You CAN Knit Lace!
Is Lace Knitting Difficult?
One of the many aspects of lace, (besides its beauty) is an aura of complexity and difficulty. Most knitters believe that lace shouldn't be attempted until you are an intermediate knitter or expert.
That's just not so!
Lace projects can be involved and intricate, but those intimidating projects are just a small portion of what can be done.
The majority of lace stitches and projects are easy to understand and achieve.
Better still, some really beautiful lace stitch patterns are easy to remember too, ensuring a very satisfying knit and beautiful end result.
What Are Common Lace Stitches?
The following is a basic list of what you will typically find included in a lace patterns:
K: knit
K2TOG: knit 2 together
P: purl
P2TOG: purl 2 together
PSSO: pass slip stitch over
SKP: slip knit pass
SSK: slip slip knit
TBL: through the back loop
YO: yarn over
Reasons to Choose a Lace Knitting Project
Once you know what stitches might be included here are some hints on why you may want to consider a lace pattern:
Takes a good deal less yarn. The more open the pattern, the less yarn you'll use.
Universally flattering
Many patterns have written instructions as well as charted
An uncomplicated lace will make a semi-solid or space-dyed yarn sing
Lace Knitting Tips
Choose bamboo needles for silky or slippery fiber, metal for fuzzy fibers.
Tapered or sharp tipped needles are best for lifting stitches and knitting them together.
In lieu of a sharp tipped needle, use the point of a sharp tipped cable needle to lift pesky stitches.
Create a practice swatch in the lace pattern stitch. This will help you practice the lace motif on a small area first.
Happy (lace) knitting!
- Donna, Your Friendly Knitting Doctor
