Loved this video! One thing I like to have in my kit: you know those little plastic clips that come on a loaf of bread? They work great for wrapping any extra yarn ends to keep them out of the way, especially at the beginning of a project so I don't accidentally start knitting with my yarn end. I also keep a roll of highlighter tape to keep track of rows on a chart.
I can't knit without KnitCompanion on my iPad! It keeps my place on many projects at once, has row counters that you can link, has a highlight bar and a way to specifically notated where you are exactly on the page - and pens and highlighters as well. Essential to my knitting!!
I also keep lotion or a lotion bar in my bag, but I tend to have a lot of issues with between my fingers, particularly the area I use for tensioning my yarn. So, I also have a small tin of Sortkwik. It helps me grab the yarn better than lotion. Also, a drawstring toggle for the ends of "barber cords" to keep the stitches on when I try on a garment. I like my smart phone, as well. I often find I need it for row counting, calculations, or looking up information for a project... and on and on. Can't live without it, which I am on the fence about. 🥴 I have a nail file, readers, Cocoknits Maker's Board kit, crochet hooks, DPNs/ cable needles, stitch markers both locking and rings and the holder for those (which has a magnet in it), tapestry needles of several sizes and a magnetized container for those, fabric tape measure, seam ripper, scissors, needle gauge and 5" ruler, and a knit picker.
Just like the hollow tubing suggestion. I bought a huge spool of the same stuff they use for barber cords from Amazon for about $10. I will have barber cords for life even if I pass lengths out to all my knitting friends whenever I see them. So much more affordable! Also I can cut so many different lengths for whatever my project dictates.
I collect different diameter plastic straws from drinks. Wash and dry after my drink is gone. I sit and cut small “tubes or rings” with scissors and cut different colored straws to use with different colored yarns and needle diameters. Great for lace. Cut them out or lose them and no big deal. Plenty more where those came from! Win, win! I even have super big straws from smoothies for larger needles. Love theses.
I use a pen and paper as my row counter. I never seem to remember to click! And I save the small tins that peppermints from the $ store come in. They are the perfect size for stit ch markers, needles, srcap yarn etc. It's a win win because I get to eat more peppermints to get more tins lol
Re using cable stoppers on interchangeable circular needles: I GENUINELY thought that that's what those stoppers were for! I've been knitting a blanket with circular needles, and since I only knit one big project at a time, I've just been using the cable stoppers when I put down the project. Never realized that the stoppers could be just put on the back end and now you've got a huge straight needle!
I never knew there was such a thing as silicone finger protectors! I literally punch holes in my fingers at times with sharp, small gauge metal needles and am trying hard to break the 40 year old habit of pushing with my index finger. I think these will be a game changer for me. Great idea!
Everything digital camp! Patterns, calculator, notepad, ruler app, instant access to Ravelry as a resource - all that I need on my phone or tablet. If I’m in a store or waiting room I can instantly access info. I track rows with bulb pins, no counter. Have not used barber cords, honestly just takes a few seconds to slide stitches onto a couple of circ needles for try-ons. Thanks for this episode, I did get a few new ideas.
I can't use stitch markers without messing up my tension so I use small bits of figuring weight acrylic yarn tied in a loop. I've tried wool as well but it will stick to some types of yarn whereas the acrylic just glides. I also use it instead of stitch holders; I use a tapestry needle to get it through my knitting. I use both physical and digital app row counter because I am not a monogamous knitter. I use my phone to look at the pattern and highlight, so a physical counter saves me from having to switch over all the time, but having unlimited counters with names and sections help me keep track of rows, increases/decreases, sections and repeats. I like using physical for a session of knitting, then transferring to my counter app to store the number between sessions. This frees up my physical counter for other projects. For larger projects I'll have a multi-counter with a counter for each section so i can look back and go "oh, i did 15 rows of ribbing and 40 rows stockinette". It's incredibly convenient, especially for socks and sleeves where you have to knit the same thing multiple times.
I’ve started keeping compression gloves in my notions bag. The most essential things for me are bulb stitch markers and KnitCompanion on my phone (and power pack) or pattern.
I have one of the neck lights. I love it and don't use it so much when knitting with a medium weight yarn (unless the lighting is bad) but I use it a lot when knitting socks since the yarn is finer and I often knit socks with dark yarn. It's also handy in a power outtage. I don;t use stoppers really unless it's when I am sock knitting. The stoppers work well on my bamboo sock needles, not so much on my circular needles. I just use a small rubber band on my circular needle tips. I have interchangeable circulars but I still find it easier to use a rubber band.
