Unlocking the Magic: Why Every Knitter Should Master Professional Finishing Techniques
I know, I know! Learning professional finishing techniques doesn’t sound very exciting to many knitters. For a start the word ‘professional’ can be off putting if you knit for pleasure not work, and just the thought of sewing up your knitted projects makes you want to run weeping to hide in your yarn stash! It needn’t be a bore and a chore though, and learning how to get the best our of your projects can make the whole process more enjoyable.
Finishing techniques are highly recommended for all knitters, but they are essential for knitters seeking to work professionally in the knitting field. If you're looking to become a sample knitter or sell your knitted goods, you've got to ensure your stitches are up to scratch. If your seams are a bit wonky or your ends are poking out all over the place, it won't exactly scream quality. But get those finishing techniques down to a tee, and you’ll find yourself in popular demand.
Achieving a professional finish is also essential for aspiring designers and technical editors. Designers want their creations to look picture-perfect in photoshoots. Pattern writers and technical editors need to ensure that every detail in those pattern instructions are going to set the knitter up for a successful knit.
Whether you're dreaming of selling your knits, launching your own patterns, or simply enjoying your craft to the full, honing these skills is your ticket to knitterly success. Mastering finishing techniques is one of the most important things knitters can do for themselves, whatever their level or aspirations. And in this post I’ll share with you why they are important, and where to get started on your learning journey.
Mastering finishing techniques is one of the most important things knitters can do for themselves, whatever their level or aspirations.
How can finishing techniques improve your knitting experience?
Have you ever had that sinking feeling when you finish a knitting project, only to find it really doesn’t look up to scratch? We’ve all been there at some point, and it’s such a downer!. As knitters we invest a lot of time and effort into our creations, so when the end result falls short, it's disappointing and can dampen enthusiasm.
It's like losing steam on a journey you were so excited about. That's why developing skills in finishing techniques is vital - it keeps the passion alive and ensures all your knitting projects end on a high note.
Learning finishing techniques isn't just about perfecting your knits; it's about enhancing your overall knitting experience and infusing it with joy and satisfaction. Mastering these techniques will unlock a whole new level of creativity and confidence in your craft.
Knowing you have the skills to finish your projects professionally allows you to relax and enjoy the knitting process more fully. You can dive into your projects with excitement, knowing that no matter how complex or intricate the pattern, you have the tools to bring it to life beautifully.
Mastering finishing techniques opens up a world of possibilities for your knitting projects. With the ability to seamlessly join seams, create neat buttonholes, and weave in ends invisibly, you can tackle more challenging patterns and experiment with new techniques without fear of the finishing letting you down.
Additionally, there's a deep sense of satisfaction that comes from seeing your projects come together beautifully. The pride and joy you feel when you step back and admire a well finished garment are unmatched, boosting your confidence and fueling your passion for knitting even further.
Ultimately, learning finishing techniques not only elevates the quality of your knits but also enhances your enjoyment of the entire knitting process. It's a journey of growth, creativity, and pure knitting bliss.
How can finishing techniques improve your knitted projects?
Aside from making knitting more enjoyable, professional finishing techniques improves the overall quality of your knits in the following ways:
Enhances Appearance: After pouring your heart and soul into knitting a gorgeous garment, the finishing touches are what really make it shine. With professional techniques like seamless seaming, tidy ends weaving, and meticulous blocking, you can transform your project from good to gorgeous.
Improves Fit and Structure: Mastering finishing techniques ensures your creations not only look fabulous but also function well and fit properly. Say goodbye to too-tight ribbings, wonky edges and saggy seams - with the right techniques, your knits will hold their shape beautifully, wear after wear.
Increases Longevity and Durability: We all want our hand-knit treasures to stand the test of time, don’t we? By carefully assembling and finishing off your projects you're ensuring that your knits stay looking fabulous for years to come. Not only can you create beautiful family heirlooms to pass down to your loved ones, but this greener approach to clothing and textiles helps protect the environment for future generations.
Hides or eliminates flaws: If you’ve made a few little mistakes (and we all do!) these can often be redressed or at leas camouflaged as part of the finishing process.
Increases craft mastery: When you master professional finishing techniques, you're not just making pretty things - you're mastering your knitting craft. This puts you firmly in the driving seat, giving you a good toolbox to draw, and enabling you to make solid decisions about the best way to proceed at all stages of your knitting projects.
To be clear, as with all knitting skills, learning professional knitting techniques isn’t a ‘one and done’ endeavour, and nor is there ever only ‘one way’. Rather, consider this an ongoing journey - there is always some new gem to learn. After several decades (more than I’d care to mention!), I am still gaining new knowledge and skills, and that is one of the things I love about this wonderful craft.
