Q&A: What do I need to learn to knit or crochet?

We LOVE when people want to learn a new craft! For both knitting and crochet we recommend keeping things simple when you are starting out. Based on our Learn To classes as 13 years as a brick and mortar LYS, we have put together a tools list for both to make it easy for anyone to figure what to buy to put you on the path to success. 

The first two things you'll need to learn either knitting or crochet are patience and a sense of humor. Learning a new skill as an adult is just plain hard and there's no substitute for practice. It's well worth it, of course! Just remember to be kind to yourself and enjoy the process.

Tools to learn to knit

• Worsted Weight Yarn
• This is a right in the middle of the yarn spectrum - not too big, not too small.
• Save yourself some pain and suffering and pick a lighter, brighter, solid color so it is easier to see your stitches. Variegated yarn is ok, too, but intensely multi-colored yarns can sometimes make it hard to see what's going on.
• Pick something smooth - sorry, no mohair right now... again, it makes it much harder to see what you're doing.
• Wool is best - the natural elasticity is forgiving on both your hands and your tension.
• And... price... this first project may not be destined to be a family heirloom. Go with something that you will not be heartbroken to sacrifice at the altar of learning and improvement.
• We recommend Malabrigo Worsted or Berroco Vintage Worsted.
• Size 8 straight wood needles
• This is similar to the size of a pencil, making it a nice familiar starting point.
• Wood is good to learn on because the natural texture helps stitches stay in place.
• You can use circular needles if that's what you already have on hand. :)
• Most beginners knit tightly, so you can go up to a size 9 or down to a size 7 if you think you'll knit loosely, but to start with we wouldn't suggest using anything beyond that with worsted weight yarn. The tightness of your knitted fabric is determined by the needle size and the weight of the yarn. 
• Churchmouse Learn To Knit Companion
• Darning needle for weaving in ends

Tools to learn to crochet

• Worsted Weight Yarn
• All the same recommendations apply as for knitting, above: a solid, light, smooth wool will serve you well.
• We recommend Malabrigo Worsted or Berroco Vintage Worsted
• Size H Crochet Hook
• As for knitting needles, you can up or down a size of hook but don't get any further off than that or you cause unnecessary hardship.
• There are many styles of crochet hooks! They also tend to be less expensive than knitting needles so try more than one to get something you like.
• TNNA How To Crochet Book or Churchmouse Learn to Crochet Companion
• Darning needle for weaving in ends

Online Resources

From there it is as much trial and error and determination as anything. There is a whole world of resources on the internet to help when you have questions. The Resources page of our website is full of great information -specifically the Starting and Casting On section! Beyond that, nearly anything you need is a Google search or YouTube video away. Sometimes there's no substitute for the human touch, of course, so we also offer private Zoom lessons so you can learn from the comfort and safety of your own home.