I listen to a lot of podcasts, and when I do, I find myself just wasting time with my hands.

I think maybe knitting might be a good way to do something with my hands.

To that end: how do I start? I don't want to make a massive investment in case I don't stick with the hobby, but what would be a good robust investment that would allow me to continue should I choose to?

Just like with all hobbies, I know there's a world of detail, but I just want to get started.

One thing: is it possible to knit machine washable wear? That's something about wool clothing that has always made me cautious: the fact that you can't wash them. Blankets, sweaters, scarfs...is there a starter yarn that can be washed?

Or is washing related to how you knit as opposed to the yarn?

Clearly I have no idea what I'm doing besides I want to try this and I know how to spell knit (most of the time).