When we consider professional finishing techniques we usually think about the assembling and ‘finishing off’ once we’ve completed the knitting up. But finishing techniques for knitters actually come in to play before you even cast on!
Top 10 professional finishing techniques every Knitter should know
With so many aspects to consider, it can seem daunting - but remember, it’s a journey and you should take our own sweet time. Small consistent steps is usually the best way. To get you started, here are my top 10 recommendations for finishing techniques you’ll want to explore
Pick your yarn and needles: Choosing yarn and needles is like picking the perfect ingredients for a recipe. Have fun exploring different textures and colours until you find the ones that speak to your creative soul.
Get to know your pattern: Think of your knitting pattern as your trusty guide on this crafting adventure. Take your time to read through it, visualise each step, and consider how you want to approach things, such as which cast on to use for example.
Keep a knitting notebook for all your projects: You can keep everything together in one place such as pattern and ball band, along with recording decisions such as what size you’re knitting, and on needles.
Swatch, Swatch, Swatch!: Swatching might seem like a tiny detour on your knitting journey, but it's actually a vital step, Think of it as your practice run before the main event. Embrace the process, play with your stitches, and enjoy the confidence that ensuring you are working to the correct tension (gauge) gives you.
Take care of your edges as you knit: Working the first and last stitch(es) to make a selvedge makes for neater edges and easier sewing up.
Work increases and decreases wisely: Where and how you work your increases/decreases can make all the difference to the finished appearance. working these right at beginning or end is generally not the best option.
Weave in ends, weave in joy: Weaving in ends might not be the most glamorous part of knitting, but it's the finishing touch that brings everything together. So grab your tapestry needle, embrace the rhythm of the weave, and take pride in every neatly tucked end. After all, it's the little details that make your knits truly shine!
Embrace blocking: Blocking is like giving your knitted masterpiece a spa day. It smooths out any kinks, evens out the stitches, and transforms your project into something truly magical. Soak it up, enjoy the transformation, and get ready to show off your handiwork with pride
Pick up stitches like a pro: Picking up stitches might feel a bit fiddly at first, but don't worry - you'll get the hang of it in no time! Take a deep breath, trust your instincts, and remember that there's no such thing as a perfect pick-up. Embrace the imperfections, and let your creativity shine!
Seam with confidence: Seaming might seem like a dark art of knitting, but fear not - it’s a lot easier (and fun) when you know how. Having options too is key - then whether you're using mattress stitch, back stitch, or a special technique, you’ll enjoy the satisfaction of bringing your project to life stitch by stitch.
These 10 topics will apply to most projects so are a great place to start. There are of course plenty of other techniques to go on to learn too that may be helpful depending on your specific project. For example: short row shaping for smooth shoulders, neat buttonhole methods, and joining pieces seamlessly such as 3 needle bind off or Kitchener stitch to name a few.
Where can knitters learn professional finishing techniques?
Improving your finishing techniques is achievable, and there are plenty of ways to learn more:
Invest in some Good Books: There are some great books available on the subject of Professional finishing techniques. Pick one two you like the look of by respected authors. You’ll never regret adding these to your knitting library as you’ll refer to these time and time again.
Online Classes: Explore online knitting classes - they're like having a knitting coach right in your living room! Learn at your own pace and unlock the secrets to perfect finishing from expert instructors.
In Person Workshops: Nothing beats the hands-on experience of a face-to-face workshop. Join one and bask with others in an oasis of knitterly goodness while picking up awesome finishing tips and tricks.
Remember, there's no right or wrong way to learn - just dive in and have fun!
Connect with Others: Knitting is all about community, so hang out with other knitters! Whether it's at a local knit and natter group or in an online knitting forum, you'll find endless support and wisdom from your fellow fibre fanatics.
Tap into the Internet: The internet is a goldmine of knitting wisdom! Seek and you shall find - simply type in what you are looking for and your search engine will bring up plenty of resources. From blogs to YouTube videos, there's a world of knowledge just waiting for you to explore. Dive in, get inspired, and let your creativity run wild! And google is not the only way to find things - Pinterest and You Tube also operate as search engines.
Remember, there's no right or wrong way to learn - just dive in and have fun! Don’t be frightened to just try things out - whatever happens you will learn something new, and it’s only yarn at the end of the day! With a bit of practice and a whole lot of passion, you'll be mastering those finishing techniques in no time. So go ahead, pick up those needles, and let your creativity soar.
Happy knitting!
If you’d like me to let you know of new posts or updates, please consider sighing up to my email list below.