Team row counter! My favourite one has a locking mechanism so I don’t have to worry about it accidentally l advancing if it’s bumped in my project bag.
Wool Wax Creme has lanolin, not sticky, won’t stain. Row counter from Twice Sheared Sheep is designed to slip on your needle. They also have Right side/wrong side counters that goon your needle.
If you are knitting on a “budget” like me, paper clips are invaluable! I use them as stitch markers (the top loop slides easily on needles and doesn’t go anywhere), to secure pieces that need to be sewn together (needs fanagling), and as a slide marker to keep track of rows using pen and paper, so you only need to tally sets!
Great video! I discovered your channel the other day when I was looking for sweater tips, and am currently on the hunt for dpn needle stoppers that don't slip off if I look at them funny. Getting a box of earplugs the next time I run to CVS!
Thimble! I definitely need to get one. I've been knitting for years and have definitely gotten sore fingers from pushing needles. It's never crossed my mind to get one.
I always knit with my iPad. I download the pattern onto my ipad and save it to files. I keep it open while I work and make comments, keep track of rows and lengths on my project as I go, what yarn I used, what hook/needle etc. Its on the cloud so I can work from my phone if i’m out and about and it means that on projects where measurements matter like socks and cardigans, I always know what row I changed to ribbing, started the neck, finished a length.
I haven't seen a binder in anyone's suggestions. But I use one.. but it is a smaller sized fabric 3 ring binder.. 5 star is the brand from staples. My notebook and pattern goes there. The 3 rings hold my stitch markers and my small scissors. I small piece of felt with my needles (tapestry). There are various open and zippered pockets for rulers. Paper and post it notes. Etc etc I use this because I knit or crochet in various places. Inside and outside the house . Nothing falls out. I also have small plastic containers for my crochet hooks and needles etc that I need I don't use project bags because I find I forget what is inside and may not think to get back to the project for a long time. Zippered plastic bags for me. I knit but I also crochet so this system works for me as it is very flexible and can adapt to what ever I am doing. Great video once again
@NerdyKnitting my motivation was that where ever I was I had to dig through my bag to find tapemeasure, scissors etc. And these things were always hiding on the bottom. This way I could open up the binder and place it on a table or my lap if I was sitting with feet up and motivation everything I needed was within sight. And if I needed to get up to tend something I just zippered it up, and all was in place when I got back. And I am not an organization person.
I bought something called needle huggers on Etsy. They don't protect the tips of the needles, but they stop stitches from coming off the needles and I love them! I also love Knit Companion.
I prefer using jump rings for place markers. They slide easily from needle to needle, are available in multiple sizes and are cheap in bulk. Silicone stoppers in various shapes are my favorite way of keeping my needles together (I like to change them with the seasons), and I'm a pen and paper girl. I would love to love row counters, but I keep forgetting to click them at the end of a row. I like these discussions. I have several new tips between the video and the comments. Thank you!
It's super nice to see these discussions. Shows you don't always need all the expensive stuff for your craft, though some things are worth investing in for sure! For my part, I'm still amused because I recently used a thick paintbrush handle to wind yarn balls. I'm a beginning knitter, so it was my first time doing so. The video I went by instructed you to hold the yarn ball on your thumb as you wind it. But alas, I wound pretty tightly so eventually my thumb was getting a wee bit... strangled... so I switched to the brush handle and it worked like a charm, actually.
Just found your podcast (which is great!), so haven’t read thru all comments, BUT am I the only one that connects a ‘string’ of light-to-dark colored bulb stitch markers in a row of 5 or 10 to use as a row counter? Just slip the next darker-colored bulb on needle tip each time around. Saved me the $20-25 on the fancy joined rings you can buy! Love your podcast😀
I am team row counter!!! I actually use the simple cheep plastic ones i thread some yarn threw it and tie it to create a small loop and then use a plastic quilting clip and attach it to my work. i am able to attach it to the bottom of a small project like a hat of along the side and move it on up as i go. And i may even add a 2nd one that is a deferent color to keep track of deferent row or pattern repeats. I am also team digital i use knitcompanion to bring up my patters and i also keep my notes in it.
I personally love my digital row counter. I tried marking rows with the bulb markers but my socks came out uneven, so back to my digital row counter I went 😊
I'm a team row counter, especialy the mechanical one you slide in your needle. I use it when I need something to match the other part like sleeves or socks. I set the number on the counter and count down to zero. It's a pretty foolproof method and I don't need to worry about knitting more rows when I get into the zone. Also mechanical pencil and eraser for taking notes, making the patterns etc. I like paper patterns better as they don't go dark after a few minutes and I can use my phone for other stuff like calculator and youtube tutorials. Also elastic wrist support because we all know the roules but like to break them time to time.
