Have you ever noticed that people hold their yarn differently when knitting? When comparing english vs continental knitting, you’ll see that most knitters in English-speaking countries use the English method. In fact, over 60% of knitters prefer English knitting, while about 30% choose Continental. Maybe you picked your style because it felt natural, or maybe you learned from a friend or family member. Here are some common reasons why people choose one style over the other when it comes to english vs continental knitting:
Reason/Factor | Continental Knitting | English Knitting |
|---|---|---|
Yarn Tensioning Hand | Yarn is held tight in the left hand | Yarn is held tight in the right hand |
Speed | Usually faster since you move your hands less | Tends to be a bit slower, especially when switching stitches |
Ease for Beginners | Can feel tricky at first; less common in English-speaking areas | Easier for beginners; making stitches is more straightforward |
Risk of Repetitive Strain Injury | Lower risk because there’s less arm movement | Higher risk due to more arm and shoulder movement |
Cultural Prevalence | Popular in parts of Europe like Germany and Scandinavia | Common in English-speaking countries like the UK and USA |
Left-Handed Knitters | Often preferred by left-handed knitters | Some left-handed people adapt the movements |
Personal Comfort and Social Factors | Comfort and personal preference matter most; people may judge, but you shouldn’t worry | Comfort and personal preference matter most; people may judge, but you shouldn’t worry |
When it comes to english vs continental knitting, the best choice is whatever feels most comfortable for you. Try both styles and see which one you enjoy more!
Key Takeaways
English knitting uses your right hand to move the yarn. This way is easier for beginners. But it can be slower and make your hand tired after a while. – Continental knitting holds the yarn in your left hand. You use the needle to pick up the yarn. This style is faster and smoother. It also makes your hands less tired. – Both styles make the same stitches and fabric. Your projects will look nice with either method. – Trying both styles helps you find what feels best. It can make knitting easier and help your hands not hurt. It also helps you get better at knitting. – Learning both ways gives you more choices. This is helpful for hard projects like colorwork. It also lets you knit longer without getting tired.
English vs Continental Knitting
When you look at different knitting styles, you might wonder what sets them apart. The two most popular methods are the english style and the continental style. Both create beautiful projects, but the way you hold and move the yarn makes a big difference.
What Is English Knitting
In the english style, you hold the yarn in your right hand. People often call this method “throwing” because you wrap, or throw, the yarn over the needle with your right hand for each stitch. This style feels natural if you like using your right hand for most tasks. Many beginners start with english knitting because the movements are easy to see and follow. You move your whole hand or even your arm to wrap the yarn, which can feel comfortable at first. However, some knitters notice that these bigger movements can slow them down over time.
What Is Continental Knitting
The continental style works a bit differently. Here, you hold the yarn in your left hand. Instead of throwing the yarn, you use the needle to “pick” the yarn through the stitch. This is why people call it “picking.” The movements are smaller and often quicker. If you have tried crochet before, you might find continental knitting feels more familiar. Many knitters say this style helps them knit faster and with less strain on their hands.
Tip: If you want to knit for long periods without getting tired, continental knitting might help because your hands move less.
Here’s a quick comparison to help you see the main differences:
Aspect | English Knitting Style | Continental Knitting Style |
|---|---|---|
Yarn Hand Position | Held in the right hand | Held in the left hand |
Yarn Movement | “Throwing” the yarn over the needle | “Picking” the yarn with the needle tip |
Stitch Formation | Wrap yarn around the needle | Pick yarn with the needle |
Ease of Learning | Often easier for beginners | Feels natural for crocheters or left-handed knitters |
Speed | Usually slower | Often faster |
Ergonomics | More hand movement | Less hand movement |
No matter which knitting style you choose, both english vs continental knitting methods let you create the same stitches and projects. Try both and see which one feels best for you!
Differences Between English and Continental Style
When you look at the differences between English and Continental style, you’ll notice three main things: how you hold the yarn, how your hands move, and how you form each stitch. Let’s break down each part so you can see what sets these knitting styles apart.
