Whoever discovered/invented that folding hexi sweater design is a genius! I made one for myself that I am really happy with. P.S. I'm a crocheter with limited knitting experience, but I don't feel excluded when I watch knitting podcasts at all. I find it peaceful and comforting to watch someone work on their craft while I work on mine, even if they are not the same!
I’m so glad you spoke up about people saying “you’re doing it wrong”…I’ve had this happen to me before and it’s so unpleasant. We are all making beautiful things and in our own way. We don’t tell an artist they’re doing it wrong when they make a painting like no one else. I look around the room in knitting/crochet circles and even people making the same pattern are doing it differently. There are as many right ways to do something as there are people in the world! …okay…stepping off my soapbox now… lol 😂
The way you described the reasons why you prefer knitting to crochet is actually how I feel. I can easily read my stitches in knitting but in crochet I feel like I'm trying to read a language I've never seen before. I love that you are going to give the parents the option of having it grow with the child. I would love to see a photo of the child (no face is fine) wearing the gift if possible. I recently made a shawl for the mother-in-law of a friend. Her husband was in the ICU. When I heard about his accident and that his wife was staying with him night and day I wanted to make something for her to let her know that someone was thinking of her. I spent several days with my mom in the ICU. Aside from the stress of having someone you care for in such a fragile state, it was cold. I thought a shawl would be something she could put around her shoulders. Sadly, her husband passed before I finished it. However, I gave her the completed shawl to let her know that I understood what she was going through.
I hold my hook exactly like you do. And the few times I've had negative comments about it, my reply has been "It feels better with arthritis to hold the hook this way". I totally get into a rhythm, and it feels meditative to me. I can and have crocheted all day, lol. Surprisingly, crocheting makes my arthritic fingers feel more limber. I am a crocheter 💜🧶
Speaking of rhythm, there is nothing more poetic than Tunisian crochet. I needed a new challenge and picked up the stitch this past Fall/ Winter season and became engaged to the point that people I regularly ran into were gifted an asymmetrical scarf: parking attendant, postman, crossing guard... As an avid daily walker (our Cleveland Metroparks are so beautiful) 5-10 miles a day, I balance my day by crocheting/knitting and the more excited I am about a project, the longer I can work on it.
I do gift my projects at Christmas time. It depends on the recipient what I make. I think a couple of my boys would shoot me if they didn’t get their socks 🤣 My granddaughters always get a sweater. I’ve made everyone over the years many blankets, hats, scarves,cowls etc. I start as soon as Christmas is over for the next year I sometimes wondered if they really appreciated them until this last Christmas. My question was answered. I walked in the house and first thing my granddaughters said was grandma here and can’t wait to c what she made us with so much excitement that it brought a tear to my eyes. I said hmmm maybe this year I didn’t make anything kidding around with them. The look on their faces told me not to say that again. A total look of disappointment. I immediately said just kidding and the big smiles returned. A friend of mine told me I’m so lucky my grandkids love their gifts from grandma cause most kids don’t. That made me feel good. I put a lot of thought into each and every one. Each is unique with their own style and colors. I love designing for one granddaughter the most. She’s my funky one. The crazier the better. I won’t be caught dead in anything I’ve made for her but she totally loves them. Her friends have asked her where she got her sweater from cause they want one. She proudly tells them my grandma made it for me. When they ask her if I would make them one and she tells them NO cause I’m special 😃 yes she is.
this is so special and beautiful ❤ i love using my craft to show love to my loved ones. it's so special designing something for a special person and seeing their joy when you give it to them 🥹 recently finished 2 of my first completed blankets, one for my boyfriend on his bday and one for a friend's niece who is turning 1. I've made bags for my sisters and scarves and hats that I've donated. i just love sharing love thru crochet
it’s funny how some of us can be so familiar with one craft and others so familiar with the other! where you feel like you’re a bit clumsy and unsure of your stitches while crocheting, i feel really confident with my crochet and have felt so awkward each time i’ve tried to learn to knit haha. i’m sure if i put in some more time i could get a bit more comfortable, but i imagine that even then, crochet would still be my personal go-to :-) i’m glad you could find a project that suited you, and the idea of having the sweater grow over time is so sweet!
