What's the difference between continental and English knitting, and is one faster?

The difference between continental and English knitting lies in how the yarn is held and tensioned. Both techniques create the exact same stitches, but the mechanics of the movement differ significantly.

English Knitting (Flicker/Throwing)

In the English style, the yarn is held in your right hand. To create a stitch, you must take the yarn from your right hand and "throw" it over the needle tip to form the loop.

• The motion: Because you have to move your right hand away from the needle to wrap the yarn, there is more hand movement involved.
• Feel: Many beginners find this style easier to visualize and control when first learning.

Continental Knitting (Picking)

In the Continental style, the yarn is held in your left hand. You use the needle tip to "pick" the yarn through the stitch.

• The motion: The yarn stays much closer to the needles, and the fingers perform smaller, more subtle movements.
• Feel: Because the hands stay closer to the needles, it often feels more ergonomic to those who are used to crocheting.

Is one faster?

Generally, Continental knitting is considered faster by many knitters.

Because the yarn is held in the left hand and the needle "picks" it, there is very little wasted movement. You do not have to move your hand away from the work to wrap the yarn as you do in English knitting. However, speed is highly subjective and depends on practice. A seasoned English knitter who has mastered "flicking" (a variation of English knitting that keeps the needle tip close to the yarn) can be just as fast as any Continental knitter.

Ultimately, the best method is the one that is most comfortable for your hands and produces the tension you prefer. Many knitters find it useful to learn both so they can alternate styles to reduce repetitive strain.