I also use most of what you mentioned. I use a nail file in my bag. A small container of “0” rings from the hardware. My row counter I use ,is a numbered bead on rings numbered 1-0 if counting a short amount of rows. Then a closable ring to mark it. My salve to soften my hands is good,then save the tin for small amounts of markers. In my project bags. Amazon carry’s the jewelry cords in different sizes,cost is $10 for 54”.
I always have a small pencil and paper to count rows on and make notes of things I change. I also keep a small measuring tape, scissors, crochet hook and paper clips or bulb stitch markers. I have found the plastic coated paper clips work great. They bend into weird shapes and can be used for cable needles too and come in multi-colour boxes and are very affordable. I try try and remember to have lotion and lip balm with me too especially in the winter. As for phone or paper pattern, I try and have both hahaha I like paper patterns especially for multi-sizes where I can highlight the correct option before I start, but sometimes leave my pattern behind in a brain fog.
I am such a fan of digital tools (Google Sheets for figuring out mods and a trusted pattern app) but one thing I love that I don't see people talk about often is a Rocketbook. They are reusable notebooks that use water soluble pens, so you can erase when you're done or scan with the app and save to your email or Google Drive. I like it for sketching out ideas and taking quick notes, like when I'm working out gauge.
One of the best things ever is Post-It signature flags. They are bars with a pointed end that perfectly help me remember where I am in the instructions or chart. I just keep moving it to where ever I left off. So office supplies can be another source of budget tools.
I do really like using my phone to document things about my project, take progress pics, for calculating things and just using Ravelry in general. That said when working on a big project I do print the pattern, I like to be able to mark the stitch counts relevant to my size, or to strike through rows on a colourwork chart. So it's a bit of a 50/50 for me :)
I haven't been "good" and gotten a foam pad for blocking yet, but I have fishing weights I use for kumihimo that I can clip along the bottom edges of a project and then hang over my shower curtain. Fishing weights aren't as heavy as other improvised items so they don't stretch the piece out but they really help with the curled in edges.
Also: INDEX CARDS! If I'm working on a pattern I put the pattern I'm using on a card in ink, then draw a line, and underneath I write "1, 2, 3, ect" in ink for however many rows there are in the pattern. When I complete a row I mark a tally with my pencil (so I can erase and reuse if needed). I don't use it all the time, but it's really handy when using a new pattern, if I have to stop at an unexpected place, or if I'm doing something else at the same time (like talking to my gf) that's a bit more distracting and I want to keep my ADHD from ruining all my hard work. I originally used something similar while playing TTRPGs and needing to keep track of spells per day since I also keep my spell info on index cards (using different color cards for each spell level) so it's easier/better to track spell use on a card as well.
I love all your videos but this one was especially helpful! Good to hear all the notions that are out there. I like to know what other knitters like and even good items that are repurposed into knitting tools.
I'm a technology lover, so I always have my iPad with the KnitCompanion app for my patterns. I especially like the chart functions which make keeping up with your place so easy. Sliding rulers, row counters that move the line up the chart as you click it (or say to since it's voice activated too), and I also use the Freeform app to save patterns I'm jotting down as I go. When I use a notebook to jot down patterns, I later scan them into my iPad too. I just love digital tools. Oh, and there are row counter apps for the phone too. :)
Hi Tonia, I heard about using a kettlebell type clip for the tips of knitting needles to save stitches. I found some on Etsy and I REALLY like them! They are good for up to size #5 or #6 needles. Any bigger and the foam ear plugs work great. I really like my row counter on my phone called K&C Counter. I also do a lot on my phone or tablet but also like a printout of the pattern. So, I guess I am half and half. I also like little silicone rings for stitch markers. They are indispensable to me. Thanks!
Just found your channel & this video. You're awesome! Here's a weird one for you... just finished a 3x sweater where I used a salad spinner to hold my project. I was getting frustrated with how much time I was spend8ng wrestling the project around as it got larger. The salad spinner turned my work for me as I knit around and around. That plus using a smaller tip on my left needle sped my project up a LOT! Weird, right? So glad I found you!
Highlighter tape!!!!! Use it to cover up rows as you go through a chart, or just keep track of where you are in a pattern. It resticks like a post it so it lasts forever
Great video! I'll be looking for your neck light! When I Portuguese knit I have a small binder clip that I have attached a large paper clip. I have the outside wire of the paperclip pulled out a bit. I can just clip it onto my shirt. The yarn is easy to attach on or off. No holes in my clothes from a pin attaching. When not in use, the binder clip easily clips onto my notions bag. I love using Knit Companion and also the app Good Notes for creating designs and writing notes about individual projects. I use a row counter when doing cables or a pattern that is hard to see the rows. I count the rows of plain stockinette by looking at the knitting and placing markers.
