Knitting is a rewarding way to create scarves, blankets, gifts, and much more, no matter your level of vision loss. It’s one of the most popular crafts around, and it can be learned and enjoyed by anyone—from children to older adults.
Whether you’re new to the hobby or you’re ready to pick up your needles again, here are 10 tips for beginners and beyond. A brief, free email signup is all that’s needed to fully view any linked Hadley video,
- Start small and simple. Your first few items might be a little messy, but with continued practice, you’ll gain confidence and be ready to try projects that are a little more complicated.
- Try a bulky yarn. Using thicker yarn and larger needles makes it easier to create your stitches, to feel them, and to get used to working with your sense of touch.
With low vision, use high contrast. Using a bright or light color of yarn makes it easier to see the contrast between the yarn and the small shadows within your stitches. Draping a contrasting cloth across your lap can also help, so your project stands out against the background.
- Look into your lighting. If you’re knitting with low vision, having the right lighting is key. Consider a lamp that’s below eye level—especially one that you can shine directly onto your project.
Unclutter with containers. Whether you have just one skein of yarn or dozens, keeping your area organized can save time and energy. And while you’re knitting, putting each color in a separate container—like a coffee can or an empty wipe container—makes it easier to tell them apart and avoid tangles.
- Let labeling help. To keep your needles organized, check their size using a knitting needle gauge, then label them, or label a bag to store them. For all your supplies, try braille labels or raised markers—or any method that works for you.
- Keep your stitches from slipping. When you’re ready to take a break, stitch stoppers can be placed on the needle tips to help keep your project from sliding off. Rubber bands can work, too.
- Track patterns and rows by touch. Stitch markers are handy gadgets that can help you track how many rows you’ve completed or where a pattern changes. Instead of looking for the different stitches, you simply feel for the marker. You can even make your own with paper clips, or with yarn or embroidery floss that contrasts the color of your project.
- Hold a dropped stitch in place. If you notice a dropped stitch, use a safety pin to keep it from unraveling until it can be fixed.
- Connect with other knitters. Don’t hesitate to ask for help. If you don’t have a friend or family member who knits, the staff at a local knitting store can be a great resource. Or join one of the online groups listed below.
Knitting begins with practice. Starting a new hobby or rebuilding your skills can be frustrating at first. But one great thing about knitting is that you can always fix your work. If you need to unravel part of your scarf—or even the whole thing—that’s OK. As we often say, give yourself time, patience, and practice and you’ll get there.
More Practical Help
Check out Hadley’s workshop on Knitting and Crocheting: Yarn and Tools, part of the Crafting series.
The National Library Service (NLS) has a variety of knitting books and patterns that are free to access.
Finding other crafters with vision loss
The American Council of the Blind has an ACB Crafters Facebook Group and offers Community Events online.
The National Federation for the Blind hosts an online Krafter’s Korner.
Are you a knitter? What tips and tricks have you found helpful?
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