Learn How to Knit and Crochet Costumes, Clothing, Blankets, and More!

By: FUN Monster

Knitting and crocheting are age-old hobbies perfect for individuals of all ages. Not only do these crafts allow people to express their creative side, but they can also offer therapeutic benefits. Knitting and crocheting have been shown to help alleviate stress and promote a sense of relaxation because of their rhythmic, repetitive motions. When you're focused on the act of knitting, you can set aside all of the troubles and anxieties of daily life and just focus on the craft at hand. It is a rewarding pastime that's easy to learn and hard to master, making it a great option for those looking to dive deep into a new and fulfilling hobby.

Knitting Terms

Bind Off (BO): Binding off is the technique used to end a column of stitches and finish the item.

Cast On (CO): This is the process used to create the foundation of stitches on the needle, from which you build out the rest of the project.

Fiber Content: Fiber content refers to the type of fiber used to make the yarn. Common examples include acrylic, cotton, wool, and alpaca.

Garter Stitch: A knitting stitch in which you stitch each row in a flat item. The result is bumpier than alternative methods, such as a stockinette stitch.

Gauge: Gauge refers to how tightly or loosely an item is knitted, and it's measured in stitches per inch. Items like sweaters need specific gauges to ensure that they fit correctly.

Knit Stitch (k): The most basic form of stitch used in knitting. The knit stitch is made by pulling a yarn loop through the fabric via another stitch.

Purl Stitch (p): A basic knitting stitch where you insert the right-hand needle into the front of a stitch on the left-hand needle, wrap the yarn counterclockwise around the right-hand needle, and pull it through to create a bump in the fabric.

Stockinette Stitch (st st): The stockinette stitch is a knitting pattern where you alternate knitting and purling rows to create a smooth fabric with "V" shapes on one side and a flat surface on the other.

Working Yarn: This term refers to the yarn being pulled from the ball.

Yarn Weight: Yarn weight is how thick or thin a yarn strand is, and it helps determine the appropriate tools and the overall look of a knitting or crocheting project. Thinner yarns are lighter, while thicker yarns are heavier. The measurement is commonly displayed as yards per ounce or meters per gram.

Beginner/Easy Crochet Patterns

• Super-Easy Crochet Patterns to Make Perfect Pet Blankets: Make a new blanket for your furry friend with this easy-to-follow crochet guide.

• Crochet Mini Bow: Crochet mini bows are a great project for crochet beginners, and they can be used for a variety of purposes, such as card-making and scrapbooking.

• Crochet Made Easy: This in-depth guide will teach you all of the fundamentals of crochet and provide you with step-by-step instructions for beginner-level projects.

• Crochet Potholder Pattern: Crochet your very own potholder to add a homemade touch to your kitchen's aesthetic.

• Basic Hat Crochet: Learn to make hats for all of your friends and family with these simple instructions.

• Crochet Scarf: Be ready for the cold winter months by crocheting a new scarf with this guide.

• Retro Cloche With Brim Options: When you're ready to step things up, this crochet cloche hat pattern provides instructions on how to add different brim options to the design.

• Cottage Magic Crochet Dishcloth: Need a new towel for your kitchen? Make it yourself with this simple crochet dishcloth guide.

• Crocheted Blanket: These crocheted blanket instructions are easy enough for anyone new to crocheting to follow and learn.

• Market Tote Bag: Show off your creative side as you shop by learning how to crochet your own tote.

Intermediate/Experienced Crochet Patterns

• Peppermint Throw and Pillow: Be ready for the holiday season by crocheting a peppermint-themed throw blanket and matching pillow.

• Catherine's Wheel Stitch Tutorial: Learn to make this pretty stitch that mimics the look of spinning fireworks.

• Crocodile Stitch Shawl: If you have a reptile-lover in your life, this crocodile-pattern shawl will make the perfect gift. In a pitch, something like this can be a quick and easy Halloween costume for men or women.

• 27 Advanced Crochet Stitches: Once you've mastered the basics, this guide will help you create more complex projects by teaching you advanced stitching techniques. You could even challenge yourself to make a unique women's costume.

• Crocheted Laptop Case: Combine homemade crafts with high-tech gadgets by crocheting a new case for your laptop.

• Crocheted Circle Clutch: Instead of buying a new purse, create your own clutch with this crochet guide.

• Crochet Flower Ball: Make a new toy for your cat with this crochet flower ball.

• Crochet Coffee Cozy: Learn how to crochet coffee cozies with these instructions.

• Cross-Body Circle Bag: This crochet purse will make a stylish addition to any night out.

Beginner/Easy Knitting Patterns

• How to Read a Knitting Pattern: This guide is the perfect starting point for anyone new to knitting.

• Reversible Cabled Brioche Scarf: This knitted scarf pattern guides beginners through the project while leaving plenty of ways to make it your own.

• Super Simple Bow and Earwarmers: Hone your knitting skills while ensuring that your ears stay warm and cozy during cooler seasons.

• Rainbow Baby Blanket: Learn how to craft a new blanket for your child or grandchild.

• Single-Ribbed Beanie With or Without Brim: Knit a stylish beanie using these instructions and decide for yourself whether your new cap needs a brim.

• Hedgehog Mittens: These easy-to-knit hedgehog mittens will make the perfect gift for the children in your life.

• Chunky Throw Pillow Set: Add to your home's décor as you learn to knit with this chunky throw pillow pattern.

• How to Knit a Hat: This guide is very beginner-friendly and will walk you through the process of knitting your first hat step by step.

• Easy Knit Vest Pattern: Test out your knitting skills with this beginner-friendly vest pattern.

• 1x1 Rib Stitch Knitting Pattern for Beginners: Grow your knitting skills by learning how to do a 1x1 rib stitch.

Intermediate/Experienced Knitting Patterns

• Knit Slippers: Keep your feet warm with these stylish knitted slippers.

• Bahaar Lace Shawl: This shawl will require advanced knitting skills to create, but the final product is well worth the time and effort.

• Two-Tone Diamonds Infinity Scarf: This beautiful infinity scarf is a good project to test your developing knitting skills.

• American Girl Doll Faux Fair Isle Cardigan: Do you have a child or grandchild with an American Girl doll? If so, try knitting a new cardigan for their favorite toy!

• Spotted Around Hat: Learn how to knit a cozy hat for the fall and winter months with this guide.

• Noro Scarf: This scarf is a bit trickier than some others but a great project for those with intermediate knitting skills.

• Men's Aran Jumper: Create a comfortable and gorgeous men's sweater that's perfect for colder seasons.