meinem Feed angezeigt.

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    Жыл бұрын

    doch, das hab ich. Habe doch geantwortet? :) Gibt es ein problem?

  • @fanandolla33

    @fanandolla33

    Жыл бұрын

    @@NimbleNeedles Norman, keine Sorge. Ich wollte nur meine Transaktion überprüfen. Ich habe es auf meinem Bankkonto gefunden. einen schönen rest von 2022. die besten wünsche für 2023.

  • @a.sobriquet6220
    @a.sobriquet6220 Жыл бұрын

    I am so grateful for this, as you have answered so many questions I’ve had for YEARS, and arrived (through pure logic) at the conclusion I suspected…you just must do your best with gauge and keep in mind that being off by just a little could result in error. You must then try your garment on as you go (or invest in a mannequin!) and measure it that way!

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    Жыл бұрын

    glad I could reinforce your own beliefs!

  • @abundantfox
    @abundantfoxАй бұрын

    I just watched your video about getting gauge. It was very good and a lot of thought to consider. My big issue is that I swatch using various needles and yarn. I end up with different swatches. I pick the swatch that gives me a fabric I really like that is typically different to the designer's gauge. I find just changing needle sizes or materials doesn't work. You are right in saying that gauge is just an illusion. If the pattern is easy enough to make adjustments, I will do it.

  • @latetotheparty4785
    @latetotheparty47854 ай бұрын

    I like this video! I have one more suggestion: I make scrupulous swatches, including cast on, cast off, selvage stitches, cables, and the like. I test at least three needle sizes, based on what the pattern or yarn label suggest and then one size smaller, one size bigger. But I’m not trying to get gauge-I’m looking for the best fabric and enjoyment of knitting. I can always rework the math to make the pattern fit my preferred gauge, but I’m getting too old to waste my time creating fabric for a pattern when I have tested a fabric with better hand and more enjoyable to knit. I find there’s a sweet spot where yarn meets needles meets gauge, and the fabric is gorgeous. I knit because of pleasure, not for gauge. I learned how to rewrite patterns because I’ve always been a big gal. When I was young, size 14 (I was a 20+) was a chubby size, and I found no plus sized patterns, so I figured out how to make the pattern suit me, and not the other way around. Try something easy to modify, you’ll get the hang of it. Own your craft, and if it’s not fun, stop and modify until it’s fun again.

  • @barbaramcrae8425
    @barbaramcrae8425 Жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much for making my knitting process easier! Obtaining gauge has been so problematical for me, but you have eased the stress, thus making knitting more enjoyable!

  • @lornanormand6963
    @lornanormand69638 ай бұрын

    Norman, I am in awe of the amount of experience (practice, exploration and time) you bring to your sharing. It is truly astounding! Your expertise is such a gift. Thank you!

  • @scrubjay93
    @scrubjay93 Жыл бұрын

    So clear and I love how you first describe the "perfect" scenario and then all the variables that can make the perfect impossible. And then you give so much encouragement and reassurance - so great for a beginner like me.

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    Жыл бұрын

    my pleasure! happy to be of service!

  • @diane38
    @diane38 Жыл бұрын

    Thank you Norman - I was referred to this video from someone in my group because I was having trouble getting gauge and needle material and needle size are two of my biggest challenges. Depending on the type of wool/yarn, I sometimes use wood and sometimes use metal. I've started a separate notebook for the variables, the yarn, the gauge etc and attach the swatch to my notes on that project. Your explanations and encouragement are invaluable.

  • @lindat5782
    @lindat5782 Жыл бұрын

    Great instructions as always !! I love swatiching new yarns. I have a box full of them and i love going through them. They often prevented me from buying expensive yarn (I buy one ball/skein and swatch first) after swatching and not liking how it would knit up. The onley thing I didn't like was the swatching in the round method carring the yarn in the back untill I came acrouss a video from Jameson's and smith were they break the yarn after every round, love that ! With that a use an edge form Patty Lions; start with 2 stiches knit through the back loop and then one purl and do the same with the last 3 stitches.

