Cozy Creations: Discover the Magic of Arm Knitting
In the world of knitting, arm knitting is a popular technique that has gained immense popularity in recent years. Arm knitting is a term used to describe a method of knitting where you use your arms instead of needles to create a knitted product. This technique has become increasingly popular among knitting enthusiasts who are looking for a new and exciting way to create beautiful, cozy items in no time at all.
The beauty of arm knitting is that it is incredibly easy to learn, and even those with no prior knitting experience can get started right away.
I first learnt arm knitting when hubby was away from home for long periods of time. Finding a hobby was important to me so that I wasn’t lonely. I had tried traditional knitting in the past, but just didn’t get it.
A quick Google search showed a lot of alternatives to traditional knitting, one of them being arm knitting.
Arm knitting has a range of benefits, from being a quick and fun craft to being incredibly versatile. This technique can be used to create a range of items, from scarves and blankets to hats and even sweaters.
The process of arm knitting is also incredibly therapeutic, as the repetitive motions can be soothing and calming.
In this blog post, we will explore the world of arm knitting, from the yarns that are ideal for the technique, to the types of products I create.
Let’s dive in to the world of arm knitting!
So what is arm knitting?
Arm knitting is a fun and easy way to create beautiful and warm knitwear, such as scarves, cowls, and blankets, in just a fraction of the time it would take with traditional knitting methods.
I can literally arm knit a chunky scarf in half an hour!
Choosing the perfect arm knitting yarn
When I start an arm knitting project, there are a number of factors I need to think about, and one of them is the yarn I will be using. The yarn I select will determine the outcome of my project; it is, therefore, crucial to choose the right one.
When selecting yarn for arm knitting, I have to consider the weight, texture, fibre content, and colour. The weight of the yarn affects the thickness of the final product. If I am arm knitting a chunky, cozy blanket or scarf, I would choose a bulky yarn.
On the other hand, if I want a more delicate, lightweight item, I would choose a finer yarn.
Arm knitted stole with 2 strands of chunky yarn knitted together as 1
Arm knitted stole with DK weight yarn (3 strands knitted together as 1)
In these two pictures you can see the difference straight away. The stole in the left hand picture has been arm knitted with chunky natural Peruvian Highland wool. If you look at the right hand picture, it has been arm knitted with 3 strands of DK weight yarn. There is a big difference between them both in terms of look and dimension.
The texture of the yarn is important because it affects the overall appearance of the finished product. Yarns come in various textures, from smooth to bumpy, and can add an extra dimension to any project.
Additionally, the fibre content of the yarn is important because it determines how the yarn feels and how it will drape when knitted.
Finally, the colour of the yarn is a personal preference, but it is essential to consider how it will complement the design of the project.
Yarn and the environment
I am determined to find planet-friendly yarns that do not harm the environment. Yarns such as Organic Cotton, Recycled Acrylic and T-shirt yarn.
Synthetic yarns have a huge impact on the environment, and can take many years to biograde. The planet-friendly yarns I use biodegrade much quicker, so preserving the planet for the next generations.
T shirt yarn and arm knitting
I love T shirt yarn! It is sustainable, chunky, and comes in all manner of patterns and colours that I like to mix and match.
T shirt yarn is a great choice for arm knitting as it shows the knitted stitch off really well.
What can be made with arm knitting?
Arm knitting makes unique, one-of-a-kind items. From cozy blankets and scarves to stylish home decor and accessories, there are endless possibilities when it comes to arm knitting.
I arm knit chunky scarves which can either be joined together to make an infinity scarf, or left long to drape around the neck.
Stoles, neck warmers and blankets are also easy and fun to arm knit.
I love it when I see the creations really taking shape on my arm as I arm knit each row.
Arm knitting an i-cord
Yes, this really is a thing! I-cords can be arm knitted.
They make stunning chunky scarves, especially doubling up the yarn.
One yarn I have been experimenting with recently is Bio Nylon, a sustainable alternative to synthetic Nylon which is bad for the environment.
It is huge! I tried arm knitting an i-cord scarf with it, and I only needed three stitches on my arm!
Caring for arm knitted pieces
Arm knitted pieces do need a slightly different care routine as the stitches are much looser than traditional knitting. If you accidentally pull a stitch, pull the piece around it and the stitch should slot back into place.
Washing arm knitted pieces
I always tell my customers to air out the piece first after wearing, and then if they notice a mark to spot clean it. As a last resort they could hand wash the piece and let it air dry naturally, and re-shape gently while it is damp.
Final thoughts on arm knitting
To me, arm knitting produces unique creations that are perfect for people who want a bit of individuality to their look.
The yarns I use with my arm knitting are all eco-friendly so they are far better for the planet. They are also much softer to the touch compared to synthetic yarns such as Acrylic or Nylon.
These yarns do take a bit of looking after, but are so quirky they are a real statement and talking point!
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