I’m Team Row Counter. I have a row counter app on my phone that I love because you can set up nested counters. So for example if you have an 8-row pattern and you need to repeat that pattern 7 times I can easily keep track of both.
I use ponytail bands on my sock needles. I wrap it around towards the ends multiple times . Keeps stitches on and keeps needles from poking through bag
I use the plastic stitch markers as cable needles! Much easier to keep track of as I can just latch it to my project and I find it to be much easier to manage when actually in use, especially for 1x1 or 2x2 cables. Edit: I don't really use them as regular stitch markers though, unless I'm using really chunky yarn.
To prevent the sewing needles to disappear, I need a small magnet. I have sewn a little sewing-and-crocheting pouch for crochet hooks, scissors, needles, meassuring tape, a seamripper, a thimble, some embrodery yarn and sewing machin bobbins with thread.
Yarn ruler for wraps per inch? I just learned how to do that. The ruler has the wpi printed on it for each weight yarn if its a mystery ball or occasional an unmark skien.
Im a new knitter can you get something to put over your straight needles to keep them together and neat? My go 2's are darning needle, plastic stitch markers, fine crochet hook pen and notebook. Scissors ❤😊
I am curious, why is it called Barber cord and what was it's original use? I bought a clear, plastic, cylinder, type "days of the week" pill container to hold various stitch markers. Each section screws into the one above it. It works great for keeping the sizes separated.
So, I bought a necklight as I was having trouble with black yarn. All good, except my husband started bitching and moaning that it threw shadows on the wall which bothered him watching TV 🙄 Thankfully, I am getting great use when I walk the dog in the dark mornings 😂
Crocheter here. I can’t tell you how many times when I’m out with my project bag and can’t find my locking stitch markers that I just end up taking the earring hoop out of my ear and using it to mark the start of my round.
Barber cords are too rich for me. I went to the craft store and got a whole spool of silicone tubing meant for jewelry making. Works like a charm. Not sticky at all as I have heard complained about barber cords.
Every time you start (or finish - you can decide when to count the row) a new row you turn the wheel or click the button to keep track of how many rows you've done.
Loved this video! One thing I like to have in my kit: you know those little plastic clips that come on a loaf of bread? They work great for wrapping any extra yarn ends to keep them out of the way, especially at the beginning of a project so I don't accidentally start knitting with my yarn end. I also keep a roll of highlighter tape to keep track of rows on a chart.
Great tip!
Yes! I love this one, too. I keep a few in each of my little notion holders, which for me are pop-top pull bottles.😂
What a great idea @ plastic bread clips! I will do that. Gah, how many times have I knitted @ tail end?TOOO MANY!
Super idea. I do keep a small collection of them in my kitchen drawer, and this is one good situation to put them to use.
I can't knit without KnitCompanion on my iPad! It keeps my place on many projects at once, has row counters that you can link, has a highlight bar and a way to specifically notated where you are exactly on the page - and pens and highlighters as well. Essential to my knitting!!
I’ve been using KC for years too! 🫶
Me as well. It's a great tool, especially for complex lace and cable patterns.
I also keep lotion or a lotion bar in my bag, but I tend to have a lot of issues with between my fingers, particularly the area I use for tensioning my yarn. So, I also have a small tin of Sortkwik. It helps me grab the yarn better than lotion. Also, a drawstring toggle for the ends of "barber cords" to keep the stitches on when I try on a garment. I like my smart phone, as well. I often find I need it for row counting, calculations, or looking up information for a project... and on and on. Can't live without it, which I am on the fence about. 🥴 I have a nail file, readers, Cocoknits Maker's Board kit, crochet hooks, DPNs/ cable needles, stitch markers both locking and rings and the holder for those (which has a magnet in it), tapestry needles of several sizes and a magnetized container for those, fabric tape measure, seam ripper, scissors, needle gauge and 5" ruler, and a knit picker.
I love the idea of using a toggle on the end of the barber cords - great tip!
Just like the hollow tubing suggestion. I bought a huge spool of the same stuff they use for barber cords from Amazon for about $10. I will have barber cords for life even if I pass lengths out to all my knitting friends whenever I see them. So much more affordable! Also I can cut so many different lengths for whatever my project dictates.
I keep the pattern I'm knitting in a plastic sleeve and then use a dry erase marker to keep track of which row I'm on, or to tally the repeats.
