Charts vs written instructions

Do charts need to have written instructions, and vice versa? If you want to be inclusive to all types of knitters, then YES!

CHARTS

Charts use symbols to provide a visual representation of stitch patterns, which can be very helpful especially when it comes to lace patterns. You can see what the pattern should look like when complete and how the stitches work together in each row.

WRITTEN INSTRUCTIONS

Written instructions explain how to knit each row and each stitch, without having to worry about wondering what each chart symbol means. This can be beneficial to those who find charts hard to read and understand, especially with newer knitters.

PROVIDE BOTH OPTIONS

Giving knitters a choice opens the door to more knitters. If you just provide charts or just provide written instructions, you may be turning away knitters without knowing it. Plus, providing both can actually be a tool. If you mainly use charts, you might occasionally take a peek at the written instructions if you're unsure about certain instructions or techniques.

TIPS FOR CREATION CHARTS

Charts should always include a key that explains what each symbol stands for, RS/WS rows should be labeled correctly and when necessary, and repeats should be place within a red outline. If there are any symbols that are not commonly used in knitting, make sure any techniques and stitches have instructions on how to work it.

TIPS FOR WRITTEN INSTRUCTIONS

Written instructions should place stitch repeats in asterisks or parenthesis, row repeats should be listed as needed. Provide stitch counts as well as number of stitches decreased or increased when necessary to help keep the knitter on track. (I have followed patterns before where it didn't provide stitch counts until the very end. It was very hard to follow and make sure I was following everything correctly.)

EXAMPLE

In the image below, shows an example of both written instructions and of a chart. This specific chart is one I made for one my own (free) patterns, The Gifting Scarf and Hat. You can see by the symbols how new knitters may feel overwhelming trying to read a chart. Not only do they have to read the chart, but they also have to constantly look up what each symbol means while trying to keep track of where they are.