  • @viviantruong8708
    @viviantruong87082 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for the practical tutorial, Norman. After this lesson, I will feel more confident in my next knitting project. Love your thorough instructions and helpful tips!

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    As always, it's a pleasure. And always paints a smile on my face when I see a familiar name here in the comments, vivian 😊🥰

  • @rebeccaguthrie8314
    @rebeccaguthrie83142 жыл бұрын

    Norman thank you! What an excellent overview on gauge; what can go wrong; how to adjust. Your videos have helped me become a better knitter. It is so good to hear all the inconsistencies in yarn/needles/tension make knitting an art form not just a craft.

  • @Sequoya
    @Sequoya2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you Norman! I’m a professional baker and you are so right about the comparison. I can read a recipe and tell if it will work or not. I hope to get that good at knitting patterns. Your tutorials are paving the way.

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    Time and patience will solve most things - just like with a good bread 😅

  • @boblowney
    @boblowney Жыл бұрын

    You are so knowledgeable! I am simply going to jump off a cliff now and end the stress of attaining perfect gauge! 😂 seriously, I will be coming back to this vid as I become more experienced and can absorb your recommendations. It is so rich! thank you.

  • @sy2.083
    @sy2.0832 жыл бұрын

    So daggone informative-things I NEVER thought about in terms of gauge or swatching! Ty for being sooooo thorough!!!

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    You r very welcome 😊

  • @janetwanamaker4095
    @janetwanamaker40957 ай бұрын

    I love your passion for knitting. Let me help you with the word, "variable." In the USA we say var- ee- able, with the stressed syllable being "var." I'm sure you speak many more languages than I do, so I hope you see this as a kind gesture, not as nit- picking (which I wish related to knitting).

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    7 ай бұрын

    these tips are always welcome if they come from a place of kindness and a genuine wish to help :) My personal biggest issue is that, even tho it seems like this was one continuous take, it rarely is. And then, sometimes the phone rings, and I need to speak in German (or so), and then it's back to recording the video and that really messes with your mind - especially as there are so many words that very or totally similar (but with different pronouncation). variable is one of them...it's variabel in German ;-)

  • @Angela-or8sj
    @Angela-or8sj2 жыл бұрын

    This is so helpful! I had no idea that others struggled with gauge as I do or that there are so many variables and options to try. This will help me move forward on projects rather than becoming frustrated. Many Thanks!

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    knitting should never make your frustrated but bring you joy! So feel free to come back any time in case you run into a problem :)

  • @Cuisinenomade1
    @Cuisinenomade1 Жыл бұрын

    It amazes me how much difference can I get just by changing the tension and not the needles. Of course there is a limit but it is huge and also discovering that the yarn type also helps with that. Also realizing that not always I have to use the recomended yarn for a project depending on my way of knitting. Just a lot of try and error i guess. I like your channel thanks!

  • @OzSteve9801
    @OzSteve98012 жыл бұрын

    It's important to do the swatch even if you've used the yarn before because sometimes different coloured yarn will give a different gauge. This is to do with the type and amount of dye used for each colour. Different colours will also affect the feel of the yarn. I find dark colours are a little stiffer than lighter coloured yarn. Over 100 stitches or more for a sweater this can actually change the garment size.

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    you are right there. Some dyes, especially when they are overdyed will kind of bloat up the fibers...and when you mix that with an undyed yarn it can be a problem. However, in my experience, it won'T really change your gauge. It will just change the appearance/density

  • @user-og2lj4jy9d
    @user-og2lj4jy9d Жыл бұрын

    It is not obvious for a professional to understand a beginner so very good. Thank you. Your lesson is vary intributing for my work.

  • @legeon6
    @legeon66 ай бұрын

    I consider myself a relatively experienced knitter, but I am also quite impulsive and forgetful. So I often forget what needle I used after having finished with the swatch. The tip about adding eyelets is brilliant! Thank you, Norman!

  • @nancychamplin7637
    @nancychamplin7637 Жыл бұрын

    Thank you for all of your helpful tips. I particularly like the idea of getting familiar with a few yarn bases so that you are not having to constantly swatch. :)

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    Жыл бұрын

    It will save you so much troubles! (If you ask me)

  • @1rnpink
    @1rnpink2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much for your positivity! I appreciate you saying that it's not a problem with my knitting but a celebration of my creativity and uniqueness.

  • @tannazdevadasi9719
    @tannazdevadasi9719 Жыл бұрын

    I wish you had in presence classes. Watching videos are useful for sure, but being educated by a proffessional with actual working pieces is something that cannot be replaced by online lessons. Cheers dear Norman!

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    Жыл бұрын

    that might be true. However, this way I can reach literally millions - in class only...well max 10-15 :(

  • @margaretfeller8004
    @margaretfeller80042 жыл бұрын

    Thank you. I was always frustrated at not making gauge after a few tries. This will help me want to keep trying!

  • @mdglohse398
    @mdglohse3982 жыл бұрын

    I consider this the most useful knitting video I have seen to date. Your explanations and calculations made so much sense to me! Thank you for your thoughtful exploration of gauge differences.

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    Glad it was helpful!

  • @conniehunt6738
    @conniehunt67386 ай бұрын

    Yes yes yes! The swatch is only the first step! Great video. A must watch to the end.

  • @miguelbonillaelpaso
    @miguelbonillaelpaso2 жыл бұрын

    OMG! This was the most practical video on gauge I've seen! It helped me improve my gauge immediately. thank you

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    oh wow...you are very welcome!

  • @PennyKnits
    @PennyKnits2 жыл бұрын

    I have been too afraid to knit a sweater and sit stunned when people say the knitted one it two weeks. Don’t the have a life? Don’t children or dogs demand feeding? Don’t you work? Anyway, your remark about sticking to a few specific yarns that you know, really hit me! All the other gauge things aside, this makes sense!

  • @krankywitch
    @krankywitch2 жыл бұрын

    Swatches are really valuable. I keep all my swatches with the yarn labels attached. It gives me a resource for repairs. It’s also handy if I decide to knit a pattern again - I can see exactly what I used before. It’s a starting point for gauge if I use the same yarn again - instead of starting from scratch, I can start with the needle size I used last time. If a garment has a lace, colourwork or cable, I make second swatch of that to practice it and to see how my gauge is going to change. I keep them all in a recipe box attached to a recipe card where I can make notes about the yarn. I have noticed that if I leave a swatch lying around for a couple of weeks after blocking, they often change again, so I don’t start the project right away.

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    thesse are some gorgeous tips you, Beth. thx for sharing them here with us!

  • @janicesteiner622
    @janicesteiner6222 жыл бұрын

    Thank you so very much. Hanging the swatch with small weights is a marvelous idea.!

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    you can even expose them too even more wear and tear and jank on them...or put them into your pocket for a day or two.

  • @rosemongeau7891
    @rosemongeau78912 жыл бұрын

    Norman, Will you ever show how to seam a sweater together. All videos I see just show the easy bits. Could you show us how it is done “in situ”? That would be real. Anybody can do the mattress stitch once they have started.The most difficult and very important part would be to learn how to actual start at the sleeves and at the body bottom. And I don’t know of any video showing close up of seaming in a clear, well explained way specially when one does or attempt a set-in sleeve and arm scythe assemblage. You explain knitting things in an intelligent, easier to remember way and your explanations make a lot of sense. I thank you for that.

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    maaybe..though the sweater i am knitting right now is not seamed. but maybe somewhen in the future.

  • @aimeewalters4861
    @aimeewalters48612 жыл бұрын

    Your videos are so helpful!

  • @mariGentle
    @mariGentle6 ай бұрын

    Always the best advice ❤

  • @joajune
    @joajune2 жыл бұрын

    Fantastic as always! Thank you!

  • @ppalmer1952
    @ppalmer19522 жыл бұрын

    I really appreciate your tutoring! Thank you so much!

  • @noreenskousen1905
    @noreenskousen19052 жыл бұрын

    Hi Norman. I've discovered your knitting tutorial sites and am loving your direct and informative instructions. I also love your humour. I have told friends about your site who are interested in learning more about knitting as your tutorials are so direct and simple to follow. I also love your positive comments about knitters not being machines and being individuals. People who are critical about their own efforts because they expect the picture perfect result that an experienced knitter has done, have a hard time accepting that it is all a learning experience. I can't tell you how many times I've had to take apart something, or rip it all out and start over, and each time I do, I learn something more, whether it's about me being impatient, or using the wrong needles, yarn, etc......it's all a learning curve. I have learned to always do a test swatch. I can get the number of stitches by a smaller or larger needle depending on the thickness of the yarn I want to use, but I've never been able to get the number of rows the same. So I decided not to worry about it, but to use the finished measurements and my own body measurements as the guide as to how many more rows or less rows to knit. It works and I admit to feeling satisfaction in making a decision of my own and not comparing with the original gauges set by the designer of the pattern. I too have noticed the differences in needle dimensions and yarn thicknesses even though the manufacturer claims it is a #4 weight yarn, sometimes I've had to treat it as a #3 weight or a #5 weight. It's all fun to experiment with and each project, each yarn or pattern is a test of my ability to go with the flow or make changes. I love to create and each of my 'creations' are uniquely my own. I think that's the fun of it all. My Mom taught me how to knit the English throw method, and my first project was a pair of woollen socks......I know.....why start with socks or juggling all those slippery steel needles......they were so tight in tension that you could barely get a needle into a stitch.....my Mom saw them and we agreed to tear them out and start over. I confess, she finished them up as I had thrown up my hands and needles, in frustration. Lol. As time has passed and different projects started, finished, or torn out and the yarn repurposed, I have found my comfort zone with my knitting. Currently I have 6 sweaters on the go. When I tire of looking at one type of yarn, I switch to another project and along the way, they will all get finished. I've discovered hygge yarn which is lovely to work with and makes a lovely soft finished garment. I've also begun a sweater for a son who wanted 100% wool. Interesting yarn to work with. That's all I will say about that. Thanks for your efforts in teaching us all the nuances and skills of knitting. It has broadened my knowledge and horizons in creating fabric with yarn.

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    well, i have to thank YOU. not only for your very elaborated feedback but also for sharing my work with others. It is much appreciated!

  • @YasmeenSalam
    @YasmeenSalam2 жыл бұрын

    That was so informative. Thank you so much.

  • @lynnbean7200
    @lynnbean7200 Жыл бұрын

    Very informative as usual. Thank you.

  • @lissyperez4299
    @lissyperez4299 Жыл бұрын

    Great advice !

  • @Loyal-cat
    @Loyal-cat2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for another wonderful and informative video.

  • @kaylemoine1571
    @kaylemoine15712 жыл бұрын

    Very good instruction. Thank you.

  • @yvonne2203
    @yvonne22032 жыл бұрын

    Thanks, Norman. This video has been super helpful for me. ❤

  • @andreasanford8814
    @andreasanford88142 жыл бұрын

    I am going to try these tips. I know knitting a gauge swatch is important, but I don't like doing it. Often my swatch doesn't match my finished project. I am planning to start a new project with a yarn and pattern new to me, so I can test out these new ideas. I have a list in my phone of my particular gauge and size of needles I used for my favorite and most used yarns.

  • @DM-ps4oc
    @DM-ps4oc2 жыл бұрын

    Very good information presented in an easy to understand way.

  • @michaelvelting6003
    @michaelvelting60032 жыл бұрын

    Thank you, Norman, for this great video. So informative. And I love that you talk about weighting the fitted projects as well. I'm a new(ish) knitter. I took it up during the early part of the Covid pandemic and went down the rabbit hole and never looked back. After many smaller projects, I'm working my first sweater gauge swatches now, and this was very helpful, as are all your videos. Keep up the wonderful work!

