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    What can I knit without needles?

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    Claire Stevens
    ·November 3, 2024
    ·5 min read

    As a child, and even as a grown up, I just couldn't get the hang of traditional knitting. I still wanted to be creative though, so knitting without needles was just what I needed.

    In this blog post, we will explore some innovative and creative no needles knitting techniques.

    From finger knitting to loom knitting, these methods are not only beginner-friendly but also offer a unique and modern twist on the traditional craft.

    Get ready to discover 6 things you can knit without needles. You may just find your new favourite way to create beautiful knitted creations.

    Knit without needles a chunky scarf

    One of the most popular and satisfying knitting projects you can tackle without needles is arm knitting a chunky scarf. This technique allows you to create a beautifully cozy and luxurious scarf using just your arms as the "needles." By using super bulky yarn, you can achieve a thick and plush texture in no time. The process is surprisingly simple and incredibly rewarding. With just a few basic steps of looping and pulling the yarn through your arms, you'll witness the scarf gradually taking shape before your eyes.

    The best part is that you can customise the size, colour, and pattern to suit your personal style. I have made scarves with my beloved T-shirt yarn, and also with natural yarns that don't harm the planet.

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    Arm knitting in action!

    Finger knit a unique project

    If you're looking for a fun and easy way to dive into the world of knitting, look no further than finger knitting! This craft allows you to create beautiful knitted items using just your fingers, with no need for needles or complicated techniques.

    It is one of the easiest no needles knitting techniques there is. Making a chunky necklace takes literally 10 minutes.

    Finger knitting is great for kids as it doesn't need a lot of faff. It is literally yarn and your fingers and that's it.

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    A fun belt made by finger knitting

    Knit without needles - make hat with a loom

    One more amazing item you can knit without using any needles is a cozy hat using a loom. Loom knitting is a fantastic alternative to traditional knitting techniques, especially for beginners or those who struggle with needles.

    With a loom, you can easily create hats of various sizes and styles, from slouchy beanies to snug-fitting winter caps. The process is simple and enjoyable. You simply wrap the yarn around the pegs of the loom and use a hook to pull the loops over one another.

    Before you know it, you'll have a beautifully knitted hat to keep you warm and stylish all season long.

    Loom knitting does take a bit longer as you have to loom knit a larger number of rows. But it's worth it as the results are stunning.

    The best yarn for loom knitting is chunky or super chunky as they show the stitches off to their best advantage.

    You could knit up hats for yourself, your loved ones, or even for charity.

    Twist key fobs

    I love making these. T-shirt yarn is again a great choice to make these with.

    It is great to use different colours as they will really stand out against each other and against the structure of the key fob.

    Not only will you have a practical item to keep your keys organised, but you'll also have a conversation starter that showcases your creativity and sustainability efforts.

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    Twist key fob made with T Shirt Yarn

    Circular knitting machine coasters

    Circular knitting machines are a great way of getting a similar look of traditional knitting but without the needles. You cast onto the pegs of the machine bed, and then carefully crank the handle round and round until you get the size you want.

    A smaller knitting machine is the best size for making these. I use a recycled cotton yarn to make them as this yarn is better for keeping heat away from furniture, and it is very durable.

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    Small and medium sized coasters

    Eco-friendly Christmas tree decorations

    I am a bit of an eco-mum and I hate wasting things. Someone on my local Facebook group was getting rid of some baubles, so I grabbed them and made some little covers for them using my organic cotton yarn on my small circular knitting machine.

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    Circular machine knitted Christmas tree ornament cover

    If you are making little ornaments to go on the Christmas tree, make sure that the yarn you use is not flammable. The synthetic yarns such as Aycylic, Polyester and Nylon are made with petroleum and are highly flammable so shouldn't be used for this.

    Signing off

    I hope this blog post has given you some ideas for projects to knit without needles.

    For more inspiration head to my You Tube channel where I share more inspiration!

    The No Needles Knitter You Tube Channel