Show #505 Airing Sunday 12/27/09
When they told me I’d be learning to knit today, I thought they were just spinning a yarn. But here I am, ready to needle our guest, Liz Tekus, for purls of wisdom about this hot-as-can-be hobby. Liz is the owner of Fine Points, Inc.
Question:First, let's unravel a bit of information about all these things you've brought. Tell me, what's the point of all these different needles?
Answer: The size of the needle depends upon the size of the yarn – and there are so many options when it comes to yarn!
You can think of yarn and needles like fitting a hat onto your head.
You want the right size. If it’s too big, it could fall off.
If it’s too small, it would be uncomfortable.
So, we match up the type of yarn to the needle.
For example, this type of yarn would be good for socks – but this chunky yarn would make very uncomfortable footwear!
As you can see, knitting is not like it used to be; we have so many more options in addition to the basic practical yarns of years ago. We’ve come a long way and now yarns do a lot of the work for you.
Question:I guess now's the time to see if I have a way with wool. Can you teach me?
Answer: Absolutely! Anyone can learn to knit. It’s easier than driving a car or tying your shoe! You just have to do it!
Here’s what you do (short simple instructions)
In fact, there’s a children’s rhyme that I use to help teach: Into the gate
……go through the back
….out through the window... and out jumps jack!
Question:What if someone has arthritis or challenges using their hands? Is knitting a no-no?
Answer: Not at all. Knitters love to knit – and the industry wants them to keep enjoying it! So, they make wooden needles – out of hard wood – that absorbs the shock as you knit.
Question:The benefit of knitting is you end up with a scarf. Any other benefits?
Answer: Knitting is actually great for your disposition and mental health! And it’s not just me saying that – it has been clinically proven that knitting releases the same endorphins that runners experience!
You can master one thing – like a scarf – and then keep learning on the next project.
You’ll actually look forward to being shut inside this winter in bad weather – because you can knit.
It is also a great intergenerational activity – teach your grand kids – get to share time, create something.
You can’t pull the wool over my eyes – Liz is a pro who loves to teach. And she’s has woven quite a spell about the nature of knitting! For more information, you can visit Liz’s store – or give her a call. The number’s next.