I'm a crocheter that wants to learn to knit. My grandmother did both, my mother knit and I have always crocheted. I do the pencil method, and watching you crochet, it looks almost like you're knitting. You have a different method that's very interesting looking. Either way, I love watching you, you are so soothing and calm.
The sweater is darling. If the way you knit or crochet is comfortable for you and the garment or blanket comes out right then you are doing it right. I knit and crochet my way, I don't care what anyone says. Ignore them!!!
Even tho I don’t care for doing crochet myself, I do knit and find your videos to be great to knit to. You have a very melodious voice (which makes sense given you sing). I also weave and frequently make knitted or woven gifts. I’m currently knitting a cotton market bag and have a lap blanket on my floor loom. There are other WIPs but those are my current active ones. The jacket is so cute and you are a wonderful uncle to make it. And I always include ‘care’ instructions with handmade gifts because many recipients just don’t know how to manage handmade cleaning. And it saves them the angst of ruining something unintentionally.
Thanks for this video Mark. It was a fun to watch you crochet. When I was a young boy, I learned how to crochet before I learned to knit. No one wanted to teach a little boy to crochet or knit so I taught myself from a "Learn How" booklet, hiding away in the attic of my childhood home. Crocheting isn't something that I do very often anymore as it tends to make my hands hurt. I do make very intricate crochet cotton snowflakes for Christmas gifts and Thank You gifts but that's almost the limit of my crocheting time anymore. Most of my time is filled by knitting which for some odd reason doesn't hurt my hands and I enjoy more. When I do crochet, I use the "classy" technique of holding my hook. I laughed when you mentioned that in this video. Anyway, I love this little sweater for your niece and your color choices are perfect for a young girl. Congratulations on a job well done!
Wow! You are the only person that I have seen that crochets like me! For example, when you YO, you hold the yarn on the hook with you right thumb. It seems more efficient to do it that way in my opinion. You hold the yarn in your left hand like me too. By the way, we also knit the same, but I'm not as fast as you. I've only been knitting a few years, but have been crocheting 40+ years. Love your videos and stories!
Being left-handed, I was flat-out told in the beginning that I would never be able to learn how to crochet. That was 38 years ago, and I'm still at it. Never tell a Capricorn what he or she can't do, because we'll find a way, particularly if it's just out of spite. Also, just about every expert knitter and crocheter I've seen on RUclips always advises that you should take a break every half-hour, and that it hurts if you don't. I also know that they go at breakneck speeds, building up their inventory for market. I refuse to sell anything, they're always gifts, so I take my time, and I find that neither knitting nor crochet hurts at all, no matter how many hours I'm devoting to it. Comparison is the thief of joy, so go at your own pace, and don't listen to the yarn snobs, because there's more than one way to get most things done.
Hello, fellow lefty capricorn! lol. Noone ever said anything so foolish to me, fortunately. But then, I was taught by my then-17yo bff. She's still _way_ better at it than me. I have heard a lot of "lefties should just learn to do it righthanded!". Grr.
I am a crocheter only - have not been able to get the hang of knitting, but I love the look of it. I like to watch knitting channels because knitters tend to use the kinds of yarns that appeal to me, whereas on crochet channels I see a lot more acrylic value yarns than I like. Yes, these yarns have their place and are useful for certain projects, but I love merino, BFL, and other breed-specific wools as well as alpaca and other more exotic fibres. Your hexi cardigan turned out very well and I am sure it will be loved. I for one will be thrilled however when this trend dies because i detest all things granny stitch. But I do understand the appeal and appreciate why it is so popular right now. It harkens back to a simpler more peaceful period in our history. Nostalgia will getcha every time! I enjoy your content, Mark, and I like to crochet as I listen to your soothing voice. Looking forward to hearing all about your summer adventures - sounds like you are going to have an epic time.