That's a great idea! 👍
Love this idea! I used to write the pattern down row by row onto 3x5 cards one row each. As I finished the row, I would flip the card.
I collect different diameter plastic straws from drinks. Wash and dry after my drink is gone. I sit and cut small “tubes or rings” with scissors and cut different colored straws to use with different colored yarns and needle diameters. Great for lace. Cut them out or lose them and no big deal. Plenty more where those came from! Win, win! I even have super big straws from smoothies for larger needles. Love theses.
I use a pen and paper as my row counter. I never seem to remember to click! And I save the small tins that peppermints from the $ store come in. They are the perfect size for stit ch markers, needles, srcap yarn etc. It's a win win because I get to eat more peppermints to get more tins lol
Me too
I always have an emery board handy in my notions bag for the common dry finger skin or hang nail!
Yes! This is a great tip, thank you! 🌸
Post-em notes are helpful in keeping track of pattern rows.
Definitely team row counter!
I enjoy your videos! Thank you!
Re using cable stoppers on interchangeable circular needles: I GENUINELY thought that that's what those stoppers were for! I've been knitting a blanket with circular needles, and since I only knit one big project at a time, I've just been using the cable stoppers when I put down the project. Never realized that the stoppers could be just put on the back end and now you've got a huge straight needle!
I never knew there was such a thing as silicone finger protectors! I literally punch holes in my fingers at times with sharp, small gauge metal needles and am trying hard to break the 40 year old habit of pushing with my index finger. I think these will be a game changer for me. Great idea!
I've been trying to figure out a way to do the same thing... so far, no luck either.
Everything digital camp! Patterns, calculator, notepad, ruler app, instant access to Ravelry as a resource - all that I need on my phone or tablet. If I’m in a store or waiting room I can instantly access info. I track rows with bulb pins, no counter. Have not used barber cords, honestly just takes a few seconds to slide stitches onto a couple of circ needles for try-ons. Thanks for this episode, I did get a few new ideas.
I'm turning more and more digital too. Glad you enjoyed the video!
I can't use stitch markers without messing up my tension so I use small bits of figuring weight acrylic yarn tied in a loop. I've tried wool as well but it will stick to some types of yarn whereas the acrylic just glides. I also use it instead of stitch holders; I use a tapestry needle to get it through my knitting.
I use both physical and digital app row counter because I am not a monogamous knitter. I use my phone to look at the pattern and highlight, so a physical counter saves me from having to switch over all the time, but having unlimited counters with names and sections help me keep track of rows, increases/decreases, sections and repeats. I like using physical for a session of knitting, then transferring to my counter app to store the number between sessions. This frees up my physical counter for other projects.
For larger projects I'll have a multi-counter with a counter for each section so i can look back and go "oh, i did 15 rows of ribbing and 40 rows stockinette". It's incredibly convenient, especially for socks and sleeves where you have to knit the same thing multiple times.
I’ve started keeping compression gloves in my notions bag. The most essential things for me are bulb stitch markers and KnitCompanion on my phone (and power pack) or pattern.
I like the katcha katcha counter. I do use that one !
I have one of the neck lights. I love it and don't use it so much when knitting with a medium weight yarn (unless the lighting is bad) but I use it a lot when knitting socks since the yarn is finer and I often knit socks with dark yarn. It's also handy in a power outtage. I don;t use stoppers really unless it's when I am sock knitting. The stoppers work well on my bamboo sock needles, not so much on my circular needles. I just use a small rubber band on my circular needle tips. I have interchangeable circulars but I still find it easier to use a rubber band.
Team row counter! My favourite one has a locking mechanism so I don’t have to worry about it accidentally l advancing if it’s bumped in my project bag.
Wool Wax Creme has lanolin, not sticky, won’t stain. Row counter from Twice Sheared Sheep is designed to slip on your needle. They also have Right side/wrong side counters that goon your needle.
I use plastic travel toothbrush holders for my dpn's. They work great
If you are knitting on a “budget” like me, paper clips are invaluable! I use them as stitch markers (the top loop slides easily on needles and doesn’t go anywhere), to secure pieces that need to be sewn together (needs fanagling), and as a slide marker to keep track of rows using pen and paper, so you only need to tally sets!
Great video! I discovered your channel the other day when I was looking for sweater tips, and am currently on the hunt for dpn needle stoppers that don't slip off if I look at them funny. Getting a box of earplugs the next time I run to CVS!
Thimble! I definitely need to get one. I've been knitting for years and have definitely gotten sore fingers from pushing needles. It's never crossed my mind to get one.
I always knit with my iPad. I download the pattern onto my ipad and save it to files. I keep it open while I work and make comments, keep track of rows and lengths on my project as I go, what yarn I used, what hook/needle etc.
