Knit-Alongs
All you need to know before joining a KAL
8/25/20253 min read
Knit-alongs (KALs) are an excellent way to connect with other knitters, learn new skills, and compare finished projects. Exchanging insights with other participants helps everyone learn and grow their knowledge of knitting techniques, construction, and even different fibers. The shared learning and external motivation make them popular.
Types of KALs
KALs are often created around a particular pattern, which can be either paid or free. Everyone who joins gets the same pattern to work from and makes the same project. Other KALs will simply have a theme, such as shawls, socks, or holiday gifts, where each participant can choose whatever pattern they want to make that fits the theme. Mystery KALs are not everyone’s cup of tea, but they can be a lot of fun! Oftentimes, the host will say what type of thing you’ll be knitting, but the design will be a complete mystery. The pattern is usually revealed in sections at set intervals of time. Some KALs are focused on learning a specific technique, although these seem to be less common.
What to Expect
KALs always have set dates to start and finish your project, often with check-in dates in the middle. These dates can be seen as guidelines in some KALs, while others are more strict about the deadlines. You can expect a pattern or some requirements to meet the theme if you can choose your own pattern. KALs generally will have a way to share your progress with other participants. This could be at in-person meetings, a Ravelry forum, a hashtag on Instagram, or a private online community like a Facebook group or Discord server. Sometimes, whoever is hosting the KAL will require a particular yarn brand to be used, some will give out prizes only to those who use a specific yarn, and some have no yarn restrictions.
Benefits of Joining a KAL
The external accountability is a huge benefit of joining a KAL. If you’re like me and you tend to have multiple WIPs lying around, having a deadline can be really motivating to actually finish a project. Another major benefit is having a community to learn from. As you’re working on the KAL project, you can share any tips and tricks you come across, and others will do the same. Similarly, if you get stuck or have any questions, there is a whole community of people who will be willing to help you; they may have even had the same issue. You will also get to see how the project looks in other colors and different fibers. For example, I am currently participating in a KAL where the designer used unbrushed mohair, whereas I am using brushed mohair; we get to compare our results and learn more about the fibers we used. As a bonus, some KALs give out prizes for meeting certain criteria and deadlines.
How to Find KALs
Ravelry forums and groups are one of the best places to find KALs. If there are particular knitwear designers or yarn companies you like, get on their email list or follow them on social media. Instagram hashtags are another great way to find KALs. There are all kinds of Facebook groups dedicated to knitting; check recent posts for any upcoming KALs. If you’re looking for one that meets in person, check with your local yarn stores.
Tips for the Best Experience
Before you decide to join a KAL, make sure that the deadlines and meetings work with your schedule. Consider if the project is one you want to do, and if it’s a garment, make sure the pattern is written for your size. KALs typically will say what skill level the pattern is and any techniques or skills needed for the project, even if it’s a mystery KAL. Double-check that anything new to you is something you’re comfortable learning. Get your supplies and swatch early so that you can start on time. Be active and share progress often, asking questions whenever you’re unsure. Provide critique only when asked, and be supportive of your fellow participants. Pace yourself and don’t stress too much over the deadlines. It’s not a race, and it’s supposed to be fun!
Have you ever participated in a KAL? Use the form below to tell me about it! If you have any questions about KALs, don’t hesitate to reach out. I hope this has given you the confidence to join a KAL, happy stitching!
