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.

Sep 26, 2023

A Comprehensive Guide to the Difference Between Wool and Alpaca Yarns

There is a difference between wool and alpaca yarns, even though both are animal sourced. Differences, pros and cons of each, and uses of each are explained

Continue reading "A Comprehensive Guide to the Difference Between Wool and Alpaca Yarns"

Sep 25, 2023

25 Reversible Knit Stitch Patterns: Creating Fabric Same on Both Sides

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

Continue reading "25 Reversible Knit Stitch Patterns: Creating Fabric Same on Both Sides"

Sep 25, 2023

What is the Pique Knit Stitch Pattern and How is it Created: Tutorial

The pique knit stitch pattern is an interesting textured rib stitch that is beginner-friendly and can be made with just knit and purl stitches. Tutorial

Continue reading "What is the Pique Knit Stitch Pattern and How is it Created: Tutorial"

Sep 25, 2023

Knitting Stitches for Beginners: Complete Tutorials

These easy knitting stitches for beginners include all the basic stitch patterns with links to detailed tutorials, pictures and instructions.

Continue reading "Knitting Stitches for Beginners: Complete Tutorials"

Sep 25, 2023

Site Map for Smart Knit Crocheting: Complete Site Index of All Pages

This Site Map displays links to every page of Smart-Knit-Crocheting.com for easy access to every blog post, tutorial and free pattern available.

Continue reading "Site Map for Smart Knit Crocheting: Complete Site Index of All Pages"

Sep 25, 2023

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

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"

Sep 10, 2023

The Ribbed Half Double Crochet Stitch Picture Tutorial: Tips

The ribbed half double crochet stitch is perfect for projects that need a substitution for a knit rib stitch that is worked entirely with crochet stitches.

Continue reading "The Ribbed Half Double Crochet Stitch Picture Tutorial: Tips "

Sep 08, 2023

How to Make Crochet Stitches: Beginner Friendly Stitches

Learn how to make basic crochet stitches and those just slightly more advanced with straightforward instructions, photographs and video tutorials.

Continue reading "How to Make Crochet Stitches: Beginner Friendly Stitches "

Sep 08, 2023

How to Create the Crochet Sedge Stitch Tutorial & Free Patterns

The crochet sedge stitch tutorial provides a great beginner-friendly pattern that allows you to practice your single, half double and double crochet stitches.

Continue reading "How to Create the Crochet Sedge Stitch Tutorial & Free Patterns"

Sep 04, 2023

Close Check Knitting Stitch Pattern: Beginner-friendly Tutorial

The close check knitting stitch pattern is a beginner-friendly 8 row repeat that is reversible and an excellent choice for a variety of different projects.

Continue reading "Close Check Knitting Stitch Pattern: Beginner-friendly Tutorial"

Sep 04, 2023

A Comprehensive Guide to Yarn – Everything a Beginner Needs to Know

This comprehensive guide to yarn includes understanding types, fibers and weights, as well as how to care for, and choose the best yarn for a particular project

Continue reading "A Comprehensive Guide to Yarn – Everything a Beginner Needs to Know"

Aug 25, 2023

Crochet Basketweave Stitch: Directions and Tutorial

The crochet basketweave stitch looks very similar to the knit basketweave stitch with some obvious differences. Learn how to create this lovely stitch.

Continue reading "Crochet Basketweave Stitch: Directions and Tutorial"

Aug 25, 2023

Knitted Waffle Stitch: How To Tutorials and Instructions

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

Continue reading "Knitted Waffle Stitch: How To Tutorials and Instructions"

Aug 25, 2023

Crochet Terms and Abbreviations: Must Have Beginners' Guide

Crochet Terms and Abbreviations is an extensive list of all that crochet vocabulary that experienced crocheters know but beginners struggle with. Free Download

Continue reading "Crochet Terms and Abbreviations: Must Have Beginners' Guide "

Aug 25, 2023

How to Increase in Knitting: Four Different Methods To Master

How to increase in knitting looks at the various ways to make increases in different stitch patterns with photos and written tutorials.

Continue reading "How to Increase in Knitting: Four Different Methods To Master"

Aug 25, 2023

Crochet Motifs:Beginner-Friendly Tips/Tutorials for Making and Joining

Crochet motifs are small pieces of fabric joined to each other to create something larger. Tutorials for making and then joining them to create new projects.

Continue reading "Crochet Motifs:Beginner-Friendly Tips/Tutorials for Making and Joining"

Aug 18, 2023

Resources for Knitting and Crocheting from Smart Knit Crocheting

Here's an index page of all resources for knitting and crocheting, books, reviews, freebies, and more.

