So you’ve fallen down the cosy internet rabbit hole of chunky cardigans, aesthetic yarn shelves, and people somehow making an entire sweater while watching Netflix.
Now comes the big question:
Should you learn crochet or knitting first?
Or even if you should give them both a go? Which is easier? Which is faster? Which is cheaper?
There are a lot of similarities between the two and quite a few differences too, so let me talk you through the pros and cons so you can decide which one might suit you to start with - but then you have to promise me that you'll try the other too, because sometimes you need both skills to create beautiful projects.
Short answer?
If you want faster projects, easier mistake-fixing and satisfying beginner wins, crochet is often the easier place to start. If you dream of soft, drapey sweaters, stretchy fabrics and classic knitwear, knitting might steal your heart.
The good news? There isn’t actually a wrong answer.
This guide breaks down the real differences between crochet vs knitting — without the craft snobbery — so you can confidently choose the right one for you. And once you're addicted (as you will be!), You can swap between the two to give your sore muscles a rest!
Table of Contents
- What Is the Difference Between Crochet and Knitting?
- Is Crochet or Knitting Easier for Beginners?
- Which Is Faster: Crochet or Knitting?
- Does Crochet Use More Yarn?
- Which Craft Is Better for Clothes?
- Best Beginner Projects for Crochet vs Knitting
- Beginner Mistakes to Avoid
- Crochet vs Knitting FAQs
- Which Should You Learn First?
- What Next?
What Is the Difference Between Crochet and Knitting?
At first glance, crochet and knitting can look suspiciously similar to non-crafters. ("You’re knitting?" says every relative while you’re very obviously holding a crochet hook.)
But the two crafts work quite differently.
Knitting Uses Two Needles
Knitting uses two needles to hold and transfer live stitches from one needle to the other.
The fabric is made from rows of interconnected loops which create that classic stretchy "V" shaped texture you see in jumpers, socks and shop-bought knitwear.
Knitted fabric tends to:
- Feel softer and stretchier
- Drape beautifully
- Use less yarn
- Works especially well for garments
It's a very simple and repetitive process, as it basically involves combinations of just two stitches. The main stitches used in knitting are the knit stitch and the purl stitch, you can learn how to create those by watching my youtube tutorials.
Stitches are added to the needle by 'casting on' a set number of stitches at the beginning, so all of the stitches are held on one needle and are worked in rows by pulling a loop through to create a stitch and transferring that new stitch onto the other needle. You can see a video tutorial of my favourite cast on technique here.
Knitting can be worked flat to create blankets, scarves and home decor. You can also seam your flat knitted projects to create rounded or shaped pieces such as hats, and sweaters. You can use either two straight needles for these projects or a circular needle, which has a cable joining both needles together.
Once you become more practised at knitting, you might like to try 'knitting in the round' where stitches are joined together at the cast-on stage to create a tubular shape without any seams. This uses a circular needle, so stitches are moved around the cable from one needle to the other as they are worked. Many knitters prefer this method as it saves time on seaming when they've finished their projects.
If you want to know more, there are loads of tutorials and ideas on my Learn To Knit Page
Crochet Uses One Hook
Crochet uses a single hook to create stitches one at a time.
Instead of multiple live stitches sitting on needles, you usually only work with one active stitch at once.
That makes crochet:
- Easier to pause and restart
- More forgiving when fixing mistakes
- Great for textured or structured fabrics
- Faster for many beginners
Crocheters use different techniques to create a whole range of stitches, which include chain stitch, single crochet, half double crochet, treble crochet, and so on. Each of these stitches is a different height and shape, which allows crocheters to create an infinite variety of stitch combinations.
Crochet is especially popular for:
- Hats
- Blankets
- Bags
- Toys and amigurumi
- Chunky scarves
- Home décor
I have a video here that talks you through the essential crochet tools you might need to get you started.
Unlike knitting, crochet projects start with a chain of stitches that are not held on the hook (except for Tunisian Crochet). The first row of the project involves inserting your hook into the loop of the chain and working whichever stitch your pattern suggests.
