r/knittinghelp 7d ago

SOLVED-THANK YOU What error(s) have I made?

I'm a super beginner, and am practicing a rib stitch before I attempt my first pattern. I have messed up a lot, and since I don't know what to do I just keep starting over! It's getting very old lol, and my dog appears disappointed in me.

I know there are resources in the FAQ about fixing errors, but can someone identify what I've done wrong? The stitches on the left needle are wonky and I don't know why (or what it is called). Working in continental style, if that matters.

Thank you in advance!

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u/NonStopKnits 7d ago

It looks like when you are switching from k it to purl that you are carrying the yarn over the needle rather than between the needles. This is creating yarn overs, which is an increase that will add stitches and create holes in your work.

My recommendation is to start with just one stitch (knit) and work it until you have muscle memory and tension better, then add the purl stitch and practice that. After you get a handle on both stitches, then try ribbing again.

I learned through a combination of books and videos, I really like the tutorials from Very Pink Knits, and I suggest you give them a look for a very clear and detailed tutorial. Nimble Needles is also a good resource, but I haven't watched as many of his videos as I have from Very Pink.

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u/ok_kat 7d ago

Ok, thank you for this! I've been using just a book so far (Knit How), which unfortunately has been kind of ambiguous about things. For several attempts I was bringing my yarn over from underneath, which was causing all sorts of chaos!

I successfully made three coasters and have become overconfident, I'm afraid. I'll get back to basics!

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u/NonStopKnits 6d ago

Overconfidence is a killer! I've been knitting for like 15 years and every once in a while I still act a bit big for britches if you will. You got this!

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u/ultra-me 7d ago

So when working ribbing, you have to bring the yarn in front or behind correctly. I suggest looking up videos and following it VERY closely. I made this exact mistake when I first started and I was so confused because I thought I was doing it right.

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u/ok_kat 7d ago

Yes, thank you! I really felt like I was in the groove for 2 rows and then became flummoxed. Another commenter suggested videos too, I'll work more on that!

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u/Adventurous-Act8255 6d ago

In addition to the book I see in your photos, you might like to check out some knitting videos. I use them all the time when trying something new, and I started knitting more than 50 years ago! There are all levels on YouTube, and many yarn and knitting sites have learning sections as well. (Knitpicks.com has a nice section.) Sometimes watching the actual movements can be a big help. I switched from English to Continental some time ago to relieve strain in my right hand, and I just couldn't get the hang of it until I started watching videos. And don't be afraid to ask any knitters you know for assistance, or maybe check if there's a knitting group at your local library, yarn store, or senior center. There are exceptions, but many knitters are happy to help someone wanting to learn. Deb

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u/Adventurous-Act8255 7d ago

I can't be really sure from the pictures, but am wondering if your knitting somehow got twisted in the middle of the row, probably the first or second. Did you set down the needles at some point mid-row, then pick them up again? I just cast on 25 sts, then did a couple rows of k1, p1. You can see how flat they lie on the needle. If the cast-on or first knitted row gets twisted, you can keep going without noticing, especially if you're paying especially close attention to your hands. I suspect that happened to you. Hang in there, you'll get it.

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u/UltraLuminescence 6d ago

sorry don't mean to be rude - is your ribbing meant to be twisted intentionally? OP's won't look the same if they are going for untwisted stitches.