In this article I present some tips on how to use bead knitting patterns. I explain some of the most common mistakes people do when beginning their “bead knitting career” and how you avoid the same mistakes. You also find a short FAQ-list (frequently asked questions) about bead knitting patterns at the end of the article. If you read this article, you’ll get a good start and hopefully you avoid some of the mistakes that are often made when starting to bead knit without the right preparations.
Bead knitting patterns tips
Sort your beads color wise in small heaps before starting to bead knit. Remember that the first bead you thread will be the last one you knit. If you’re about to make a complicated pattern, think carefully about how you thread the beads and do it reversibly. A nice buttonhole decorated with beautiful stitches all around will lift any simple garment and make it something special. The buttonholes doesn’t have to end just at the button’s end but can continue a bit in on the garment. (not the actual hole of course but the decorations around it!)
Bead knitting patterns: Common mistakes
Many people not run out of yarn when knitting because the cut off the yarn. To avoid this; don’t estimate how much yarn you need (because you’ll always need more than you think!) and don’t cut off the yarn. Roll it up on the ball of wool instead. This way, you can roll out more yarn while you knit.
FAQ about bead knitting patterns
Where do I find free bead knitting patterns?
You can find free bead knitting patterns on the Internet and in books at the library.
Where do I buy bead knitting patterns?
- At yarn shops, on the Internet, with books and with magazines.
What do I start with when knitting with beads?
- Carefully read your bead knitting pattern and then pre-thread your beads.
What do I do if I make a mistake during the knitting?
- If it’s only a simple mistake, remove the needles and reverse the stitch. Otherwise the best you can do is to save what you’ve already knitted and try to hide the mistake later.
Can I make a knot to tie two ends of yarn together if I run out of yarn?
- That depends on how big the beads you use are. The beads have to be able to pass over the knot if you have to make one.
My bead knitting patterns doesn’t tell me which needle size I should use. How do I know?
- An easy way to find out which needle fits your yarn, is to take a double strand of yarn and try to put it trough some of the holes on a needle gauge. The best size is the one that fits not too loose or too tight.
Can I use bead knitting patterns for children’s clothes and toys?
- Be careful because of the risk that the child will swallow the beads. Sometimes it’s better to embroider eyes, mouth and other details instead of using beads.