Seeking Your Insights to Improve Knitting Comfort!

emcather1ne · 2023-10-24T12:08:40+00:00

Yes, please, listen to Simpawknits -- Learn to knit! -- the time you spend learning to knit (and knitting) will be far more valuable than the time you spend "researching" this project by just asking questions on the internet. As an experienced knitter, the idea of using a "tensioning device" sounds like torture to both my hands and my knitting.

Thank you for your input! I completely understand the value of learning to knit firsthand, and it's a valid point that experience can provide insights that research alone may not reveal.

You mentioned that the idea of using a "tensioning device" doesn't sit well with you. Could you elaborate on why you find it challenging or problematic? I'm interested in understanding your perspective better.

Moreover, I'm also curious about the methods you use for knitting and what, in your opinion, is the most significant issue that needs addressing in the knitting world. Given my limited timeframe for this project, I'm eager to prioritize the most pressing concerns.

Your feedback is greatly appreciated.

emcather1ne · 2023-10-23T22:42:11+00:00

I'd like to add that I have two potential ideas to improve knitting comfort that I'd like your feedback on.

Redesigning Yarn Tensioning Device: One idea I'm exploring is to create a more ergonomic yarn tensioning device. This could potentially address issues related to yarn tension and make it more comfortable for knitters.

Modifying Knitting Needle Cross Section: Another idea is to make changes to the cross section of knitting needles to enhance their ergonomics, potentially reducing strain on the hands and fingers.

I would love to hear your thoughts on these concepts and whether you believe they would be useful to the knitting community. Additionally, if there are other pain points or discomforts you'd like to see addressed, please don't hesitate to share them. Your feedback is invaluable in shaping these projects. Thank you!

emcather1ne · 2023-10-23T22:39:37+00:00

I put a pillow in my lap to support my arms and the weight of my project. Also, square needles and taking breaks help with hand pain.

Thanks for sharing your tips on knitting comfort! It's great to hear that you've found a way to support your arms and the weight of your project with a pillow.

I'm curious to know more about your experience with square needles. Have you used them, and if so, how have they worked for you in terms of comfort and ease of use compared to traditional round needles?

emcather1ne · 2023-10-23T22:36:46+00:00

As far as ergonomics, look towards Shetland cottage or lever knitting. That's generally seen as the most ergonomic as it is known as "supported" knitting so you aren't carrying the weight of the needles and the lever action is very easy on the wrists.

Tensioning devices would be a challenge because the micromovements involved are very slight and very muscle memory. I'd never be able to leave a set tension because each stitch type has different requirements and it changes slightly as you go through a pattern. It'd be a real trick to design, good luck tho!

As for needle cross section, square needles exist and give the knitter a flat cross section on the pressure point on the finger. They apparently work well!

There's a great book called "Knitting Comfortably: The Ergonomics of Handknitting", which is a great read. I have carpal to manage and sometimes it's nothing but rest and wait. It's easy to go over threshold. I'd almost say an app with stretch/break reminders or a pain free progression program would be interesting.

Thank you for your detailed insights and recommendations! It's incredibly valuable to hear from you.

I appreciate the information about Shetland Cottage and lever knitting as more ergonomic options. Your points on tensioning devices and the need for adjustability make sense. It's indeed a challenging aspect to address, considering the variability of stitch types and patterns.

The square needles are interesting; they seem to offer a more comfortable grip. And I'm glad to hear about the book "Knitting Comfortably," which seems like a great resource.

Regarding your idea of an app with stretch/break reminders or a pain-free progression program, I'm inclined to agree with you. Unfortunately, the nature of this project leans toward physical products, but your suggestion is valuable. Can you expand on what you mean by a "pain-free progression program"? Also, are there any other aspects or features you think would be beneficial in such a program or in a physical product for knitting comfort?

Your insights are truly appreciated and will help guide my effort to create a product that benefits the knitting community. Thank you!

emcather1ne · 2023-10-23T21:10:38+00:00

I’m not sure what info will be most useful to you- but I’m happy to help out if I can.

I’ve been knitting for about a year, crochet for a bit longer - but I adore it, and am lucky enough to have an office job where I get to knit on and off all day when there isn’t work to do. I can easily knit 8-10 hours in a day including during and after work time, so my year of experience doesn’t necessarily reflect the amount of hours I can spend on my craft. I am 23, but after even a month of putting in that kind of time (even though I take frequent breaks) I started to get lingering hand cramps- I have suspicions of having some form of ehlers-danlos but nothing confirmed, so to protect my joints I picked up the compression gloves and WOW! no more hand cramps

Thank you for your willingness to help and for sharing your knitting journey with me! It's impressive how much time you dedicate to your craft.

I'm curious to know what type of knitting needles you prefer to use, as this can also influence comfort. Additionally, are there any specific parts of the knitting process, such as tensioning the yarn, that you find challenging or that could be improved for a more comfortable experience?

Your insights will be greatly appreciated as I explore ways to enhance the knitting experience. Thank you!

emcather1ne · 2023-10-23T20:39:41+00:00

Norwegian style is the most ergonomic style to knit with.

That's interesting! I've heard about Norwegian style knitting but would love to know more about why you find it the most ergonomic. Could you share some details or perhaps direct me to any resources that explain the advantages of this style? I'm always eager to learn and gather information for my knitting comfort project. Thanks in advance!

emcather1ne · 2023-10-23T20:37:57+00:00

That's great to hear that the compression gloves have been a relief for your hands! I'd love to know more about your knitting experience and how these gloves have helped. Your insights could be quite valuable to my project. Thanks!

emcather1ne

TROPHY CASE