Knitters Holiday Crossword Puzzle

Knitterly Word Play

HINTS and EXPLANATIONS for Holiday Crossword Puzzle

Across

2 The cast on is the beginning of the process of knitting. Usually the cast on stitches remain the edge of the fabric, but sometimes not. For example, the cast on is provisional (i.e. temporary) in the HeartStrings A17 and A50 toe-to-cuff socks.

3 The term "narrow" is used in many vintage patterns to indicate any decrease, with the knitter determining the best one. HeartStrings knitting patterns always indicate a specific type of decrease intended for the pattern's design. Of course, the ultimate choice is the knitter's.

9 The Continental (or German) and English styles of knitting are two of the more common ways of knitting. In the Continental method, the yarn is "picked" by the working needle tip, similar to crochet. In the English method, the yarn is wrapped around the working needle. Knitters can become quite opinionated on which method is the "best". No particular method of knitting is presumed in HeartStrings patterns — just use what works best for you and enjoy!

Down

1 "Feather and Fan" is a lovely old lace often found in Shetland knitting. Derivatives of this basic lace structure are used in the A20 Crest of the Wave Lace Scarf, and A33 Elegantly Simple Triangle Shawl patterns.

4 Ribbing is commonly used for its stretchy, elastic quality and for firm non-rolling edges. It can also be used for shaping, such as in the yoke of the W5 Chevrons and Ribs Sleeveless Cardigan pattern.

5 The early fine needles were based on the technology of drawing thin steel wire, and thus the origin of the term "wires". Typically lace is thought to be knit on very fine needles, although it need not be. There are HeartStrings lace patterns for needle sizes as small as 1.25mm to 5mm. And many patterns easily resize for even larger needles.

6 A marker can be anything that helps you keep your place in knitting. HeartStrings patterns suggest where to place markers so you can easily follow the instructions, and check stitch counts. After all, the process of knitting should be as much fun as the finished product!

7 A jumper is a British term for a pullover sweater, an example of how similar things are called different names. Although HeartStrings patterns are sold world-wide, they are made in the U.S.A. and written in the English language. There is always a list of abbreviations and special terms used in every pattern, because the knitting language is by no means standard, even in America.

9 When you knit round and round, you are knitting circularly, producing a fabric with no seams. HeartStrings designs use circular knitting where appropriate, so as to minimize the steps in finishing. In fact, some patterns have little or no finish sewing — when you're done, you're done! The W28 Shaped Tee with Collar is an example of this.

10 The British term frolic is descriptive of the frivolity and fun of the type gathering I more commonly know of as a knit-in. With the growing popularity of the internet, we knitters can now "frolic" in near-real time from all corners of the earth. I am an active participant on many internet forums, and can always be reached personally by email.

11 If you are a fortunate knitter that has never had to tink, we need you to teach us your trick! TINK is KNIT spelled backwards — an appropriate term for un-knitting a knitted stitch to correct an error.

12 The gauge in knitting is a critical factor in sizing and consistency. HeartStrings patterns specify planned gauge and yardage amounts so that you can use any appropriate yarn to your liking. Since some patterns are less dependent on a particular gauge, such as scarves and "knit-and-measure" designs, your yarn choices are even greater.

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