Yarn Position
The first thing you’ll spot is where you hold the yarn. In English style, you keep the yarn in your right hand. You use your right hand to control the tension and wrap the yarn around the needle. Continental style does the opposite. You hold the yarn in your left hand and use your fingers to keep the yarn tight.
Here’s a quick table to show you the difference:
Knitting Method | Yarn Position | Yarn Tension Hand | Movement Style | Speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
English | Right hand | Right hand | Yarn manually wrapped around needle by right hand | Average |
Continental | Left hand | Left hand | Yarn ‘fished’ or picked by right needle with yarn held in left hand | Fast |
You might find that holding the yarn in your left hand (Continental) feels more natural if you’ve tried crochet before. The yarn’s position changes how you move your hands and how quickly you can knit.
Hand Movements
Hand movement is where you’ll really feel the difference. In English style, you use your right hand to “throw” the yarn over the needle. This means you move your whole hand, or sometimes even your arm, for every stitch. It can feel rhythmic, but it takes more effort.
Continental style uses a “picking” motion. You keep the yarn in your left hand and use the right needle to scoop or pick the yarn through the stitch. Your hands barely move. This makes Continental knitting faster and less tiring for many people.
In English style, you:
Hold the yarn in your right hand.
Throw or wrap the yarn around the needle for each stitch.
Use bigger hand and arm movements.
In Continental style, you:
Hold the yarn in your left hand.
Use the right needle to pick or scoop the yarn.
Make smaller, quicker movements.
Tip: If you want to knit for long periods without getting tired, Continental style might help because your hands move less.
Stitch Formation
The way you form stitches also changes between these two knitting techniques. In English style, you insert the right needle into the stitch, then use your right hand to throw the yarn over the needle. You finish by sliding the stitch off the left needle. This method gives you a lot of control, but it can slow you down.
In Continental style, you insert the right needle into the stitch, then use the needle tip to pick the yarn from your left hand. You don’t need to let go of the needle or move your hand much. This makes the process smoother and often faster.
Here’s a table to help you compare:
Aspect | English Knitting (Throwing) | Continental Knitting (Picking) |
|---|---|---|
Yarn Holding Hand | Right hand | Left hand |
Stitch Formation Motion | ‘Throwing’ yarn around the right needle (overhand motion) | ‘Picking’ yarn with the right needle (underhand motion) |
Stitch Manipulation | Yarn is wrapped around the needle by throwing | Yarn is lifted or picked with the needle |
Common Terminology | Right-handed, American style | |
Process Steps | Insert needle, throw yarn, slide stitch off left needle | Insert needle, pick yarn, slide stitch off left needle |
You might notice that the stitches look the same no matter which knitting style you use. But the way you make them can change your speed, your comfort, and even the tightness of your fabric. Some knitters find that Continental style creates a tighter gauge, while English style can make the yarn look a bit looser. If you want a certain look or feel, you might need to adjust your needle size or tension.
Note: Some experts say that Continental knitting can twist the yarn tighter, making your stitches smaller and your fabric firmer. English style can untwist the yarn, which sometimes makes the fabric softer but less durable.
No matter which knitting technique you choose, you’ll end up with beautiful stitches. The main thing is to find the style that feels best for you.
Similarities in Knitting
When you look at English and Continental knitting, you might wonder if the results are different. The truth is, both styles give you the same beautiful results. Let’s see how they match up.
Stitches Produced
No matter which style you use, you create the same basic stitches. Both English and Continental knitting let you make knit and purl stitches. These two stitches are the building blocks for almost every pattern you’ll find. You can use either method to make garter stitch, stockinette stitch, or even more complex designs.
Knitting manuals and tutorials agree on this point. The way you hold the yarn changes, but the actual stitch stays the same. When you finish a row, you’ll see the familiar “v” shapes of knit stitches and the bumpy ridges of purl stitches. If you switch from one style to the other, your project will still look consistent.
