Posted by Buffy Morrissette on February 02, 19102 at 21:41:57:
In Reply to: Gauge posted by Donna Burbank on January 07, 19102 at 11:39:07:
My name is Buffy Morrissette. I'm nearly 34 years old, and I'm from Maine. My earliest memories of my grandmother were of her knitting all night long, and the slippers and mittens we all wore. When I was pregnant with my son (now 12), I determined I had to learn to knit. I bought a book and a pattern and have been knitting ever since. I am able to make my own patterns and custom design nearly anything I desire.
I hope that an experienced knitter is welcome on this page. I've never been taught formally, and there are a few things I'd like to learn (continental method comes immediately to mind). And if it isn't a problem, I'm always happy to offer advice (I've got lots of opinions). If this is stepping on toes, I'll remain quiet. Just let me know.
It's very important not to attempt to change the number of stitches, as that will change the entire outcome of the project. If you alter the size of the needles instead, you will be able to follow the pattern to the letter. And as a beginner, it is far simpler for you to do this than to alter the pattern. It can be difficult to understand what each step of the pattern is accomplishing, so changing it is also difficult. As you become more experienced, you will find that your stitches loosen up a little over time, and you will be more likely to use the size needles called for in a pattern. Until then, try different sizes to achieve the correct guage.