Basic knits need not be boring
Knitting for our wardrobes, CraftDoodling Designs updates, etc.
The other day I was talking to a friend who is a knitter. The discussion turned to why basic patterns are written. "Why would a big designer like that put out something so basic? ", she had asked. It seemed like a great question to try and answer here in my weekly writing as well. ✍🏼
There seems to be a slight misconception that design is all about decoration⚜️: the color of the yarn, stitch patterns like lace and cables, attractive colorwork etc. Sure, these do form a huge part of the designing process and play a great role in the final look of the item.
But knitwear design is math, science and endless excel rows ⿳ as much as it is art and decoration.
The word design can mean a variety of things depending on context. I think knitwear design can be roughly understood as a sum total of these three definitions.
A plan or drawing produced to show the look and function of an object before it is made.
The action of producing the above-said plan or drawing.
An arrangement of lines or shapes created to form a pattern or decoration.
So it can be safely concluded that a basic knit is essentially a functional piece without any or minimal decorative elements.
I have to admit that I often find myself gravitating towards basic knits, whether I am designing or simply knitting from a pattern.
Growing up, I watched my aunts who were seamstresses, and my grandmother plan and sew clothing for me and my cousins. School uniforms, festival clothes and even costumes 👗 for 'Annual Day' at school were sewn.🪡🧵Thinking about it now, I realize what a luxury it was to have my own custom handmade wardrobe.
Knitting (like sewing) at its core, is a craft that is meant to create wearable items. I am always looking for ideas that help me incorporate my handknits into my wardrobe. I think of knitting as a tool to create the custom wardrobe of one's own tastes and preferences.
Here are some of the ways in which basic knit designs play a primary role in making this a possibility for more people. 🧶
1️⃣ Basic knits are repeatable
Basic knits are like those classic day-to-day recipes which get repeated over and over through many many happy family meals. They are considerably quicker to knit than ones with involved stitch patterns. So they can be repeated in different colors and sizes for gifting or personal use. 🎨
2️⃣ Basic knits add educational value
Basic knits are opportunities to create patterns that can be worked with multiple gauges, spanning multiple sizes. Typically, knitting patterns assume some sort of basic knowledge from the knitter. This means one needs to be at a certain level to tackle them.
More value can be built into basic knitting patterns with detailed instructions, extra tips and even additional learning resources like a course or tutorial 👩🏻🏫, all with very minimal or no assumptions about the knitters’ skill level.
Designing such basic items can be educational for both the designer as well as knitters who may learn from the pattern.
3️⃣ Basic knits contribute to the expansion of knitting community
A lot of people shy away from knitting as it is a challenge to make time for learning a craft with their busy schedules. A basic knit is a fantastic way to get started for time-crunched newer knitters.
A good basic design from independent designers would go a long way in helping knitters understand garment construction and explore fit without getting lost in stitch patterns and other involved techniques. 🧶
When good quality basic handknitting patterns with accurate instructions are widely available and accessible to a wider audience, it is a small win against the perils of fast fashion. It encourages more people to incorporate handknits into their lives, which is always a positive.
4️⃣ Basic knits help us build a custom handmade wardrobe
Everyone's idea of what consists of a basic wardrobe would be different. Thinking in terms of a custom wardrobe with our favorite items will provide a steady stream of challenges to gradually increase our knitting skills and experience as well as give us loads of chances to explore fiber, techniques and the knitted fabric. This way, basic knits need not be boring ones.
I like to describe the items I have in my mind or sometimes draw a little sketch.
Light weight buttoned vest (may be striped?)
A one skein scarf / shawlette in fall color
A drapey summer tee
A little google search will turn up ideas on how to start thinking about handmade wardrobe in general. Additionally, intentional searches on Ravelry and other knitting websites with filters for as many characteristics of the target item - yarn weight, fiber, fit etc will bring us closer to achieving the results we want.
5️⃣ Basic knits promote sustainability
Knitting basicpieces that complement our existing store-bought wardrobe increases the likelihood that we’ll actually wear what we make. Making lots of garments that may not get used is not exactly a sustainable way to pursue a cloth making hobby, not to mention achieving a custom wardrobe eventually.
Do you consider basic knits as boring? What kind of decorative elements are you drawn to? What are some items / potentials for your handmade wardrobe? I love to hear about people's knitting choices and stories. Please let me know in comments.
CRAFTDOODLING DESIGNS UPDATES
Please keep an eye out for my next release Manzil Socks, during the first week of April. I have had so much fun developing this pattern and can’t wait to share it with you all.
Manzil Socks - Upcoming pattern Last week I had the opportunity to meet some knitters during the Bay Area Yarn Crawl. I had created my first ever zine which had one of my earlier articles, a little sketch on the cover. I had also added a page with needle size conversion chart and steps for grafting. I must say it was received warmly. 💗
OTHER THINGS YOU MIGHT LIKE
I have been knitting socks continuosly for a few months now. With each of my sock project, I have been experimenting something - a fit aspect, tools, yarn etc. In this one, I tried out a mini gusset on the instep, that’ll help reduce the stress on a short row heel.
Short row heel sock with mini gusset on instep Here is an article from Knotions that I found helpful.
Reading update📚
Currently reading - 11 / 22 / 63 - Stephen King
Until next time,
Kavitha. ♡
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I find that basic knits are the ones I wear most often. While complex designs might be fun to knit, they aren't as versatile in the wardrobe. And many knitters are interested in making garments for their family that will actually be worn. Finally, a basic pattern is often best for showcasing a really beautiful yarn.
Such a valuable contribution! Also, with a basic knit you can use those gorgeous to look at but actually quite difficult to find a suitable project for colour variegated yarns. A somple knit gives them a place to shine.