Its on the cloud so I can work from my phone if i’m out and about and it means that on projects where measurements matter like socks and cardigans, I always know what row I changed to ribbing, started the neck, finished a length.
…and a nail clippers as well as an emery board for any roughness.
I love my Honey Bee Tool caddy. Even when traveling I drop it in a gallon freezer bag so I have all mt tools.
I haven't seen a binder in anyone's suggestions. But I use one.. but it is a smaller sized fabric 3 ring binder.. 5 star is the brand from staples.
My notebook and pattern goes there.
The 3 rings hold my stitch markers and my small scissors. I small piece of felt with my needles (tapestry).
There are various open and zippered pockets for rulers.
Paper and post it notes. Etc etc
I use this because I knit or crochet in various places. Inside and outside the house . Nothing falls out.
I also have small plastic containers for my crochet hooks and needles etc that I need
I don't use project bags because I find I forget what is inside and may not think to get back to the project for a long time. Zippered plastic bags for me.
I knit but I also crochet so this system works for me as it is very flexible and can adapt to what ever I am doing. Great video once again
What a great idea! It sounds very organized and put together.
@NerdyKnitting my motivation was that where ever I was I had to dig through my bag to find tapemeasure, scissors etc. And these things were always hiding on the bottom.
This way I could open up the binder and place it on a table or my lap if I was sitting with feet up and motivation everything I needed was within sight. And if I needed to get up to tend something I just zippered it up, and all was in place when I got back.
And I am not an organization person.
Highlighter tape to keep me on track as to where I am in my pattern.
I bought something called needle huggers on Etsy. They don't protect the tips of the needles, but they stop stitches from coming off the needles and I love them! I also love Knit Companion.
I prefer using jump rings for place markers. They slide easily from needle to needle, are available in multiple sizes and are cheap in bulk.
Silicone stoppers in various shapes are my favorite way of keeping my needles together (I like to change them with the seasons), and I'm a pen and paper girl.
I would love to love row counters, but I keep forgetting to click them at the end of a row.
I like these discussions. I have several new tips between the video and the comments. Thank you!
It's super nice to see these discussions. Shows you don't always need all the expensive stuff for your craft, though some things are worth investing in for sure! For my part, I'm still amused because I recently used a thick paintbrush handle to wind yarn balls. I'm a beginning knitter, so it was my first time doing so. The video I went by instructed you to hold the yarn ball on your thumb as you wind it. But alas, I wound pretty tightly so eventually my thumb was getting a wee bit... strangled... so I switched to the brush handle and it worked like a charm, actually.
Just found your podcast (which is great!), so haven’t read thru all comments, BUT am I the only one that connects a ‘string’ of light-to-dark colored bulb stitch markers in a row of 5 or 10 to use as a row counter? Just slip the next darker-colored bulb on needle tip each time around. Saved me the $20-25 on the fancy joined rings you can buy! Love your podcast😀
You're not alone - a few people have mentioned that they count rows that way (and I think it's brilliant!).
I am team row counter!!! I actually use the simple cheep plastic ones i thread some yarn threw it and tie it to create a small loop and then use a plastic quilting clip and attach it to my work. i am able to attach it to the bottom of a small project like a hat of along the side and move it on up as i go. And i may even add a 2nd one that is a deferent color to keep track of deferent row or pattern repeats. I am also team digital i use knitcompanion to bring up my patters and i also keep my notes in it.
I personally love my digital row counter. I tried marking rows with the bulb markers but my socks came out uneven, so back to my digital row counter I went 😊
I'm the opposite - I always forget if I clicked my row counter so I feel safer with stitch markers! 😁
I'm a team row counter, especialy the mechanical one you slide in your needle. I use it when I need something to match the other part like sleeves or socks. I set the number on the counter and count down to zero. It's a pretty foolproof method and I don't need to worry about knitting more rows when I get into the zone. Also mechanical pencil and eraser for taking notes, making the patterns etc. I like paper patterns better as they don't go dark after a few minutes and I can use my phone for other stuff like calculator and youtube tutorials. Also elastic wrist support because we all know the roules but like to break them time to time.
I don't use a physical row counter but I always have a row counting app on my phone. I use Easy Knitty Counter.
I also use most of what you mentioned. I use a nail file in my bag. A small container of “0” rings from the hardware. My row counter I use ,is a numbered bead on rings numbered 1-0 if counting a short amount of rows. Then a closable ring to mark it. My salve to soften my hands is good,then save the tin for small amounts of markers. In my project bags. Amazon carry’s the jewelry cords in different sizes,cost is $10 for 54”.
