Mastering English vs. Continental Knitting: Comparison and Tips for Choosing the Right Method

🧶 Introduction: The right move makes all the difference

Are you new to knitting or looking to improve your fluency? Choosing between the English or Continental method can make all the difference to your comfort, speed... and even your enjoyment of knitting.

At Knit Sis , we guide you step by step through this crucial choice with a clear comparison , practical tips , and patterns adapted to each style . Whether you hold the yarn on the left or the right, this guide is your new point of reference.

🔍 What is English knitting? And continental knitting?

English knitting involves holding the yarn in the right hand and winding it around the needle manually , while continental knitting uses the left hand to hold and "fish" the yarn , which often makes the movement faster and more fluid.

🧠 Why choose one method over another?

🖐️ 1. Gesture comfort above all

👉 Did you learn from your grandmother? It's likely you're using the English style. It requires less coordination at first and is still widely taught in France.

🎯 Knit-Sis Council : For patterns that require frequent yarn or stitch changes, English knitting can give you better precision (perfect for cables or textured stitches, like in the Twist and Shout Cardigan ).

⚡ 2. Speed ​​and productivity: the continental has its followers

Knitting long sections of stockinette stitch? Continental knitting often allows for faster knitting because the yarn is "fished" without releasing the needle.

🌈 Try it on a simple, repeatable pattern like our Strippie Sweater —perfect for stress-free stripe practice.

🎯 How to learn the method that suits YOU?

🎥 Knit-Sis Express Tutorial: Knitting in English vs. Continental

We are currently finalizing the various tutorials. Subscribe to the newsletter so you don't miss their release.

💡 Tip: Practice with a simple and rewarding project

No need to change your entire technique at once. Try a new method on a short, engaging project , like the Poppy Top : perfect for knitting in the round with few seams, focusing on your movements.

🧩 Can we combine the two techniques?

Yes! Some knitters use continental knitting for stockinette stitch and use the English method for complex designs.

🧠 This is a great way to get the best of both worlds . If you enjoy technical challenges like the openwork stitches of the Marguerite Vest or the jacquard weave of the Tulip Vest, this mixed strategy can save you time and improve your accuracy.

👀 Which style should you choose for your project?

💬 “Our advice? Don’t force yourself. Knitting should remain a pleasure.” – Lenny & Louise

👑 Knit-Sis: patterns adapted to both styles

🎯 At Knit-Sis, we design accessible patterns , whatever your knitting style. Each pattern specifies the techniques used, with clear explanations and a clearly defined level.

Here are 3 perfect models to explore your style :

• 🧶 Sleeveless Cuddle Sweater : Top-down, perfect for working on your tension and exploring intarsia.
  

• 🌸 Chou Vest : An accessible basic for practicing jersey in complete fluidity.
  

• 🎨 Mondrian Sweater : A must-have for lovers of yarn changes and color blocks.
  
  

💬 Conclusion: What if your way of knitting revealed your personal style?

Whether you knit in English, Continental or a happy mix of the two, the main thing is to be comfortable, efficient and proud of your projects .

At Knit-Sis, we celebrate all ways to knit. And we support you with clear, modern, and joyful patterns to enhance your skills.

🔥 Ready to test your new skills?
🎉 Discover our selection of patterns for beginners and intermediates