How Hard Is It to Teach Yourself Crochet or Knitting from a Book?

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Discussion Overview

This thread explores personal experiences and opinions regarding the challenges of teaching oneself crochet or knitting from a book. Participants share their journeys, successes, and frustrations with these crafts, often reflecting on their learning processes and preferences between knitting and crocheting.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, shared that they learned to knit through a friend and have made various items, including a scarf and grocery bags from t-shirts.
  • Another participant expressed hesitation to try crocheting, finding it looks too difficult, but mentioned having seen kits that seem manageable.
  • One user learned to knit from a YouTube video and is currently working on a scarf as part of their recovery from a wrist injury.
  • Another participant mentioned that they can make pot holders but struggle with more complex projects, preferring to start with larger items.
  • One participant noted difficulties with tension and gauge in crocheting but found knitting easier and learned to purl from a book.
  • Another user enjoys crocheting items like afghans and baby blankets but has not been able to grasp knitting.
  • One participant prefers crocheting for its speed but acknowledges that many attractive patterns are for knitting.
  • Another user expressed interest in a local Stitch n B!tch group and is currently working on a scarf.
  • One participant stated they cannot crochet or knit but have experience in sewing and quilting.
  • Another user mentioned that they only knit scarves due to complexity and learned from a kit with a book.
  • One participant shared their struggles with crocheting beyond flat items and noted boredom with larger projects.
  • Another user expressed a desire to learn quilting, crocheting, and knitting, sharing their positive experience with a knitting book.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the ease of learning crochet versus knitting, with some participants finding knitting more approachable while others prefer crocheting. No clear consensus emerges on which craft is easier to learn from a book.

Contextual Notes

Participants share a range of experiences, from learning through friends and books to personal challenges with tension and project complexity. The discussion reflects a variety of crafting backgrounds and interests.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers within the consultant community interested in personal experiences related to learning crochet and knitting may find this discussion insightful.

C
ChefLisa
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Got My Fingers Crossed!This Saturday night I am doing the one show I have so far from the list Home Office gave us. She and her husband absolutely love Pampered Chef!

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Does anyone else have a show from the list?

Thanks!
Lisa
 
I just got one today - it is for the end of October. I used a new line for preliminary host coaching (when I get the date) that seemed to work. I told her "the hardest thing you will do is make the guest list - I need it in a week" or something along those lines.
 
I didn't even know I could knit until a friend showed me at a stitch n b!tch she had at her house. I knit a scarf for my daughter and started a handbag for myself (I have it all together just haven't finished it with the crocheting part - I've tried since a child to get crocheting, which my mom taught me, and I just stink at it. LOL)... have enough yarn to make a sweater but haven't attempted it yet.

We used to get together once a month and inspire each other with knitting and other general textile type crafts. One time she showed us how to make grocery bags from old t-shirts. WOW! I went home and promptly made about 3 or 4 of them! They're soooo handy you just have to be careful how heavy you make them cuz the t-shirt material streeetches. LOL..

I love to sew too. I've made my own clothes and such. I really like 'deconstructing' old used garments and breathing new life into them like my daughter's favorite bag which started out as a pair of jeans with holey knees!
 
I haven't tried bc it looks way to difficult for me, but I have seen some kits at Walmart that I think I could handle. I have been thinking of doing something like that... I have crocheted before and found it very relaxing..
 
I learned to knit watchig a youtube video. I am working on a scarf as sort of physio since I sprained my wrist 3 weeks ago.
 
Off and on I get my mom to show me crochet. I can do a pot holder but have not progressed any futher. I am the type that wants to do table clothes and not little bitty things FIRST, so, I never stick with it.

I want to walk before I crawl!
 
I've always had trouble with tension and keeping things the right 'gauge' while crocheting but knitting kinda takes all the worry out of the equation! I had convinced myself it was harder though cuz my mom doesn't knit, she crochets and has always said it was harder for her to knit. Why I thought the same for myself, I don't know. LOL... I picked up knitting in an evening... I taught myself to purl out of a book and experimented with putting it all together.
 
I crochet. I mostly like to make afgans, baby blankets, and scarves. Never could get the hang of knitting though. I also like to cross-stitch, but I haven't done that in years.

