knitting: what skill level am i?

at maypop, we welcome knitters at every stage. knowing your skill level helps you find the right class, pattern, or project so you can enjoy the process and build confidence as you go.

level one: beginner

you’re just starting or still getting comfortable with the basics. you’re learning to hold your needles, keep tension even, and build a foundation. you can:

• Cast on (long-tail or knit on)

• knit stitch (and maybe purl)

• join a new ball of yarn

• bind off and weave in ends

• sew simple seams (whip stitch)

• notice small mistakes

level two: intermediate

you know the basics and are ready to explore more techniques. you can follow simple patterns and shape your work with confidence. you can:

• purl stitch and combine knit/purl patterns

• simple increases and decreases (kfb, k2tog, ssk)

• work in the round (circular needles or DPNs)

• pick up stitches

• read patterns with confidence

• start experimenting with stitch textures (rib, seed stitch, garter + stockinette combinations)

• fix mistakes thoughtfully

level three: advanced

you’re confident with the basics and want to experiment with shape, texture, and color. you can:

• work small or unusual shapes (modular pieces, magic loop)

• combine textures in one piece

• introduce colorwork

• seaming (kitchener stitch)

• shape garments with short rows, increases, decreases

• begin designing your own variations or experimenting with stitch patterns