Knitting vs. Crochet: What's the Difference?
To some knitting and crochet might seem very similar, but to those who practice yarn crafts, they're worlds apart.
The feud between knitters and crocheters has existed probably as long as the crafts themselves. While this rivalry is lighthearted, there are some big differences between the two crafts that some might not realize.
The various stitches used by the two crafts, for instance, really make the biggest difference in the final product. But there are other factors, too.
Crocheters often brag that crocheting is faster (which it usually is). They also like that crochet often makes lighter, more draping fabric than knitting does. Crochet is also a little bit more flexible in terms of the types of wool, yarn, and thread you can use.
Knitters, on the other hand, like the feel of knitted fabric, especially for sweaters, scarves, and cowls. Plus, knitting is trendier (no offense, crocheters).
Knit Stitches vs. Crochet Stitches
In knitting, you basically have two types of stitches: knitting and purling. These stitches can be mixed and matched in different ways to create a diverse set of stitches and patterns. These stitches are formed in rows, with the active stitches held in place by the knitting needle itself.
With crochet, on the other hand, there are a wide variety of stitches that you can use, and the stitches are formed one at a time, eliminating the need to hold the active needles on the crochet hook. Crochet stitches are (for the most part) more intricate than stitches used in knitting, but despite this crochet is much faster than knitting.
Needles vs. Hooks
The most noticeable difference between knitting and crochet are the utensils used. Knitters use knitting needles and crocheters use crochet hooks.
Knitting needles come in many different sizes, lengths, and materials. Most knitting needles are straight with one pointed end; however, there are other styles of knitting needles, like circular needles and double pointed needles.
Crochet hooks, on the other hand, have a hook at the end that is helpful for pulling the yarn and creating stitches.
Knitting Supplies vs. Crochet Supplies
Supplies and accessories for knitting and crochet are another area where these two crafts differ quite a bit. There's no doubt that the number of possible accessories for both knitting and crochet is high. (And they make some great Christmas gifts for your crafty friends, hint hint!)
For knitting, common knitting accessories include:
- A variety of knitting needles
- Crochet hooks (you read that right)
- Stitch markers
- Scissors
- Point protectors
- Measuring tape
For crochet, common supplies include
- A variety of crochet hooks
- Gauge swatches
- A row/stitch counter
- Finishing needles
- Scissors
Knitting Yarn vs. Crochet Yarn
This is one of the few areas where knitting and crochet are pretty similar. For the most part, any yarn that can be used with knitting can be used with crochet and vice versa.
One exception is knitting with thread. Because of the nature of knitting needles and crochet hooks, knitting with thread is very difficult (if not impossible) and should be left to the crocheters.
The Great Debate
Which one is easier?
This is the great crafting debate that no one will ever agree on! There are plenty of good arguments on both sides, but really it just comes down to what feels more natural in your hands. Usually, whichever craft you learned first is the one you find to be easier.
Does crochet really use more yarn than knitting?
Yes and no. The nature of crochet stitches does sometimes lead to more yarn being used; however, this is not always the case. In fact, there are plenty of knitting stitches that use way more yarn than similar crochet counterparts.
The likely origin of this myth has to do with how much faster crochet is than knitting. Crochet uses up yarn faster than knitting, which gives the illusion that you're using more yarn.
Are you #teamknitting or #teamcrochet?
Let us know in the comments!