My dear Mom and I learned how to knit together when I was 9 years old. We found a “learn-to-knit” kit one day while browsing through a craft shop. Mom had been wanting to learn how to knit for quite a while herself so we had a lot of fun learning how to knit together. But it was also challenging at times, and Mom had to persuade me more than once to keep working at it. Once I learned though, I couldn’t stop! Since then, I’ve always had a knitting project or two in progress. :-)
A few years after learning how to knit, I picked up a learn-to-crochet book with special instructions for lefties! (Yes, I’m left-handed!). Learning to crochet proved a bit more difficult for me. Several times I put the book away, and then picked up again once I was ready to try once more. But eventually I got the hang of it, and have been “hooked” ever since. :-)
I’m glad that I’ve had the opportunity to learn how to do both crafts. And recently I noticed that many of my Blogger friends have just begun to learn how to knit or crochet. As a beginner I remember searching for easy patterns –small projects that I could start and finish without having to look at the how-to book! So for all my beginner friends out there, I’ve done a bit of searching for you. I must admit first that I’m a bit biased when it comes to pattern websites. In my humble opinion, Lion Brand is the best website for free knitting and crocheting patterns. And here is just a sample of the many great patterns I think beginners would enjoy:
Crochet: Einstein Hat
Skill Level: Easy+
What’ll You Need: 1 ball of Homespun Yarn and a size N13 crochet hook
This hat is great for a beginning crocheter. You don’t need to do any increases or decreases. Just crochet a rectangle and sew it up!
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Knit: Simple Garter Hat
Skill Level: Beginner
What You’ll Need: 1 ball of Fisherman’s Wool Yarn and size 9 (5.5mm) needles
Similar to the crochet pattern above, you only need to know the knit stitch to make this adorable hat. Simply follow the directions to knit a rectangle and sew up the sides!
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Crochet: Block Scarf
Skill Level: Beginner
What You’ll Need: 2 balls of Vanna’s Choice Yarn and a size J-10 crochet hook
Surely you could make this one! Just crochet 6 squares on one color and 5 of the second color. Then sew each square together! Voila –a new scarf!
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Knit: Smokey Ridge Scarf
Skill Level: Beginner
What You’ll Need: 4 balls of Vanna’s Choice yarn and size 9 (13mm) needles
This knitted scarf pattern is also great for beginners! And it works up quickly because you use 2 strands of yarn instead of 1! Just follow the directions to cast on and knit until it reaches your desired length!
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Next week, I’ll feature a few easy patterns you might find handy of you want to make baby throws and kitchen items!
Have questions about the patterns shared here? Just drop me a line here and I’ll try to lend you a helping hand. :-)
Have fun and happy crafting!
**In my next post, I’ll be introducing you to Bermuda –the island where I live.**
