I have been crocheting for around two years now, and knitting for a year-and-a-half. There are certainly unique challenges that go with both, and so it is important to start off easy and slow. Your first project will not be perfect, and that can be a tough pill to swallow. But keep in mind that in order to progress, you have to make mistakes.
Here are some easy and basic beginner projects that you can do in order to make a start in your knitting/crochet hobby.
Pot Holder
This is probably the easiest project for any knitter/crocheter. This involves doing the same pattern time after time, until you make a square (or a wonky square which is also fine) pot holder. I like to use mine whenever I have a hot bowl of soup or noodles so that I can eat with it on my lap or on a table. You will probably get more use out of it than you think!
Scarf
Okay, think of a potholder, just a lot longer. This is the same concept in that you do the same pattern for a long time, you just make a rectangle instead of a square. And if you want to get fancy with it, you could make an infinity scarf by connecting both ends of your project. This can be done by using a darning needle, taking your remaining yarn, and weaving the ends together through the stitches. If you don’t have a darning needle, you can always use your hook and crochet the ends together.
Headband
If you live in a cold place, a headband might be useful for the harsh winters. This is a project you could finish in a single day, especially if you use some chunky yarn. This could also be a great gift for friends and family during the holidays. It is knitted/crocheted like a scarf, but not nearly as long or wide. So it is a beginner-friendly project that can also be quite stylish and practical.
Granny Square
A granny square is often people’s first project in knitting and crochet. You can make beautiful patterns by only knowing a couple stitches, and it can become a masterpiece. By making them over and over again, you not only gain practice, but you could end up making yourself a cozy blanket by connecting the squares in the end. It can also be a way to express your color taste as you can mix up the colors of the squares. It’s super fun, and I find myself making granny squares left and right in between projects with scrap yarn.
Beanie
I’m not going to lie, this is probably the most challenging project on this list. However, it’s still beginner friendly! If you’re knitting a beanie, this could be your introduction to knitting in the round. If you are crocheting, this could be your introduction to ribbing! (I do recommend looking up both of these terms!) Like the headband, this could make a great gift over the holidays. You could also consider donating beanies to many different charities that accept knitted/crocheted beanies.
If you’re a beginner, I believe in you! There is absolutely a learning curve when it comes to both knitting and crochet, but it is well worth it in the long run. It is a great way to pass the time, but is also very therapeutic. Check out my article discussing the benefits of knitting and crochet, backed up by scientists.
You can find patterns for all of these on websites like Ravelry, Pinterest, or even look on the packaging of your yarn! There are often patterns included in the yarn you buy, and most can be beginner friendly.
Happy knitting/crocheting!
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Here are two easy videos to get you started!
https://youtu.be/24lR2IRS57A Knitting video
https://youtu.be/zzWX2dx8ufc Crochet video
