I want to knit

[cutekid]

My DP bought me a wondeful..I taught myself to knit book two years ago. I have learned how to do the basic stitches. I have knitted a hat, and several scarfs. However i am ready to start knitting for practical home use.

I am not sure how exactly to go about finding good quality natural fibers. I always get sticker shock when I see the price of good yarn. I think to myself..why waist the time since I can just by something pre made for considerably cheaper.

I would like to also make some of my own knitting needles. Any ideas on what would make a great knitting needle that didn't cost me nearly $10 a set.

[birdiefu]

Hey, if you've already knit a few things up, you knit already!

I really like knitpicks for good-quality, affordable yarn. I have no idea about making knitting needles, but I love the options set from knitpicks too.

[Glover_Girls]

Well I certainly agree there is lots of cheap stuff out there that is easier to buy than make yourself. For me, a big part of knitting is the satisfaction I get from making it myself and when I make things for others, I know they appreciate the time and love that went into the item. I also enjoy knitting as a way to relax. So that said, I probably don't consider myself a knitter for practical home use. If that was the case, I'd be in big trouble as I'm the slowest knitter and don't have a lot of time so I squeeze it in whenever I can. I knit so I can give meaningful gifts to friends and family.

Anyway...I hear ya on the cost of yarn though. It can add up when you need 10 skeins for something! My tip: I shop the sale bins at my LYS. Right now the winter stuff is on sale to make room for the spring/summer yarns. I'm stocking up and starting now on Christmas gifts that will (hopefully) be finished by winter! I second birdiefu, knitpicks has some good deals right now. You could also check ebay (if you're into that) or craigslist for both yarn and needles. http://patternworks.com also has some sales going on.

I don't know anything about making needles though. I wouldn't even know where to start.