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.

Feb 16, 2026

How to Read Knitting Charts for Patterns and Projects

knit-chart.png

Knitting charts and written instructions are both useful for gaining mastery and pleasure from knitting. Lets learn how to read knitting symbols and charts.

Continue reading "How to Read Knitting Charts for Patterns and Projects"

Feb 03, 2026

How to Knit for Beginners (Step-by-Step Guide)

How-to-knuit.jpg

Learn how to knit with this complete beginner guide! Discover the best tools, stitches, and easy patterns for first-time knitters; photos and tips.

Continue reading "How to Knit for Beginners (Step-by-Step Guide)"

Feb 02, 2026

Stamen Stitch Knitting Pattern (Beginner Tutorial + Chart)

The stamen knit stitch pattern still on needles worked in 100% pink wool.

Learn how to knit the stamen stitch with written instructions, photos, and a knitting chart. A beginner-friendly textured stitch perfect for dishcloths and home projects.

Continue reading "Stamen Stitch Knitting Pattern (Beginner Tutorial + Chart)"

Feb 02, 2026

How to Make a Slip Knot for Knitting (Step-by-Step for Beginners)

The complete slip knot for knitting held in fingers

Learn how to make a slip knot for knitting with clear photos and simple steps. Includes two easy methods and beginner tips for perfect cast-ons.

Continue reading "How to Make a Slip Knot for Knitting (Step-by-Step for Beginners)"

Feb 02, 2026

How to Wash Baby Sweaters (Knitted & Crocheted)

A small Shih Tzu dog sits behind a wash bowl, washing a knit sweater.

Learn how to wash baby sweaters safely. Includes fiber-specific tips for washing knitted and crocheted baby clothes without damage.

Continue reading "How to Wash Baby Sweaters (Knitted & Crocheted)"

Jan 29, 2026

Baby Yarn Guide for Beginners: Fibers, Weights, Safety & Substitution

Baby yarn, knitting needles, and booties that are almost finished.

Learn what baby yarn really is, which fibers and weights work best, how much yarn you need, and how to substitute yarns in baby knitting and crochet patterns.

Continue reading "Baby Yarn Guide for Beginners: Fibers, Weights, Safety & Substitution"

Jan 29, 2026

How to Knit a Baby Sweater (Beginner Guide & Planning Tips)

Bernat Little Floral Baby Cardigan by Yarnspiration

Learn how to knit a baby sweater step by step. This beginner-friendly guide explains sweater parts, schematics, gauge, shaping, and common mistakes.

Continue reading "How to Knit a Baby Sweater (Beginner Guide & Planning Tips)"

Jan 29, 2026

Baby Sweater Size Chart: Measurements, Fit & Sizing Tips

A diagram of a baby showing where to take measurements for a baby sweater

Use this baby sweater size chart to choose the right size. Includes measurements, ease, and tips for knitting baby sweaters that fit.

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Jan 16, 2026

How to Knit the Seersucker Stitch: Easy Step-by-Step Tutorial

The seersucker knit stitch pattern worked in blue wool yarn

Learn how to knit the seersucker stitch with two beginner-friendly methods. Includes step-by-step instructions, photos, chart, and usage tips.

Continue reading "How to Knit the Seersucker Stitch: Easy Step-by-Step Tutorial"

Jan 15, 2026

Extended Half Double Crochet Stitch (Ehdc) – Easy Beginner Tutorial

The extended half double crochet stitch pattern worked in pink wool

The extended half double crochet stitch creates better drape than hdc and more structure than dc. Learn how to crochet it step by step.

Continue reading "Extended Half Double Crochet Stitch (Ehdc) – Easy Beginner Tutorial"

Jan 15, 2026

Filet Crochet Doilies.

A crocheted doily created by Leona Mangold in 1940

Filet crochet doilies patterns are the easiest ones to follow. At the same time they allow you to make any size and shape doily you wish.

Continue reading "Filet Crochet Doilies."

Jan 12, 2026

Crochet Crunch Stitch Pattern: Tutorial & Free Pattern

A swatch of the crochet crunch stitch worked in olive green cotton yarn

Learn how to crochet the crunch stitch with step-by-step instructions, stitch chart, tips, and a free washcloth pattern. Easy, beginner-friendly tutorial.

Continue reading "Crochet Crunch Stitch Pattern: Tutorial & Free Pattern"

Jan 11, 2026

Filet Crochet Design Technique: How to Use Puff Stitches in Filet Mesh

A color chart of a filet crochet design

Free filet crochet patterns with puff stitch. How to change traditional filet crochet mesh and design your own 3-D filet crochet pattern using the Puff Stitch

Continue reading "Filet Crochet Design Technique: How to Use Puff Stitches in Filet Mesh"

Jan 11, 2026

Beaded Rib Stitch Knitting Pattern (Easy 2-Row Beginner Tutorial)

A swatch of the beaded rib knit stitch pattern worked in a light gray acrylic yarn

Learn how to knit the Beaded Rib Stitch with this easy beginner tutorial. Step-by-step instructions, photos, chart, and tips for flat and in-the-round knitting.

