November 7, 2024 
Algorithms aren’t just for computers; we, too, follow a certain set of rules, guidelines and procedures in our daily lives.
Long before the first line of code was written, knitters followed step-by-step instructions to create elaborate designs and functional objects. You know what I am talking about if you have crocheted or knitted. It is but a sequence of loops and if-else statements, is it not?
You will be surprised to know that Vint Cerf, one of the “fathers of the Internet,” is known to be a knitter.
These two disciplines, which at first glance couldn’t seem more different, aren’t as far apart regarding the skills involved. You’re probably using the same brain muscles when debugging a code or trying to figure out why your sweater sleeve ended up turned inside out.
Don’t believe me still? Let me prove it.
1. The Basics Elements
Both knitting and coding rely on binary systems at their most basic level. In knitting as well, there are two fundamental stitches: knit and purl. Coding at its most fundamental level is based on 0s and 1s.
Similar to how coding relies on a set of fundamental instructions or “building blocks,” knitting also has its basic elements. In programming, we have variables, functions, and data structures & knitting has basic stitches like knit, purl, and cast on/off.
These basic elements are combined in different patterns to create complex structures in both disciplines. Programmers use loops, conditionals & various functions to build their code. Similarly, knitters deploy different stitches to create different shapes for a piece of garment.
2. Pattern Recognition & Algorithms
One of the most striking similarities between coding and knitting is the use of patterns.
A skilled knitter can look at a complex pattern and break it into repeatable sections. Similarly, in coding, we look for repeating structures to identify opportunities for optimisation or reusable components.
In knitting, a pattern is a set of instructions that, when followed correctly, produces a specific item. This is remarkably similar to an algorithm in programming – a step-by-step procedure for solving a problem or accomplishing a task.
Missing a step or performing an action out of order can lead to errors in the final product (be it a bug in the software or a weird-shaped sweater.)
Yes, I am obsessed with sweaters because I have messed up my fair share while practising.
3. Tools
Knitters have various tools to aid their craft in various ways, similar to how programmers have access to a range of libraries & frameworks.
Suited for different projects, knitting has different needles to choose from, much like different coding frameworks are suited for different types of projects.
Pattern books and stitch dictionaries in knitting are analogous to coding libraries, which offer tried-and-tested solutions that can be incorporated into larger projects.
4. Reuse & Optimisation
A well-known programming principle, “Don’t Repeat Yourself” (D.R.Y.), encourages developers to reduce redundancy for better efficiency and maintainability.
This concept is just as common in knitting, where efficient use of patterns prevents unnecessary repetition. Adhering to this principle in both fields helps establish a cleaner and faster workflow.
Reusable components in coding are like reusable stitch patterns in knitting – they save time and reduce the likelihood of errors.
5. Design Patterns
Design patterns are reusable solutions to common problems that arise during development. This concept is well-established in programming and broadly categorised into creational, structural, and behavioural patterns.
Interestingly, knitting has its own set of design patterns. Specific stitch patterns like cables, lace, or ribbing are used to solve design challenges in knitting projects.
For example, ribbing is often used at the cuffs and waistbands of garments for better elasticity, just as a factory pattern in coding might be used to create objects without specifying their exact class.
6. Debugging
When things go wrong in either of these disciplines, the first step is to track back through your work & look for the mistake. Ever spent hours hunting down a missing semicolon in your code (or indentation if you’re a PyUser?
We do the same thing in knitting before we realise a forgotten stitch three rows back. This is troubleshooting, a process for which a coder goes through their program to find & fix the “bugs”.
In knitting, this is often called “frogging” – ripping out rows of stitches to fix a mistake. These processes require a good eye for detail and patience to identify where the error occurred.
7. Automation
The evolution of both knitting and coding has seen the introduction of tools that automate repetitive tasks.
In this age, machines & looms can now produce complex patterns at high speeds, similar to how Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) in coding automate many aspects of the programming process.
Computer-aided knitting produces intricate designs that would be time-consuming or impossible to produce by hand. This mirrors how modern coding tools can generate boilerplate code or suggest completions to help you focus on more complex aspects of the project.
8. Knitting Patterns vs. Programming Languages
Knitting patterns can be viewed as a form of programming language. Each has syntax, symbols, and logic that must be followed to achieve the desired outcome.
Different knitting techniques, such as Fair Isle or intarsia, could be likened to different programming paradigms like object-oriented or functional programming.
Just as a programmer must be fluent in the language they’re using, a knitter must be able to read and interpret knitting patterns accurately to create the intended design.
9. Continuous Learning
If you’re the type who likes to kick back and coast on what you already know, you’re unlikely to grow fond of these disciplines. Both fields are like that friend who’s always dragging you to try new things.
That said, continuous learning here is not just beneficial but necessary. Technology evolves rapidly, so one must constantly update their skills and learn new languages or frameworks.
Similarly, knitters are always learning new techniques & exploring new tools or yarns.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can learning to knit actually help improve my coding skills?
Learning to knit is unlikely to directly impact your coding skills lest you need a distraction and a hobby to cool off. Knitting teaches you pattern recognition, attention to detail & problem-solving abilities – all of which are great for a coder.
If you know how to knit, many of your skills will be directly transferred once you start your coding journey. However, if you want to start coding and don’t know how to knit, start by learning coding instead of vice versa.
2. Are there any programming languages specifically designed for knitting?
While not a traditional programming language, there are notation systems for knitting patterns that resemble code.
Additionally, some machines use KnitScript and similar languages. There are also projects aimed at creating programming languages for textile design.
3. How can I combine my interests in both coding and knitting?
There are several interesting ways to combine these interests. You can explore digital knitting machines, create knitting pattern generators, or develop apps for knitters.
Some knitters incorporate electronics into their projects to create interactive textiles. You could also contribute to open-source knitting-related software or create visualisation tools for knitting patterns.