Show HN: Browser-based knitting (pattern) software

135 points

2 years ago

I wrote some simple open source web-based app to (1) dynamically compute knitting patterns (based on input parameters, such as the exact desired size), and (2) display these patterns and help me keep track of which row I'm on (as I start knitting), similar to minimalist "row counters" that other knitters use. It also gives you a simple visualization of the shape of what you're knitting. You can see it in action at https://alefore.github.io/knit/ (and read about it in https://github.com/alefore/knit).

Right now I only implemented on simple pattern: Sophie scarfs. After knitting one that came out somewhat … asymmetric, I decided to just write some software to help me (1) easily adjust the length/width of the scarf (using Bézier curves), and (2) keep track of which row I'm on (so that I can make sure I apply increases/decreases at the right places). In the future, I expect to extend this with many other knitting patterns for other types of items.

The application is 100% browser (JavaScript, tested in only in Chrome in Linux/Android) based (no server-side component): all state is kept in the URL hash. I've used it to knit two scarves, including https://github.com/alefore/knit/blob/main/images/000.jpg.

The current state of knitting patterns is far from optional, stuck in pre-computer times. Perhaps knitters are not the most technically minded group. Most knitters just download patterns as PDF files. These files will show multiple numbers from which you should choose one depending on the size you're knitting, saying things like "Purl 24 (32 38 42 50 64) times" (you're supposed to pick the right number depending on the size you're knitting). They'll say things like "repeat rows 4 to 6 sixteen times".

I think software can display patterns much better (including not being limited to a few pre-selected sizes, but letting you choose the _exact_ size you want, and adjusting everything accordingly), and keep track of your progress much more easily. For example, for my scarf, the user inputs the desired number of rows (based on the desired length, which makes the pattern agnostic to the needle size), and the software computes where to apply increases/decreases.

I have many other ideas for improvements (e.g., track how much time I've spent in each row, show a clock), but I figured I'd share this early and ask for feedback. Hopefully there are other fellow knitters in HN. :-) Check it out and let me know what you think!

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