BellaOnline Forums Hobbies and Crafts Knitting Beginners knitting tools article

http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art43414.asp

Earlier this week I wrote the above article on the tools that someone who is setting out to learn his or her first stitches in knitting needs to buy. I feel quite strongly that someone like this isn't going to need additional items such as tape measure or crochet hook which most seasoned knitters will have in their workbasket, until they're actually ready to knit an item. Once they've actually learned to cast on, knit and purl, increase, decrease and cast off they will know whether they're going to enjoy knitting. They can then go back to the yarn shop and buy the materials for a simple item such as a bag or scarf and then the additional items will become necessary.

What do others think?

Here's my 2 cents worth and I by no means intend to offend...

boy that sounds like it would pull someone up, which is not my intention! I'm a pretty laid back barefoot, handspinning, knitting kind of gal.

I've taught knitting to kids and teens, and also have taught dressmaking and quilting to kids. I like to make sure they have a few basic supplies, even for the beginning projects. However, I don't feel that they should go into any expense at the beginning. Personally, when i teach someone to knit I suggest having a tape measure, scissors-nothing fancy at this point, a pad of paper to keep notes on and a needle for weaving in the loose ends.

I'd like to add something, with bamboo and wood needles it's easy to keep stitches from slipping off which may help some beginners to not feel so frustrated if they keep dropping stitches.

I liked the article and Addi's are my favorite also. You're doing a good job and I'm glad I wandered my way back to Bella!

Bunny