Learn to recognize your stitches

As a designer, I have come to write my instructions to meet the need of the publication or company I am working for. Some editors publish only written instructions, others offer both the written words and a corresponding chart.

When I have taught knitting to beginners, I always strived to show the importance of recognizing what a stitch looks like so that no matter where you are in your instruction, you can find your way easily just by looking at your work. I find looking at charted instruction to be a good place to practice that skill. Once you become proficient at recognizing what certain stitches look like in certain application, you'll never be lost again. You'll be able to follow the written instructions and match them to your knitted piece, stitch by stitch.

Do you prefer using charts or written instructions?

(excerpts from a discussion group postings)

"I really need to have both. I started out using just written instructions but I am now learning to use charts. Frankly I need both, one to back up the other when I get confused." - Joan

"As long as I can get a rhythm going, I can work with either one. Given my druthers, I like both and for some it is an either/or situation so both should be offered if the patternmaker wants to hit the broadest market. I agree that every knitter should learn to 'read' their knitting, but sometimes it is still confusing and especially when frustration levels have been reached." - Carole

"I prefer charts for two reasons: (1) I find it easier to find my place if I get distracted in the middle of a row or a pattern repeat than using written instructions, and (2) I don't always use the yarn recommended (in fact, I think I've used the recommended yarn once in the whole time I've been knitting), so I make a small swatch to check the gauge of the yarn I'm using and adjust the pattern accordingly, which would be much more difficult to do without a chart." - Barbara

"I am a visual knitter, so charts help me much more than words because I can see where I am much faster. I find in worded instructions it is much easier for me to skip or redo a section, whereas with charts I find myself seeing where I am and where I'm headed. " - Betsy

Note that the information quoted above may or may not be correct. It is posted here purely as a starting point from which knitters can begin researching knitting methods and be inspired by other enthusiasts.