Knit & Crochet Blog, What's New on This Site

The "Knit & Crochet Blog" is the sites mini-journal that keeps you up-to-date with the latest information submitted to the Smart Knit crocheting.com site as well as major changes. On this page you will find the following:

  • New pages that have been added.
  • Pages that have been substantially updated.
  • Other up-to-date postings or relevant news about knitting-crocheting that I find in books, media, and around the Web.
  • Important older pages that you might have otherwise missed.

This is a great page to start with when visiting my site, but it's not the only way to find important information.

You may want to check out my Sitemap where I list all the pages on this website.

Jun 25, 2025

Guide to SSK in Knitting: What It Is, How to Do It, and Why It Matters

A knitted swatch showing what the ssk looks like on the right side of the fabric

Learn how to master the SSK (Slip, Slip, Knit) technique in knitting with this comprehensive tutorial. Ideal for beginners and experienced knitters.

Continue reading "Guide to SSK in Knitting: What It Is, How to Do It, and Why It Matters"

Jun 23, 2025

Free Hat Knit Pattern - Perfect for Absolute Beginners

Garter stitch beannie done in varigated purple yarn and modeled on a young woman

This slouchy free hat knit pattern is very beginner friendly usin only the garter stitch pattern.

Continue reading "Free Hat Knit Pattern - Perfect for Absolute Beginners"

Jun 23, 2025

Double Woven Knit Stitch: Beginner-Friendly Tutorial

A swatch of the double woven knit stitch worked in a teal color

The double woven knit stitch is a slip stitch knitting pattern that is surprisingly easy. It's made with knit, purl and slip stitches

Continue reading "Double Woven Knit Stitch: Beginner-Friendly Tutorial"

Jun 21, 2025

Types of Knit Stitches: How Many Exist?

Garter knit stitch worked in gold yarn

There are many types of knit stitches to be mastered. Knits and Purls, Ribs, Reversible, Textured, Cables, Lace and Eyelets are just a few.

Continue reading "Types of Knit Stitches: How Many Exist?"

Jun 21, 2025

How to Knit. Basic Techniques and Video Tutorials.

How-to-knuit.jpg

How to knit basic knitting stitches? The best way to learn to knit them is the set of comprehensive videos.

Continue reading "How to Knit. Basic Techniques and Video Tutorials."

Jun 20, 2025

Magic Knot Knitting: Step-by-step Tutorial for Beginners

The magic knot in use in a swatch showing the front and reverse sides

The Magic knot knitting is an easy way to connect two ends of yarn. Learn how easy this method is for joining two separate yarns.

Continue reading "Magic Knot Knitting: Step-by-step Tutorial for Beginners"

Jun 17, 2025

Easy Scarf Pattern. How to Knit a Scarf.

A short cowl-like scarf modeled by a young model

Garter stitch easy scarf pattern. You must know ONE knit stitch only to follow this free scarf pattern. Find out how to knit a scarf which attracts attention.

Continue reading "Easy Scarf Pattern. How to Knit a Scarf."

Jun 11, 2025

Purl Stitch. Two Methods of Purling for the Absolute Beginner

Purl stitch swatch also known as reverse stockinette worked in white yarn

The purl stitch is one of the two major stitches in knitting. Quality of the finished knitting fabric depend on the way you purl the stitch.

Continue reading "Purl Stitch. Two Methods of Purling for the Absolute Beginner"

Jun 11, 2025

Knitting Garter Stitch - How to for the Absolute Beginner

garter-stitch-gold.jpg

This Knit Garter Stitch tutorial is for anyone interested in learning how to knit and includes step-by-step instructions and picture tutorials.

Continue reading "Knitting Garter Stitch - How to for the Absolute Beginner"

Jun 09, 2025

21 Half Double Crochet Stitch Variations for Beginners

A swatch of single crochet worked in pink acrylic yarn.

Here's 21 half double crochet stitch variations for beginners to try, all easy to master, and each creates a different textured fabric useful to many projects.

Continue reading "21 Half Double Crochet Stitch Variations for Beginners"

May 31, 2025

Fleck Stitch Coaster Set: Free Beginner Friendly Knit Pattern

Fleck stitch coaster set in fall colors

The fleck stitch coaster set is a free, beginner friendly knit pattern that even absolute beginners will love to make

Continue reading "Fleck Stitch Coaster Set: Free Beginner Friendly Knit Pattern"

May 29, 2025

How to Knit the Fleck Stitch Pattern: Beginner-Friendly Tutorial

fleck-stitch-swatch.jpg

Learn how to knit the fleck stitch pattern and the double fleck stitch in this beginner-friendly tutorial that includes a free pattern.

