Photo: Rebecca Grant
Looking for a timeless craft? Knitting is a pastime that anyone can learn and enjoy, no matter their age. With some basic materials and a little instruction, even knitting novices can create their own scarf. (And a lot of handmade gifts!) The craft is seen as relaxing and even meditative, so it’s no wonder why many people are hooked after completing just one project.
Knitting has a couple of basic stitches—knit and purl—that are easy to master. But beyond those two, there are many more techniques available to learn. Advanced approaches, particularly the more decorative stitches like the Chevron Lace, require knowledge of “increases and decreases,” as well as knitting two stitches together.
While advanced techniques might seem daunting, it’s an aspect of the craft that gives it longevity in our lives. Eventually, knitting scarf after scarf would get old. By continually challenging ourselves to stitch complex projects, it ensures we’ll never tire of picking up knitting needles. Plus, it's always fun to wear something that you made.
If you’re new to this timeless activity and need a tutor, look no further than the kind folks on the internet. Knitting is a craft that’s easy to teach yourself, and by watching free YouTube videos, you can learn all you need to know to get started (and beyond). Pause, rewind, and rewatch the tutorials many times over and, finally, try the stitches for yourself. Read the comments for other helpful tips, and don’t get discouraged if you can’t get a technique on the first try. Knitting is simple to learn but fewer people ever get beyond the basic stitches. However, if you stick with it, you’ll soon be completing your own pair of socks—one of the most challenging projects you can try!
Before you plunge into the depths of YouTube, we’ve compiled a list of different types of knitting stitches to learn. After you’re done, check out these patterns you can download and start right away.
Learn how to make different knitting stitches for free by watching these popular YouTube videos.
Getting Started: Basic Stitches and Techniques
The knitting and purl stitches can be found on patterns of all skill levels.
You'll also want to know how to cast-on and cast-off to begin and end a project, respectively.
And don't forget how to weave in the ends of your yarn:
