Smart Knit Crocheting
Knitting and Crochet for Beginners

Knitting and Crochet for Beginners:  The Smart Way

Have you caught the knit or crochet bug yet?  It's not a germ, but it could become addictive.

Knitting and crochet for beginners, the smart way is for anyone who loves to knit or crochet?   

Or, for anyone who thinks they might like to give knitting or crocheting a try. So, which one is better, easier, more fun?

Where do you want to start?

Knitting

How to Knit:  Start Here

Balls of white yarn, needles and work on a blue backgroundIf you are passionate about learning to knit, this is a good place to start, from learning how to put stitches on the needles to making those first stitches. Soon you'll be knitting like a pro.

Glossary of Knit Stitches

Shown is the knit thermal stitch There are many different types of knit stitches. This comprehensive index is a great starting point, and each entry will link to a how-to guide, perfect for beginners.

Supplies for Beginners

Supplies needed by beginning knittersYou'll need a few supplies, but as a beginner, you may be confused about what to purchase. This guide walks you through the process before you step into a shop.

Illusion Knitting: A Free Tutorial

Thumbnail image of illusian kniing swatchAlso called Shadow knitting, this tutorial covers the basics of this magical knit stitch.

Free and Easy Projects for Knitters

An assortment of knit dishclothsKnitted Dishcloths are a perfect first project. A new knitter can make many different things and be proud of them.

Knitting Mistakes and How to Fix Them

A swatch of knitting on needles showing a dropped stitchMistakes happen. Knowing how to correct those errors will make you a more confident and competent knitter.

Slip Stitch Knitting

Knit and Purl Stitches

Reversible  Stitches

Comprehensive Guide to Yarn for Knitting and Crocheting

An assortment of gray and white yarn skeinsKnitters love yarn, and many accumulate more than they can use. But as a beginner, how do you know what type of yarn is best for your next project? Discover everything you need to know as a beginner.

 What's Worsted-Weight Yarn

Understanding Jumbo Yarn

Choosing Between Cotton & Acrylic Yarn

Working With Alpaca Yarn

Crocheting

How to Crochet:  Start Here

How to crochet:  Chain StitchBegin here if you're interested in learning to crochet. Complete tutorials that every new crocheter should master first.

Glossary of Crochet Stitches

One of many crochet stitch swatches worked in greenA comprehensive list of crochet stitches for beginners to advanced crochet enthusiasts

Crochet Tutorials for Working in the Round 

Circular crochet in grayBeyond learning a few stitches, there are other techniques to know. This article will cover all the essential skills that crocheters need to know.

Essential Supplies for Crochet Beginners

Crochet supplies needed for beginnersCrochet requires a few supplies: Yarn, Hooks, Scissors, and a yarn needle. This article discusses essential supplies and those that are "nice to have."

Easy Crochet Projects for Beginners

Crochet toilet paper cover pin imageWhat do you want to make first? There are so many easy projects that you'll become a maker in no time.

Why Knitting and Crocheting for Beginners?

There's something so satisfying about using your hands to make something.  Research has shown that these hobbies are good for your health.  

Knitting and Crocheting could very well be the

  • Most versatile
  • Most portable
  • Most inexpensive
  • Most fulfilling way to add meaning to your life

So How Exactly do you Knit or Crochet Smart?

Many years ago, when I was in high school, there were 3 kinds of kids:

  • Those A students who memorized everything
  • Those C students who didn't try at all and
  • Those A-B students who actually understood the subject matter at it's core.  

I want you to be the last kind of student because in the long run you will knit or crochet better, enjoy it more, and make it a life-long hobby (or maybe something more).

(Confession) I was always in the first group and it took many years to figure out that I should have been in the third group.

A young Shih Tzu puppy is sitting on a basket of yarn and swatchesKnitting and Crocheting for Beginners

You're knitting or crocheting smart when you

  • Learn a few techniques and stitches to get you started
  • Practice and develop that muscle memory
  • Get so hooked all you want to do is learn more
  • Feel the creative juices running through your veins

Have you ever been faced with one or more of these common situations?

  • Understanding written and charted patterns: You've read the instructions and think you understand until you try to do it for yourself and that's when your eyes glaze over.
  • Choose the best yarn for your projects:  You walk into a yarn store, only to overwhelmed by the choices.  The sales person is helpful, but you find your eyes begin to glaze over by all the info thrown your way.
  • Going from Easy to Interesting:  You want to go beyond knits and purls or single and double crochet stitches
  • Tension, Shapping, Finishing
  • Gauge: How to Make Your nits and crochets fit perfectly.
  • Latest trends, tips, techniques, tutorials
Janice Jones image

Hi, there, I'm Janice, the voice behind this website and avid knit and crochet enthusiast. I want to share my passion with you and help you learn how to knit or crochet, smarter.

Happy Knitting and Crocheting!

My Latest Articles

Recent Articles

  1. Guide to SSK in Knitting: What It Is, How to Do It, and Why It Matters

    Jun 03, 25 10:46 AM

    A swatch worked in a beige yarn showing the SSK on the left and the K2tog on the right
    Learn how to master the SSK (Slip, Slip, Knit) technique in knitting with this comprehensive tutorial. Ideal for beginners and experienced knitters.

    Read More

  2. Fleck Stitch Coaster Set: Free Beginner Friendly Knit Pattern

    May 31, 25 09:23 AM

    Fleck stitch coaster set in fall colors
    The fleck stitch coaster set is a free, beginner friendly knit pattern that even absolute beginners will love to make

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  3. How to Knit the Fleck Stitch Pattern: Beginner-Friendly Tutorial

    May 29, 25 05:17 PM

    fleck-stitch-swatch.jpg
    Learn how to knit the fleck stitch pattern and the double fleck stitch in this beginner-friendly tutorial that includes a free pattern.

    Read More