Note: This article assumes that you can knit or crochet larger ‘human sized’ items
I have forgotten the number of times someone has said, “Oh, I could never work things that small, I wouldn’t know where to start.”
Yes, there may be a few differences when it comes to working in miniature, but not so many that it’s not worth trying.
Materials used
The biggest area of concern is usually the size of the materials which are used. If it is simply a matter of not being able to see clearly what you are working on, then there are some excellent magnifiers available today, some of the more expensive ones even include extra lighting.
Most people who attempt miniature knitting and crochet find they may have to hold the needles or hooks slightly differently to the way they are used to. Most miniature knitting needles are very short, if they are too long the needles become unwieldy and may even fold as you try to knit. Crochet hooks become very sharp as they get smaller and may require a slightly different angle of working. Try working without yarn to get used to the feel of the needle or hooks before you start using yarn and if necessary adjust the way you hold them, so you feel comfortable.
Yarns available for miniature knitting and crochet are quite varied. For a first attempt I would recommend a light coloured, plain 1-ply yarn (this may be sold as 2/30 nm or 2/28 nm yarn.) Metallic yarns, blending filaments, fancy yarns and boucles may be introduced as you become more confident. You may also wish to think about where you intend to display your finished item, as this may affect your choice of yarn, for example some cottons and silks may perish or fade in strong sunlight.
This article was originally published in The Dolls House Magazine issue 225