Continue reading "How to Knit the Fleck Stitch Pattern: Beginner-Friendly Tutorial"

May 22, 2025

Knitting vs Crocheting: Pros, Cons & Best for You

A person is seen knitting with gray yarn.

Knitting vs crocheting: Discover which craft is easier, uses less yarn, and fits your goals best. Includes pros, cons, tools, and beginner tips.

Continue reading "Knitting vs Crocheting: Pros, Cons & Best for You"

May 22, 2025

Knit Grid Stitch Pattern: How to Make, Tips and Tutorials

The grid knit stitch pattern swatch worked in white shown with yarn and a pair of scissors

The knit grid stitch pattern is an easy beginner-friendly stitch pattern that uses knit and purl stitches to create a textured fabric useful for many projects

Continue reading "Knit Grid Stitch Pattern: How to Make, Tips and Tutorials"

May 20, 2025

Double Andalusian Knit Stitch: Tutorial for Beginners

A swatch of the double andalusian knit stitch on needles

The double andalusian knit stitch creates a lovely textured fabric and is very easy to learn. Just a four-row repeat of knits and purls is all you need.

Continue reading "Double Andalusian Knit Stitch: Tutorial for Beginners"

May 20, 2025

46 + Knit and Purl Stitches: How to Make Them, What to Do With Them

A collage of small knit and purl stitch swatches

Knit & Purl stitches are the basis of all knit designs and any beginner can master them, but what can you do with them? Find out how useful these stitches are.

Continue reading "46 + Knit and Purl Stitches: How to Make Them, What to Do With Them"

May 16, 2025

36 Reversible Knit Stitch Patterns You Must Try

Sampler of reversible knit stitch patterns creating a pin image

These Reversible Knit Stitch patterns explore various reversible knit stitches, their benefits, and how to incorporate them into your knitting projects.

Continue reading "36 Reversible Knit Stitch Patterns You Must Try"

May 16, 2025

Puffed Rib Stitch: Beginner-friendly Knitting tutorial

Closeup of the puffed rib stitch worked in a speckled yarn

The Puffed Rib Stitch is a highly textured knit pattern that is created by using increases and decreases. Perfect as a rib or stand-alone pattern.

Continue reading "Puffed Rib Stitch: Beginner-friendly Knitting tutorial"

May 12, 2025

Double Moss Knit Stitch Tutorial for Beginners

Double moss stitch swatch on needles worked in pink yarn.

The double moss knit stitch pattern is a beginner-friendly stitch that is created with knit and purl stitches only. Step-by-step tutorial.

Continue reading "Double Moss Knit Stitch Tutorial for Beginners"

May 12, 2025

How to Make a Yarnover in Knitting: Knitwise and Purlwise

A swatch of feathers and fan knit stitch pattern worked in cotton yarn

A yarnover in knitting is an increase used to make little holes or eyelets especially in lace knitting but is also used elseware. Make YO knitwise and purlwise

Continue reading "How to Make a Yarnover in Knitting: Knitwise and Purlwise"

May 12, 2025

Double Crochet Increase Stitch: Tutorial

crochet-increase.jpg

The double crochet increase stitch is a basic skill for all crochet beginners and is very easy to do. It's needed anytime when increases are required.

Continue reading "Double Crochet Increase Stitch: Tutorial"

May 04, 2025

Fisherman's Rib Knit Stitch Pattern: Tips and Tutorials

Fisherman's rib knit stitch pattern worked in pink worsted weight yarn

The fisherman's rib knit stitch pattern is a classic rib stitch that is thicker than typical ribs and is reversible. Learn how to create it.

Continue reading "Fisherman's Rib Knit Stitch Pattern: Tips and Tutorials"

May 04, 2025

Free Crochet Animal Patterns: Amigurumi Projects

Four crochet rabbit toys

Here's 35 crochet animal patterns that represent many different animal species and are beginner-friendly, easy and fun to make.

