There are many interpretations on the levels of knitting skills and here’s one more from me, but note that it’s only a recommendation – you solely can judge what level of knitting you are ready for. You can begin knitting at any level you decide to – it’s more of a mindset than anything else. I recommend you read this with an open mind, knowing that you can accomplish whatever you set your mind to and nothing is impossible.
These levels of knitting skills are divided into five categories accompanied by the color code. When you browse through patternduchess.com you will see a color code used on a thumbnail picture of the post. I hope this will help you easily identify the level of adventure the pattern will offer you.
Levels of knitting skills
Level 1
For Mindless TV knitting (Beginner)
Color code – yellow
This pattern is for you if you’re a beginner or you just need to relax and let your mind wander. All you need to know is how to cast on, knit, purl, slip a stitch and bind off.
Level 2
Might need some YouTube (Advanced Beginner/Easy)
Color code – green
If you’re ready for an upgrade from mindless knitting to eager learning, then this pattern is for you. Same as above, but these patterns may introduce you to knitting techniques like easier ribbing, basic increasing and decreasing.
Level 3
Might need some YouTube and KnittingParadise (Intermediate)
Color code – pink
This one is for you when you want to get out of your comfort zone. In addition to the basic stitch patterns, this type of pattern may have basic lace and cables, simple color changes, minimal shaping, double pointed needles and in-the-round projects like hats, neck warmers, and cowls. Ability to read small charts will help but is not obligatory.
Level 4
For Confident and Adventurous Knitter (Moderately Challenging)
Color code – blue
This pattern is for you if you don’t get scared easily and you’re confident that you can learn anything this pattern needs. In this category, you will find everything that’s above, but more complex of everything – more complex lace and cables, more complex shaping and finishing, more complex color changes plus intarsia, short rows, charts, and fair isle.
Level 5
For a Knitting Ninja like Elizabeth Zimmermann (Challenging)
Color code – red
This pattern is for you if you feel there’s nothing you can’t knit – advanced stitches and techniques, more intricate methods like intarsia, cables, lace, stranded colorwork with numerous color changes, advanced shaping and construction techniques, complex charts… Bring it on!
