French Knitting Basics: Learn Spool Knitting Fast

French knitting, also known as spool knitting, is a simple craft that transforms yarn into long, knitted tubes using only a spool or a homemade tool. 

It’s perfect for making cords, bracelets, decorations, and more; no complicated skills required. 

Whether you’re a beginner or just looking for a relaxing project, French knitting is a great way to get creative with yarn.

You can use a traditional knitting spool or even make your own tool from household items like a toilet paper roll and popsicle sticks. 

Most importantly, it’s easy to learn and incredibly versatile. Continue reading to discover step-by-step spool knitting techniques, fun DIY project ideas, and tips for avoiding common mistakes.

What Is French Knitting?

French knitting, also known as spool knitting, is a simple craft that dates back hundreds of years. This method allows you to create long, neat, knitted cords using little more than yarn and a spool.

Many people use French knitting to start projects such as bracelets, decorations, and even small rugs.

Tools and Materials for French Knitting

To get started, you need a spool, often referred to as a knitting needle or French knitting doll. This tool usually has four or more pegs on the top.

You will also need:

• Yarn: Use smooth, medium-weight yarn for easier handling.
• Crochet hook or a blunt needle: This helps lift yarn over the pegs.
• Scissors: For cutting yarn when your cord is finished.

Optional tools can make your work more interesting or easier. These include decorative spools in various shapes or a pom-pom maker, allowing you to add extra features to your projects.

How to Set Up Your French Knitting Spool

To begin French knitting, set up your tools and yarn as follows:

• Select your yarn and thread the end down through the central hole of your spool, leaving a short tail at the bottom.
• Wrap the yarn around each peg in a clockwise direction, ensuring each peg has one loop. Hold the yarn tail underneath to keep it in place and secure.
• Once all pegs have a loop, bring the yarn around the outside of the pegs again in the same order so there are two loops on each peg.
• Use the crochet hook to lift the bottom loop over the top loop on each peg. Repeat this around all pegs.
• Pull gently on the tail below as you work to keep the cord even.

These steps form the first row. Continue wrapping yarn and lifting loops to build your cord. Adjust your tension so it isn’t too tight or too loose, which helps your finished piece look neat.

Step-by-Step Guide to French Knitting

Step 1: Prepare Your Tool

• Insert the end of your yarn into the top of your French knitting tool (also known as a knitting dolly or spool).
• Thread it down through the center so it emerges from the bottom, leaving a tail of about 10 cm (4 inches).

Step 2: Wrap the Yarn Around the Pegs

• Hold the tool in your non-dominant hand.
• With your dominant hand, take the working yarn (the yarn connected to the ball) and wrap it clockwise around the first peg.
• Continue wrapping the yarn clockwise around each peg in a circular fashion until all pegs have one loop.

Step 3: Create a Second Row of Loops

• Repeat the wrapping process so that each peg now has two loops stacked vertically.

Step 4: Knit the Loops

• Starting with the first peg, use a knitting needle or crochet hook to lift the bottom loop over the top loop and off the peg, allowing it to fall into the center of the spool.
• Repeat this process for each peg.

Step 5: Continue Knitting

• After completing the knit on all pegs, wrap the working yarn around each peg again to create a new top loop.
• Repeat the knitting process: lift the bottom loop over the top loop and off the peg.
• Continue this cycle to create a knitted cord that will emerge from the bottom of the tool.

Step 6: Changing Colors (Optional)

• To change yarn colors, tie the new yarn to the end of the current yarn with a secure knot.
• Trim the ends close to the knot.
• Continue knitting as before, ensuring the knot is pulled through the center of the spool so it's hidden within the cord.

Step 7: Casting Off

• Once your cord reaches the desired length, cut the working yarn, leaving a tail of about 8 cm (3 inches).
• Thread this tail through each loop on the pegs, removing the loops from the pegs as you go.
• Pull the tail tight to secure the end of your knitting.

Troubleshooting Common French Knitting Issues

Sometimes, problems happen while you knit. Here are quick ways to fix them:

• Dropped Stitches: If a loop falls off a peg, use your hook to pick it up and place it back on the peg before continuing.
• Tangled Yarn: Stop and gently undo the knots by hand. Never pull tightly, as this can cause tangles to worsen.
• Uneven Tension: If your cord looks bumpy, check your grip. Hold the yarn just snug enough to make neat loops, but not so tightly that it's hard to lift the stitches.

If the cord gets stuck inside the spool, gently pull from below to untangle it. Staying patient and checking your work often will make your knitting smoother and more enjoyable.

