While left handed knitting can certainly be taught, it is not recommended.
While left handed knitting can certainly be taught, it is not recommended.
All patterns are written for right handed knitting, whether Continental Knitting or Eastern Knitting is used. Consequently, garment instructions are written in the right to left direction for the right side rows. This is the direction the work is going and is usually a knit or right side row. Left to right pattern rows are usually the wrong side and are generally the purl rows. Every pattern would have to be adapted.
Patterns make for a much easier knitting experience. All the calculations have been done by the pattern author. Just following instructions is an easy option. Even fitting changes such as length are usually easily accomodated.
It has been reported that some stitches cannot be made by left handed knitters. I do not know if that statement is true as I have not tested it. Certainly knitting to the right and purling to the left can be taught. Problems arise when decreases and increases are added to the mix. Each slants in a particular direction and is usually seen. Picking the correct increase or decrease that slants in the proper direction would not be considered a beginner level task. The correct choice would be needed to maintain the integrity of the pattern.
I did find one book on left handed knitting, Beginning Knitting for Left Handed Knitters, by Norma Jean that has good reviews and includes a DVD. The lessons are outlined but no mention of increases and decreases are included in the outline.
Since both hands are in motion while you are knitting, how do you determine which one is doing all the work? While it might seem that one hand is doing all the work, it is nearly impossible for a stoke victim to knit. Designing a stationary hand does not work. That stationary hand must be able to twist the work so that a new stitch can be formed. Even machine knitting requires two hands to manipulate the carriages and tools.
