English vs Continental Knitting: Which Is Better?

If you’ve just started knitting or have been at it for a while, you’ve probably heard people talk about English and Continental knitting. 

These are the two most popular ways to hold your yarn and make your stitches. But what’s the real difference? Which one is easier, faster, or better for beginners? 

Let’s break it down so you can find the style that fits you best.

What Is English vs Continental Knitting?

When people say “English vs Continental knitting,” they’re talking about the two main ways to hold your yarn and move it around your needles. 

In English knitting, you hold the yarn in your right hand and “throw” it over the needle for each stitch. In Continental knitting, you hold the yarn in your left hand and “pick” it with the needle.

Both styles make the same stitches, but the way you move your hands and yarn is different. Some knitters learn one way and stick with it forever, while others switch back and forth depending on the project.

📌Want to learn more about reading patterns for different knitting styles? Browse our guide on how to read knitting patterns for helpful tips!

How English Knitting Works

English knitting is sometimes called the “throwing” method or right-hand knitting. Here’s how it goes:

• Hold the yarn in your right hand.
• Insert the right needle into the stitch on the left needle.
• With your right hand, wrap (or “throw”) the yarn around the right needle.
• Pull the new stitch through and slide the old stitch off.

This style is super common in the UK, the US, and many English-speaking countries. If you learned to knit from a family member or at school, there’s a good chance you learned English style.

Who Likes English Knitting?

✅ People who like a relaxed, steady rhythm.

✅ Knitters who don’t mind moving their hands a bit more.

✅ Anyone who finds it easier to control tension with their right hand.

How Continental Knitting Works

Continental knitting is also called “picking” or left-hand knitting. Here’s how it works:

• Hold the yarn in your left hand.
• Insert the right needle into the stitch on the left needle.
• Use the right needle to “pick” the yarn from your left hand and pull it through.
• Slide the old stitch off the left needle.

This style is popular in Europe, especially in Germany and Scandinavia. Many people say it’s quicker because your hands don’t move as much.

Who Likes Continental Knitting?

✅ People who crochet (it feels more familiar).

✅ Knitters who want to knit faster.

✅ Left-handed knitters (sometimes, but not always).

English vs Continental Knitting: The Main Differences

Let’s compare the two styles side by side:

 

 

The biggest difference is how you move the yarn. In English style, you let go of the right needle to wrap the yarn. In Continental, your hands stay closer to the needles, and you use the tip to scoop the yarn.

Pros and Cons: English vs Continental Knitting

English Knitting

Pros:

• Feels natural if you’re right-handed.
• Easier to control yarn tension for many people.
• Good for beginners who want to go slow and steady.

Cons:

• Can be slower because of the extra motion.
• Might cause hand strain if you knit for long periods.

Continental Knitting

Pros:

• Usually faster once you get the hang of it.
• Hands and fingers move less, which can mean less strain.
• Great for colorwork (like Fair Isle) since you can hold two yarns at once.

Cons:

• Tricky to learn if you’re used to English knitting.
• Some people find tension hard to control at first.
• Not all left-handed knitters find it easier (it depends on the person).

Which Knitting Style Is Faster?

Many knitters say Continental knitting is faster, especially for stockinette stitch or simple patterns. Because your hands stay closer to the needles and you don’t let go to wrap the yarn, you can move more quickly from stitch to stitch.

In fact, some of the world’s fastest knitters use Continental style! But speed isn’t everything—some people find they make fewer mistakes or have a more even tension with English knitting. 

The best way to find out what’s fastest for you is to try both styles and see which one feels more natural.

📌If you want to knit faster or with less hand pain, you might also want to check out home knitting machines for bigger projects!

 

Switching From English to Continental (and Vice Versa)

Maybe you learned one way and now want to try the other. That’s totally normal! Many knitters switch styles for comfort, speed, or just to learn something new.

Tips for Switching Styles

✅ Start with simple projects like scarves or dishcloths.

✅ Watch videos or follow step-by-step guides.

✅ Practice tension—Continental can feel loose at first, and English can feel slow.

✅ Don’t give up if it feels awkward. Your hands will get used to the new movement with practice.

✅ Switching styles can also help if you get hand pain or want to avoid repetitive stress injuries. If one way hurts, try the other!

How to Choose Between English vs Continental Knitting for Beginners

If you’re brand new to knitting, you might wonder which style is best for beginners. Here’s what to consider:

• Try Both: The best way is to try both styles for a few rows and see which one feels better.
• Watch Your Hands: If you crochet, Continental might feel more natural. If you like using your right hand more, English could be easier.
• Go Slow: Don’t worry about speed at first. Focus on getting your stitches even and comfortable.

Remember, there’s no right or wrong way. The best knitting style is the one that makes you want to keep knitting!

📌Ready to get started? Don’t forget to check out our knitting needle size chart to find the perfect needles for your first project.

Tips for Improving Your Knitting in Both Styles

✅ Practice Tension: No matter your style, keeping even tension is key. Try making a few practice swatches to get comfortable.

✅ Fix Mistakes Quickly: If you drop a stitch or make a mistake, stop and fix it right away. It’s much easier than going back later.

✅ Take Breaks: If your hands get tired, take a break or try switching styles for a while.

✅ Watch Tutorials: There are tons of helpful videos and guides online for both English and Continental knitting.

Which Knitting Style Is Right for You?

When it comes to English vs Continental knitting, there’s no “best” style—just the best one for you. Both methods make beautiful, cozy projects. 

Try them both, see which feels better, and don’t be afraid to switch things up. The most important thing is that you enjoy your knitting and keep making things you love.

📌Ready to explore more knitting tips and tricks? Discover our full Beginner’s Guide to Yarn Over in Knitting for your next creative adventure!

FAQs About English vs Continental Knitting

Is continental or English knitting easier?

It depends on the person. Some people find English knitting easier because it feels more natural to hold the yarn in the right hand. Others think Continental is easier, especially if they’ve crocheted before. Try both and see which feels better for you.

What are the benefits of continental knitting?

Continental knitting is often faster since your hands move less. It can also be easier on your wrists and fingers, especially for big projects. Many knitters like it for colorwork because you can hold two yarns at once.

Is continental knitting easier for left-handers?

Sometimes, but not always. Continental knitting lets you hold the yarn in your left hand, which some left-handed people prefer. But every knitter is different—some lefties like English style better.

What is the most efficient knitting style?

Many people say Continental knitting is the most efficient because it uses smaller, quicker movements. But efficiency also depends on what feels comfortable and natural for you. The best style is the one that lets you knit smoothly and happily.

What is the most important thing in knitting?

The most important thing in knitting is enjoying the process and making something you love. Even stitches and good tension help, but having fun and feeling relaxed matter most. Practice, patience, and creativity will take you far!