Continue reading "Beaded Rib Stitch Knitting Pattern (Easy 2-Row Beginner Tutorial)"

Jan 11, 2026

Knit Condo Stitch Pattern (Beginner Tutorial + Needle Tips)

The knit condo stitch shown on needles, worked in pink

Learn how to knit the condo stitch using two needle sizes. Beginner-friendly tutorial with photos, yarn tips, common mistakes, and project ideas.

Continue reading "Knit Condo Stitch Pattern (Beginner Tutorial + Needle Tips)"

Jan 09, 2026

Forked Half Double Crochet Stitch:Tutorial & Free Washcloth Pattern

A forked half double crochet washcloth worked in 100% cotton

Learn the forked half double crochet stitch (fkhdc) with step-by-step photos, tips, and a simple washcloth pattern. Beginner-friendly, textured, and sturdy.

Continue reading "Forked Half Double Crochet Stitch:Tutorial & Free Washcloth Pattern "

Jan 08, 2026

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?"

Jan 07, 2026

Knit Dog Sweater Pattern: Free Beginner-Friendly Knit Patterns

knit-dog-sweater-pattern600x450.jpg

For Beginner Knitters, here are 10 Knit Dog Sweater Patterns with instructions on how to measure and begin your project for that perfect fit.

Continue reading "Knit Dog Sweater Pattern: Free Beginner-Friendly Knit Patterns"

Jan 07, 2026

Grit Crochet Stitch (Beginner Tutorial + 3 Variations)

Thumbnail of the granite or moss stitch

Learn how to crochet the grit crochet stitch with step-by-step instructions, photos, and 3 easy variations. Perfect for beginners and textured projects.

Continue reading "Grit Crochet Stitch (Beginner Tutorial + 3 Variations)"

Jan 07, 2026

Ribbed Half Double Crochet Stitch (hdc-blo) | Beginner Tutorial

A swatch of half double crochet rib stitch worked in purple wool

Learn how to crochet the ribbed half double crochet stitch (hdc-blo). Step-by-step photos, tips, uses, and practice rows for beginners.

Continue reading "Ribbed Half Double Crochet Stitch (hdc-blo) | Beginner Tutorial"

Jan 06, 2026

Garter Rib Stitch Pattern: Beginner-friendly Tutorial

Garter rib stitch pattern on needles, worked in green yarn

The garter rib stitch pattern is a beginner-friendly textured knit pattern that is made with alternating columns of garter and stockinette stitches.

Continue reading "Garter Rib Stitch Pattern: Beginner-friendly Tutorial"

Jan 05, 2026

Knitting a Scarf for Beginners: Two Free Patterns For You

A gray and white garter stitch scarf is modeled by a young woman

Learn to knit your first scarf with two easy patterns, a no-math cast-on calculator, width x weight chart, edge options, and quick fixes for beginners.

Continue reading "Knitting a Scarf for Beginners: Two Free Patterns For You"

Jan 05, 2026

A Seamless Sweater. How to knit.

A woman is knitting a seamless sweater on circular needles

Knitting a seamless sweater is not a complex project. But it can become a small nightmare if your gauge swatch does not match recommended one. Solutions

Continue reading "A Seamless Sweater. How to knit."

Jan 05, 2026

Best Yarn for Beginner Crocheters (Easy Picks by Project & Fiber)

Circular crochet in gray

This ultimate guide to the best yarn to choose for beginner crocheters looks at all the important factors to consider when buying yarn, plus suggestions.

Continue reading "Best Yarn for Beginner Crocheters (Easy Picks by Project & Fiber)"

Jan 04, 2026

Ridged Rib Stitch Pattern: How to Tutorial for Beginners

Ridged rib knit stitch pattern worked in pin acrylic yarn

Learn how to knit the ridged rib stitch with step-by-step instructions, photos, and tips. This ribbing is stretchy, reversible, and easy to memorize.

Continue reading "Ridged Rib Stitch Pattern: How to Tutorial for Beginners"

Jan 04, 2026

Broken Rib Knit Stitch Tutorial (Beginner-Friendly & Reversible)

broken rib knit stitch pattern worked in white yarn

Learn how to knit the broken rib stitch with step-by-step instructions, photos, charts, and tips for beginners. Includes odd and even stitch counts.

Continue reading "Broken Rib Knit Stitch Tutorial (Beginner-Friendly & Reversible)"

Jan 04, 2026

Crochet Basketweave Stitch: Directions and Tutorial

basketweave-crochet-stitch-2.jpg

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"

Jan 03, 2026

Crochet Star Stitch Tutorial (Beginner-Friendly, Step-by-Step)

Right side showing of the crochet star stitch worked in pink yarn

This crochet star stitch tutorial provides step-by-step directions with photos on how to create this beautiful beginner-friendly crochet stitch.

Continue reading "Crochet Star Stitch Tutorial (Beginner-Friendly, Step-by-Step)"

Jan 02, 2026

Baby Knitting Patterns: What to Knit for a New Baby (Gift Guide)

Diagram of knitted baby items

Not sure what to knit for a baby? Learn which baby knitting patterns make the best gifts, how to choose by season, skill level, and safety.

Continue reading "Baby Knitting Patterns: What to Knit for a New Baby (Gift Guide)"