No matter how you move your hands, you end up with the same types of stitches. That means you can follow any pattern, no matter which style you choose.
Finished Fabric
You might wonder if the fabric feels different when you use a new style. Textile experts say the finished fabric from English and Continental knitting looks and feels almost identical. For example, if you knit a scarf using the Brioche stitch, you get a soft, squishy, and reversible fabric with both methods.
Here’s what you can expect from both styles:
The fabric has the same texture and stretch.
Patterns like ribbing, cables, and lace look the same.
Your finished project will match the pattern photos, no matter which style you use.
If you want to try a new style, you don’t have to worry about your project turning out differently. The main difference is how you get there, not what you make.
Speed and Efficiency
Which Is Faster
You might wonder which knitting style lets you finish your projects faster. Many knitters say the continental style is quicker, especially when you knit in the round. This happens because you use smaller hand movements and keep both hands on the needles. You pick the yarn with the needle instead of throwing it, so your hands move less. That means you can get into a smooth rhythm and finish rows quickly.
But speed isn’t just about the style you choose. Some experienced English knitters use a method called “flicking.” With flicking, you keep the yarn over your right index finger and never let go of the needle. This trick can make English knitting just as fast—or even faster—than continental style. Purling in continental style can sometimes slow you down because it takes a few extra steps. So, the fastest knitters often use the technique that feels most natural and efficient for them.
Tip: Don’t worry if you’re not the fastest knitter. Comfort and enjoyment matter more than speed!
Factors Affecting Speed
Several things can change how fast you knit. The way you hold and move the yarn makes a big difference. In English style, you throw the yarn with your right hand. In continental style, you pick the yarn with your left hand. If you can keep your movements small and steady, you’ll knit faster no matter which style you use.
Other factors also play a role:
Yarn and Needle Size: Some people knit faster with thin yarn and small needles, while others prefer thick yarn and big needles because the stitches are larger.
Technique: If you use methods like lever knitting or flicking, you can boost your speed by cutting out extra movements.
Muscle Memory: The more you practice, the smoother and quicker your hands will move.
Relaxation: Staying relaxed helps you keep a steady rhythm and avoid hand fatigue.
You’ll find that efficiency comes from practice, comfort, and finding the style that fits you best. Try different methods and tools to see what helps you knit faster and enjoy your projects more.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Hand Fatigue
When you spend a lot of time knitting, your hands can get tired. The way you hold your yarn and move your hands makes a big difference. In English knitting, you use your right hand to throw the yarn over the needle. This means your hand and sometimes your whole arm move with every stitch. If you knit for hours, you might feel more strain in your wrist, hand, or even your shoulder.
Continental knitting feels different. You hold the yarn in your left hand and use smaller movements. Your right needle picks the yarn, so your hands stay closer to the needles. Many people say this style helps them knit longer without getting tired. If you want to knit for a long time, you might find Continental style more comfortable.
Tip: If your hands start to ache, take a short break and stretch your fingers. This helps prevent soreness no matter which style you use.
Tension Control
Tension control means how tight or loose your stitches are. Good tension makes your knitting look neat and even. The way you hold the yarn changes how easy it is to keep your tension steady.
Here’s a quick look at how tension control works in both styles:
Aspect | Continental Knitting | English Knitting |
|---|---|---|
Yarn Holding Hand | Left hand | Right hand |
Yarn Manipulation | Yarn loops around left fingers for smooth control | Yarn is thrown or wrapped with right hand |
Tension Control | Managed by left hand grip and finger position, often more consistent | Depends on how you throw the yarn; can be less steady |
Movement Efficiency | Small, quick movements | Bigger, slower movements |
Suitability | Great for smooth, even tension | Good for patterns that need frequent yarn wrapping |
Many experienced knitters say Continental knitting gives you smoother, more even tension once you get used to it. English knitting lets you control each stitch, which can help with tricky patterns, but your tension might change if your hand gets tired.