🧶 Also Read: Knitting Calculator: Secrets for Perfect-Fitting Garments

Creative French Knitting Projects for All Skill Levels

French knitting allows you to turn simple yarn cords into a variety of useful and fun items. You only need basic tools, and it's easy to get started, whether you’re making jewelry, home items, or toys for kids.

DIY French Knitting Jewelry (Bracelets, Necklaces)

You can use French knitting to make stylish and soft jewelry. The basic cord works well for bracelets and necklaces. Choose colorful yarn to match your favorite outfits or experiment with different patterns.

First, knit a long cord with your preferred yarn. Then, cut it to the right length for a bracelet or necklace. You can attach clasps, tie simple knots, or add beads for extra decoration.

You might also braid several cords together for a thicker, more textured look. These DIY projects make great gifts and are light and comfortable to wear.

Coasters and Home Decor with French Knitting

French knitted cords can be shaped into handy and attractive items for your home. Coasters are a popular project. 

To make them, coil a finished cord into a tight spiral and sew the laces together with a yarn needle.

You can also create home decor items, such as table mats, wall art, or even shaped signs. Many people use bright or mixed yarn colors for a bold look.

For larger items, create a longer cord and continue coiling it until you achieve the desired length. Add felt backing for extra sturdiness if you plan to use your piece as a trivet or hot pad.

French Knitting for Kids: Simple Animal Toys

Children can use French knitting to create toys such as rabbits, giraffes, or keychains. These projects help teach sewing and creativity in a simple way.

Here are some fun ideas:

• Make a snake by sewing eyes and a tongue onto a long knitted cord.
• Build a rabbit by joining several stuffed cord sections together.
• Turn short cords into keychains with faces or little decorations.

Kids can use buttons, beads, or felt scraps to finish their animal toys. These projects are safe, quick, and perfect for learning.

🧶 Read more: 15 Small Knitting Projects: Creative Ideas Using Caydo Supplies

Advanced French Knitting Techniques

You can utilize advanced methods to create more intricate and engaging French knitting projects. These include adding more colors as you knit and making thicker cords by joining several together.

Multi-Color French Knitting

Adding multiple yarn colors allows you to create stripes, patterns, and fun designs. Start by knitting with your first color until you want to switch.

To change colors:

• Cut the current yarn, leaving a short tail.
• Tie or overlap the new color with the old one for two stitches.
• Continue knitting with the new yarn as you normally would.

You can switch colors as often as you like. Remember to tie up loose ends when finished, so your work looks neat. 

Multi-color cords work well for bracelets, bookmarks, and other small items. For more complex patterns, plan where to switch each color before you start.

Combining Multiple Cords for Thicker Designs

If you want a thicker or stronger cord, you can combine several finished French knitting cords. This is particularly helpful when you need items like bag handles, rugs, or chunky scarves.

You have a few options to join the cords:

• Braiding: Lay three or more cords side by side and cross them in a basic braid pattern. This will make a strong, uniform cord.
• Sewing: Place cords next to each other and sew along the length with a needle and yarn, using a simple whip stitch.
• Twisting: Twist two or more cords together tightly and tie the ends to secure.

Below is a quick comparison:

Combining cords allows you to create large or sturdy projects that are not possible with a single strand. Remember to match yarn types and thickness for a neater finish.

🧶 Read more: 15+ Quick Knitting Projects for Weekend Crafting Fun

Common Mistakes to Avoid in French Knitting

Getting neat, even results in French knitting depends on following some important guidelines. 

Paying attention to details, such as yarn tension and peg wrapping, helps you avoid common issues that can make your work appear less tidy.

Yarn Tension Problems

The way you handle your yarn affects how your knitted cord turns out. If your stitches are too tight, it becomes difficult to move the yarn over the pegs, which can make your cord stiff or uneven. 

If your stitches are too loose, the result may look sloppy, and the cord may fall apart.

To get the best results:

• Use a gentle, steady pull on the yarn while working around the pegs.
• Avoid tugging too hard, especially when lifting loops over each peg.
• Ensure each stitch sits snugly but not stretched on the peg.

You can try knitting a few test rows and checking the cord often. If you see gaps or bulges, adjust your tension. Practicing helps you find a comfortable, consistent way to hold your yarn.

Incorrect Peg Wrapping

Wrapping the yarn correctly around each peg is important for even stitches. Mistakes with peg wrapping lead to uneven loops dropped stitches, or cords with holes.

