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Learn Knitting & Crochet - A Comprehensive Collection

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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.
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Knitting

The basics for Knitting
 
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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
Boye® I Taught Myself to Knit™ Kit
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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
Boye Anodized Aluminum Knitting Needles, 10 inch, US Sizes 6,7,8
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Bamboo knitting needles are extra lightweight and have a nice wood texture / aesthetic
Lion Brand Yarn 401-1902 Bamboo Knitting Needle Set 10" Size 6, 7, 8
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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...
Clover Takumi® 36" Bamboo Circular Knitting Needles
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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 🙂
Flex Knit Patented Ergonomic Bendable Knitting Needles US Size 9 (5.5 mm)
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Double pointed needles might seem intimidating but things like icords require them and are easy to make to be used as straps or handles. They come in the same sizes as regular knitting needles. DPNs are good to have in your kit as a sort of multi too...
7in Doublepoint Knitting Needles by Loops & Threads®
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I highly recommend this cable tool set so you can see which type suits you and I do love that handi tool
Susan Bates Cable Stitch Holders & Handi Tool | JOANN
 
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These little guys pretty cool, you can put them on the end of your needles keep your project on when not working on it or measuring/sizing against someone. You can also stick them on the end of a double pointed needle and make it a regular knitting n...
Point Protectors&Stopper For Sizes 0 10.5 6 Pkg | JOANN
 
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Basic stitch holders indeed
Loops & Threads® Stitch Holders Set, 3ct.
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Another type of stitch holder option you may prefer
Clover Double Ended Stitch Holder Medium 2PK | JOANN
 
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When you finish a project washing and blocking helps it become and maintain the shape you wanted it to be. You will need blocking pins as well.
Boye 4 pk 12''x12'' Interlocking Blocking Boards | Walmart

Crochet

The basics for Crochet
 
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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
Boye® I Taught Myself to Crochet® Kit | Michaels
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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
Learn to crochet with The Woobles
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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
Simplicity Boye Crochet Master Steel and Aluminum Crochet Hook Set
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If you like the option to have a cushion grip or the plain hook try these removable crochet hook covers
Susan Bates 2 pk 0.63''x3.5'' Crochet Hook Cushion Grips | JOANN
 
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If you think you might like some large size hooks for bigger yarn and quick projects try a set like these.
Simplicity Boye Crochet Hook Set Size LPQ, 3 Piece
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If you need a better grip for comfort try an ergonomic hook option
Boye 12 Piece Ergonomic Aluminum Crochet Hook Set, Multi-Color, Sizes B-N
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If you want to try different hooks to find out which hook styles or materials you like bamboo is a lightweight option
Lion Brand Yarn Bamboo Crochet Hook Set Size G, H, I 1 Set
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Tunisian crochet uses a different type of hook and creates many beautiful patterns if you want to add this skill to your repertoire
Susan Bates® Silvalume® Afghan Crochet Hook
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If you get used to blocking your finished work early on it will add a level of professionalism that will make you seem like you really know what you're doing.
Wooden Crochet Blocking Board Reusable Handcrafted Knitting Blocking Mat Set with Steel Pins Large Eye Needle Crochet Hook and Base for Knitting Crochet Needlework
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General Supplies

These are necessities and accessories that help with fiber arts in general
 
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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
2 Sizes Knitting Row Counter 2 8mm Round Stitch
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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.
Coats Susan Bates® Digital Row Counter
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A stitch counter you can wear around your neck
Stitch counter - Walmart.com
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Simple, tried and true stitch markers
Clover Lock Ring Markers
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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
Silver & Gold Moons Stars and Evil Eye Talisman Handmade Clay Charms Stitch Marker Set Crochet Knitting
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The most basic of stitch/row markers, mini stitch holders, counter attachment aide, etc.
Prym Large Safety Pins, 20 Count
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Whether you need to switch to a new project or work on a different part of the same one these stitch holders have you covered
Lion Brand Stitch Holders, 3-Pack
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For weaving in ends, putting together granny squares and sewing seams
Boye 4 Piece Aluminum Yarn Needles
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Another piece of yarn jewelry to make learning your new skill convenient and fun
Clover Yarn Cutter Pendants | JOANN
 
