Skip to content

Crochet Basics

Knit vs Crochet: Which One Should You Try First?

by Okey Dokeys 18 Sep 2025 0 Comments

If you're staring at some soft, squishy yarn and wondering whether to knit or crochet your next masterpiece, you're not alone! These two crafts are often lumped togetherโ€”but theyโ€™re actually very different in how theyโ€™re done, what you make with them, and the vibe they bring. Letโ€™s break it down in a fun, easy way!

a picture of a crochet hook and knitting needles

Tools of the Trade

  • Knitting uses two long needles that you hold in both hands, kind of like chopsticks for yarn.

  • Crochet uses just one hook, which makes it easier to manage and travel with. Youโ€™re only juggling one tool instead of twoโ€”woohoo!

Crochet hooks come in different sizes and styles, but once you get the hang of using one, youโ€™re golden. Plus, chenille yarn and jumbo hooks? A total dream combo.

cute crochet hook next to some okey dokeys yarn

Technique Breakdown

  • In knitting, all your loops stay on the needles while you work, which means if a loop slips off... yikes, it can unravel fast (cue panic).

  • With crochet, youโ€™re only working with one active loop at a time, which makes it way easier to fix mistakesโ€”and way less intimidating for beginners.

Also, crochet stitches are a little chunkier and more defined, which means you can see your progress faster. Itโ€™s satisfying and confidence-boosting.

ย 

Texture, Speed & Look

  • Knitted fabric is usually softer, smoother, and more flexible than crochet. It creates a beautiful, even texture that drapes like a dreamโ€”perfect for garments like sweaters, socks, and shawls. If you're after a sleek, store-bought look, knitting wins.

  • Crocheted fabric is thicker and more structured, which can be great for plushies and home dรฉcor, but it doesnโ€™t quite match the elegance or fluidity of a knitted piece.

While crochet can move a bit faster due to its larger stitches, knitting offers more control over shaping and fit, making it a go-to for wearables and refined projects.

giant wooden knitting needles used for knitting jumbo yarn

Why Weโ€™re Team Crochet (But We Still Love Knit Folks)

Crochet is beginner-friendly, super flexible, and gives you a ton of creative freedom. You can switch from making a squishy plushie to a cute crop top or even a home decor pieceโ€”just by changing up your yarn and hook.


Soโ€ฆ Knit vs Crochet?

Hereโ€™s the quick cheat sheet:

Feature

Knitting

Crochet

Tools

2 Needles

1 Hook

Loops

Many active loops

1 active loop

Texture

Smooth & stretchy

Textured & structured

Fixing Mistakes

Tricky

Easier

Speed

Slower to start

Faster for beginners

Best For

Garments, socks

Plushies, blankets, bags


Ready to Hook Your First Project?

At Okey Dokeys, weโ€™re all about helping beginners feel confident (and have fun) from stitch one. If youโ€™re curious about learning crochet, check out our crochet kits or free patterns designed just for beginners!

And hey, if you ever want to give knitting a try tooโ€”go for it! Crafting is all about finding what brings you joy.

Prev Post
Next Post

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.

Thanks for subscribing!

This email has been registered!

Shop the look

Choose Options

Edit Option
Back In Stock Notification

Choose Options

this is just a warning
Login
Shopping Cart
0 items