Knitting Tween!

Source: Tween Parent Staff

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Whether you're a knitter or not, you can help your tween find out if knitting is a craft he or she might enjoy. Considered a traditional fiber art (sounds impressive!), knitting is no longer considered a "grandmotherly" hobby. In fact, perhaps some of the reasons it's been around for literally thousands of years are the many benefits (that can both appeal to a tween and be a positive impact to a pre-teen's development). Specifically, knitting can offer:

  • A reprieve from technology (i.e., TV, video games, iPod, iTouch, DSi, etc.) -- that in itself is worth a lot!!!
  • A way to express a personal sense of style and creativity.
  • An opportunity to make and share hand-made gifts.
  • Pride in the outcome and the enjoyment of wearing the hand-made item.
  • An opportunity to get comfortable with alone time, creating a chance for relaxation and stress release - to slow down and concentrate.
  • An activity to share with your tween, if you knit or choose to learn too.
  • The satisfaction of making and wearing one's own creation (having chosen the yarn, the pattern, the size, etc.).
  • The chance to reinforce organization and math skills (through counting stitches, rows, etc. and keeping track). That's why some schools incorporate knitting into their curriculum.
  • Cross-generational interaction and the building of a sense of community; perhaps another relative or family friend is a knitter.
  • A great project to take on the road; doesn't take much room and can be started and stopped quite easily.


How to Get Started

While much can be discovered online, ideally, visiting a yarn store is probably the best bet to begin with. That way, you and your tween can speak in person with someone who can help identify a project (most likely a scarf) and help select the yarn/type of knitting needles that suit the project. Sometimes the stores offer classes and/or a place to just come and knit with others. Sometimes, the stores even offer a pre-selected kit for basic projects to get started. And, the best part -- it's an unwritten understanding that the knitting store that sold the yarn will offer guidance throughout the project.


Other Resources

Lion Brands offers a "Learn to Knit" section of their website that gives a great overview and specific instructions for getting started.

Klutz Knitting book/kit ($24.95) offers everything needed, including instructions, for six basic knitting projects.

There are many good reference books that can help with knitting challenges. A good choice to consider: The Knitter's Companion, by Vicki Square.

If you (or a close friend) already know how to knit, visiting a craft store like Joann Fabric and Craft Store, Michaels, etc., can be good sources for basic materials to get your tween started on a simple project.


Patterns

The advanced beginner stage (beyond a straight-forward scarf or blanket) often requires a pattern that outlines specific stitch directions. At first glance, it can appear like a foreign language, but don't be daunted. Most of the directions are a type of shorthand for knitters that aren't as complicated as they look. For example, "RS" stands for right side (i.e., front) of the project; "K" stands for, yes, knit; "P" stands for, you guessed it, purl! Once the mystery is uncovered, almost anyone can decipher the instructions.

Many websites feature tutorials and free patterns, it's as simple as an internet search away. In fact, you can simply Google the knitting term and come up with an explanation and often a video to walk you through the "how to" of almost any direction.


Happy Knitting!