I find that crochet is slightly more forgiving if you go wrong and have to pull some of your work back, as it is not all held on one needle.
It's also easier if you have a few projects on the go - known as 'WIPs' or Work In Progress (because we can't help ourselves when there are SO MANY gorgeous patterns out there) as you can remove the hook to work on another piece.
You can learn to crochet with loads of beginner tutorials on my Learn To Crochet Page.
Is Crochet or Knitting Easier for Beginners?
This is usually the first thing people want to know.
And honestly?
Most absolute beginners find crochet easier to learn.
Why?
Crochet Is More Forgiving
With crochet, you usually only have one active stitch on your hook.
So if things go slightly wrong (which they absolutely will and that’s normal), it’s usually much easier to unravel and fix.
In crochet, the stitches are more like knots and new stitches are created by inserting your hook through the two layers of the stitch (there is a front and a back loop), so the fabric is a little denser - good for someone like me who is always cold!
Crochet is useful for denser fabrics such as homewares or for cosy hats and scarves, although many of my crochet designs are for sweaters and cardigans too.
With knitting, stitches remain live on the needle.
Drop one accidentally, and suddenly you’re starring in your own tiny yarn-based disaster movie.
Crochet Projects Feel Faster
Crochet stitches are often taller and chunkier, which means projects grow quickly.
That quick progress gives beginners a lovely little confidence boost.
Nothing keeps motivation alive like realising:
“Hang on… this actually looks like a scarf.”
Knitting Can Feel More Repetitive
Knitting mainly relies on combinations of two stitches:
- Knit stitch
- Purl stitch
That simplicity can actually make knitting feel calmer and more meditative once you understand the basics.
So while crochet is often easier to start… many people find knitting easier to relax into long term.
Which Is Faster: Crochet or Knitting?
In general:
Crochet is usually faster than knitting.
Click on Instagram, and you'll be bombarded with videos of super-fast crafters who can whizz through their projects in a few hours. For the rest of us though, it's more about the mindful process of lovingly creating a perfect stitch. Because crochet stitches are larger, projects often grow more quickly.
That’s why crochet is fantastic for:
- Chunky blankets
- Last-minute gifts
- Winter accessories
- Fast beginner projects
However…
There’s a small catch.
Crochet uses more yarn.
Quite a bit more in some cases.
So while your crochet sweater might grow quickly, your yarn stash may mysteriously disappear at alarming speed.
Funny how that happens.
Which Craft Is Better for Clothes?
This is where knitting often wins.
Knitted fabric naturally stretches and drapes more easily, making it ideal for:
- Sweaters
- Cardigans
- Socks
- Tees
- Lightweight layering pieces
That said… modern crochet garments have come a very long way.
Gone are the days when every crochet sweater looked like a stiff 1970s potholder.
Modern crochet patterns can create:
- Beautiful drape
- Lightweight fabrics
- Stylish oversized garments
- Gorgeous lace textures
The trick is choosing the right yarn, hook size and pattern.
Best Projects for Knitting
Knitting is especially good for:
- Soft jumpers
- Ribbed hats
- Socks
- Gloves
- Fine gauge garments with drape
Best Projects for Crochet
Crochet shines for:
- Structured bags
- Blankets
- Granny squares
- Chunky scarves
- Toys and amigurumi
- Home décor
- Quick accessories
Best Beginner Projects for Crochet vs Knitting
If you’re just starting out, avoid complicated shaping and tiny yarn.
Trust me.
Tiny yarn has humbled stronger people than us!
Best Beginner Crochet Projects
Start with:
Best Beginner Knitting Projects
Try:
- Simple scarf (just ignore the colourwork pockets if you're new!)
- Simple chunky hat (again, ignore the colourwork and just knit in one colour!)
- Beginner sweater
The best beginner projects are repetitive enough to build confidence without requiring advanced shaping.
Beginner Mistakes to Avoid
Every knitter and crocheter makes mistakes in the beginning.