I can sew, but I don't really like to. I did make my living room drapes earlier this year (with help from a friend). I still need to hem them, but they are up and they are beautiful. Next I need to make the swags for them. I only made them b/c to have them custom made was going to cost me a furtune! I figured all it is is sewing straight lines and how hard can THAT be.............well, the answer is - it's very hard! I hated every minute of making them, but now I am quite proud of them (especially since they wanted $1200 just in labor charges to do it for me)
 
I prefer to crochet. I think it goes quicker than knitting. Most of the cool looking patterns are for knitting tho.

When I was in high school, I could have graduated a semester early but I wanted to take the Creative Arts class which was only offered second semester. My Aunt and Grandmother had taught me how to do most of the needle work I knew.

During this class, I ended up being the teacher's assistant. I knew the basic steps she was teaching and was able to show the other students how to do them. She gave me some more advanced steps to do. LOVED IT!

When the weather starts getting colder, I like nothing better than to pick up the yarn and start a project.

--Jenny L
 
I want to know more about this Stitch n Xitch. I have been thinking about it ever since I read about it here. I am thinking I might like to DO something like that.


I am still working on my scarf. I hope to have it done before spring....
 
I can't crochet or knit that's my mom and grandmas dept! I do sew and Quilt..... Well I used to before kids!
 
I knit, but all I make are scarfs, otherwise it gets too complicated for me!:p
Stitch n b!tch is great! I learned to knit from a kit my Mom got me that had a book called "I taught myself knitting".


I LOVE to sew! I've recently started deconstructing T-shirts. SO fun! And I make a lot of tote bags to use when I am at stores so I don't have to use theirs (good thing since they are thinking about starting to charge for bags now)
 
You sound like me at crocheting. I really got into it but I could only make flat things, like blankets, throws, and scarves. I tried to make baby booties once and just couldn't get it.
 
I wanted to make a blanket but I got too bored... guess I just don't have the patience for it.... good think I can sew quilts! At least I think I can... I have one that's an on going project, still in the cutting phase.
 
I cross stitch, and needlepoint. I want to learn to quilt, crochet, and knit.How hard is it to teach yourself crochet or knitting from a book?
 
Creole Catholic said:
I cross stitch, and needlepoint. I want to learn to quilt, crochet, and knit.

How hard is it to teach yourself crochet or knitting from a book?
Click to expand...

My friend taught me how to knit with the help of a book called Stitch n B!tch... I learned, with that book, how to purl... I picked up knitting very easily though. However, the same folks also have a crochet book called The Happy Hooker... LOL... I love the book titles... I've tried crocheting before and never seem to get the tension thing right... that's why I like knitting more... YET, my mom can crochet like a fiend (even the fine lacing and tiny stitched doilies) and can't get the hang of knitting so to each their own.


http://www.amazon.com/dp/0761128182/?tag=pfamazon01-20

http://www.amazon.com/dp/0761139850/?tag=pfamazon01-20

Each of these books has not only step by step instruction with illustrations but also lots of great little starter projects.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is it to teach yourself crochet or knitting from a book?

Teaching yourself crochet or knitting from a book can be challenging, but it's definitely doable. Many beginners find that with patience and practice, they can learn the basics. Books often provide step-by-step instructions and illustrations, which can be very helpful for visual learners.

What are the best books for beginners in crochet or knitting?

Some popular books for beginners include "Stitch 'N Bitch: The Knitter's Handbook" by Debbie Stoller for knitting and "The Complete Beginner's Guide to Crochet" by Sandi Marshall for crochet. These books offer clear instructions, helpful tips, and a variety of projects suitable for new crafters.

How long does it typically take to learn crochet or knitting from a book?

The time it takes to learn crochet or knitting varies from person to person. Some may grasp the basics in a few days, while others might take weeks or even months to feel comfortable. Regular practice and working on small projects can accelerate the learning process.

What materials do I need to start learning crochet or knitting?

To start learning crochet, you'll need a crochet hook and yarn. For knitting, you'll need knitting needles and yarn. It's recommended to start with medium-weight yarn and a corresponding hook or needle size, as these are easier to handle for beginners.

Can I find online resources to complement my book learning?

Yes, there are many online resources available, including video tutorials, forums, and social media groups dedicated to crochet and knitting. These can provide additional support, visual guidance, and community interaction, making your learning experience more enjoyable.

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