Continue reading "Free Crochet Animal Patterns: Amigurumi Projects"

Apr 22, 2025

15 Free Knit Dishcloth Patterns that Will Help You Learn to Knit

Assortment of Knit Washcloths

15 Free knit dishcloth patterns includes designs to help you learn new techniques and at the same time create beautiful useful items for the home.

Continue reading "15 Free Knit Dishcloth Patterns that Will Help You Learn to Knit"

Apr 16, 2025

Knitting and Crochet For Beginners: Learn the Smart Way

Balls of white yarn, needles and work on a blue background

Learn to knit and crochet with ease! Find beginner tutorials, free patterns, helpful tips, and cozy project ideas—all in one friendly place.

Continue reading "Knitting and Crochet For Beginners: Learn the Smart Way"

Apr 15, 2025

Best Ergonomic Crochet Hooks (2025 Guide) for Pain-Free Crafting

An assortment of ergonomic crochet hooks from many different manufacturers

Looking for the best ergonomic crochet hooks? Discover top-rated brands for comfort, reduced fatigue, and pain-free crocheting — perfect for all skill levels

Continue reading "Best Ergonomic Crochet Hooks (2025 Guide) for Pain-Free Crafting"

Apr 03, 2025

Knit Hurdle Stitch: Beginner-friendly, Tutorial and Free Pattern

The knit hurdle stitch is a beginner friendly knitting stitch that uses only knit and crochet stitches

The knit hurdle stitch is an easy beginner-friendly knit pattern that resembles a rib stitch and is created with knit and purl stitches

Continue reading "Knit Hurdle Stitch: Beginner-friendly, Tutorial and Free Pattern"

Mar 29, 2025

Box Knit Stitch Pattern Tutorial

Box stitch knit pattern worked in read yarn.

The box knit stitch pattern is an easy, beginner-friendly pattern great for scarves, dishcloths and many other projects because it lays flat and works up fast

Continue reading "Box Knit Stitch Pattern Tutorial "

Mar 29, 2025

How to Make the Beginner-Friendly Bamboo Knit Stitch

Bamboo stitch showing right side of fabric

Here is a complete tutorial on how to make the beginner-friendly bamboo knit stitch with tips and photographs

Continue reading "How to Make the Beginner-Friendly Bamboo Knit Stitch"

Mar 29, 2025

Garter Checkerboard Knit Stitch Dishcloth Pattern: Free

Garter Checkerboard Knit Stitch

Knit this easy garter checkerboard dishcloth with our beginner-friendly pattern. Includes step-by-step instructions, tips, and texture variation ideas!

Continue reading "Garter Checkerboard Knit Stitch Dishcloth Pattern: Free"

Mar 29, 2025

Acrylic vs Cotton Yarn: What to Use and When?

Stacks of acrylic yarn skeins in shades of blue and green

Not sure whether to use acrylic or cotton yarn? This helpful guide breaks down the key differences — softness, breathability, durability & more

Continue reading "Acrylic vs Cotton Yarn: What to Use and When?"

Mar 28, 2025

Knit Waffle Stitch Pattern Tutorial for Beginners

waffle-stitch-closeup.jpg

The knit waffle stitch pattern is a great choice for the beginner--easy to learn and remember and only uses two basic stitches.

Continue reading "Knit Waffle Stitch Pattern Tutorial for Beginners"

Mar 23, 2025

25 + Knitting Rib Stitches: Plus Tips and Tutorals

rib-stitch-knitting-stretched.jpg

Knitting rib stitches is one of those beginner skills that most knitters can master. This tutorial walls you through the process. Tips to master the rib.

Continue reading "25 + Knitting Rib Stitches: Plus Tips and Tutorals"

Mar 23, 2025

24 Best Stitches for Knitting Scarves

Chart of Yarn Weights based on the Yarn Craft Council Standards

Here is my collection of the best stitches for knitting scarves for beginners along with free tutorials and directions to complete the projects.

Continue reading "24 Best Stitches for Knitting Scarves"

Mar 17, 2025

Mock Rib Slip Stitch Design: Beginner-Friendly Tutorial

The Mock ribbing slip stitch pattern on the needles worked in an orange acrylic yarn

The mock ribbing slip Stitch is a versatile and visually appealing design that is beginner-friendly and easy to learn and memorize.

Continue reading "Mock Rib Slip Stitch Design: Beginner-Friendly Tutorial"