I have been using some apps more than paper lately to help with my current projects – but I haven’t gone completely digital because I haven’t found the perfect project app. And that made me wonder what our other yarnistas were using. So I asked everyone two things: 1) Have you been using any apps for your projects and, if so, why should we take a look at them? And, 2) what physical tools are must-haves?
I suppose since I did the asking, I should answer first.
For apps, I have been trying out a few different options. And for each of the apps I’m using as pattern-viewers, to open a PDF you have to open it in Dropbox or Evernote (or another reader) and then share it from that app with the app you’re using.
– JKnitLite: This free app lets you input PDFs of patterns and insert a highlighter bar to note where you are in the pattern. My main complaint with this app is that I couldn’t turn the PDF horizontally and have the highlighter bar turn as well (what’s the point, then?). It’s possible that there’s a fix on the paid version, but I didn’t try it. If you’re using this on the phone the need to view in landscape is greater than on a bigger tablet, too – especially if you’re trying to follow a chart. (And if I’m missing something, someone please tell me how to make the bar turn!)
– Adobe Reader: The iPhone version allowed me to highlight sections of PDFs and insert comments so I could make notes. But, again, a downside: the highlighter was hard to manage. And I couldn’t just double-tap to make it move a row like on an app that was specifically made for pattern-reading. It is free, though.
– knitCompanion: This might be my favorite, but it’s still a tad clunky. Once you input the PDF you have to create a project from the pattern itself. But once you get going it’s pretty smooth sailing. This free app does have in-app purchases you can make for other features, but I haven’t done that yet (or had a need to). You can get by using what they have available in the free version.
– StitchMinder: If you just want to keep track of rows, pattern repeats, increases and the like, this is the app for you. And it’s another freebie (do you see a theme?). It’s super simple and offers just the basics, but it does let you customize what you need to keep track of and asks if you’re sure if you want to reset your number before actually doing it.
For physical tools, my absolute must-haves are: small scissors, a tape measure, a Susan Bates Handi Tool (perfect for fixing mistakes), assorted stitch markers (I like variety) and a darning needle or five (just in case).
When it comes down to it, I’m still on the hunt for the best app for my needs. And, frankly, all of the stuff you have to do do get these things to work still takes longer for me than printing out a copy of a pattern and jotting down notes as you go along on paper. So far, anyway. But I’m sure the perfect app is out there, waiting to be discovered.
Here’s what the other ladies have in their toolboxes – digital or otherwise!
Arthella
Notability helps you create project notes and organize your pattern library – and it’s free. For tools, I always need my Handi Tool and Clover Circular Stitch Holders. (Editor’s note: Both are available in space.)
Jillian
I have an app called Units which converts any type of units to other units. I use it a lot to convert to and from metric measures. I also use Knit Counter, which tracks multiple actions (increases, decreases, rows) within projects. Also, Yarma makes it super easy to post photos to Ravelry project pages.
Katherine
I’m old school: Post-its. Sometimes I’ll bust out an old counting game like mancala to count sleeve rounds. The highlighter tape looks awesome though.
Nicole
I’m a huge fan of my Row Counter app (99 cents). It’s the best thing ever created. … I can do multiple projects and counts. And I use iBooks for my patterns so I always have them on the go.
For old school tools, I don’t really use too many. Sometimes, though, nothing will fix a problem quite like a notebook and pen. Also, it’s not an essential but I am all about my Clover Pom Pom makers.
Trudy
I have my patterns in iBooks too – of course, you can’t really use highlighter tape on that!
Here’s what I use, clockwise from top: Tape measure, Chibi needle case with straight tapestry needles, mystery plastic DPN (which serves as a cable needle), locking stitch markers (which also help rescue dropped stitches), Handi Tool, ruler, pen and pencil for making notes, and highlighter tape, with sharp embroidery scissors directly below.
What about you?
Ravelry, of course, has a list of apps that work with their site – some of which are mentioned above. But tell us: What do you use? And what’s your must-have gear?