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Expert: Lesley Arnold-Hopkins - 6/30/2009


Question
I am making afghans that start in the center with 5 stitches on double point needles.  I find this very hard to do. Is there an easy way to do this.  Judith<><

Answer
Hi Judith,

Thanks for your question.

This is fiddly and so I can offer two possible options.

1) Rather than using double pointed needles, you may find it easier using a circular needle and the magic loop method. The following is a video for magic loop (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJ6gvswaCoI), but there are other sources of instruction available.

2) I must confess, however, that when I'm in the same situation, I cheat! If I'm starting off with just a few stitches, like this, I work the first few rows back and forth, rather than in the round, and then divide the stitches between the dpns when I have more of them to split. Once the work is finished, I use the yarn left on my cast on tail to sew up the small seam needed.

I hope that this helps.

Lesley

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Lesley Arnold-Hopkins

Expertise

I can answer questions on all types of knitting on needles (ie not loom or machine knitting) including Fairisle, intarsia, lace and basic knitwear design. I can also answer on crochet, including tapestry crochet, but I do not have sufficient knowledge of toys or stuffed animals to call myself an expert.

Experience

I've been knitting and crocheting for over 35 years. In that time I have made a variety of items, incorporating a range of stitch techniques and have designed my own garments. I have had patterns published in the UK (crochet and knitting) and teach both crafts.

Publications
Suite 101

Education/Credentials
BA(Hons)Open (not related to knitting or crochet, but shows my highest level of education)

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