Learn Knitting & Crochet - A Comprehensive Collection
If you're interested in learning these fiber crafts what I've learned is what works for you is your best choice! These are my suggestions to make learning these relaxing, useful, potentially lucrative fiber crafts easier.
Knitting
The basics for Knitting
If you feel intimidated buying each item individually or want to give someone a gift to help them start off this kit makes it easy
Aluminum is lightweight, shorter needles are easier to learn with and I prefer them in general. If you want a small set until you know better what you might like to invest in, these sizes should suit a variety of projects
Bamboo knitting needles are extra lightweight and have a nice wood texture / aesthetic
Circular needles are great for knitting in the round projects like hats or cowls, and blankets when you need a longer but less awkward needle. They can be used as regular needles as well. Before you spend extra money on an interchangeable set when yo...
I have carpal tunnel in both wrists. I have wanted to try these because I heard from other disabled knitters that these are great if you have hand or wrist issues. Check out their Etsy shop and let me know what you think if you try them 🙂
Crochet
The basics for Crochet
It can be intimidating to figure out what you might need in the beginning but this simple kit includes the basics and makes it easy
If you prefer to learn from a kit or want to try something with your kids Woobles has your back with it's adorable amigurumi patterns
If you are hesitant to start crocheting because you don't know if you'll like it and don't want to risk the expenses, you can literally buy a crochet hook like this for $3 and a ball of yarn for $4, head to YouTube for some tutorials and find out. Gi...
This complete crochet hook set will allow you all sorts of pattern options and you can find what's comfortable for you to learn with. It's a great price and will last you, keeping your hooks together and from wandering into the abyss
If you like the option to have a cushion grip or the plain hook try these removable crochet hook covers
General Supplies
These are necessities and accessories that help with fiber arts in general
These can slip onto your knitting needles or be attached to your work with a large safety pin to keep track of your stitches or rows
I like this row counter because it's not uncomfortable to wear and having it right there on your hand makes it easy not to forget to count your row.
A stitch counter you can wear around your neck
Simple, tried and true stitch markers
If you want to have secure stitch markers that are fancy and convenient check out my shop. These come with a keyring and clasp to keep them together and attached to your project kit
Beginner Yarns
Little to no added learning difficulty with yarn types
I love Joann's store brand yarn for any skill level but for starting out especially. You will want an inexpensive yarn that is worsted weight or 4, the most average yarn weight for the largest variety of projects. It will help if the yarn can be undo...
Red Heart yarn is the number one most basic yarn of all time as far as I know. Plenty of colors and yarn types to enjoy.
If you are making your first larger project or just want to make sure you have a bunch of yarn to go through to get started I recommend these Caron rolls for a thick worsted weight yarn with a comfortable hand feel when you are learning finger holds.
If you live in a warmer climate you might want to work with cotton yarn instead of acrylic. Cotton yarn is also great for many household items like trivets, wash cloths and pot holders. Lion Brand yarn is probably my favorite big yarn brand
When I started to crochet I had convinced myself that you must use crochet thread in order to understand the true meaning of crochet. I was too precocious and failed with the delicate string often. Now it seems to be one of my favorite things to use ...
Lighting
I lieu of the sun
I use this lamp as a sort of spotlight angled from behind or next to me. I'm photosensitive and I like that it's not bright in all directions.
Ottlite crafting lamps are made for exactly what we are trying to do here
Clamp lamps may not fit everyone's definition of aesthetically pleasing but I love them. For art and craft work clamp lamps are your best friend. You can unclip and store them away any time.
Daylight bulbs help you see colors with more clarity without adding warm or cool light tones
Storage
Keeping your yarn clean and your tools ready at hand when you're working on a project is a top priority. You could use plastic bags but they tend to not withstand needles well. Get yourself some nice portable storage that will last and stay closed.
I like to keep my small tools and findings in these multi pocket binder pouches. The long pocket length is good for scissors and DPNs, you can attach your counters to the rings for easy access, you can clip it into an actual binder with pattern folde...
I love this case for my extra needles, hooks and accessories
Great to keep next to your favorite stitching spot for all those little this and that's and tools.
If you find a good yarn sale snatch up as much as your arms can hold and stash your precious into these easy to tuck away totes.
Fiber Arts Self Care
Keeping your wrists and hands healthy is priority #1, take the time to learn these stretches correctly and use them before you begin stitching every time. Make sure you have regular breaks to do them during extended sessions and stay hydrated.
Making sure your take care of your hands is very imprtant with these repetitive crafts. Give them proper supports, take breaks and stretch gently and correctly often.
Add this to your hand care or bedtime routine to make sure your nails and cuticles stay smooth and avoid snags
This Lubriderm lotion is ideal for knitters and crocheters because it is fragrance free, fast absorbing, and doesn't leave greasy residue on your fingers 💯
If you're having issues with your nails such as ridges or cracks or they break easily, visit your doctor for a consult and ask about some vitamins to increase your nail health and decrease snags.
Laundry Day
Some yarn items don't need to be washed often and some do.
For a hand wash with delicate or small items.
A sturdy basin for hand washing items
For machine washing, no dye, baby blankets
Keep your creations safe in the washer and dryer with smooth mesh laundry bags.
If you don't need/want to block while drying this rack still has an area for laying things flat.
Awesome Resources
YouTube Channels,TikTok and Instagram Creators Accounts, Websites and Blogs
Faye is such an excellent teacher. They give fantastic tips and make it easy and encouraging to learn how to crochet. Please check them out on TikTok, YouTube, Instagram and you can also buy their patterns.
I love Naztazia's channel. She's like a craft goddess and muse that shows you beautiful patterns and teaches you how to do them step by step with ease.
Studio Knit's channel has tons of great tutorials for beginners with great stitch pattern options
This crochet artist asks AI to design them a simple pattern and then they follow it exactly. It is not what you think and it's hilarious.
HonseDesign has great patterns and advice for knitters of any level and lots of bright inspiration
Free and Paid Patterns
Over 10,000 free patterns for all levels of skill in various fiber arts styles.
Over 8,000 free patterns for all skill levels and paid patterns as well
SO MANY free knitting patterns
SO MANY free crochet patterns
Searching the crochet & knitting patterns on Etsy is almost as fun as actually making them (well maybe not, but it will make you excited to get to it)
Knitting Books
For Knitting reference and patterns that don't require wifi or a screen
This is my number one favorite knitting book out there. I love the charts, guides and the patterns. 100% recommend.
This book has many options with symbol charts for tons of stitch options and a compact size to keep in your knitting bag.
This book has a collection of fun patterns and inspiration to start your own knitting group and expand the community.
Sometimes it's hard to find a decent collection of masculine patterns but I think this book did a good job for all skill levels and includes crochet patterns as well.
Crochet Books
For Crochet reference and patterns that don't require WiFi or a screen
This little book is what I used to teach myself crochet. It has a special place in my heart and is a great size to keep with you at home or on the go.
A lot of info in one place, a great resource to have on a trip or in the car.
Granny squares are really fun and often easy to learn. Once you know how to follow the pattern you can just repeat it until you have enough pieces to make things like blankets, sweaters, pants, hats curtains and more
Knitting and crocheting in one (almost), Tunisian crochet is a technique that creates beautiful fabrics and designs. After you learn the basics if you find you're looking for a taste of something different try Tunisian crochet
Speciality Notions
Extra accessories to make your projects unique and finished
If you need some safety eyes for your project they. Have. All. Of. Them.
Adding some antique sewing buttons to a project can make it really special