Read the ball-band care guidance before the first wash. Many hand knits benefit from gentle washing, minimal agitation, and drying flat so gravity does not change the shape.

Give a garment a rest between wears and address small pills with a careful fabric comb or shaver when the fibre allows it. Store clean pieces folded rather than hanging, especially if the yarn has a soft, drapey character.

A small repair made early can protect a favourite project from becoming a much larger mending job.