I always have a small pencil and paper to count rows on and make notes of things I change. I also keep a small measuring tape, scissors, crochet hook and paper clips or bulb stitch markers. I have found the plastic coated paper clips work great. They bend into weird shapes and can be used for cable needles too and come in multi-colour boxes and are very affordable. I try try and remember to have lotion and lip balm with me too especially in the winter. As for phone or paper pattern, I try and have both hahaha I like paper patterns especially for multi-sizes where I can highlight the correct option before I start, but sometimes leave my pattern behind in a brain fog.
Nail clippers with a file, get rid of anything on my fingers or nails catching the yarn and can use to snip yarn too.
I am such a fan of digital tools (Google Sheets for figuring out mods and a trusted pattern app) but one thing I love that I don't see people talk about often is a Rocketbook. They are reusable notebooks that use water soluble pens, so you can erase when you're done or scan with the app and save to your email or Google Drive. I like it for sketching out ideas and taking quick notes, like when I'm working out gauge.
I've never heard of that before - it sounds really cool!
One of the best things ever is Post-It signature flags. They are bars with a pointed end that perfectly help me remember where I am in the instructions or chart. I just keep moving it to where ever I left off. So office supplies can be another source of budget tools.
Great tip!
I do really like using my phone to document things about my project, take progress pics, for calculating things and just using Ravelry in general. That said when working on a big project I do print the pattern, I like to be able to mark the stitch counts relevant to my size, or to strike through rows on a colourwork chart. So it's a bit of a 50/50 for me :)
yes to row counter! Stitch markers to mark stitches and Row counter to count rows! And post it pad!
I haven't been "good" and gotten a foam pad for blocking yet, but I have fishing weights I use for kumihimo that I can clip along the bottom edges of a project and then hang over my shower curtain. Fishing weights aren't as heavy as other improvised items so they don't stretch the piece out but they really help with the curled in edges.
Also: INDEX CARDS! If I'm working on a pattern I put the pattern I'm using on a card in ink, then draw a line, and underneath I write "1, 2, 3, ect" in ink for however many rows there are in the pattern. When I complete a row I mark a tally with my pencil (so I can erase and reuse if needed). I don't use it all the time, but it's really handy when using a new pattern, if I have to stop at an unexpected place, or if I'm doing something else at the same time (like talking to my gf) that's a bit more distracting and I want to keep my ADHD from ruining all my hard work.
I originally used something similar while playing TTRPGs and needing to keep track of spells per day since I also keep my spell info on index cards (using different color cards for each spell level) so it's easier/better to track spell use on a card as well.
Great tip!
I love all your videos but this one was especially helpful! Good to hear all the notions that are out there. I like to know what other knitters like and even good items that are repurposed into knitting tools.
Glad it was helpful!
I'm team row counter, especially for my first sock!
I'm a technology lover, so I always have my iPad with the KnitCompanion app for my patterns. I especially like the chart functions which make keeping up with your place so easy. Sliding rulers, row counters that move the line up the chart as you click it (or say to since it's voice activated too), and I also use the Freeform app to save patterns I'm jotting down as I go. When I use a notebook to jot down patterns, I later scan them into my iPad too. I just love digital tools. Oh, and there are row counter apps for the phone too. :)
Agree! I use KnitCompanion a lot!
Hi Tonia, I heard about using a kettlebell type clip for the tips of knitting needles to save stitches. I found some on Etsy and I REALLY like them! They are good for up to size #5 or #6 needles. Any bigger and the foam ear plugs work great. I really like my row counter on my phone called K&C Counter. I also do a lot on my phone or tablet but also like a printout of the pattern. So, I guess I am half and half. I also like little silicone rings for stitch markers. They are indispensable to me. Thanks!
Just found your channel & this video. You're awesome! Here's a weird one for you... just finished a 3x sweater where I used a salad spinner to hold my project. I was getting frustrated with how much time I was spend8ng wrestling the project around as it got larger. The salad spinner turned my work for me as I knit around and around. That plus using a smaller tip on my left needle sped my project up a LOT! Weird, right? So glad I found you!
Haha - I LOVE that! That's such a great way to deal with a large project. 👍
Regarding barber cord. Amazon has a whole spool of hollow silicone tubing for about $10. Works great
Highlighter tape!!!!! Use it to cover up rows as you go through a chart, or just keep track of where you are in a pattern. It resticks like a post it so it lasts forever
I haven't tried highlighter tape but it sounds perfect for knitting from charts!
The magnet is a great tip - I'm constantly dropping needles and bulb stitch markers...
