Not sure whether to learn knitting or crochet first? Discover the differences, the skills you'll learn and which craft might suit your personality, helping you start your creative journey with confidence.
If you've decided you'd like to learn a yarn craft, the first question is often:
Should I learn knitting or crochet?
The good news is that there isn't a right or wrong answer.
Both crafts are relaxing, creative and incredibly rewarding. They each have their own techniques, strengths and unique look, but both can become lifelong hobbies that grow with you.
At RE Treats, we teach complete beginners in a calm, supportive environment, and one of the questions we're asked most is:
"Which one is easier?"
Let's explore both crafts to help you decide.
What Is Knitting?
Knitting creates fabric using two knitting needles and a series of loops called stitches.
Each row builds on the previous one, creating smooth, stretchy fabric that's perfect for clothing and cosy accessories.
Popular knitting projects include:
- Scarves
- Hats
- Jumpers
- Socks
- Blankets
- Baby clothes
Knitting often has a soft, elegant appearance that many people associate with traditional handmade garments.
What Is Crochet?
Crochet uses just one hook instead of two needles.
Each stitch is completed individually before moving on to the next, making it easier to stop and start without worrying about stitches slipping off the needles.
Crochet is particularly popular for making:
- Granny squares
- Toys (amigurumi)
- Blankets
- Bags
- Home décor
- Flowers
- Decorative accessories
It creates a slightly firmer fabric with wonderful texture and endless design possibilities.
Which Is Easier?
This is probably the most common question!
The honest answer is…
Whichever one feels right to you.
Some people naturally understand knitting very quickly.
Others find crochet much easier because they're only controlling one hook.
Neither craft is "better"—they simply suit different ways of thinking and learning.
The best way to discover your favourite is to try one without putting pressure on yourself to be perfect.
Choose Knitting If You...
- Like repeating rhythmic movements
- Enjoy creating clothing
- Want stretchy, soft fabrics
- Prefer a calm, steady pace
- Like following rows step by step
Many people describe knitting as wonderfully relaxing once they've mastered the basics.
Choose Crochet If You...
- Like seeing quick progress
- Enjoy textured designs
- Want to make decorative items
- Prefer working with one hook
- Like projects that are easy to put down and pick up later
Crochet often feels very forgiving for beginners because you're usually only working with one active stitch.
Do You Have to Pick Just One?
Absolutely not!
Many makers enjoy both crafts.
In fact, learning one often makes learning the other much easier because you'll already understand:
- Yarn weights
- Tension
- Reading patterns
- Choosing tools
- Finishing techniques
Many experienced makers switch between knitting and crochet depending on the project they're making.
The Most Important Thing Is Simply Starting
It's easy to spend weeks trying to decide which craft is "best."
But the truth is…
The best craft is the one that inspires you to pick up the yarn and begin.
You don't need expensive equipment.
You don't need previous experience.
You don't need to get everything right first time.
Every stitch you make is helping you learn something new.
Whether you begin with knitting or crochet, you're taking the first step towards a wonderfully creative hobby that can bring years of enjoyment.
Final Thoughts
There isn't a wrong choice between knitting and crochet—only the choice that's right for you today.
Many people eventually learn both, but you only need to start with one.
Choose the craft that excites you most, enjoy learning at your own pace and remember that every finished stitch is a step towards greater confidence.
Your creative journey doesn't have to begin perfectly—it simply has to begin.
