Stitching Success: A Beginner’s Guide to Starting Your First Crochet or Knitting Project
As we find ourselves in the depths of winter, a cosy knitting or crocheting project is a wonderful way to embrace the season. I am here to provide a step-by-step guide to help get you started on this craft.
Knitting and crocheting are so much more than just hobbies. They offer a therapeutic escape, a chance for creativity, and a way to create personalised gifts and garments. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing activity or a new skill, knitting, and crocheting provide a wonderful avenue. Once you start, you’ll quickly see why these crafts have been practiced for centuries.
Where to buy your supplies
You’ve decided to hone your craft but you’re probably wondering where you can buy your supplies. You may think buying from Amazon is the suitable answer, but their prices are often expensive and it’s better to browse in person as a beginner.
The best option is to go to Hobbycraft. You will find me there at least once a week. They have a whole section dedicated to yarn, needles, and hooks. There’s a huge array of colours and materials. Their yarn is also affordable and of great quality. Hobby Craft also offers student discounts if you sign up for their rewards scheme. They’re always providing you with ways to save money.
Picking the right supplies
As a beginner, I’d recommend going for chunky yarn as it’s much thicker. This means your stitches will be more visible and you will find it easier to handle. You’ll also finish your project faster.
Soft fibers such as wool or acrylic yarn are great options. They are nicer to work with and they are not too slippery. Slicker yarns can be hard to control when you’re a beginner and you’ll likely have to start over.
Yarn isn’t the only supply you need to look for. You’re going to need tools. If you’re interested in knitting, then you need to pick up a pair of knitting needles that are not too small. Medium sizes are generally the best for beginners. This means you should look for sizes that are 4mm, 4.5mm, or 5mm wide, and 10 inches long. These needles will work well with chunkier yarns.
However, if you’re leaning more towards crocheting you will need hooks. A 4mm or 5mm hook should work for most beginner-friendly yarns. It’s important that these tools feel comfortable in your hands. You should feel relaxed and confident while you work.
Learning the basics
When I first decided to learn how to knit and then later to crochet, I found descriptive YouTube videos to be clear and helpful. Go to the YouTube search bar and look up “crochet/ knitting for beginners”. If you want to create something specific type it in and then add “beginners’ tutorial” on the end. These videos helped me create projects whilst guiding me through the basic stitches.
There are lots of free tutorials online. Sit yourself down and set up a comfy workspace. Whether that’s on the couch, on your bed, or even in the car or train- this hobby is portable! Once you’re comfortable watch some tutorials. You can pause them as much as you want, and remember to take your time.
Your first project
You’re probably wondering what your first project should be. It’s easy to get ahead of yourself and start at the deep end. As a beginner, it’s best you choose your project wisely and become familiar with the basics first.
If you want to pick up knitting, then a chunky scarf or a blanket is a great place to start. These require basic stitches and the bigger they are, the more practice you will get.
When crocheting, granny squares or a simple scarf chain is a good place to start. These follow simple stitches. Starting with an easy project, you set yourself up for success, building your skills and confidence. This allows you to progress at your own pace, keeping the craft fun and rewarding. The more you practice, the more comfortable and skilled you’ll become, and soon you’ll be ready for more complex and creative projects.
It’s important to remember that the goal is to enjoy the process, not just the finished product. Mistakes are part of learning, and knitting or crocheting is meditative. Don’t stress if things don’t look perfect.
Be patient with yourself. It’s easy to get frustrated if things don’t go as planned. If you make a mistake, unravel and start again. The more you practice, the more comfortable you’ll become with the rhythm of your stitches.
Congratulations you’ve finished your first project!
Once your project is done, you’ll have a cozy, homemade creation to keep you warm through the winter. The feeling of accomplishing a project you can wear is unmatched! Whether it’s a scarf, hat, or a simple blanket. By starting with something manageable and fun, you’ll be knitting or crocheting your way through the winter in no time! Soon you’ll be crafting all sorts of cozy, handmade creations.
Words by Pearl Benjamin
