Do you ever find yourself struggling to keep your hands in the same place while you knit? If so, then a knitting belt may be just what you need! Knitting belts are probably one of the most useful accessories that can come from learning to knit. They can help keep your knitting steady and more precise by keeping it stationary with limited movement. They’re also very convenient as they reduce the effort required to keep your hands in one place while you knit. Knitting belts are especially helpful for new knitters who are often afraid their stitches will slip out of control if they move too quickly and end up dropping their needles or yarns on the floor.
What is a Knitting Belt?
A knitting belt is a flexible loop of fabric that you slide around your wrist to keep your knitting stationary while you work. It’s especially helpful for people who are new to knitting as it allows you to keep your hands stationary while you work with limited movement. While knitting belts are most commonly used as a way to keep your knitting stationary, you can also use them with a crochet hook or needle to work on one side of your projects and then flip over to work on the other side. A knitting belt is basically a long loop of fabric that you slide around your wrist. You can buy adjustable knitting belts, but the most basic type is a length of fabric with a drawstring closure at one end. You can adjust the length of the belt to fit different wrist sizes.
Knitting Belt Benefits
A knitting belt is great for new knitters who often find themselves dropping stitches or dropping their knitting too quickly while they’re trying to keep their hands steady. With a knitting belt, you can keep both hands stationary while you work, keeping your stitches more stable. Another great benefit of a knitting belt is how it allows you to work outside of your sitting area. This can be especially helpful when travelling as you can keep your knitting with you while you travel and work on it when you have access to a power source. This means you can also continue to knit even if you can’t get to a local yarn store to pick up more yarn or needles. A knitting belt is also especially helpful for circular knitting as it allows you to keep your knitting stationary while you work on one side of the project and then flip over to work on the other side. You can also use a knitting belt with a crochet hook to work on one side of the project and then flip over to work on the other side. This can be a helpful way to work on multiples of a specific piece while you’re working on one smaller piece at a time. A final benefit of a knitting belt is that it can help with hand motor dysfunction. People with hand motor dysfunction often experience pain and stiffness in their hands and wrists as they age. One study showed that wearing a knitting belt for 30 to 60 minutes every day for 4 weeks helped reduce pain and improve motor function in people with hand motor dysfunction.
Knitting Belt Types
Adjustable is the most basic type of knitting belt. It’s a length of fabric with a drawstring closure at one end and an easily adjustable length. A sturdy belt is great if you need a sturdier option for working with heavier items like a hook or needle. It also protects your wrist from getting worn down by the weight of the items as you work. A quick belt is most useful for projects that you plan to work on while you’re sitting down. An extra wide knitting belt is useful for people who want a more cushioned option to protect their wrists.
Knitting Belt Tips and Tricks
t’s easier to keep your stitches steady when you’re working on a flat surface. Be sure to keep your wrist straight when you work. If you bend your wrist or if the belt is too loose, it can cause irritation or pinching in your wrist. It’s best to wear your belt while you’re sleeping. This allows the fabric to stretch and expand as you move so that it doesn’t pinch or irritate your wrist. Invest in a few different types of belts to help you get creative with your projects. You can also use a belt to hold various items like your crochet hook, scissors, or other tools. Don’t let the weight of the items in your projects wear out the belt. Check it often to make sure it’s still in good shape. If you use a knitting belt often, you may want to invest in a sewing belt as well to protect your wrists from too much irritation.
Set Your Budget for A New Knitting Belt
If you’re new to knitting, your budget will likely be limited. That’s okay though because you don’t need to spend a lot to get started! You can find inexpensive beginner kits online or in your local craft store. These kits usually include all the supplies you need to get started, including a book or DVD to walk you through the process of knitting, needles, and a pattern for a simple scarf or other project. You can also find materials online for free or for a small fee. If you’re looking for a more expensive option, you can also invest in a higher quality knitting belt. While they aren’t necessary for beginning knitters, they can help to keep your stitches more stable and steadier as you become more experienced with knitting.
Final Words
You can’t become a great knitter overnight, but with practice, patience, and the right accessories, you can become a better knitter in no time at all! A knitting belt can help you to keep your hands steady and your stitches more stable so that you can work more comfortably and enjoy your knitting more.