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What is Loom Knitting
Let’s talk about loom knitting. What is loom knitting? Loom knitting is a way to get a faster-knitted result without knitting needles. The idea is to wrap yarn twice around the pegs of a loom, picking the bottom strand of yarn over the top, resulting in a knitted look.
History of Loom Knitting
Loom knitting, also known as spool or frame knitting, dates back to the 16th century. It originated in European regions and was used to create knitted items such as blankets, caps, and stockings.
Records show that in 1589, in Nottingham, an English gentleman named William Lee created the first knitting loom for his knitting enthusiast wife. Lee was determined to find a way to knit without the clanking sounds of needles. Queen Elizabeth I of England granted Lee a patent for the invention.
In the past two decades, loom knitting has regained popularity, with various companies mass-producing various sizes and shapes of looms.
Loom knitting is an easier way to knit for those dealing with hand and wrist pain. It also benefits from knitters who are unable to see the stitches. Also, this craft benefits children and the development of their fine motor skills.
What can be Created with Looms
So, what can be made on a loom? A knitting loom can make anything that can be knitted with needles. Knitting looms can be bought in various sizes and shapes. I will explain what can be made on the multiple looms sold today, and you can decide which loom will fit your needs.
Circular looms are the most universal looms on the market. They come in various gauges and sizes. With a circular loom, you can make many knitted items. Examples include hats, scarves, legwarmers, blankets, mittens, knitted toys, baby cocoons, towels, dishcloths, and more.
Rectangle-shaped knitting looms also come in various sizes and gauges. They work great for flatter projects like blankets, scarves, towels, dishcloths, and headbands. Hats can also be made with rectangular-shaped looms.
Oval looms tend to have a smaller gauge for sock-making. However, other items, such as dishcloths and legwarmers, can also be made on an oval loom.
There is an abundance variety of looms on the market. Make sure to choose looms that will benefit what you want to create.
How Does Loom Knitting Work
So, how does loom knitting work? Just like regular knitting, you’ll need to cast on your yarn. The only difference is that instead of casting onto needles, you cast onto the loom pegs by wrapping the yarn around each peg. Once you’ve wrapped the number of pegs you want, you’ll wrap back around the already-wrapped pegs.
After you’ve wrapped the needed pegs, you’ll take your loom knit pick and lay the bottom strands of yarn over the top strands. This is how to loom knit.
Depending on the gauge of your loom, you may want to double or triple your yarn. For example, if your loom has a 3/8″ gauge, one strand of yarn will work just fine, but if your loom has a 5/8″ gauge, you may want to double or triple your yarn, depending on the thickness you want. Of course, you can use a single strand for a 5/8″ gauge loom, but your finished item may have more gaps between the pegs.
Loom Knitting Versus Knitting
Again, the only difference between loom knitting and knitting is that one requires casting onto pegs, while the other requires casting onto needles.
Regular knitting consists of two stitches: a knit and a purl. In loom knitting, you can do the same two stitches as well. You can also combine the stitches to create a rib, stockinette, garter stitch, and more.
Also, if you struggle with knitting needles but like various knitting patterns, you can recreate those patterns on a knitting loom.
Want to Loom Knit
Good news: Loom knitting is an inexpensive hobby. There are many looms on the market to choose from and tons of YouTube videos to help you get started. This craft is great for adults and children.
Recently, I’ve gotten back into loom knitting and have had a lot of fun creating cute baby cocoons. I highly recommend loom knitting, for it’s a fun and relaxing hobby.
If you loom knit or are considering trying it out, please let me know your thoughts in the comments.
Happy Loom Knitting!