Yes! I think I'm going to have to add one to my notions bag.
Great video! I'll be looking for your neck light! When I Portuguese knit I have a small binder clip that I have attached a large paper clip. I have the outside wire of the paperclip pulled out a bit. I can just clip it onto my shirt. The yarn is easy to attach on or off. No holes in my clothes from a pin attaching. When not in use, the binder clip easily clips onto my notions bag. I love using Knit Companion and also the app Good Notes for creating designs and writing notes about individual projects. I use a row counter when doing cables or a pattern that is hard to see the rows. I count the rows of plain stockinette by looking at the knitting and placing markers.
A binder clip for Portuguese knitting is a great idea!
Hollow tubing- I bought aquarium tubing and it works just as well as barber cords- less than $10 for 50 yards.
Great idea!
Highlighter tape placed on my pattern to mark the row I am on.
I’m Team Row Counter. I have a row counter app on my phone that I love because you can set up nested counters. So for example if you have an 8-row pattern and you need to repeat that pattern 7 times I can easily keep track of both.
What is it called?
@@leahdavis9434 it’s called My Row Counter
I may not notice a rough edge on my nails right away, but it will catch on my yarn. So, I keep a nail file with my knitting notions.
This was a great video! Very comprehensive!
Glad you enjoyed it!
I take a screen shot of pattern w my ipad, and use edit mode to cross off rows on pattern or graph.
Great idea!
I use ponytail bands on my sock needles. I wrap it around towards the ends multiple times . Keeps stitches on and keeps needles from poking through bag
Great idea!
I use the plastic stitch markers as cable needles! Much easier to keep track of as I can just latch it to my project and I find it to be much easier to manage when actually in use, especially for 1x1 or 2x2 cables. Edit: I don't really use them as regular stitch markers though, unless I'm using really chunky yarn.
That's a great idea!
To prevent the sewing needles to disappear, I need a small magnet. I have sewn a little sewing-and-crocheting pouch for crochet hooks, scissors, needles, meassuring tape, a seamripper, a thimble, some embrodery yarn and sewing machin bobbins with thread.
I love the idea of adding a magnet to my notions bag to catch any stray things like sewing needles!
Yarn ruler for wraps per inch?
I just learned how to do that. The ruler has the wpi printed on it for each weight yarn if its a mystery ball or occasional an unmark skien.
I keep my dpn's in a traveling toothbrush holder. (ok , so you have to fill the little holes at the bottom with some kind of putty or the like"
Love this video! Thank you!
You are so welcome!
Great podcast thank you
Glad you enjoyed it!
Great video! Question; I love the cardigan you are wearing. Did you knit the cardigan and if so, could you share the name of the pattern? Thank you!
It's the Cocoknits Emma cardigan - cocoknits.com/products/emma-version-c with Knit Picks Wool of the Andes Bulky in Evergreen.
Im a new knitter can you get something to put over your straight needles to keep them together and neat? My go 2's are darning needle, plastic stitch markers, fine crochet hook pen and notebook. Scissors ❤😊
There are lots of things you could try - some people mentioned using hair elastics!
Great video! Thank you!
Glad you enjoyed it!
I am curious, why is it called Barber cord and what was it's original use? I bought a clear, plastic, cylinder, type "days of the week" pill container to hold various stitch markers. Each section screws into the one above it. It works great for keeping the sizes separated.
I have no idea why it's called that! And I love your idea for separating stitch markers - that's really great!
So, I bought a necklight as I was having trouble with black yarn. All good, except my husband started bitching and moaning that it threw shadows on the wall which bothered him watching TV 🙄
Thankfully, I am getting great use when I walk the dog in the dark mornings 😂
Haha! I can't help but laugh - my husband doesn't mind but I distract myself with the shadows on the wall too. 😁
Washi tape to keep track of place on charts and my own handmade stitch markers.
Crocheter here. I can’t tell you how many times when I’m out with my project bag and can’t find my locking stitch markers that I just end up taking the earring hoop out of my ear and using it to mark the start of my round.
Haha - that definitely fits into the repurposing category!
Barber cords are too rich for me. I went to the craft store and got a whole spool of silicone tubing meant for jewelry making. Works like a charm. Not sticky at all as I have heard complained about barber cords.
I know I’m late to the party, but a perfect holder for double pointed needles is an empty EpiPen case - these are usually thrown out!
How do use a row counter
I have one but don't know how to use it.
Every time you start (or finish - you can decide when to count the row) a new row you turn the wheel or click the button to keep track of how many rows you've done.
I store DPNs in a toothpaste travel tube case.
Great idea!
For my DPNs I get my mum to save her denture tubes