Knitting vs. Crocheting

Knitting and crocheting are similar, yet different.

Both crafts use yarn to make items, but knitting is done with two knitting needles and the stitches are loops. Crocheting, on the other hand, is done with just one crochet hook and the stitches resemble small knots.

The resulting projects look different, too.

Knitting can be easier to learn because only two stitches are used: the knit stitch and purl stitch. It’s a very logical craft – knitters move stitches from one needle to the other, then back again. The loops remain on the needles which makes for very organized projects. Stitches look like straight lines or little V’s.

Crochet stitches build from each other and range from very short and small (chain stitch) to very tall and twisty (triple crochet). In between are other stitches, the most common crochet stitches being the single crochet and double crochet. Stitches are bumpier and more textured.

Knitting is great for items that need delicate stitches such as soft sweaters or fluffy cowls. Crocheting is perfect for when bulkier stitches are needed – hats, scarves or dishtowels.

You’ll also notice there is a bit of a stigma sometimes associated with crocheters. The more traditional of the two is knitting. Think of the old pamphlets published with instructions on how to make a sweater for the wintery coasts in the UK. Chances are, those patterns are for knitted cardigans.

Knitting is your craft if you:

• Have patience – Knitting projects can take more time and be more detailed (the stitches are also smaller!)
• Want to save money (but only to buy expensive yarn). Crochet projects, believe it or not, take a third more yarn
• Prefer logical projects and directions
• Want to enjoy an extensive library of patterns – knitting patterns can be more popular and more readily available than crochet patterns
• What you’ll need: yarn + knitting needles (size 11 for beginners)

Crochet is your craft if: 

• Quick projects excite you (bigger stitches = projects work up faster)
• You aren’t afraid of making mistakes – it’s easier to rip out work or fix a mixed stitch
• Your mind works spatially – you like going up, down and around or over
• You’re creative – crochet patterns can be scarcer to find and you might have to forge your own path
• What you’ll need: “normal sized” yarn called worsted weight + a crochet needle (size H is good for beginners)

I learned to crochet when I was 8 so it’s my first love and I’m obviously biased, but knitting is a close second. If you’re adventurous, I’d recommend trying both crafts and seeing what you like.

I’ve taught both crafts to friends and it seems to be an individual basis of what is easier or harder – some people hate the structured stitches of knitting, while others find crocheting too cumbersome and need boundaries.

If I had to recommend just one, I’d recommend knitting since it tends to be easier for people to pick up quickly.

Advanced crafters may have some level of knowledge between crocheting and knitting and can easily add a crocheted border around a knit cardigan, for example. Learning both will enable you to be more versatile and choose whichever you’re in the mood for (and which one best suits your project needs).

Either way, you can’t go wrong! Which one have you tried?

For 8 reasons why crochet is better than knitting, read here.