Raglan knitting is a technique that produces seamless garments, known for their distinctive diagonal shoulder seams. If you're new to knitting, you may have come across this term and wondered what exactly it means. In this beginner's guide, we will demystify raglan knitting and provide you with all the information you need to get started on your own raglan projects.
Defining Raglan Knitting
Raglan refers to a style of knitting construction where the sleeves are joined to the body of the garment at an angle, creating diagonal lines that extend from the underarm to the collarbone. This technique eliminates the need for set-in sleeves, resulting in a comfortable and flattering fit.
The raglan construction technique is named after Lord Raglan, a British officer who lost an arm at the Battle of Waterloo. He popularized this style of garment as it allowed for easy and comfortable movement, making it ideal for sports and outdoor activities.
The History of Raglan Knitting
Raglan knitting has been around for centuries and can be traced back to traditional Scandinavian knitting techniques. It gained popularity in the mid-19th century, thanks to Lord Raglan's influence, and has remained a favorite among knitters ever since.
In the 1950s and 1960s, raglan sweaters became a fashion must-have, with iconic figures like Audrey Hepburn and James Dean sporting these stylish garments. Today, raglan knitting continues to be a popular choice for both classic and contemporary designs.
Raglan Knitting Materials and Tools
Before diving into your raglan knitting project, it's important to gather the right materials and tools:
Yarn:
Choose a yarn that suits your desired garment. Worsted weight yarn is a popular choice for raglan sweaters, but you can explore other weights depending on the season and the look you want to achieve.
Needles:
Select needles that are appropriate for your chosen yarn. Circular needles are often used for raglan knitting, as they allow you to comfortably accommodate the growing number of stitches.
Optional tools:
Consider using stitch markers to help keep track of your raglan shaping. A tapestry needle is also handy for weaving in loose ends at the end of your project.
Basic Raglan Knitting Techniques
Casting On:
There are different methods of casting on for raglan knitting. One commonly used technique is the long-tail cast on, which provides a neat and flexible edge for your project.
Increasing Stitches:
As you work on the raglan shaping, you'll need to increase stitches at the underarm to create the diagonal lines. Common methods include yarn-overs, kfb (knit front and back), and M1 (make one) increases.
Working the Raglan Shaping:
Follow your pattern instructions to work the increases and decreases needed for the raglan shaping. Stitch markers can be placed to mark the beginning and end of each section to help you keep track of your progress.
Joining the Sleeves:
Once the raglan shaping is completed, it's time to join the sleeves to the body of the sweater. This process can be done seamlessly by knitting the sleeves and body together, avoiding the need for seaming.
With these basic techniques, you'll be well on your way to creating your very own raglan knitted garments.
Raglan Knitting Patterns and Designs
Basic Raglan Sweater:
If you're a beginner, start with a simple raglan sweater pattern. This design is often knit in stockinette stitch with ribbed cuffs and hem for a clean and timeless look.
Raglan Cardigan:
For a more versatile garment, try a raglan cardigan pattern. You can choose a lace or cable stitch pattern to add a touch of elegance to your cardigan.
Raglan Pullover with Colorwork:
If you're feeling adventurous, explore the world of colorwork with a raglan pullover pattern. Fair Isle or stranded knitting techniques can be incorporated to create stunning and eye-catching designs.
Tips for Raglan Knitting Success
Here are a few tips to help you achieve success with your raglan knitting projects:
- Read and understand the pattern instructions thoroughly before starting.
- Pay attention to your tension and gauge to ensure an accurate fit.
- Block your finished garment to even out stitches and give it a polished look.
Raglan Knitting Resources and References
If you're looking to expand your raglan knitting knowledge, here are some recommended resources:
- Books: "Knitting without Tears" by Elizabeth Zimmermann and "Raglan Road: How Raglan Sweaters and Woodstock's Music Scene United Generations" by Jonathan Black.
- Websites: Ravelry.com, a knit and crochet community with various raglan patterns and forums.
- Online tutorials and video demonstrations: YouTube offers a wide range of tutorial videos to guide you through the raglan knitting process.
With these resources, you'll have the guidance and inspiration you need to embark on your raglan knitting journey.