Continue reading "Resources for Knitting and Crocheting from Smart Knit Crocheting"

Aug 18, 2023

How Crocheting Can Enhance Mental Clarity

See how crocheting can enhance mental clarity

Continue reading "How Crocheting Can Enhance Mental Clarity"

Aug 17, 2023

Mastering the Art of Lace Knitting Stitches:Tips Plus 4 Easy Stitches

Lace knitting stitches may seem beyond the scope of beginning knitters abilities, but many are easy and can be tackled by any novice. Tutorial.

Continue reading "Mastering the Art of Lace Knitting Stitches:Tips Plus 4 Easy Stitches"

Aug 16, 2023

Crochet V Stitch Variations: Tips, Tutorials, Ideas

Here's some Crochet V Stitch Variations for you to try all using similar but different techniques. Directions and Patterns for 12 washcloths.

Continue reading "Crochet V Stitch Variations: Tips, Tutorials, Ideas"

Aug 11, 2023

Yarn Labels: How to Read and Understand What You are Getting

Yarn labels can be tricky to the newbie knitter or those who want to crochet with yarn. Here a guide to the most common symbols and what they mean.

Continue reading "Yarn Labels: How to Read and Understand What You are Getting"

Aug 11, 2023

Crochet Blanket Stitch Pattern: Directions and Tutorial

The crochet blanket stitch pattern is a lovely textured stitch and as the name suggests makes a great choice for blankets of all sizes. Tutorial and directions

Continue reading "Crochet Blanket Stitch Pattern: Directions and Tutorial"

Aug 09, 2023

How to Make the Eyelet Mock Cable Ribbing Stitch: Tutorial

The eyelet mock cable ribbing stitch is a lovely rib stitch that looks like cables and lace at the same time. Complete tutorial and tips for making this stitch

Continue reading "How to Make the Eyelet Mock Cable Ribbing Stitch: Tutorial"

Aug 08, 2023

Knitting vs Crocheting: Which Craft is Easier?

Knitting vs crocheting, is one easier than the other, which is best to learn? We look at all the factors and provide pros and cons for both needlecrafts.

Continue reading "Knitting vs Crocheting: Which Craft is Easier?"

Aug 02, 2023

How to Improve Your Knitting or Crocheting: 13 Actionable Tips

If you are ready to learn how to improve your knitting or crocheting, here are 13 tips that make a big difference in your knitting or crochet.

Continue reading "How to Improve Your Knitting or Crocheting: 13 Actionable Tips"

Aug 01, 2023

Unlock Your Creativity with Colorwork Knitting: 8Techniques to Try

Ready to try colorwork knitting? Learn the many ways to incorporate color into your designs and what methods to use. 7 different colorwork techniques to try.

Continue reading "Unlock Your Creativity with Colorwork Knitting: 8Techniques to Try "

Jul 29, 2023

Easy Knitting Projects for Beginners: Treasury of Free Patterns

Here is our growing list of easy knitting projects for beginners with easy to follow pattern instructions, step by step tutorials and photographs

Continue reading "Easy Knitting Projects for Beginners: Treasury of Free Patterns"

Jul 29, 2023

Free Hat Knit Pattern - get yours free when you sign up for Knit Wits

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

Continue reading "Free Hat Knit Pattern - get yours free when you sign up for Knit Wits"

Jul 28, 2023

How to Make a Yarnover in Knitting: Knitwise and Purlwise

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"

Jul 28, 2023

Free Super Fast Crochet Blanket Pattern That's both lovely and cozy

This cozy fast crochet blanket pattern is easy to follow even for the beginner and is made up entirely of single, half double, double and treble stitches.

Continue reading "Free Super Fast Crochet Blanket Pattern That's both lovely and cozy"

Jul 27, 2023

16 Knitting Mistakes Beginners Make: How to Fix These Common Errors

There are many common knitting mistakes beginners make so don't be too hard on yourself. Luckily, all mistakes are fixable . Learn how to correct your mistakes.

Continue reading "16 Knitting Mistakes Beginners Make: How to Fix These Common Errors"

Jul 27, 2023

How to Make the Treble Crochet Stitch (aka Triple Crochet)

The treble crochet stitch, aka Triple Crochet is a beginner stitch that is easy to pick up and fast to make. A good stitch if you want a loose fabric.

Continue reading "How to Make the Treble Crochet Stitch (aka Triple Crochet)"

Jul 24, 2023

Guide to The Best 31 Gifts for Knitters and Crocheters in 2023

Looking for some special gifts for knitters and crocheters? Here is a list of 30 + ideas that will please every crafter on your gift giving list.