I knit and crochet to. I hold my yarn and hook the same way as yourself. I love the different aspects of both crochet and knitting and the different outcomes you can achieve with both. I made my teenage niece a crocheted blanket for her birthday this year and she loves it
dunno what you mean, watching you crochet is very relaxing! :3 I started crocheting first, and just recently knitting, so I pretty much have the opposite experience. Crocheting is mindless and/or playful because I'm comfortable with it, and knitting still stresses me out, as I feel like tension is much more unforgiving in knitting, and I'm still struggling with it. Practice will surely help with that, let's do our best! o/
I know you mostly knit, but you are also a great companion video for me to watch or listen to while I work on my crochet. As somebody once told me, this kind of art form no matter what we do it’s just loops in loops. I appreciate you sharing more about your experience with crochet. When first getting into yarn stuff, I was terrified admitting, I saw those two little pins going at, and it frightened me how complicated it looked, crochet just required one tool, and I didn’t feel as intimidated by it. That is why I crochet. It’s always interesting to hear the opposite about how knitters can feel intimidated by the very tool I feel at ease to use.
I've been knitting and crocheting for years, but I only get a high heart rate alert from my fitness tracker when I crochet lol. It's probably different for everyone, but I think you're right about crochet being more of a workout.
Yay, a crochet vid, thank you! I hope your niece likes it 🙂 I only crochet and crochet until I fall asleep, I recently discovered it and am addicted. I find it magical, yarn and 1 hook and with a combination of more or less 2 stitches I can make anything. I also see the elegant way people crochet, it looks cool, but I can’t. A growing cardigan, wow, what a great idea. I am typing and watching at the same time 🙂
Hi Mark, I think you crochet beautifully! 💜 💜💜 I'm a 100% crocheter and am completely addicted to this craft, for at least 10 years now. I usually crochet every day and on my days off work I can crochet all day😁 I find it depends on the pattern, size of hook, type of yarn and thickness of the yarn whether or not I get pain or fatigue. I find thicker cotton (DK or more) is the most difficult. Also thicker yarns (worseted +) with denser stitiches, such as mosaic designs can become painful after a few hours too. For thicker sized yarns I also change my grip on the hook to the butter knife hold that you use. But for thinner yarns and hooks I use the chopstick/ pencil hold . That was the grip I was taught by my nana as a child so it comes more naturally I prefer fingering 100% cotton, mostly because I live in a sub tropical climate and that makes it more practical for wearables and washes well. I need to wash my crochet clothes a lot as it is very hot and humid here so pretty sweaty weather. For jumpers prefer DK wool and blankets DK acrylic (for ease of care) I follow another RUclips channel called 'Show me, Romi' that you might find interesting. He figures out how to make a lot of men's crochet tops that he has seen and liked on shows or the like. So if you ever want to make some fun crochet summer tops it could inspire Appreciate this crochet episode❤
Hi Mark - I consider myself an intermediate crocheter and I just wanted to let you know that I almost always end up frogging my first few rows of a project and starting over. I don't think it is at all uncommon to lose some stitches or get confused at the end of a row and I need a warm up to get it right. I also still use a ton of stitch markers to indicate my beginning stitch, etc. You know crocheters are famous for counting and counting and counting stitches... Honestly, I think it's just part of the craft.
I have been crocheting longer than knitting but I enjoy both and use them both as a way to relax after a long day working. I am a therapist so I use both to just relax. It would be beautiful with a solid color around the edges. The blue would be beautiful.
I love the little jacket you made for your niece. I am both a knitter and crocheter and i find it easier to fix mistakes in crochet than with knitting. I just found your channel and i enjoyed watching you very much. 😊
I learned to knit first and taught myself to crochet. Although the crafts are similar, there are some major differences and I find that I have to adjust tension between the two crafts. I hold my crochet hook like you do, and I think it may be because it’s similar to how we hold knitting needles. I tend to enjoy knitting more, but I do feel like crochet projects come out faster, and there’s never a fear of dropping a stitch 😅 I love the grays in your baby sweater, and I also like the trim color you ultimately decided on. Knitting or crocheting for other people is partially what keeps me motivated 😊
I have been crocheting longer than knitting and my real rhythm comes from crochet as a result. In the beginning, I tried holding the hook as a pencil but it produced so much pain in my wrists while crocheting. With the knife hold, however, I learned to twist the needle between my fingers so I don’t have to move my wrist as much and now I can crochet for hours without pain. Right now, I am working on the second baby afghan for my niece who was born just a couple of months ago. My sister loves my crochet work and asked me to make the afghans specifically. That made me SOOO happy and I feel so honored! I love gifting my work to people who also love crochet work!!
