Last Updated: May 21, 2026
Patty Lyons' Knitting Bag of Tricks: Over 70 sanity saving hacks for better knitting
Learning to Knit the Left Handed Way
Knitting as a left-handed person can be confusing when every tutorial, book, and YouTube video is demonstrably aimed at right-handers. But left-handed knitting is a well-established tradition with its own techniques, terminology, and advantages. Left-handed knitters typically work stitches from right needle to left needle, mirroring the standard approach. The finished fabric looks identical — only the method differs. Whether you are just starting out or refining your technique, the right left-handed knitting guide will clarify the process and help you build confidence quickly.
1. Left Handed Knitting Books and Instructional Guides
Dedicated left-handed knitting books are invaluable because they provide mirrored illustrations and step-by-step instructions written specifically for southpaw knitters rather than simply telling you to "reverse the instructions." Look for books that cover cast-on methods, basic stitches, increasing, decreasing, and pattern reading from a left-handed perspective. Some of the most popular left-handed knitting guides also include QR codes or links to companion video tutorials.
2. Left Handed Knitting Needle Sets
While knitting needles themselves are not handed, having a quality set of needles in a range of sizes makes learning much smoother. Interchangeable circular needle sets are especially practical because one set of cables and tips covers dozens of projects. Bamboo tips are often recommended for beginners because yarn grips the bamboo surface and slides less than on metal — helpful when you are still mastering tension. Straight needle sets in sizes US 7, 8, and 9 cover most beginner patterns.
3. Knitting Starter Kits for Left Handed Beginners
All-in-one knitting kits that include needles, yarn, a tapestry needle, stitch markers, and an instruction booklet make it easy to get started without hunting down individual supplies. Some kits are specifically labeled for left-handed beginners and include illustrated guides that show stitches from the left-handed perspective. These make excellent gifts for anyone who has been curious about knitting but did not know where to start.
Buying Guide: What You Need to Start Left Handed Knitting
- Learning resource: A book with mirrored left-handed illustrations is far more useful than reversing standard instructions.
- Needle material: Bamboo for beginners (more grip); metal for speed once comfortable; plastic for affordability.
- Yarn weight: Worsted or bulky weight yarn is easiest for beginners — stitches are clearly visible.
- Needle size: US size 8 (5mm) is the most common beginner recommendation for worsted yarn.
- Accessories: Stitch markers, a row counter, and a tapestry needle are essential additions.
Final Thoughts
Left-handed knitting is a beautiful craft with a long history, and there is no reason southpaw knitters cannot create every project a right-hander can. The key is starting with resources made specifically for you rather than fighting against mirrored instructions. Grab a left-handed knitting guide, a good set of needles, and some quality yarn — and begin your knitting journey with confidence.
