Knitting Patterns - Many knitters first become interested in the craft so that they can create blankets for their friends and family. About the Author: Knitting Wool - We are passionate about everything to do with knitting and will endeavour to help wherever possible.USA, AL (prHWY. And if you decide to go larger, be sure to try to the square afghan patterns. The baby blanket pattern is highly customizable in both size and design. The stitches are Cotton Glove Knitting Machine Company much the same as the baby blanket design, but the final product is nearly twice as large. Before the days of running water, people would fill porous bags with hair and put the bags into rivers or creeks to get out all of the dirt and other particles that were left behind. A baby blanket is the perfect place to practice more complex pattern stitches. Fine or dirty hairs are taken out. You also knit every round on this one, but because it's circular knitting, you end up with plain old knit (called stockinette) instead of garter stitch.Remember that you want a nice, soft yarn if you're creating something to be worn by your face. Once the hair is removed it must be washed before it can be spun. I've tried a variety of blocking methods, from steaming to fully immersing pieces in water before wringing out and pinning to shape, but I much prefer the following more gentle method. Stockinette curls at the edges, unlike garter stitch that lies flat. Unless the garment is made from yarn that specifically states it is machine washable, don't wash wool items in the washing machine. Almost all patterns give a standard idea of the number of rows/stitches across a given distance, we all knit slightly differently and it is essential to check your tension if you don't want to finish up with a "sloppy Joe" instead of a "skinny rib" jumper! Using your pattern or your yarn's "ball band" as a guide, make up a tension square measuring 15cm x 15cm (6" x 6"). Knitting wool is created by first shearing the wool off the animal. The hair is washed in very hot water two or three times and then dried. Our aim is to simply offer a good selection of quality branded wools from top suppliers, the latest knitting patterns, knitting needles and accessories This process is similar today except that some people use their washing machines. The soap, agitation and changing temperature of water will make woolens felt and shrink, thereby ruining them. October 24, 2012 - USA, Oct 24, 2012 - With circular needles, you can make a great tubular scarf that pulls up to cover your head when it's cold. Baby blanket knitting patterns are available, and because of the square design, are quite simple for beginners. Needles & Accessories - Most natural fibres such as wool, cotton, linen, cashmere and alpaca can be steam pressed or wet blocked, whilst mohair, wool blends and synthetic yarns don't usually respond well to steaming but can be wet blocked. Woolen garments need to be washed very carefully.