Hi there. What size is the blanket you are making? It does make a difference when chosing to gift a work to someone. They are created with care stitch by stitch.
I hold my yarn and needles/hook in a similar way making the transition between crochet and knitting easier. The goal for me is finding the rhythm in either craft. Im definitely not a speed maker! You are right, there are so many ways to hold the crochet hook and wrap the yarn. Very cool. I sometimes incorporate both crafts in one garment. A crochet slip stitch is helpful in reinforcing a simple knitted neckline. Enjoy!
I commented before, but i hadn't gotten to the end of the video. I crocheted a dinosaur and gave it to my nephew, he's only 2 but at least his parents appreciated the cuteness of it 😂❤
I see the difference in knitting and crocheting by my attention to what I am doing with the needle. When I do the crochet projects my attention needs to be full on with crochet since the placement of the hook changes you do your stitching. With knitting I can look away and not miss where I am and what I am doing with the needle. By the way the little sweater looks absolutely beautiful and it will be cherished. 🧶🧶❤️❤️😉
I think the knife hold (I use it myself) lends itself to a more natural feel, especially as someone who goes back and forth between crochet and knitting. I've tried the pencil hold before just out of curiosity, and it feels very foreign to me. Excellent video - as always - I hope you enjoy the birthday party and that your family appreciates the labor of love that is a handmade gift like this! The jacket is precious ❤
I crochet and knit. I’ll an English knitter/thrower. I hold my crochet hook as you do , but with the working yarn in my right (dominant) hand and “throw” my yarn overs. I find crochet to be more physically demanding. I can (and do) knit or crochet for hours, and don’t notice I’ve stressed my body until the middle of that night. Love your Squared up sweater and plan to make one soon. I love knitting and crocheting gifts. Great idea to give the delicates bag as part of the gift. Finally, don’t “sweat-er” during the hot summer months without AC. Maybe display a different one of your sweaters in your background on a mannequin while it’s too hot to wear them.
Morning Mark - I love that you reiterate staying true to yourself during makings. I recently taught my sister knitting and showed her various ways so that she could find her best fit in holding working yarn. She was later in a group and a woman was frustrated 😣 with her 'English' technique and I had to encourage sister again to do what feels best to her especially while learning. Later she can try other styles and change if she wishes. 👋🏼 I absolutely get hand fatigue with crochet. I do not believe it is as ergonomically friendly as knitting continental is. I can only go 1-2 rows before needing to stretch hands and rest. I also cross stitch which again requires an even a tighter pinching, so need more resting time. I love it all and each making is so different with unique designs to each. Crocheting 40 yrs Cross stitching 38 yrs Knitting 4 yrs Machine Quilting 30 yrs (no hand stitching) Many other makings too
Craft and a cuppa has a great tutorial for this hexi cardi, it's helpful to watch her crochet each section alongside reading the pattern to help visual what it means 👍🏻
I couldn't help but giggle when I saw you pick up your hook & start crocheting... because you and I hold the hook & yarn the same way! I agree with you too that being rude to someone is not the best approach to helping the person learn. There's no set in stone it's this way and that is final... To each their own. 😊
lol love how you crochet! It works for you. I have crochet books that say they are two main forms of holding the hook, knife hold ( the way you hold it ) or pen hold ( I crochet that way) that both are acceptable and that you should use the way it feels best for you. I agree with you that helping someone when they are having issues or learning is good but correcting them (specifically in a nasty manner) because their way is different from them is uncalled for and unnecessary. Hope the more you do crochet the more comfortable and confident you will be with your project. Enjoy the process. I crochet only love the process. Have a great day and weekend.
