We've all been there, you've been knitting for a while, but you've hit a brick wall. We know how frustrating it can get - particularly when you produce a lovely, neat finished fabric the first few times but the next time you try a new needlework project, it's uneven, bumpy and a bit of a mess!

Not to worry, no matter what your knitting skill level is, Ajanta Studios will give you a definitive rundown of the best quick tips to make you an instant knitting pro - giving you sleeker, straighter knits in no time.

Begin with a quality yarn

It may be an obvious one, but the better yarn you buy, the more impressive your final product will be. You'll also find the knitting process easier, the patterns more consistent and the longevity and durability of your project will be greatly improved.

Our advice is to get rid of that old, cheap and worn out yarn that's been sitting in the back of your draw and invest in something that will not only last but also yield a great finished article. We recommend our brilliant value and versatile James C Brett Yarn that comes in a range of varied, eclectic colours and feels great to knit with. Or if you're after something that's a real premium quality, try the Bergere De France range of yarn.

Make sure you're holding the yarn correctly

The key to an immaculate looking knit is consistency. Bumpy and messy looking stockinettes are a sign that you're not keeping consistent tension throughout the needlework process.

Knitting with an even tension is not an exact science and of course comes with practice, so it is important that you take your time and get used to a technique that is comfortable and suited to your individual style.

Before any big needlework challenge, we recommend that you knit a small rectangle of fabric so you know that you're garment is going to appear as you intended - this is otherwise known as a gauge swatch.

If you're looking for other measuring options for your quilting and sewing projects, check out the Hemline Measuring Gauge.

Fix your mistakes

Errors will happen, but as you improve you can learn how to fix them without having to completely rip out your entire knit. The easiest option is to unknit the problem. Simply unknit the incorrect stitches by inserting the tip of the left hand needle into the stitch directly below the stitch on the right needle and slip the right needle out of the stitch and pull on the yarn.

Make a note!

Every avid knitter knows that making a note of all your important needlework information is a surefire way of staying ahead of the game.

Make sure you have a list of the brand, name and outlet you purchased your yarn from. Write down your needle size, your project goals, what you need to do next and the date you began your project. This will ensure that when you pick up those knitting pins again a few months down the line, you will be well prepared and have everything to hand to finish it.


Post By Ed Mason