Following a chart

Mary asked me to post this rather than commenting to Lyn's question as she felt it might be useful. Therefore, I'm going public. (-;

Once you get accustomed to a chart, you won't care to go back to written instructions. It's kind of like reading a cross-stitch pattern. First, cast on 20 stitches. Then, look at the bottom of the chart at the legend. Begin odd rows (first one & right side) on the right side of the chart. You will see that the arrow symbol is a chain selvedge. Follow the instructions for a chain selvedge. Turn your knitting and follow the chart for the second row starting from the left side and chain selvedge. All the odd rows (right/public side) will start from the right side and even rows will start from the left. The arrow symbols are a good reminder for me. To make knitting a little easier to keep up with, place a marker between the (.) symbols. It also helps to use a magnetic board and place your magnet above the line on which you're working. When mine dries tonight, I will be placing a lifeline through the stitches too.

Margaret