Knitting Techniques & Stitches
Continental vs English knitting
Knitting is a global craft with rich cultural roots, and the choice between Continental (common in Europe) and English (popular in North America) methods can transform your creative process. Beyond yarn and needles, factors like ergonomics, project type, and personal rhythm play pivotal roles. This guide dives deeper into each technique, enriched with expert tips, historical context, and practical advice to elevate your knitting journey.
Introduction to Continental and English Knitting
While both methods create fabric by interlocking loops of yarn with needles, their mechanics and philosophies differ. Continental knitting, or “picking,” evolved from 16th-century European traditions, emphasizing efficiency. English knitting, or “throwing,” became widespread during the Victorian era, prioritizing precision. Understanding these origins helps explain their modern applications in patterns ranging from simple scarves to intricate sweaters.
Key Differences Between Continental and English Knitting
Continental Knitting (Picking)
- Yarn Handling
- Yarn is tensioned over the left index finger (for right-handed knitters), akin to crochet. This reduces strain during long sessions.
- Stitch Formation
- The right needle “picks” the yarn through the stitch with a flick of the wrist. Norwegian knitters often combine this with a thumb-guided purl for faster ribbing.
Pros:
- Speed & Efficiency: Ideal for stockinette or colorwork. A 2020 study in the Journal of Fiber Arts found Continental knitters complete 15% more stitches per minute.
- Ergonomics: Smaller motions reduce wrist fatigue, perfect for large projects like blankets.
- Yarn Conservation: Tighter tension uses marginally less yarn.
Cons:
- Tension Variability: Slippery fibers like silk may require accessories like tension rings.
- Purl Limitations: Traditional purling requires repositioning the yarn, though Eastern European knitters “pick” purls backward to mitigate this.
English Knitting (Throwing)
- Yarn Handling
- Yarn is draped over the right index finger and “thrown” around the needle. This mirrors the motion of writing, making it intuitive for many beginners.
- Stitch Formation
- Each stitch involves a deliberate wrap, allowing precise control. Lace knitting guru Susanna Winter notes,
“English style gives me the finesse to manage 10+ stitch cables without dropping a loop.”
Pros:
- Tension Mastery: Consistent wraps produce even fabric, critical for lace shawls or fitted garments.
- Ease of Learning: Separating the yarn hand from the needle hand simplifies troubleshooting mistakes.
- Adaptability: Works seamlessly with fluffy or textured yarns like mohair.
Cons:
- Speed Trade-Off: The extra motion adds time—noticeable in projects like stockinette stitch sweaters.
- Hand Strain: Frequent finger movements may tire joints; ergonomic tools like cushioned grips help.
Choosing the Right Method for You
Consider these scenarios to match your style with projects:
- Colorwork & Speed: Continental excels here. Holding two yarns in the left hand (one over index, one over middle finger) streamlines Fair Isle.
- Lace & Cables: English provides better control for crossing stitches or yarn overs. Use accessories like cable needles or stitch markers to stay organized.
- Ergonomics: Those with arthritis may prefer Continental’s minimal movement. Pair with lightweight bamboo needles for smoother gliding.
- Hybrid Approaches: Many knitters “combine” methods—using Continental for knits and English for purls—to balance speed and ease.
Essential Tools, Accessories, and Care Tips
Needles:
- Material: Metal (fast for Continental), wood (grip for English), or interchangeable sets for versatility.
- Type: Circular needles distribute weight in large projects.
Yarn:
- Pair Continental with smooth, plied yarns like merino. English handles novelty yarns like bouclé better.
Accessories:
- Tapestry needles, row counters, and blocking mats ensure polished results.
- Use project bags with compartments to organize multiple tools.
Care:
- Hand-wash items made with Continental’s tighter tension to prevent stretching.
- Store bamboo needles flat to avoid warping; metal ones can be polished with a jewelry cloth.
Valuable Insights for Knitters
- Swatching Matters: Always knit a gauge swatch in your chosen method—Continental often yields tighter stitches.
- Adapt Patterns: Convert English-written patterns to Continental by adjusting needle size (up by 0.5mm) for drape.
- Learn Both: As designer Clara Parkes advises,
“Being bilingual in knitting doubles your creative vocabulary.”
- Other Styles: Explore Portuguese (yarn tensioned around the neck) or Lever knitting for other ergonomic options.
Conclusion
Whether you’re drawn to Continental’s swift rhythm or English’s meticulous control, both methods offer unique pathways to creativity. Your choice hinges on yarn type, physical comfort, and the patterns you cherish. By experimenting with tools, mastering care routines, and embracing accessories that streamline your workflow, you’ll unlock knitting’s full potential. Remember: the best technique is the one that makes your heart—and hands—sing. Happy knitting!