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    Glad it was helpful! and I definitely plan to continue, Michael :) And best of luck with your first sweater.

  • @MarykadeVries
    @MarykadeVries2 жыл бұрын

    Very informative. There's a lot of information to take in and everything you say makes so much sense. Thank you.

  • @angelicaivelisse
    @angelicaivelisse2 жыл бұрын

    I totally needed this!

  • @heidii9291
    @heidii92912 жыл бұрын

    Love you Norman!

  • @annegraheck5713
    @annegraheck57132 жыл бұрын

    The best video I have seen on this topic. Thank you for being so clear.

  • @Kimber_Lee_Enlow
    @Kimber_Lee_Enlow8 ай бұрын

    Thanks. All makes sense! 🤗

  • @ksdenigris
    @ksdenigris2 жыл бұрын

    You are awesome! I'm a new subscriber and can't wait to watch all your previous videosa

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    sure, that's what they are for!

  • @VisitWithNanaAndPapa
    @VisitWithNanaAndPapa2 жыл бұрын

    this is awesome it is how I have felt for years,

  • @cives2008
    @cives20082 жыл бұрын

    So much good advice again! Thank you!!

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    Any time!

  • @binarystar11235
    @binarystar112352 жыл бұрын

    Thank you Norman! Clear and in depth as always :-)

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    My pleasure!

  • @juliemorley22
    @juliemorley222 жыл бұрын

    Great video many tips that I had never thought of, thank you.

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    Glad you were able to pick up a tip here and there, Julie!

  • @darlenegillispie6823
    @darlenegillispie68232 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for taking your time to share your knowledge with us all! I learn so much from you! Merry Christmas!

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    Happy holidays, Darlene!

  • @beccabuckner700
    @beccabuckner7002 жыл бұрын

    A very unique way to put it. Thank you!!😊❤️

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    you are very welcome, Becca

  • @YKKY
    @YKKY2 жыл бұрын

    I.simply.love.you! This is what I needed so much!

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    so Glad it was helpful!

  • @fullacrafts7135
    @fullacrafts71352 жыл бұрын

    Love all your videos , they help me solve a lot of the issues in my knitting projects

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    awesome! and remember - you can always comment in case you need further help!

  • @LivTii
    @LivTii Жыл бұрын

    I have the tendency to knit a swatch that is too tight on the right and too loose on the left 😅 still trying, will try your tips today!

  • @smb3414
    @smb34142 жыл бұрын

    I appreciate all these tips, I look forward to using them on my upcoming sweater project!

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    Yeah, a sweater is definitely a project where I would swatch/measure carefully 😊

  • @areli1128
    @areli11282 жыл бұрын

    You have just share with us a wealth of wisdom in this world of knitting!!!! Big and enormous THANK YOU!!!! For this video, GRACIAS Norman!!!

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    it's a pleasure, Lili & you are very welcome :)

  • @kathydurance3237
    @kathydurance3237 Жыл бұрын

    This is Such a good video! So informative. Thank you so much.

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    Жыл бұрын

    Glad you enjoyed it!

  • @lorettazaharias9692
    @lorettazaharias96922 жыл бұрын

    Very informative & I liked part 3 the best about gauge being an illusion. Keep up these amazing videos!

  • @migueldesoledad
    @migueldesoledad2 жыл бұрын

    Hi Norman. You're looking very handsome and dapper with your new haircut; am also loving the Winter village scene on the round table behind you. Would like to take a moment to wish you an amazing and inspiring Holiday as we all journey towards 2022 together. So many knitters want to jump right into the fun stuff instead of taking a little time to gauge and to continually check their gauge as they knit. Have seen quite a few knitting bloggers who don't know why the sleeves on their project came out too short; or their sweater collar is misshapen like a boat neck. It's because they didn't gauge their needle size, yarn and tension before they started! You're spot on!

