Stitch with a Witch! Wicked Star Dee Roscioli on the Joys of Knitting

You’ve swept up the pine needles, packed away the twinkling lights and even made a list of resolutions for 2010. Now what? Well, if one of your New Year’s resolutions is to learn a new skill, Wicked star Dee Roscioli is here to help. The performer, who is headlining the Broadway smash-hit as green girl Elphaba, has a passion for knitting and wants to help you develop one, too. Photos by Jenny Anderson for Broadway.com

WHY KNIT?
"It’s portable and easy to do while carrying on a conversation, so it can be social as well. There’s also something calming about knitting. Doing such a repetitive motion is a good way to focus your mind. It can be kind of like a meditation.”

STEP ONE: THE RIGHT STUFF
"All you really need are a pair of needles, some yarn and a little patience. Then you just have to jump in and get started. Pretty much anyone who works in a yarn store can help you find the right equipment, especially for someone like me who’s not really a pro knitter. The choices can be overwhelming—but that’s part of the fun.”

STEP TWO: SIZE MATTERS
“I always say you have to have the right size yarn for the right needle. I started with super big needles because I could see where I was making mistakes, and I could see how it was turning out very quickly. I learned the hard way to pick out a simple yarn like merino wool and not something with a lot of stuff hanging off of it or little knots or something in the yarn. Those are so difficult to work with, especially if you are a beginner.”

STEP THREE: ARE YOU A GOOD STITCH OR A BAD STITCH?
“Knitting is very simple. You can get instructions for how to get started with a book or online, though I think it’s better to have an experienced knitter watch you and then give you a few pointers. People that knit are eager to help other people. There are great communities of knitters out there, and the easiest way to find them is to ask at a yarn store—some even have demonstrations. With just the basic knit stitch, you can make lots of things like sweaters, scarves and hats.”

STEP FOUR: GET ADDICTED
“Once you feel confident, you can start experimenting with colors, yarns and patterns. You can be creative. You don’t always have to stick to the rules with knitting. I’m usually making something for someone else, and I usually think about that person while I’m making it. Handmade scarves and stuff make great gifts; you can keep your friends and family warm this winter!”