Tutorial: How to Read and Make a Bead Knitting Chart

Learn to draw and read bead knitting charts with this easy tutorial from Pope Vergara

Josefina Vergara, also known as Pope, has found her home in the world of yarns and fashion. She reconnected with needles when she was pregnant with her first daughter and since then she has been exploring and experimenting with various textures, materials and techniques. Her first pattern, the Scrap Cardigan, launched in 2020, was a resounding success, and since then she has continued to amaze with her talent and skill. She is now a renowned designer who collaborates with publishers around the world. world and sells her patterns on Ravelry.

But her talent is not limited to designing, Pope Vergara is also an expert in teaching of weaving and, in This time, she shares her knowledge about how to read and create charts for knitting with beads. With this video you can follow her steps:

1. Read the graph from bottom to top

When looking at a knitting chart, it is important to remember that each square represents one point. To interpret it correctly, start from the bottom and read up. Each color or symbol on the chart indicates a change in yarn or the introduction of a bead. For example, if the chart shows three light blue dots followed by one blue dot, you should knit the same way.

2. Draw the graph on paper

Once you understand how to read the chart, it's time to create your own. Pope recommends using graph paper and a color palette for this process. Start by drawing your design pixel by pixel (or point by point in knitting terms). You can play with different shapes and colors until you are happy with the design. This drawing will act as your visual guide while you knit.

3. Put the numbers on the graph

The next step is to number your graph. Numbering is essential to keep track of how many times a module is repeated and how many points it has. It will also help you know how many turns or rows there are in your drawing. By doing this, you will be creating an exact and easy-to-follow pattern, avoiding possible mistakes.

4. Mark the types of beads

Last but not least, you should mark the different types of beads you will use on the chart. In Pope's case, she uses different symbols to represent different types of beads. For example, she draws a circle for a round bead and a square for a square one. Write down next to the symbol what type of bead you are going to use so you don't forget.

Mastering the reading and charting technique for bead knitting may seem like a challenge, but with Pope Vergara's guidance and a little practice, you'll soon be creating your own pieces of knitted art. So why not grab your needles and beads and try it today?

If you want to continue learning with Pope Vergara, don't miss his course Design and knitting with colored beads, where you will discover how to weave unique compositions with beads to give color to your garments. In addition, you can continue to unleash your creativity with needle and thread through all courses online by craft from Domestika.