its so funny because the way you feel about crochet is exactly the same way i feel about knitting! i first learned how to knit but never was able to progress past making scarves, i couldnt fully understand shaping, etc. i just learned how to crochet maybe a month ago and ive already made like 5 finished objects and i feel like my skill is actually progressing. i looove the movements of crochet compared to knitting as well and i could(and do!) sit and crochet for hours. i just thought that was so interesting :)
I only crochet although I want to get into knitting. I’ve made a knit scarf years ago but didn’t continue since I found crochet to be easier. I love making things to give to my loved ones and my nephews have always seemed to love the custom gifts because I can cater to their interests. I’ve crocheted for 21 years and I’m fairly certain I don’t crochet “correctly“ whatever that means but I think as long as someone enjoys something it shouldn’t matter if it’s “by the book.”
You're doing fine. And its ok to prefer one or the other when you're not being a snob about it. I crochet (it feels easier on my bad wrist and honors my gramma) and sometimes knitters are a wee dismissive but Mamma ignores them. I can crochet for hours and often do in the evenings. Your baby sweater is ridiculously cute.
I started crocheting during the pandemic and came across your channel about a month ago and decided to try knitting. I am currently working on a garter stitch shawl, which is my first knitting project. I find knitting more difficult, especially when you have to fix errors. I tried the purl stitch and just can’t get it to work so I decided to learn the Norwegian purl method. My second project will be an all purl tank top so that I can get a lot of purl practice before I move to the stockinette stitch. I love the hexagram cardigan and will need to crochet one for my granddaughter. I love your channel!
What a beautiful gift and it's made with love. That's what matters most. 😢It's so great when you find the craft you love but still give other crafts a go. I am a crocheter, I struggle to knit. I can Tunisian crochet which is closer to knit stitches. But using 2 needles just confuses me 😂 Crafting and making things is so individual, I appreciate people sharing tips and asking for them but as a community we shouldn't say someone's technique is wrong etc. you do what works for you. I am loving your channel even though I am more into crochet and using acrylic yarns. But I love seeing your work, hearing your passion for the yarn and the patterns you use and hearing about your life. Thank you for putting yourself out there, you are a joy to watch ❤
I am starting a crochet rectangle shawl while watching you this morning. A friend is making this granny hex sweater for herself. I am tempted to try it, too. I find that my posture is different knitting or crocheting and use my right wrist much more crocheting. Knitting is almost all small finger movements. For rhythm, I like Tunisian best. The return pass is so soothing.
I actually started by crocheting first but waaaay back then, I felt the crochet patterns looked more “homemade” and I didn’t like the heaviness of the fabric. Of course time has changed all that and now you’ve made me want to start back up again!
I crochet exactly like you. I think those that knit a lot the continental way as you and me do, have the tendency to keep the hook as a knitting needle. The social group of crocheers is very supportive, they noticed, but that was all. I tried the other way, but it is not confortable for me, so I do it this way. After all, what matters, is the result.
Funny thing ... only watching your video I realized that both knitting and crocheting are so much internalized in my daily life ... like writing ... no surprise perhaps knowing that I some fifty years ago learned all at the same time ... what a wonderful gift of my late mother and grandmother ... 💚
This is awesome! I crochet and do not knit. I can go for a while, an hour or two. I think the limit is due to having to look at the project while working it. I see you knitting on the other videos and you are looking at the camera while knitting! My eyes get tired so I take a break. This pattern is amazing
I have done a LOT of crochet in my life (large afghans for family members) but am now in an exclusively knitting phase of my crafting life. Because I am a pianist, I go to the piano and play (or practice technique) for half an hour or so to give my hands a rest from the repetitive motion of knitting or crochet. I have found this is an excellent method for relieving hand fatigue. Kneading bread is also a great way to give your hand muscles a break from fine motor skill fatigue. :-) Your baby jacket is beautiful! If the parents of the baby will allow it, please post a photo of the baby wearing it.
