Emily Explains: Arm Knitting!

by emilyoneil on December 17, 2013

Every once in a while, I see a post on Pinterest or another of my favorite inspirtation sites, about a technique famously known as arm kniting. I look at it, admire the bulky scarf made, and move on. I love knitting with bulky yarn and bulky needles. Why would I need to knit with my arms?
Then last week I saw the arm knitting craze take over the Internet. At first I was reluctant, but as the other ladies in the office started experimenting with different yarns, I decided to join the fun. Ashley used Lacey, Martha and I used Link, and Caroline used two strands of Peruvia Quick. To my surprise, it was easy and quick! In less than 30 minutes, we had all arm knit our own – and laughed a lot in the process.
All of this commotion around arm knitting led me to research who else has been using this technique. One of my favorites is Andrea Brena. His work features scraps of fabric that are arm knit into larger than life rugs, cushions and chairs.  I also admire artist/designer Christien Meindertsma. She has a beautiful philosophy behind her designs, which are made of thick, slightly felted, wool roving. Meindertsma has done many exciting projects, but I love her “One Flock Rug,” in which each stitch pattern is made from the wool of a different sheep in the flock. She uses a mixture of needles, hands and arms to knit her pieces.

Left to Right: Andrea Brena, Christien Meindertsma

Want to make your own arm knit scarf? Grab some thick yarn (we recommend Berroco Link) and cast on 7 stitches. Knit until you have just enough left to sew it together and bind off.
You can watch my how-to video for some help with the basics.

I hope you have as much fun trying arm knitting as we did! Maybe you can even make some last minute knitted gifts!
Happy Holidays,
Emily
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