Usually several per hour.
Here are the biggest beginner traps to avoid.
1. Starting With Dark Yarn
Dark yarn hides stitches.
Choose lighter colours while learning so you can actually see what your hook or needles are doing.
2. Using Tiny Hooks or Needles
Chunky yarn and larger tools are much easier for beginners.
Your future self will thank you.
3. Picking an Overcomplicated First Project
A fitted cable sweater with colourwork is not your first project.
I know Pinterest says otherwise.
Start simple. Build confidence. Then become unstoppable.
4. Buying Cheap Scratchy Yarn
If your yarn feels awful, you probably won’t enjoy the process.
Soft beginner-friendly acrylic or wool blends are usually a great starting point.
5. Comparing Yourself to Social Media
Some people online appear to finish an heirloom cardigan in six hours while drinking iced coffee in perfect lighting.
Real crafting is messier... And much more fun!
Crochet vs Knitting FAQs
Is crochet easier than knitting?
For many beginners, yes.
Crochet tends to be easier to fix when mistakes happen because only one active stitch is on the hook at a time.
Which is faster: crochet or knitting?
Crochet is usually faster because the stitches are larger and taller.
Does crochet use more yarn?
Yes. Crochet generally uses more yarn than knitting because the stitches are denser.
Is knitting better for sweaters?
Usually yes.
Knitted fabric stretches and drapes more naturally, making it ideal for wearable garments.
Can I learn both?
Absolutely.
Many makers eventually use both crafts depending on the project.
Which is cheaper: crochet or knitting?
Crochet tools are slightly cheaper to begin with because you only need one hook. However, yarn costs depend more on the type of projects you make.
Which is easier on your hands?
This varies from person to person.
Many crafters switch between both to avoid repetitive strain and use different muscle movements.
Which Should You Learn First?
If you:
- Want quick wins → try crochet
- Love the look of classic knitwear → try knitting
- Want to make garments → knitting may suit you better
- Want easier beginner projects → crochet may feel simpler
- Want both? Excellent decision honestly.
The truth is most yarn lovers eventually end up learning both.
One starts as “just a little hobby” and suddenly you own seventeen project bags and have opinions about merino wool.
It happens to the best of us.
What Next?
Ready to start?
Here are a few beginner-friendly next steps:
Learn the Basics
- Learn to Knit Tutorials
- Learn to Crochet Tutorials
- Beginner stitch video guides
Try an Easy First Pattern
- Beginner Sweater Knitting Pattern (Get it free here)
- Easy Crochet Hat Pattern (Get it free here)
- Chunky Beginner Crochet Scarf Pattern
- Simple Chunky Cardigan Knitting Pattern
Final Thoughts
Crochet and knitting aren’t really rivals.
They’re more like slightly competitive cousins who both will draw you in and change your life for the better - and I can't wait to see which you become addicted to first!
You can find instructions and video tutorials on my learn to knit and crochet page for both crafts, then try some of my free patterns on the blog for making simple projects like scarves and hats (just search for easy or beginner).
Crochet vs Knitting: A Summary
- Knitting uses two needles and involves pulling loops of yarn through each other. The stitches are held on one of the needles.
- Crochet uses one hook and involves knotting the yarn to create stitches. The stitches are not held on the hook.
- Knitting involves moving the stitches from one needle to the other; crochet is worked into one stitch at a time, so you can use your hook for several projects at the same time.
- Knitting produces a lighter more drapey fabric, perfect for garments. Crochet creates a thicker project, great for homewares, toys and extra cosy hats & scarves.
- Crochet uses around 30% more yarn than knitting.
- Which is faster? Crochet stitches are generally taller, so they work up more quickly than knit stitches.
- Which is easier? There are only two stitches to learn in knitting (knit and purl stitch). There are several stitches of different heights to learn in crochet.
- It's easier to correct mistakes in crochet than in knitting as the stitches have to be removed from the needle!
Looking forward to seeing your projects - don't forget to tag me on Instagram, so I can cheer you on!