Demetria Katsanos oversees all operational aspects - from building partnerships to approving staffing levels - of a New York-based design company in her position as director of operations. When she’s not busy with her professional responsibilities, Demetria Katsanos enjoys knitting. She often makes socks and blankets, which can be time-consuming for slow knitters.
Although speed is certainly not necessary for knitting, many individuals prefer increasing their speed over time. This often starts with a knitter's choice of needle. Finding the right needles is a highly individualized process. For some, bamboo needles allow for faster knitting despite being less slippery than metal ones. Others might find that the reverse is true.
Once knitters have the right needles, they should learn to knit without looking at their hands in order to streamline the process. Basic stitches, such as ribbing and the garter stitch, are easy enough that experienced knitters are able to knit without looking down. When beginners learn the feel of knitting, they are able to knit faster without thinking about each movement when making a stitch.
Experimenting with different materials and techniques may also improve knitting speed. Larger yarns result in quicker projects because they require less stitches, but they do not always create the look knitters want. For thinner yarns, knitters can try finding materials that move on their needles more smoothly or are less likely to split.
In terms of technique, knitters can choose a right- or left-handed method. This has less to do with the dominant hand of a knitter and more with what makes them feel most comfortable.
Finally, knitters can hasten the speed at which they get projects done by simply knitting everywhere, whether it’s on a bus or watching television at home. This also helps with basic practice, which naturally improves speed, as well.