Continue reading "Guide to The Best 31 Gifts for Knitters and Crocheters in 2023"

Jul 22, 2023

Slip Stitch Knitting Patterns: Discover How to Create Stunning Designs

Discover the possibilities with slip stitch knitting patterns. Tips, techniques and tutorials for adding knit slip stitch patterns to your skills

Continue reading "Slip Stitch Knitting Patterns: Discover How to Create Stunning Designs"

Jul 16, 2023

How to Read Crochet Patterns: Complete Beginner's Guide

Find out how to read crochet patterns for beginners with step-by-step instructions as well as what to look for and how to decipher symbols and abbreviations.

Continue reading "How to Read Crochet Patterns: Complete Beginner's Guide"

Jul 01, 2023

How to Crochet the Parquet Stitch and Free Beginner Pattern

Learn how to crochet the parquet stitch (step-by-step) beginner friendly tutorial along with a free easy crochet pattern for a parquet stitch dishcloth.

Continue reading "How to Crochet the Parquet Stitch and Free Beginner Pattern"

Jun 30, 2023

Crochet Gauge Swatch: How to Make it Perfect from the Beginning

The crochet gauge swatch is a small square approximately 4 x 4 made in the same stitch as your pattern and will help assure your finished project is sized right

Continue reading "Crochet Gauge Swatch: How to Make it Perfect from the Beginning"

Jun 30, 2023

Changing Colors in Crochet: Methods to Make Color Changes Easy

Changing colors in crochet is a relatively easy task. Here are six different methods that are all slightly different but work fine. Choose your favorite.

Continue reading "Changing Colors in Crochet: Methods to Make Color Changes Easy"

Jun 30, 2023

How to crochet - Tips and Tutorials to Get You Started

How to crochet takes you one step at a time, introducing all basic skills one must learn as a crochet beginner, from making a slip knot to blocking a project.

Continue reading "How to crochet - Tips and Tutorials to Get You Started "

Jun 21, 2023

Project Bags for Knitting: Discover the Perfect Bag for Your Projects

What makes the best project bags for knitting? What works best for you: Clear totebags, expensive totes, backpacks, old purses? What works?

Continue reading "Project Bags for Knitting: Discover the Perfect Bag for Your Projects"

Jun 14, 2023

Eco-Friendly Crafting: Discover Bamboo Yarn for Knitting and Crochet

Have you considered using bamboo yarn for knitting and crochet? Not surprisingly the craft world is going green. Is bamboo is right for your next project?

Continue reading "Eco-Friendly Crafting: Discover Bamboo Yarn for Knitting and Crochet"

Jun 05, 2023

Feather and Fan Knitting Pattern: Tutorial, Tips, Ideas

The traditional feather and fan knitting pattern is one of the first lace patterns new knitters can learn. The 4 row-repeat makes it ideal for many projects

Continue reading "Feather and Fan Knitting Pattern: Tutorial, Tips, Ideas"

Jun 01, 2023

Homespun Yarn Tips: Get Creative with Knitting and Crocheting

Here a large collection of homespun yarn tips for your knitting and crochet projects including characteristics and techniques that work with this special yarn.

Continue reading "Homespun Yarn Tips: Get Creative with Knitting and Crocheting"

Jun 01, 2023

Is Superwash Wool Yarn a Must-Have for Your Next Knitting Project?

Have you worked with superwash wool yarn? Superwash wool yarn is a type of yarn that has been treated to be machine-washable without shrinking or felting.

Continue reading "Is Superwash Wool Yarn a Must-Have for Your Next Knitting Project?"

May 24, 2023

Acrylic vs Cotton Yarn: Which One is Better for Your Next Project?

Acrylic vs cotton yarn, what's the difference? The biggest diffference is that cotton is a plant-based fiber and acrylic is a synthetic material. Explanation.

Continue reading "Acrylic vs Cotton Yarn: Which One is Better for Your Next Project?"

May 24, 2023

Knitting with Alpaca Yarn: What You Need to Know to Succeed

This comprehensive guide to crocheting and knitting with alpaca yarn covers how this fiber is unique,and offers tips to help make good choices about it's use.

Continue reading "Knitting with Alpaca Yarn: What You Need to Know to Succeed"

May 24, 2023

Unlocking Secrets of Color Theory for Knitting and Crocheting Projects

Using color theory for knitting and crocheting can be very helpful in picking the right colors for your next project. Learn what works and chose colors you love

Continue reading "Unlocking Secrets of Color Theory for Knitting and Crocheting Projects"

May 24, 2023

Knitting Garter Stitch - How to for the Absolute Beginner

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"

May 23, 2023

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

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"

Disclosure:   This post contains affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase from one of these links I will get a commission.

Hi, there, I'm Janice, the voice behind this website and avid knitter and crochet enthusiast. I want to share my passion with you and help you learn how to knit or crochet, smarter.

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