Love reading and knitting but struggle to do both at once? You’re not alone! Many knitters want to enjoy a good book while keeping their hands busy—but it can be tricky to read and knit at the same time without the right tools or strategies. In this post, I’ll share simple, practical ways to knit and read at the same time—plus my favorite supplies that make it easy and enjoyable.
I used to think that knitting and reading at the same time sounded like some sort of fantasy, but I learned from knitting podcasts that there are people who can do this. I finally taught myself how, and you can, too!
Once I discovered a few clever tools—and some reading formats that don’t require hands at all—knitting and reading became one of my favorite multitasking habits. Whether you’re into audiobooks, e-readers, or physical books, there’s an option that fits into your knitting time.
Essential Tools for Reading and Knitting Simultaneously
Knitting!
Preferably something very simple. Stockinette stitch in the round is a great starting point. Think Musselburgh or a sweater body. I recommend something small and simple to start. A stockinette hat at the point that you are just knitting in the round without increasing or decreasing is perfect for this.
A Book!
This can be an actual book or an e-reader/tablet. I taught myself how to do this with actual paper books. The Kindle Paperwhite Kids is my personal fave.
P.S. If you read from a tablet, I highly recommend trying the Libby app. It allows you to link your library card(s) and check out digital books (and Audiobooks) for free.
P.P.S. I’ve made lists of my favorite fiction and non-fiction books if you need ideas. Or you can be an over-achiever and read about knitting while you knit.
A Book Pillow
If you’ll only ever read from a tablet, any book pillow that props up the tablet securely will do.
If you’d ever like to read a physical book with pages, you need one that can hold the book open for you.
I have The Book Seat, and I love it! It works for both physical books and tablets. The front of it is structured to support your book/tablet and hold actual books open, but the back and bottom are like a bean bag, which means that it will successfully stand up even on uneven surfaces (like your lap).
How to Read and Knit at the Same Time: Step by Step
- Find a comfortable spot to sit upright with your knitting at hand.
- Place the book pillow in your lap, and prop up your book or tablet.
- Begin knitting.
- As you get into the rhythm of your stitches, glance forward at the book to read, while continuing to knit.
- When you get to the end of a page, reach out to turn the page.
Tablet: Tap
Physical Book: Hold your knitting in one hand while you move the page holder and turn the page with the other.
Repeat steps 3-5.
Tada! You’re reading and knitting at the same time!
Practice Makes Progress!
As you glance back and forth between the book and your knitting project, you’ll become quicker at returning to the same spot on the page (or screen). And as you become more comfortable with knitting while looking elsewhere, you’ll glance back and forth less often.
At first you may notice that both your knitting and reading are going at a slower pace than if you were only doing one at a time. The more you do this, the faster, easier, and more natural it will become.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy your new found skill! Now you can do two hobbies at once – the ultimate life hack.
Find more of my Knitting Tricks here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I knit complex patterns while reading?
Always start small, as The Lazy Genius reminds us. Get comfortable with the technique while knitting a simple project.
And while I prefer simple knitting while reading, some people might do well with complex patterns, too. It would take practice, but you may eventually be able to focus on both equally.
