As the economic crisis takes its toll around the world, people are turning to thrifty tips to save money. This has caused a revival of practical and self sustainable ways of living. Vegetable patches are springing up in town house gardens and people are taking to making their own preserves. Another practice that is on the increase is customizing clothes, and even making garments from scratch. Here are a few ideas for making clothes and accessories from knitting wool for those new to knitting.

Knitting wool isn’t just for jumpers, in fact there are a wide variety of wools available, some of which are known as yarns. The different textures and gauges are used for different applications. It is possible to knit clothes that have a finish so fine that it looks like woven fabric. If you are new to knitting, then it is obviously easier to start out with a simple pattern rather than leap straight in and make a woollen suit.

There are plenty of starter books out there for the knitting novice that offer patterns of scarves, leg warmers and bags. These are simple starter patterns that help a new knitter get used to using knitting needles and reading patterns. There are some special terms used in knitting which you’ll have to get used to before you can follow a pattern. Knit, pearl, casting on, casting off, dropping a stitch, needle gauge and ply are all terms used frequently in knitting patterns.

It is widely recognised that it is easier to knit a plain pattern with large needles and chunky wool. Not only is it a faster process for a beginner, but it is also easier to see the stitches, and therefore see where a pattern might have gone wrong. Patterns that revolve around a cable knit or crochet type stitches should only be attempted by knitters that have had plenty of practice.

After choosing a pattern, make sure you invest in plenty of knitting wool for the project. Wool is dyed in batches, and sometimes have only limited runs. It is a disheartening feeling having nearly completed a garment only to find out that you are half a ball short and that there is no more knitting wool available. However, purchasing wool, especially special wool is not always a cheap option. A thrifty way to make woollen products is to go to jumble sales, car boot sales and charity shops to buy old clothes that could be recycled. Once you’ve mastered some basic patterns and a cheap way of sourcing wool, you may find that knitting becomes a much revived passion!

Dom Donaldson is a craft expert.
Find out more about Knitting Wool the yarns available at Yarnsmith.

Technorati Tags: Knitting Wool, knitting yarn, knitting, wool