Knitting is a popular activity the world over. But like the olden days, this activity is no more confined to a needle and a yarn. The world of knitting supplies is vibrant and expansive. One can choose from a vast variety of knitting supplies.
Needles, yarn, buttons and clasps, stitch markers, knitting needle gauge, snippet thread, textile shears, needle storages, knitting machines, knitting software, magnifying glasses, stitch holders, knitting kits, knitting books etc. are few entities on the huge list of knitting supplies. They lend a whole new meaning to the process of knitting.
The quality of the finished product in the process of knitting is determined largely by the quality of the knitting yarn. Yarns come in a huge variety. Knitting yarns are generally composed of materials like natural alpaca, durable acrylic, bamboo, cotton, corn, nylon, polyester, cashmere, merino wool, rayon and others.
Different types of yarns are used for different purposes. For example, a special type of soft yarn is used for making knit-wear for babies, while bulky weight yarn is used for making yarn accessories.
Knitting needles are considered among the most important knitting supplies. These come in several types and sizes. The most commonly used knitting needle is a straight needle with a capped knob at one end and a taper at the other. The other types of knitting needles include circular needles, double-pointed needles etc. Many manufacturers supply multi-colored needles. One can also avail to hundred of options of needle kit sets.
Knitting gauges used for measuring knitting needle size are fast becoming popular in the world of knitting supplies. They comprise holes of different sizes wherein the knitter can insert his/her knitting needle and determine its size. Knitting gauges come in the size range of 3-5 inches. An ally of knitting needles, knitting storages are available in several varieties. Straight needles can be stored in attractive cases. Circular needles can be hung on decorative hangers.
Several knitting supplies arent used directly in the process of knitting, nevertheless are important. Stitch markers available in assorted colors are used for marking/highlighting stitches. Wool combs having plastic handles remove fuzz and pilling from woolen garments. Textile shears, also called knitting scissors are useful in cutting multiple layers of thick fabric. Needle-point protectors are rubber caps that prevent stitches from coming off the needles.
T-pins are used for blocking knitted garments. Having an approximate length of 12 cm, stitch holders protect against the loss of stitches. Linen testers and magnifying glasses can be used in a number of textile related activities. They can be used for analyzing both, raw yarn and the finished product. Buttons and clasps in materials like wood, mirrors, ceramic etc. are used for decorating knitted products.
The other knitting supplies include books, software, gift kits and other material pertaining to knitting-related activities. Books on knitting written by professionals and industry experts provide the perfect guidance. Several websites on knitting provide tips, news, techniques and step-by-step methods. One can choose from a wide variety of knitting software available on-line and through other sources.
Knitting gift kits comprise all the important knitting tools along with step by step illustrations which facilitate knitting. They make for the most cute and innovative gifts.
The world of knitting supplies is large, growing by the day and is spreading smiles across the faces of all knitting enthusiasts.