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These are the cutest mini scissors in the world
Seki Mini Scissors
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A pair of scissors that won't dull quickly, and has a rounded tip which won't cause cutting accidents is a necessity in your fiber craft kit
Fiskars® All-Purpose Craft Scissors
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Measuring tape = 100% need. Measure your work along the pattern, measure your friends and family so you can make them stuff when you become addicted to yarn.
Dritz Retractable Tape Measure
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This little tool is very handy for a number of situations. With a crochet hook on one side and a knitting needle point on the other you can use it for mending and creating.
Susan Bates® Silvalume® Handi Tool
 
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A beautiful, roomy yarn bowl will keep your yarn clean and smooth and make you feel majestic as you traverse the wonders of fiber crafts
X Large Handcrafted WOODEN Yarn Bowl for Knitting, Crochet, Sewing & Crafts - Large A best gift for knitters |
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Beginner Yarns

Little to no added learning difficulty with yarn types
 
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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...
6oz Solid Medium Weight Acrylic 380yd Value Yarn by Big Twist | JOANN
 
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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.
Red Heart Super Saver Yarn | JOANN
 
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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.
Caron One Pound Yarn | JOANN
 
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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
Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton Yarn | JOANN
 
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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 ...
Aunt Lydia's Fashion Crochet Thread | JOANN
 
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Bamboo yarn is another great alternative to acrylic, it's still easy to work with and has a lot of great properties. It's soft and good for garments that will be touching sensitive skin
Lion Brand Truboo Yarn | JOANN
 
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Darn Good Yarn offers Yarn of the Month subscription boxes sent straight to your home that will allow you to try out all sorts of sweet yarns, as well as patterns and more, heck yeah
Online Ethical Yarn & Clothing Store | Darn Good Yarn

Lighting

I lieu of the sun
 
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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.
24 in. Black Wright Architect Modern LED Lamp with Round Weighted BaseThe Home Depot LogoAccountIcons
 
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Ottlite crafting lamps are made for exactly what we are trying to do here
Ottlite LED Soft Touch Desk Lamp
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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.
Woods 60-Watt Incandescent Stainless Steel Plug-in Portable Work Light
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Daylight bulbs help you see colors with more clarity without adding warm or cool light tones
GE Daylight LED Light Bulbs, 40 watts Eqv, A19 General Purpose, E26 Medium Base, 9yr, 4pk
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Storage

 
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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.
Knitting Bag Backpack,Leudes Yarn Storage Organizer Large Crochet Bag Tote Mo...
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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...
Case-It 3-Zipper Pencil Case - Multiple Colors (Purple)
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I love this case for my extra needles, hooks and accessories
ArtBin Hook and Needle Folio Craft Case | Wayfair
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Great to keep next to your favorite stitching spot for all those little this and that's and tools.
Sterilite Small 3 Drawer Desktop Unit, Plastic, White
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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.
Sterilite 58 Qt. Clear Plastic Storage Box with White Lid
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When you begin finishing larger projects like blankets and realize you have nothing good enough to put them in here it is. Great for when your stitched item is not in use for the summer perhaps, or to save finished gifts for holidays.
Whitmor Flexible Zip Jumbo Storage Tote
 
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As your yarnbending powers grow you will need more places to keep yarn and store finished gifts, under the bed it goes!
mDesign Fabric Under Bed Storage Organizer Bag, Zippered Lid, 2 Pack
 
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If you're struggling with space here's another place for yarn.
Mainstays 6 Shelf Non Woven Hanging Closet Organizer, Arctic White
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This has some great cubbies for easy access yarn storage and you can add soft bins to keep remnants+ other fiber stuff
11" 12 Cube Organizer Shelf White - Room Essentials™
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Collapsible bins for that shelf ^, or leave next to your stitching spot and have an open basket for yarn that's easy to store later. PS. Feed your yarn through that hole when you begin and it's a makeshift yarn bowl
11" Fabric Cube Storage Bin - Room Essentials™
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Fiber Arts Self Care

 
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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.
Hand Stretches for Knitting
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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.
Lion Brand Small Stress Relief Gloves for Knitters | JOANN
 
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Add this to your hand care or bedtime routine to make sure your nails and cuticles stay smooth and avoid snags
Milk and Honey Hand and Body Dry Oil
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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 💯
Lubriderm Body Lotion Fragrance-Free
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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.
Nature's Bounty Optimal Solutions Hair, Skin & Nails Gummies with Biotin
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Your hands and wrists might feel uncomfortable as you begin to adjust to your new craft. Maintaining wrist health is a life long priority. Get a wrist support for each side and wear them while you sleep. They can possibly help you stave off carpal tu...
Equate Adjustable Wrist Support, Black, One Size
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Sitting and stitching go hand and hand, support your back with these lumbar pillows for a better knit and chill
DMI Relax-A-Bac Lumbar Back Support Cushion Pillow with Insert & Strap, Black
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Support your back from the base and try one of these cushions. You can use them in your car as well if you need support when driving.
Miracle Bamboo Cushion Orthopedic Seat Cushion
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A robe for stitching sessions is kind of like an artist's smock but you are protecting the yarn instead of your outfit. You can keep animal hairs, dust, food, smells, and extra fuzz out of your work with a designated robe you store away from yarn inv...
LENZING™ TENCEL™ Modal PJ Robe
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Laundry Day

Some yarn items don't need to be washed often and some do.
 
