Deb arrived last night with a pair of US 8 needles and a bright multicolored skein of yarn. I was going to teach her how to knit.

Deb’s grandmother had taught her how to cast on and knit Continental style, rather than the English style that I use. As with learning any new craft, it’s best to do what comfortable for you, so she’s going to be Continental knitter, and that might encourage me to learn that style, too.

She’s pretty good! I gave her a ball of Lily’s Sugar and Cream and started her off on a garter stitch washcloth. Basically, I’m going to be showing her how to read a pattern, decreases and increases, and how to fix stuff.

I’m very happy to have a new knitting buddy! Deb and I have been friends since high school, and I’m glad that she’s joining me in knitting. We knit for a while, and then she left to pick up the kids, with needles, yarn, new project, and one of my books in hand.

I told her to look at how to purl with Continental knitting, and then we’ll start a flat hat. It’s getting a little too warm for hats and scarves right now, but they are still good to practice with and can be stored for when the cold weather comes again.

As for myself, I might give Continental knitting a try. Deb says it’ faster, as others who use the style say. What do you think? English or Continental?