Knitting beads directly into your work
is an embellishment that can have varied
effects. You can create elegant purses
and eveningwear by knitting delicate
glass beads with fine yarns, or you can
create a more casual look by knitting
wooden beads into a thick, sturdy,
natural-looking yarn. Since beading has
grown in popularity, you can find a wide
selection of beads at large craft stores.
Be sure that your beads and yarn have
compatible care instructions.
To knit with beads, you must thread all the beads directly onto your ball of work-
ing yarn before beginning to knit. You need to make sure that the beads you’re
using are suited to your yarn visually and in terms of size. The beads should slide
along the yarn with ease. This beaded sample is worked on the right side of
stockinette stitch.
1 Thread the end of the working yarn into a needle that is small enough to fit
through the hole in the bead. Thread all the beads you will need onto the
working yarn, sliding them down toward the yarn ball.
2 Cast on stitches and work your knitting pattern’s instructions.
How to Knit with BeadsKnit with Beads.
3 When you get to the point on a right side row where you’re ready to add
a bead, bring the working yarn to the front, between your needles.
4 Slide the first bead up the yarn so that it rests snugly against the last
knit stitch.