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For a hand wash with delicate or small items.
Woolite Delicates Hypoallergenic Liquid Laundry Detergent, 8 Loads, 16oz, Hand & Machine Wash
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A sturdy basin for hand washing items
Sterilite 18 Qt. Dishpan Plastic, Black
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For machine washing, no dye, baby blankets
all Liquid Laundry Detergent Free Clear for Sensitive Skin, 141 Ounce, 94 Loads
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Keep your creations safe in the washer and dryer with smooth mesh laundry bags.
Niuta Mesh Laundry Wash Bag for Delicates, 7 Pack
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If you don't need/want to block while drying this rack still has an area for laying things flat.
20.00 in. x 41.00 in. Grey Steel Garment Rack
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Get off all those extra fuzzies from your labor and make her the piece she is meant to be. I have a beast of a Conair shaver that's been going since I was a kid. I think it's time for a replacement
Conair Fabric Shaver - White
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Lint rollers for finished projects to make them look pro
Mainstays Lint Roller 70 Layer 2-Pack
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Awesome Resources

YouTube Channels,TikTok and Instagram Creators Accounts, Websites and Blogs
 
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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.
Crochet With Faye's Creator Profile
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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.
naztazia
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Studio Knit's channel has tons of great tutorials for beginners with great stitch pattern options
Studio Knit
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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.
Generated Crochet's Creator Profile
 
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HonseDesign has great patterns and advice for knitters of any level and lots of bright inspiration
Instagram (@honsedesign)
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If you're looking for knitting inspo check out idknitthat's IG account for some eye candy
Instagram (@id.knit.that)
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Neuro_knits has really cool knitting and crochet inspiration, free patterns and more so definitely check out their IG
Instagram (@neuro_knits)
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The Spruce Crafts always has beautiful patterns and advice for knitting and crocheting
How to Crochet for Beginners
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Free and Paid Patterns

 
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Over 10,000 free patterns for all levels of skill in various fiber arts styles.
Yarnspiration Brand Patterns
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Over 8,000 free patterns for all skill levels and paid patterns as well
Lion Brand Free Knit & Crochet Patterns
 
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SO MANY free knitting patterns
AllFreeKnitting - 1000s of Free Knitting Patterns
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SO MANY free crochet patterns
AllFreeCrochet - 1000s of Free Crochet Patterns
 
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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)
Crochet Patterns - Etsy
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Tons of free and paid patterns from creators that can help you learn
Ravelry
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Knitting Books

For Knitting reference and patterns that don't require wifi or a screen
 
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This is my number one favorite knitting book out there. I love the charts, guides and the patterns. 100% recommend.
The Knitter's Bible - by Claire Crompton (Paperback)
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This book has many options with symbol charts for tons of stitch options and a compact size to keep in your knitting bag.
The Knitting Stitch Bible (Artist/Craft Bible Series, 3)
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This book has a collection of fun patterns and inspiration to start your own knitting group and expand the community.
Stitch 'n Bitch: The Knitter's Handbook
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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.
Son of Stitch 'n Bitch: 45 Projects to Knit and Crochet for Men [Paperback]
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Crochet Books

For Crochet reference and patterns that don't require WiFi or a screen
 
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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.
The Crochet Answer Book, 2nd Edition: Solutions to Every Problem You
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A lot of info in one place, a great resource to have on a trip or in the car.
Crocheting For Dummies
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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
The Ultimate Granny Square Sourcebook : 100 Contemporary Motifs to Mix and Match (Paperback)
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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
Ultimate Beginner's Guide to Tunisian Crochet|Paperback
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Speciality Notions

Extra accessories to make your projects unique and finished
 
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If you need some safety eyes for your project they. Have. All. Of. Them.
GlassEyesOnLine
 
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Adding some antique sewing buttons to a project can make it really special
Antique Sewing Buttons for sale | eBay