Giveaway + Indian Cast-On Tutorial

Did you know that Knitter's Pride needles were developed with an international panel of knitters and crocheters - and that these very same needles are sold throughout the globe under the KnitPro brand?

KnitPro International is based in India, where we have some interesting traditions when it comes to knitting - specifically, when it comes to casting on! The traditional Indian cast-on method is a unique way of starting a project, using the big toe to tension the working yarn while holding the short end of the yarn double in the right hand. A slip knot is made, and stitches are cast on in the form of slip knots with the double stranded short end and the working yarn.

If this sounds a little confusing, fear not - here is a tutorial video demonstrating the technique:

Almost all Indian knitters learn this method of casting on, and many continue to use it permanently.

Go to any town in India, and you'll find that nearly every family has a knitter in their midst - even in the remotest of villages! The selection of yarn is limited to mostly cheap acrylic yarns in fingering and DK weights, and believe it or not, circular knitting is not known in most parts of the country.

Typically, India has two types of knitters: the traditional knitter in villages and towns who knits out of need and can copy a pattern just by looking at it, but never knits from written patterns. The other type is the modern knitter: a computer literate Raveller who knits from patterns, looks up YouTube videos for knitting techniques, and buys yarn online.

This month, we're celebrating the global craft world with our "Knitting Around the World" board on Pinterest. If you'd like to find out more about where your Knitter's Pride needles and hooks are made, click here to read this recent feature on the Knitting Daily blog! 

March Giveaway
Two lucky readers will win their choice of prizes: a Waves Crochet Hook, a Dreamz Fixed Circular, or a Dreamz DPN!

To be eligible, simply leave a comment on this post telling us your favorite designer or technique with an international flair. Be sure to also include your Ravelry ID or email address so that we can contact you if you win!

We'll randomly select 2 winning comments to announce on Friday, March 28. Good luck!