some knitting how to's, & how to keep things simple

How to cast on:
easy instructions can be found here

How to cast off/bind off:
easy instructions can be found here

How to do seams:
easy instructions can be found here

How to decrease:
knit decrease and purl decrease instructions

How to knit and purl:
easy instructions can be found here

Make knitting these easier for yourself by:
- knitting both at the same time; buy longer knitting needles so you have room to fit both on at the same time, and use a peice of yarn in one to mark it as the left or right hand.
- if you're knitting with two separate skeins of yarn, keep them close together and frequently check your strings aren't getting tangled together.
- if you're knitting with 1 skein of yarn, and making two at the same time, knit one with the loose thread from the outside, and the second by pulling the loose end from the middle of the skein
- mark with a pen and paper which row you're on, so you don't get confused. The cables are woven on the 3rd and 7th knit rows; if you're off by a row, it'll make the cables in that row either denser or further apart, depending on how you're off.

What's great about this pattern:
- these can be knit up in a few hours
- it's a great way to practice cables
- makes an easy and cosy gift for anyone on your holiday list
- ideal for wear while driving or walking the dog, because they keep your hands warm and your fingers free for easier grip
- 1 or 2 skeins of yarn are inexpensive, so this makes for a great gift under $10
- use just the basketweave pattern, knitting over and over to desired length to make a matching scarf