Some common wrapping errors include:

• Missing a peg or skipping one by accident.
• Wrapping in the wrong direction changes the look or may unravel your work.
• Letting go of the yarn before completing a round can cause uneven or incomplete stitches.

Tips to avoid these mistakes:

• Always follow the same wrapping pattern for each peg.
• Double-check after every row to make sure every peg is wrapped.
• Hold the yarn steady and watch as you move from peg to peg, especially if you are distracted.

Using these habits will help your French knitting stay even and neat every time.

French Knitting vs. Traditional Knitting: Key Differences

French knitting and traditional knitting use different tools and methods. The results you get from each one also look and feel different.

French Knitting:

• It uses a tool called a spool or “French knitter,” usually with 3-8 pegs.
• You wrap yarn around the pegs and lift it over to make tubes called I-cords.
• There are no needles involved.
• This method is sometimes referred to as spool knitting, cording, or loom knitting.

Traditional Knitting:

• Uses two or more pointed needles.
• You make flat or shaped pieces by looping yarn with the needles.
• Techniques can be done in “English” (throwing the yarn) or “Continental” (picking the yarn).

Key Differences Table

French knitting is ideal for quick projects and children, while traditional knitting offers a greater variety of patterns and shapes. 

You can use French knitting to create items such as bracelets or handles, while traditional knitting is typically used for scarves, sweaters, hats, and other garments.

🧶 Also Read: Best Knitting Machine for Beginners 2025

How to Choose the Best Yarn for French Knitting

Picking the right yarn for French knitting makes your project easier and more fun. The type of yarn you use can change how your finished cord looks and feels.

Here are some good options for yarn types:

• Cotton yarn is smooth and slides easily, making it particularly helpful for beginners. It doesn’t stretch much and gives a neat, even result.
• Polyester yarn is similar to cotton and also works well because it doesn’t snag or fray easily.
• Acrylic yarn is standard and budget-friendly. It’s easy to find and comes in many colors, but some blends can be a bit "sticky" and slow to pull through.
• Wool yarn can be used, but choose one that is tightly spun and not too fuzzy. Fuzzy wool may catch on the knitting tool and be more complicated to manage.

It’s best to avoid very fuzzy or loosely spun yarns. These can get stuck or make your cord look messy.

When it comes to weight, medium or bulky yarn works best for French knitting, especially if you want thicker cords. Thinner yarns can be used, but they result in delicate cords that are more challenging to control.

🧶 Read More: Beginner's Guide to Yarn Over in Knitting

Final Thoughts

French knitting is a relaxing and rewarding craft that helps build confidence and creativity, especially for beginners. 

Once you've mastered the basics of spool knitting, you're ready to explore faster, more efficient tools to boost your productivity and try more advanced projects. 

Whether you're making cords for decor, accessories, or DIY gifts, Caydo’s automatic knitting machines can take your craft to the next level. Ready to upgrade your knitting game? 

Explore our collection of automatic knitting machines and discover the ideal tool for your next project.

🧵 Automatic Knitting Machines to Improve Your Projects

Frequently Asked Questions

French knitting uses a small tool and involves wrapping yarn to form a narrow tube. It has similarities and differences compared to other yarn crafts like regular knitting and crochet, and knowing how to finish or fix mistakes can help you get better results.

What’s the difference between French knitting and regular knitting?

French knitting is performed using a small spool or bobbin with pegs, often referred to as a knitting dolly. Regular knitting uses two needles. In French knitting, a tight, round cord is created, whereas regular knitting produces flat or shaped pieces.

How to end a French knit?

To finish, cut the working yarn, leaving a tail. Thread the tail through each loop on the pegs using a needle or your fingers, then pull it tight to close the end of your tube. This secures the stitches, so your work will not unravel.

Is French knitting the same as crochet?

French knitting and crochet both utilize yarn, but they are distinct crafts. Crochet uses a hook to pull loops through other loops to build flat or shaped pieces. French knitting uses a spool, pegs, and often a hook or needle to make a long, round cord.

How do you fix a dropped stitch in French knitting?

If you drop a stitch, carefully catch it with a hook or needle before it unravels. Pull the loop back over its peg and keep knitting as normal. If the dropped stitch got pulled down, gently use the hook to pull it up, one step at a time.

Is French knitting the same as a knitting loom?

French knitting utilizes a small spool, typically featuring four or more pegs arranged in a circle. A knitting loom is larger and can have more pegs, sometimes in different shapes, allowing you to make both flat and round pieces. Both tools create loops over pegs, but their sizes and uses differ.