In this part of our guide, we will focus on the equipment, accessories, and supplies used in knitting and crochet.
Knitting and crochet are two distinct needlecraft techniques. Knitting involved using two needles to create fabric by forming a series of interconnected loops, often resulting in a stretchy and smooth texture. Crochet, on the other hand, uses a single hook to create fabric with individual loops, producing a more intricate and varied texture. While both crafts can be used to make a wide range of items, from clothing to home decor, they are separate skills.
Both skills are used to transform skeins of yarn into functional and decorative items.
Yarn is available in a myriad of fibers, including natural fibers like wool, alpaca, and silk, as well as synthetic fibers like acrylic, nylon, and polyester. Each type has unique properties that influence the texture, weight, and durability of the finished product.
Yarn is categorized by weight, ranging from lace weight to super bulky. The choice of yard weight impacts the final appearance and feel of the item, as well as the gauge or number of stitches per inch.
Knitting requires two needles, which can be straight, circular, or double-pointed. They come in various materials, such as metal, wood, bamboo, and plastic. Circular needles are remarkably versatile and can be used for both flat and circular knitting.
Crochet is done with a single hook, available in a variety of sizes and materials. The size of the hook determines the gauge and tension of the stitches.
Stitch markers are small, usually colorful rings, used to mark specific points in a knitting or crochet project, such as the beginning of a round or the placement of a new pattern. Tapestry needles are used for weaving in ends and sewing pieces together, and have large eyes to accommodate yarn.
A tape measure or ruler is needed for checking gauge and for measuring progress. Row counters are used to keep track of the number of rows or rounds completed.
Blocking tools include blocking mats, pins, and wires used to shape and set the final project by stretching and securing it in place as it dries.
Patterns provide step-by-step instructions for creating specific items. They can be found in books, magazines, and online platforms. Many designers offer both free and paid patterns, catering to various skill levels and styles.
Avid knitters and crocheters often invest in storage solutions like project bags, yarn bowls, and needle cases to keep their materials organized and easily accessible.
Several manufacturers produce yarn, including Lion Brand, Red Heart, Debbie Bliss, and Malabrigo. Addi, Clover, and Susan Bates manufacture knitting needles and crochet hooks. Joann Fabric and Craft Stores and Michaels are well-known retailers of knitting and crochet products. However, several small, independent stores provide a curated selection of high-quality yarns, tools, and accessories; many offer their products online.
Equipment, tools, supplies, and accessories used in knitting or crocheting are appropriate topics for this category. Additional resources can be found in the corresponding category within our Sports & Recreation section.
Recommended Resources
Based in Berne, Indiana, with an office in Fort Wayne, Annie's began in 1975. Its online e-commerce store features a large selection of crafting supplies and patterns for various hobbies, including crochet, knitting, quilting, sewing, and other products. They also carry quilt patterns, crochet patterns, and knitting supplies. Its website includes a product catalog, stitch guide, its wholesale buyer program, and information about affiliate and advertising opportunities.
https://www.anniescatalog.com/
Founded in 1968, Berroco is a well-known company in the knitting and crochet industry. They offer a wide range of high-quality yarns and contemporary, size-inclusive patterns. The company partners with mills and yarn suppliers worldwide that align with its values of integrity, authenticity, and production values. In addition to Berroco yarn, the company distributes yarn from several other brands. Besides online shopping capabilities, stores carrying its products are featured on a map.
https://berroco.com/
The online retailer sells everything needed in crochet. Several types of yarn are available, most of which they produce themselves. However, the company also carries other brands, including Baa Ram Ewe, Berroco, Kelbourne Woolens, Knit Picks, and Lion Brand. Shoppers can shop by color, brand, weight, or fiber content. Kits and bundles, crochet hooks, patterns, tools, and books are also included. New, best-selling and sale items are highlighted. Informational articles are also included.
https://www.crochet.com/
Established in 2002, Knit Picks began as a family business and has grown to become a small, collaborative team of passionate crafters who develop products, curate patterns, and offer supplies for knitters of various experience levels. Its e-commerce section sells yarn by color, brand, weight, or fiber content, and also sells kits and bundles, needles and hooks, patterns, tools, and books. Tutorials are available along with its programs for affiliates, influencers, and independent designers.
https://www.knitpicks.com/
Also known as Lion Brand Yarn Company, Lion Brand Yarn was founded in the United States in 1878 and claims to be the oldest producer of knitting and craft yarn in the U.S. Headquartered in Carlstadt, New Jersey, the company also publishes several knitting and crochet newsletters. The company offers a wide range of yarns for knitting, crocheting, weaving, and other crafts, including a vast selection of yarn types and colors, catering to people of all skill levels.
http://www.lionbrand.com/
Founded as a family business in 1974, moving several times as it grew. The company began a catalog business in 2001, and opened its online retail site in 2003, while continuing its catalog mailings. In 2020, WEBS was acquired by LoveCrafts. Its catalogs may be viewed online and purchases may be made through the site. Other resources include patterns, project kits, dyeing supplies and kits, and gift cards. Its store pickup policies, return policies, and shipping information are discussed.
https://www.yarn.com/
