Successful kitting projects don’t just happen. They require some planning and preparation combined with consistent work. Here are a few tips to keep in mind.

1. Choose a knitting pattern that is consistent with your skill level.

If you have never knitted anything before, you’ll want to start out with something simple like a baby beanie hat or basic baby blanket. Choose a project that only uses basic stitches so you won’t quit in frustrated. Once you’ve gotten used to knitting simple patterns, then you can graduate to something more difficult.

2. Buy all the yarn you need up front.

If you are working on a large project that requires multiple skeins, be sure to buy all of your yarn before you start. Be sure to check for the dye lot number and buy all your skeins from the same lot. Otherwise, there may be slight color variations that will affect the finished look of your project.

3. Follow the directions given in your pattern.

Unless you are a very experienced knitter, it is a good idea to follow the directions exactly as stated in the pattern. After all, you want your project to look like right. Find a way that works for you to keep track of which row you’re on. This is especially important if your pattern is quite involved.

4. Work consistently to get it done.

Many people like to have several knitting projects going on at one time and that’s okay if it works for you. However, if you’re one of those people who has trouble finishing projects, make it a rule to finish your current project before you start another one. This will save you a lot of frustration in the future. It’s hard to go back and get into a project after you’ve let it sit for a while. Plus, it’s a waste of money to buy yarn and never finish using it.

Knitting is a wonderful way to pass the time. Make your knitting projects move along smoothly by preparing everything before you start.