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    yah...that winter village is delighting me every day...it's 100% kitsch but that's what you need aruond xmas, isn't it. And glad to hear you appreciate my efforts! :)

  • @KarenBBeutler
    @KarenBBeutler2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for this video. It was most informative and helpful. I often wonder about accuracy and now feel better and more confident to apply your strategies. Appreciate you sharing your expertise.

  • @dwade1367
    @dwade13672 жыл бұрын

    TY! Everything you mention in this tutorial makes sense. I will absolutely, follow your advice. Love your podcasts ❤️

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    Awesome! Thank you!

  • @twonightingalesknit
    @twonightingalesknit2 жыл бұрын

    Norman, It has to be said, you are amazing. You have blown my mind with this. I understand gauge far better now and the many variables. Thank you so so much.

  • @nydiahaberlie8865
    @nydiahaberlie88652 жыл бұрын

    Thank you again Norman. Your videos are so informative. This one gave me a lot to think about in terms of swatches and how to make my garments fit better!

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    great, Nydia. And do feel free to ask your questions anytime in case there are any in the future!

  • @annjanss7224
    @annjanss72242 ай бұрын

    Thank u so much ❤

  • @kittykat717
    @kittykat7172 жыл бұрын

    Oh my goodness this has me more confused than ever. I think I may have to watch this several more times. I'm grateful for the lady where I shop who assists me with my knitting and you Norman for the assistance you provide.

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    oh noes..i didn't want to confuse us. Why, pray tell?

  • @kittykat717

    @kittykat717

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@NimbleNeedles just a lot of information for me to digest. I will watch it many times and it will become clearer Thank you.

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@kittykat717 sure! but don't hesitate to reach out in case anything needs clarification!

  • @kittykat717

    @kittykat717

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@NimbleNeedles Thank you Norman that is very kind of you.

  • @tammyk.stresslessjoy1524
    @tammyk.stresslessjoy15242 жыл бұрын

    Great information for a beginner thanks

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    also for advanced knitters as gauge will be an issue you have to deal with throughout your whole kntiting journey :)

  • @keedledee
    @keedledee Жыл бұрын

    Thank you

  • @kathyclark3376
    @kathyclark33762 жыл бұрын

    Thank you! You not only gave me new thoughts about a gauge but also made me feel normal :)

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    well, I would say you are unique, Kathy. and that is totally normal :)

  • @charliespinoza1966
    @charliespinoza19662 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for all the info!

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    My pleasure!

  • @pamfreel8983
    @pamfreel89832 жыл бұрын

    Thank you Norman🤗 Very informative and I know that I will be watching this video several times and definitely taking notes.

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    feel free to come back to it any time. that'S what it's for after all :)

  • @mairwright2806
    @mairwright28062 жыл бұрын

    Such detail , and I liked the conclusion. Knit anyway. Thank you

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    you are very welcome, Mair!

  • @beckyjohnson9917
    @beckyjohnson99172 жыл бұрын

    You are so amazing- I can follow your instructions so clearly😉thank you for sharing your knowledge

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    Happy to help!

  • @Me_Ewe_and_Yarn_Cheryl
    @Me_Ewe_and_Yarn_Cheryl2 жыл бұрын

    Great explanation of gauge. I particularly liked your message at the beginning of the video.

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    Happy to hear that cheryl. Especially as it's such an important message. For me knitting is about individuality and not doing what everyone else does 🥰

  • @neverstoplearning2
    @neverstoplearning22 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for another really helpful video! If I had to choose only 3 knitting channels to watch, you would be one of them. That's the closest I can get to choosing a favorite, LOL. Thanks for all your work.

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    Wow, thank you! glad to hear i am among your top 3!

  • @Mountlougallops
    @Mountlougallops2 жыл бұрын

    Oh yes!!! This is so needed. Thanks so very much 👍🏼🕊💙❄️

  • @NimbleNeedles

    @NimbleNeedles

    2 жыл бұрын

    Glad it was helpful and hope I was able to answer yall your questions :)

  • @Mountlougallops

    @Mountlougallops

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@NimbleNeedles absolutely!

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