Portable Knitting Tips
Tips and tools for knitting on the go.
3/16/20262 min read
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Knitting in public is one of my favorite things to do, it makes a great conversation starter! Here are some tips for knitting on the go.
Project Selection
It may seem a bit obvious, but your portable project should be small or knit in small pieces. Socks and hats make a great project to knit on the go. You may also want to avoid projects where you will have a lot of loose ends, and you’ll be changing colors often. Another thing to consider when selecting a portable project is the complexity of the stitch pattern. You don’t want to be counting stitches when someone inevitably comes up and asks you what you’re making. I will sometimes choose a project where I need to print out the pattern, but I still go for something with repeats that are easily memorized. Some folks choose something even simpler if they’ll be knitting in a dark movie theater or concert venue. I am not brave enough to knit in the dark, but if you are, more power to you!
The Perfect Project Bag
To me, the perfect project bag is relatively small, but one that can stand up on its own, so nothing falls out. I particularly love the trinity bags from Twice Sheared Sheep, and I get compliments on my chubby sheep bag all the time. They are the perfect size, they stand up, they have a wrist strap for easy carrying, and they have a separate small pocket on the side to hold your notions. I was initially concerned about the zipper catching my yarn, but it has not been a problem for me. They also have bigger or smaller options as well!
Essential Notions
The most important thing to have in your bag is something to cut yarn with. I love having this yarn cutter at all times. It comes in handy for non-yarn things too! Having a small holder with some tapestry needles in it, like this one, is a smart addition to your project bag as well. A measuring tape is also essential, I always keep one in my purse, not just my project bag! Stitch markers are always great to have on hand, especially ones that open and lock. If you’re in the market for an all-in-one tool to keep in your bag, this Stitch Scout multi-tool is available for pre-order.
Needle Considerations
I generally prefer wood needles to metal, but metal ones are more robust for travelling. Wood needles, especially in small sizes, are more prone to breaking. Plastic needles can work well for travelling in a pinch. I find circular needles especially great for travel since it’s impossible to lose one of the needles! DPNs (double pointed needles) have their place, but I usually like to keep them at home, where I can easily get a needle back if I drop one.
Keeping Your Place
Row counter apps work well while in public, since everyone has their phone with them at all times. Many of these apps will show you your pattern as well. An analog alternative is a row counter that goes on your needles, like this one. This way, you’ll never forget to update your counter for each row or round. If you need to print your pattern and keep it in your bag, make sure to include a way to track your progress by marking off or highlighting the rows you’ve completed. If you need to stop mid-row or want to make sure your stitches don’t fall off your needles when you put your project back in your bag, these tip ties work great.
I hope you have found these tips and tools helpful for your next portable knitting project. Let me know if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions using the form below. Happy stitching!
