3 Best Practices for Wardrobe Knitting

Things often overlooked when planning projects, CraftDoodling Designs updates, etc.

So much goes into knitting as a regular practice. Over the years, I’ve been learning constantly, refining my skills and preferences. Although it’s hard to summarize everything in a single post, I want to share three lessons that I think are essential yet often overlooked in handmade clothing.

1️⃣ Hand making is powerful

Once we begin a craft like knitting, sewing, or crocheting, we gain remarkable control over our wardrobes. 🧶 We choose the fibers, fit, and style. We can also learn and apply finishing techniques to make items last longer. In short, we can take personal, small steps away from fast fashion.

Recognizing these choices has helped me see my knitting practice in a new light. I get the best results—and the most joy—when I understand what I’m working toward, at a deeper level.

2️⃣ Measurements are key

When we talk about fit, we essentially talk about how various measurements of a clothing item sits on our bodies. Understanding our body measurements is the first step for successfully knitting well-fitting garments.

Yes, this means grabbing a measuring tape and jotting down body measurements like girths and lengths. 📏 But it’s also helpful to measure garments we already own and like, and to learn from makers with similar body types. Ravelry projects are my favorite place to survey pattern modifications done by other knitters.And remember, measurements can change over time, so check them regularly to stay accurate.

3️⃣ Keeping notes

Start a knitting journal. 🗒️ You can track projects digitally on Ravelry, or if you prefer, use a physical notebook. Record what worked and what didn’t. I find that this practice leads to better decisions and builds confidence in our choices.

What are your best knitting practices? What would you add to this list? Please share lessons from your own knitting journey in comments, so we can all learn together. 💗

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CRAFTDOODLING DESIGNS UPDATES

1. I am currently in the process of grading and writing the pattern for Mika Vest. Thank you once again for all your encouragement and inputs for this design. I’ll have updates for you a little later. For now, here is a little video from when it was ‘almost done’. :)

2. I blinked and it is November already and almost time for the release of “Fluens Tee”. You may remember that I started test knitting this pattern in August. My test knitters have been hard at work with their samples and I can’t wait to share the pattern with you, later this month.

Fluens Tee - Upcoming design

3. I am working on a sock design and a few other swatches currently. I will share about them as I make progress. :) 💞

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OTHER THINGS YOU MIGHT LIKE

READING UPDATES

Finished Reading 📖

• Killing Floor - Lee Child

• The Extended Mind - Annie Murphy Paul

Currently Reading 📖

• Days at the Morisaki Bookshop - Satoshi Yagisawa

Until next time,

Kavitha. ♡

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