Stitches

How do I design a knitting pattern without knitting design software?

I have ideas, I have excel, I have graph paper, so any suggestions on how to start. Thanks! (I posted last night about software, and it costs a bit too much for me, if you know of any lower prices / free knitting software, let me know..thanks)

Public Comments

1. The old fashioned way is to just draw your design on graph paper, then knit using your knowledge of stitches. You just write down what you do, and that becomes the instructions. After it's finished you can go back to high-tech and put the knitted piece on a scanner to get a pictures of the pattern details. .
2. There are lots of good knitting books out there which give lots of pointers on making patterns. Some even have example patterns for sweaters and stuff and then tell you how to modify them to get the right size and whatever else you want to do. Try your library or bookstore!
3. Maggie Righotti's "Sweater Design in Plain English" will be helpful. You may be able to borrow it from a library. Knitting graph paper is also helpful. The grid isn't square but sized to the ratio you set. The only time you can use square-grid stitch-for-stitch is when you're doing garter stitch. Do a "tissue" of what you want, take the measurements and then "do the math". It's handy to use "software" to help with the math (any calculator will help) and to print-up your custom graph paper.
4. free knitting software download available at www.greatknitdesigns.com 3 programs available 1. sweaters and cardigans 2. afghans, shawls and ponchos 3. dolls clothes, pet outfits and trousers. If you need any more info - contact me through my profile.