No matter which style you choose, practice helps you find the right balance. Try both and see which one feels best for your hands and your knitting projects.
Learning Curve
Beginner Friendliness
If you are just starting out, you might wonder which knitting style is easier to learn. Many beginners say that Continental knitting feels more natural, especially if you have tried crochet before. You hold the yarn in your left hand and use the needle to pick the yarn, which can make the movements smoother and faster. Some people find the knit stitch in Continental style easy to pick up right away, but purling can take a bit more practice.
Here are some things beginners have shared about learning each style:
Some found the English knit stitch tricky at first and stuck to purling for weeks before getting the hang of it.
Others switched from English to Continental knitting and felt it was easier and more enjoyable, even if they had some tension problems at first.
Many say English knitting can feel slow and awkward, while Continental style lets you grip the needle better and wrap the yarn more easily.
A group of new knitters tried both methods and most liked keeping the yarn in their left hand, saying Continental knitting was easier to learn.
No matter which style you choose, you will need to practice to get even stitches and good tension. Both styles can make beautiful projects once you get comfortable.
Switching Styles
Maybe you started with one knitting style and now want to try the other. Switching styles can help you find what feels best for your hands and can even help with hand pain or wrist strain. Experts suggest you do not need to switch all at once. Try practicing the new style on simple projects like scarves or dishcloths.
Here are some tips for switching between English and Continental knitting:
Practice the new style slowly and on easy patterns.
Use yarn and needles that feel comfortable and are not too slippery.
If you have wrist pain, switching styles can give your hands a break.
Learning both styles can help you adjust your tension and even knit faster.
Continental knitting can be great for colorwork and for people who want to knit with less movement.
If you keep practicing, you will soon find that switching styles gets easier. Many knitters enjoy knowing both methods because it gives them more options and helps them enjoy knitting even more.
Which One Is Better
For Beginners
If you are just starting your knitting journey, you might wonder which one is better for learning. Many beginners find English knitting easier at first. You hold the yarn in your right hand, and the movements feel simple. This method helps you see how each stitch forms. It also makes it easier to control your tension as you practice. Here are some tips for beginners:
Try both styles on a small swatch to see which feels more natural.
Use medium-weight yarn that is not too slippery.
Pick high-contrast colors so you can see your stitches clearly.
Use stitch markers to keep track of your rows and patterns.
Practice basic stitches before starting a big project.
Continental knitting can feel tricky at first because you hold the yarn in your left hand. If you stick with it, you might find it faster and more comfortable over time. Both styles need practice to get even stitches and good tension.
Remember, every knitter learns at their own pace. The best knitting style is the one that feels right for you.
For Crocheters
If you already know how to crochet, Continental knitting might feel like second nature. You hold the yarn in your left hand, just like in crochet. Many crocheters say this makes the transition to knitting much smoother. Picking the yarn with the needle feels similar to hooking yarn in crochet. This style can also be faster and less tiring for your hands. Some people even say it helps them knit for longer without pain.
However, you should watch your posture. Holding your hands the wrong way can cause wrist or forearm strain. Take breaks and stretch your fingers to stay comfortable.
For Advanced Knitters
If you have lots of knitting experience, you might want to master both styles. Knowing both gives you more options for different projects. For example, many advanced knitters use both styles when working with two colors at once. This makes colorwork faster and easier. You can also switch styles if your hands get tired or if you want to try a new technique.
Here’s a quick table to help you decide:
Knitter Type | English Knitting | Continental Knitting |
|---|---|---|
Beginners | Easy to learn, good for tension control | Can be tricky at first, but fast with practice |
Crocheters | May feel awkward | Feels natural, similar to crochet |
Advanced Knitters | Great for detailed patterns | Perfect for speed and colorwork |
So, which one is better? The answer depends on your background, comfort, and project needs. Try both and see what works for you. Knitting should be fun and relaxing, no matter which style you choose.
