Want to learn to knit

[TeddyBare]

I've watched a few youtube videos and decided I want to have another go at knitting. I learned many years ago, but I think I've forgotten everything I knew, which wasn't much to start with.
Where can I get knitting needles from? Which kind are the most beginner friendly (metal, bamboo, circular)? Which size is most suitable? I have miles of organic alpaca yarn - is it possible to knit with this? I plan to start off knitting a patchwork blanket. I'd love to use the alpaca yarn for this as it's lovely and soft.

I suggest you find a knitting shop - they're friendly and can help you and seel knitting needles!

Hi TeddyBare.

Personally, i would recomend size 4 bamboo needles to start with- straight, not circular or double points.

Alpaca is a good choice as it's gorgeous to work with, although perhaps get a ball of cheap acrylic for practicing new stitches (Robin Double Knit is what I use and costs about £1 a ball)
There are lots of good online knitting shops, if you search "knitting shops uk" or similar on google.

It's a good idea to join Ravelry, as there are lots of super helpful people there, and loads of free patterns. You can also try www.knittingpatterncentral.com and www.garnstudio.com for free patterns.

Finally, are you in London? I Knit London, at Waterloo has late night opening every Wed and Thur where you can go and meet other knitters, get help and have a glass of wine (whoever came up with the idea of putting a liquor license on a yarn shop was a genius!)- If you're not, most regional knitting shops have a group you can join.

Hope that helped!

I have recently started knitting in an effort to keep my hands busy while giving up smoking. Ask friends and family as you will be shocked at how many secret knitters are out there. Also your local knitting shop will be really helpful and Ravelry.co.uk is a brill website with patterns and info etc. I live in Hampton and my mission is to find a local knitting group to learn a few new stitches.

Thanks for the advice. I ended up in John Lewis where they had a knitting clinic. I got some other wool to practice with, thanks for that tip Needle. I've done a square about 10cm long / wide in the other wool. I just want to get started with the alpaca wool now.

I'm jealous of the alpaca wool, but I'm knitting with NORO silk sock wool (very expensive) so shouldn't complain.