Smart Knit Crocheting
Knitting and Crochet for Beginners

Knitting and Crochet for Beginners:  The Smart Way

Have you caught the knit or crochet bug yet?  It's not a germ, but it could become addictive.

Knitting and crochet for beginners, the smart way is for anyone who loves to knit or crochet?   

Or, for anyone who thinks they might like to give knitting or crocheting a try. So, which one is better, easier, more fun?

Where do you want to start?

Knitting

How to Knit:  Start Here

If you are passionate about learning to knit, this is a good place to start, from learning how to put stitches on the needles to making those first stitches. Soon you'll be knitting like a pro.

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Glossary of Knit Stitches

There are many different types of knit stitches. This comprehensive index is a great starting point, and each entry will link to a how-to guide, perfect for beginners.

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Supplies for Beginners

You'll need a few supplies, but as a beginner, you may be confused about what to purchase. This guide walks you through the process before you step into a shop.

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Illusion Knitting: A Free Tutorial

Also called Shadow knitting, this tutorial covers the basics of this magical knit stitch.

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Free and Easy Projects for Knitters

Knitted Dishcloths are a perfect first project. A new knitter can make many different things and be proud of them.

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Knitting Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Mistakes happen. Knowing how to correct those errors will make you a more confident and competent knitter.

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Slip Stitch Knitting

Slip Stitch Knitting

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Knit and Purl Stitches

Knit and Purl Stitches

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Reversible  Stitches

36 + Reversible Knit Stitches

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Rib Stitches

Directory of Rib Stitches

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Comprehensive Guide to Yarn for Knitting and Crocheting

Knitters love yarn, and many accumulate more than they can use. But as a beginner, how do you know what type of yarn is best for your next project? Discover everything you need to know as a beginner.

 What's Worsted-Weight Yarn

What is Worsted-Weight Yarn?

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Understanding Jumbo Yarn

What is Jumbo Yarn?

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Choosing Between Cotton & Acrylic Yarn

Cotton vs. Acrylic Yarn

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Working With Alpaca Yarn

Working With Alpaca Yarn

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Crocheting

How to Crochet:  Start Here

Begin here if you're interested in learning to crochet. Complete tutorials that every new crocheter should master first.

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Glossary of Crochet Stitches

A comprehensive list of crochet stitches for beginners to advanced crochet enthusiasts

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Crochet Tutorials for Working in the Round 

Beyond learning a few stitches, there are other techniques to know. This article will cover all the essential skills that crocheters need to know.

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Essential Supplies for Crochet Beginners

Crochet requires a few supplies: Yarn, Hooks, Scissors, and a yarn needle. This article discusses essential supplies and those that are "nice to have."

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Easy Crochet Projects for Beginners

What do you want to make first? There are so many easy projects that you'll become a maker in no time.

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Why Knitting and Crocheting for Beginners?

There's something so satisfying about using your hands to make something.  Research has shown that these hobbies are good for your health.  

Knitting and Crocheting could very well be the

• Most versatile
• Most portable
• Most inexpensive
• Most fulfilling way to add meaning to your life

So How Exactly do you Knit or Crochet Smart?

Many years ago, when I was in high school, there were 3 kinds of kids:

• Those A students who memorized everything
• Those C students who didn't try at all and
• Those A-B students who actually understood the subject matter at it's core.  

I want you to be the last kind of student because in the long run you will knit or crochet better, enjoy it more, and make it a life-long hobby (or maybe something more).

(Confession) I was always in the first group and it took many years to figure out that I should have been in the third group.

Knitting and Crocheting for Beginners

You're knitting or crocheting smart when you

• Learn a few techniques and stitches to get you started
• Practice and develop that muscle memory
• Get so hooked all you want to do is learn more
• Feel the creative juices running through your veins

Have you ever been faced with one or more of these common situations?

• Understanding written and charted patterns: You've read the instructions and think you understand until you try to do it for yourself and that's when your eyes glaze over.
  
• Choose the best yarn for your projects:  You walk into a yarn store, only to overwhelmed by the choices.  The sales person is helpful, but you find your eyes begin to glaze over by all the info thrown your way.
• Going from Easy to Interesting:  You want to go beyond knits and purls or single and double crochet stitches
• Tension, Shapping, Finishing
• Gauge: How to Make Your nits and crochets fit perfectly.
• Latest trends, tips, techniques, tutorials

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

Happy Knitting and Crocheting!

My Latest Articles

Recent Articles

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1. The Best Interchangeable Knitting Needles: Review 2025

   Jul 08, 25 06:10 PM

   
   This interchangeable knitting needles review looks at Hiyia Hiyia,Chiaogoo, Knit Pro, Knit Picks,Takumi Clover, and Yarniss for descriptions, pros and cons, uses,

   Read More

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

   Jun 25, 25 01:47 PM

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

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3. Free Hat Knit Pattern - Perfect for Absolute Beginners

   Jun 23, 25 10:35 AM

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

   Read More