Pros and Cons
English Style
When you use the English style, you might notice a few things right away. Many people learn this method first because it is common in beginner classes. If you are right-handed, you may find it feels comfortable and natural. Kids often pick up the English style quickly since the throwing motion is easy to see and repeat.
Pros:
You can find lots of tutorials and help for this method.
The throwing motion helps some knitters keep their stitches even.
Many right-handed knitters feel at home with this style.
The slower pace can help you control your tension.
Cons:
The throwing motion can make your hands and wrists tired, especially if you knit for a long time.
Some people find purl stitches harder and more awkward.
You might knit slower because the yarn travels farther with each stitch.
Tip: If you ever feel wrist pain, try switching styles or take a break. Many knitters say learning both English and Continental styles can help reduce strain.
Continental Style
The continental style feels different from the English style. You hold the yarn in your left hand and use the needle to pick it up. If you have crocheted before, this style may feel more natural. Many knitters say they knit faster with the continental style, especially when switching between knit and purl stitches.
Pros:
You can knit faster because your hands move less.
Switching between stitches, like ribbing, feels smooth and quick.
This style works well for left-handed knitters and crocheters.
Cons:
If you learned the English style first, continental style may feel tricky at first.
Some beginners struggle to keep their tension even.
You might feel finger discomfort from pushing the needle tip.
Note: Try both styles before you decide which one fits you best. Many knitters enjoy using both for different projects.
Learning Both Styles
Versatility
When you learn both English and Continental knitting, you open up a world of possibilities. You can switch between styles based on what feels best for your hands or the project you want to make. Some yarns work better with one knitting technique, while others look great with the other. If you have a background in crochet, Continental knitting might feel easier because the hand position is similar.
Here are some ways knowing both styles makes you a more versatile knitter:
You can pick the knitting technique that feels smoothest for each project.
You get to show off different yarn textures and colors by switching styles.
You can knit for longer periods by changing your hand movements, which helps prevent hand fatigue.
You can create a wider variety of fabric textures and finished looks.
Tip: If your hands start to feel tired, try switching to the other style. This simple change can help you keep knitting comfortably.
Colorwork
Colorwork projects look amazing, but they can be tricky if you only know one style. When you hold one yarn in each hand—using English for one color and Continental for the other—you make stranded knitting much easier. This method helps you keep your yarns from tangling and lets you control the tension for each color.
Many knitters say that learning both styles makes colorwork faster and more fun. You can manage two colors at once without dropping your yarn or losing your place. This skill is especially helpful for advanced knitting techniques like Fair Isle or Brioche, where you need to handle multiple strands.
Holding one yarn in each hand helps you keep your floats loose, so your fabric stays stretchy.
You can switch between styles to match the pattern or your comfort level.
Advanced knitters often use both styles to speed up their colorwork and keep their stitches even.
Note: If you want to try more complex knitting techniques, learning both English and Continental styles gives you the flexibility and control you need.
You’ve seen how both English and Continental knitting have their own strengths. Here’s what stands out:
Continental style uses your left hand and a picking motion, which many find fast and efficient.
English style uses your right hand and a throwing motion, which feels intuitive for some.
Both styles create the same patterns and beautiful fabric. Try both methods. Pick the one that feels right for you. There’s no single best way—your comfort and project goals matter most. Enjoy your knitting journey! 🧶
FAQ
Can I switch between English and Continental knitting in one project?
Yes, you can! Many knitters use both styles in the same project, especially for colorwork. Switching styles can help your hands feel less tired and make knitting more fun.
Will my knitting look different if I change styles?
No, your finished fabric will look the same. Both styles create the same stitches. If your tension changes, you might see a slight difference, but most people will not notice.
Is Continental knitting only for left-handed people?
No, anyone can use Continental knitting. Some left-handed knitters find it easier, but right-handed people enjoy it too. Try both styles and see which one feels better for you.
What should I do if my tension is uneven?
Try practicing with simple patterns. Focus on holding the yarn the same way each time. If your stitches still look uneven, switch to a different style or adjust your grip. Practice helps a lot!
