Knitting Methods

We take great care in our hand-knitted woollens, in particular

• we cast on using a single needle and thumb, this gives an edge that is neat, stretchy and resilient. Select the image opposite to see instructions on how to cast on using the thumb method.

• Laced-sewn seams "give" evenly as the wearer moves. Select the image opposite to see how this is achieved.

• Child's Ganseys are knitted using the circular method and therefore have no stitched seams whatsoever.

• Quality Yarns that have body, allow stretch and keep their shape.

• Shoulders, front & back are cast off together - so again no sewn seams.

To explain this further we have added details of how to cast on and how to make a flat seam for those new to knitting at home..

Joining in Wool

It is best to join in a new yarn at the side seam of a garment. If you are knitting in the round, this will not be possible, so the end of the old yarn and the beginning of the new yarn need to be spliced together.

Splicing
The ply of each yarn should be separated out , slightly frayed apart and cut back on a diagonal for a good 12cms. The cut end fibres of each yarn are then abutted together – so that the short ends of one yarn meet the long ends of the other yarn – and are laid slightly overlapping, so as to form a continuous thread. After integrating the old and new yarn fibres they should then be twisted together afresh and knitting can continue. If necessary, when the work is complete any loose firbres poking out of the fabric can be trimmed, however if they are on the inside and not unsightly they are best left as they will become part of the fabric as the garment is worn.

N.B.It is best to avoid splicing in a new yarn for round knitting when working a pattern row.