Whether you already know how to knit using needles or not, this guide on how to arm knit will be pretty useful if you want to learn this beautiful and relaxing art. Here you can find cool DIY projects, learn what type of material to use, and have all of your questions answered.

Knitting Patterns

This color block pattern is amazing for blankets.
This color block pattern is amazing for blankets. Image source: Happy Happy Nester

There are several types of patterns to follow, some of them are:

  • Faux Sheepskin
  • Color Block
  • Fringe Scarf

You can find several free downloadable patterns here.

What Kind of Material to Use

This pink blanket made out of wool is the coziest you'll get!
This pink blanket made out of wool is the coziest you’ll get! Image source: Mamabee

When buying yarn for arm knitting, you need to consider the types and weights available. A few of the options you can find are:

  • Wool is the warmest type, it will be great for winter projects.
  • Cotton is not so easy to work with given it doesn’t block well, but it’s a light and smooth yarn.
  • Acrylic is very easy to use, and great for beginners. It has a bonus of being the cheapest kind too.
  • Polyester is a bit tricky - some people might be allergic to it. However, it’s very easy to manipulate.
  • Silk is kind of slippery, so not the best choice for a beginner. But if you feel like trying, it’s a strong material and amazing for summer projects.
Several types and colors of yarn.
Several types and colors of yarn. Image source: Tricksy

And the weight categories available:

  • 0: lace
  • 1, 2, and 3: super fine, fine, and light
  • 4: medium
  • 5 and 6: bulky and super bulky

You can learn more about yarn weights at Martha Stewart and The Snugglery.

Cool Creative Projects

Knit the cutest place for your pet to rest.
Knit the cutest place for you pet to rest. Image source: Behance

You might think there aren’t many options to try, but people love this new technique, so they get pretty creative with their DIY projects - from scarves to blankets to pet beds! We’ve already written about two amazing projects, check them out:

And both articles include more ideas you can try making as well!

How To Arm Knit

Learn the steps and make awesome projects!
Learn the steps and make awesome projects! Image source: Made Up Style

First of all, you need to make a slip knot. After that, there are four main steps:

  1. Casting on - which is making the amount of stitches required for your project.
  2. After casting on, you’ll be ready to start knitting the rows from one arm to the other.
  3. At this point, you’re pretty much done. Binding off means taking the stitches off your arms.
  4. Finishing it is the last step, where you’ll weave in the ends and enjoy your masterpiece.

Extra Tips

This arm knit pillow will be a great addition to your bedroom decor.
This arm knit pillow will be a great addition to your bedroom decor. Image source: Flax and Twine

Many people ask if it’s possible to stop in the middle of a project, and the answer to this question is: yes, it’s possible! You’ll just need to remember which arm you were using when you stopped, and you’ll be able to pick up right where you left off. Another important thing to keep in mind is that you can use a stitch holder or a cardboard gift wrap roll.

Want to know how to make your stitches tighter? Check out Flax and Twine for a detailed explanation!

Was this guide helpful to you? Let us know in the comments below and make sure to check our DIY & Decor page to find more amazing ideas!

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