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The success of a knitting project starts with choosing the right pattern.
What Kind of Knitter Are You?
Firstly, ask yourself what motivates you to knit. Are you motivated by the finished product or is it the process of knitting that motivates you?
If you are motivated by the finished product, then take a good hard look at the photos. Do you really want this item? If so, scrutinise the pattern.
Are the photos clear? Can you see the detail of the project? What are the techniques involved? If it needs new skills, are you prepared to learn them?
If it is the process of knitting that motivates you, does the pattern have enough variation to keep you interested? Or, if you like soothing, easy knitting, check the pattern is simple enough for you.
Is the Pattern Yarn Specific?
Some patterns are designed to showcase a specific yarn. Does the appeal of the pattern come from the yarn? Is the texture or colouring of the yarn the all important thing?
If this is the case, can you obtain the exact yarn in sufficient quantities? How much will it cost? Can you find an alternative yarn that is a close match for the original?
Baby and Children’s Patterns
Look for patterns that use lighter weight yarns. Generally anything up to DK or Light Worsted is suitable for baby knitting patterns, unless it is for outerwear or blankets.
You will probably want to make sure you can get get suitable machine washable yarns.
Garment Patterns
Think about body shape. If it’s for a curvy figure, make sure there is some waist shaping or that you can add some shaping.
Quick knit patterns with bulky or chunky yarns are tempting, but they can be unflattering and hot to wear. Bulky yarns are best kept for outerwear, jackets etc.
Accessory Patterns
You have more freedom when choosing accessory patterns. If you want socks to fit inside shoes or you want your gloves to be dextrous, then stick to lighter weight yarns.
For blankets and Afghans, think about how heavy the final product will be. A large Afghan made with bulky acrylic yarn may weigh around 1.3kg. The same pattern made with cotton could weigh around 1.9kg.