How to Knit in Continental Style

Have you ever watched someone knit with lightning speed, their hands barely appearing to move, yet the fabric grows effortlessly? Chances are, they were knitting in Continental style. Known for its efficiency and minimal hand movement, Continental knitting has earned its reputation as a favourite among speed knitters and ergonomic crafters alike. Whether you're looking to relieve hand strain or simply eager to try a new technique, this guide will introduce you to Continental knitting in a supportive and encouraging way.

In this guide, you'll learn the basics of Continental knitting, including how to hold the yarn in your left hand, work knit and purl stitches, and transition smoothly from other knitting styles. We'll also recommend high-quality materials from Thread Collective to help you make the most of your learning journey.

What is Continental Knitting?

Continental knitting is a technique where the yarn is held in the left hand and "picked" by the needle rather than "thrown" over it. This subtle difference sets Continental apart from the more common English style (where the yarn is held in the right hand) and leads to more fluid, economical movements.

This style is particularly popular in parts of Europe, including Germany and Scandinavia, and is sometimes referred to as "German-style knitting." It's especially favoured by crocheters learning to knit, as the left-hand yarn hold often feels more natural to them.

Benefits of Knitting in Continental Style

Continental knitting brings a variety of benefits that can enhance both your technique and overall knitting experience. Known for its efficiency and ergonomic motion, this style can make your stitches faster, your hands more relaxed, and your projects more enjoyable. Below, we explore the key advantages of adopting the Continental method.

Increased Speed

One of the first things people notice when switching to Continental knitting is how much faster it can be. Since the yarn is held in your left hand and the motions are smaller and more streamlined, your hands don’t have to work as hard to form each stitch. It might take a little practice to get the hang of it, but once it clicks, you’ll likely find yourself finishing projects quicker than ever before.

Reduced Hand Strain

If your hands tend to ache after a long knitting session, Continental style might feel like a welcome change. Since the yarn stays in your left hand and the movements are smaller, there’s less strain on your fingers and wrists. It’s a more relaxed way to knit, and that can make a difference, especially if you deal with joint pain, arthritis, or just want to knit more comfortably for extended periods.

Easier Colourwork

If you enjoy working with more than one colour, knowing both Continental and English styles can make things a lot smoother. By holding one yarn in each hand—say, your contrast colour in the left (Continental) and your main colour in the right (English)—you can switch between them without having to drop and pick up strands constantly. It’s a more fluid way to knit colourwork, and it often helps keep your tension more even across the row.

• Yarn Tip For Colourwork:
  Try using yarns with a bit of "tooth"—a slightly grippy texture that helps your strands stay put as you work. Harrisville Shetland Wool or Ashford's Corriedale and Perendale blends are excellent choices. They make managing multiple colours feel a bit more controlled and less slippery.
• For Smooth, Defined Stitches:
  If you’re practising new techniques or want crisp, clean stitch definition, Ashford Merino DK is a dream to work with. It glides smoothly through your fingers and shows off every detail in your stitches

Continental vs Other Knitting Styles

Continental knitting may feel unfamiliar at first, especially if you've always used the English style. But once it clicks, many find it becomes second nature and well worth the adjustment.

Essential Materials for Continental Knitting

Before you begin learning Continental knitting, it's helpful to have all the materials you’ll need on hand. While the basic tools are similar, if not the same, to other knitting styles, a few thoughtful choices can make things easier, especially if you’re new to knitting. In this section, you'll find a simple guide to the yarn, needles, and accessories that work best with the Continental method..

Recommended Knitting Needles

• Lykke Blush IC Needle Set: Smooth and beautifully made. Perfect for everyday projects.
• ITO IC Needles: Lightweight and precise for detailed work.
• Ashford Bamboo Knitting Needles: Great for beginners. Grippy and gentle on the hands.
• KnitPro Mindful Gratitude Set: Ideal for mindful knitters seeking peace in every stitch.

Helpful Accessories

• KnitPro Natural Yarn Dispenser: Keeps your yarn tidy and tangle-free, especially handy when knitting quickly.
• KnitPro Row Counter Ring: Stylish and practical, you can track rows with a flick of your finger.
• KnitPro Mindful Markers: So you can keep track of any pattern sections or the beginning of a row.

Basic Techniques of Continental Knitting

Here's how to get started, step by step.

Holding the Yarn in the Left Hand

In Continental knitting, the working yarn is held in your left hand and tensioned through your fingers. There’s no one-size-fits-all method as everyone’s hands are different in shape, size, and how they handle yarn. That said, a good place to start is as follows:

1. Wrap the yarn once around your pinky for tension.
2. Bring it over your ring and middle fingers.
3. Let it rest over your index finger, which will guide the yarn into place.

It may take time to find a comfortable rhythm. Experiment with different wraps and finger positions.

The Continental Knit Stitch

1. Insert the right needle knitwise (from front to back) into the next stitch on the left needle.
2. With your left index finger, position the yarn so it sits in front of the right needle tip.
3. Scoop (or "pick") the yarn through with the correct needle.
4. Pull the new loop through and off the left needle.

This picking motion is swift and efficient once you've got the hang of it.

The Continental Purl Stitch

1. Bring the yarn to the front of your work.
2. Insert the right needle purlwise (from back to front).
3. Use your left index finger to gently guide the yarn over the tip of the right needle.
4. Pull through and off the left needle.

Yarn suggestion: Try Malabrigo Sock for smooth, responsive results when learning to purl Continental style.

Tips for Beginners Switching to Continental

Switching from English to Continental can be awkward at first, like learning to write with your non-dominant hand. But don't worry; that awkwardness fades quickly with practice.

Here are some beginner-friendly tips:

• Start with basic garter stitch scarves using Ashford Bamboo Knitting Needles.
• Practice holding the yarn and getting even tension before focusing on stitch speed.
• Focus on consistency, not speed. The fluidity comes later.
• Use larger needles and smooth yarn like Ashford Merino DK to better see your stitches.

Practicing and Perfecting Your Continental Knitting

As with any new skill, practice makes progress. Here are some fun ways to grow your confidence:

• Dishcloths or sampler squares: Small, manageable, and great for practising technique.
• Beginner-friendly socks: Using yarn like Malabrigo Sock gives you soft, luxurious results.
• Work with texture: Gradually move into ribbing and seed stitch to build muscle memory.
• Try a kit: If you’re feeling ready for a bit more of a challenge, a knitting kit can be a fun way to push your skills. It takes the guesswork out of choosing materials. Plus, it’s a satisfying way to finish a complete project with a bit of guidance built in.

Knitting in Continental style may feel awkward the first few times you attempt it, but once your hands learn the rhythm, you'll feel the flow.

Common Continental Knitting Issues

• Tension Troubles: If your stitches appear loose or uneven, try adjusting how the yarn flows through your fingers. A yarn dispenser can also help maintain consistent tension.
• Hand Fatigue: Relax your grip. Continental knitting should feel natural—not a hand workout.
• Splitting Yarn: Some yarns, especially loosely spun or multi-ply ones, may split more easily. Use a high-twist yarn or switch to bamboo needles for better control.

Embrace Your Knitting Journey with Continental Style

Learning Continental knitting opens a new chapter in your fibre journey. Whether you're seeking speed, comfort, or simply something new, this technique can transform how you experience every project. Explore the full collection of quality needles, yarns, and accessories at Thread Collective—from luxurious Merino to dependable tools like KnitPro sets; we've got everything you need to support your journey.

Ready to knit smarter, not harder? Try Continental knitting today, and don't forget to share your progress with the Thread Collective community. We'd love to see what you create!