I would say I'm a process knitter and a product crocheter. I learned to knit first, through my middle school, and learned crochet in my 20s via youtube. I am so much more comfortable and comforted with knitting, and I do so every day, multiple projects at a time. I'll only search out one of my crochet hooks if there's a specific amigurumi or speedy blanket I want to make.
I only crochet and the amount I sit and work for usually depends on how much free time I actually have, but when I have nothing else to do I can crochet for 6-7 hours before my wrists need a break usually !
Hi Mark, I love the design, very pretty way of using the traditional granny stitch. I have been knitting and crocheting for the better part of 5 decades now and in my opinion there are only 2 things that make a project a success, do you like the finished look and is it fit for purpose. If the answer is yes then does it matter how you get there? Technically I knit wrong, I am left handed and I was taught by sitting in front of my nan and watching, so I work backwards as it were. Does it matter, no, does it make my work look different, yes, but I like the look and so do the people I make things for, hence it is not wrong. You do you and ignore the naysayers.
This was lovely to watch as someone who mainly crochets but is currently working on my first knit beanie 😊 I'm making this beanie it for my partner, who also has a crochet scarf I made for them back when I was still pretty new to crochet. I definitely agree with crochet being more athletic in a sense. I'm here chilling while I knit but my arms ache after I spend a day crocheting 😂 I still love it though.
Hi Mark: Uber cute, cheerful, and very useful especially awesome the crocheter can add more mileage to the garment with each spurt in growth! Yes, I’ve seen this cute jacket you featured when I was making baby garments. I never crochet it because I am not very good with following written instructions. I learned to crochet in home economics in the 7th grade. For a long while, I crochet more than I knit. I crochet a lot of my kids’ blankets and booties when they were babies. However, I knit more than I crochet nowadays. I’ve done crochet puff squares following a RUclips tutorials video. They came out great, but it was not as quick as I knit. Simple crochet blankets, I made two for gifts. During the pandemic lockdown, I crocheted many mini granny squares to make the Battenburg blanket, but I never sew them together because I was yarn for the main color squares. That is my only WIP. Two years ago, there was a daisy corner to corner blanket kit that I’ve attempted, and I failed miserably. My cousin crochet corner to corner baby blankets quite often. I thought I would be able to crochet it too. Unfortunately, the pattern was too intricate and some of the stitches were not lining up and there were too many bundles of yarn everywhere! Sadly, I have come realize after knitting a year of really cute baby garments and blankets for my so far only grand baby that some young people don’t appreciate hand knits it as much. My DIL likes cute manufactured outfits more, so she never let the baby wear any of the cute outfits I knitted. They used the blankets I have knitted, but none of the accessories and garments. I have also knitted dog sweaters and socks for my kids, relatives, and friends who are first time grandmother. Some of them love knitted gifts and some did not. Hence, nowadays I resorted to buying gifts unless I know for sure they are really knitworthy. I learned a lot about sweater construction and various knitting techniques with baby knits, but I am slightly disappointed that I learned too late that some people do not like knitted items for their babies. I think of all the time, effort, and sourcing of just the right yarn, color, patterns, etc., being wasted! Needless to say, nowadays I mostly knit for myself. Thanks so much for sharing this very informative video. I’ll keep in mind and refer to it, should I ever want to attempt this pattern! Happy crafting! ❤
Beautiful work!! I can only crochet, and whilst I love watching you knit, this episode was fabulous! I was watching / listening as I was working on the first few rows of a crochet poncho for winter here in Oz 🇦🇺
I think it’s so important to teach people in the right way. When I was in college I took some classes at the old lion brand studio in nyc and they were amazing. At that point I’d been knitting for at least 14 years. And I knit in a way that “seemed” very strange. Basically all of my stitches were backwards on the needle and then I knit through the back. So the result was identical but the process was reversed. Instead of correcting me the teacher just gave me a heads up that the pattern might be confusing because “front leg” meant something different for me. It was amazingly helpful and left room for me to ask for correction only if I wanted it. I knit and crochet but I crochet way less. I find it way harder to know if I’m making mistakes with crochet (counting stitches especially). I did try Tunisian and it was an improvement for me. Basically I will only crochet hats. Everything else I knit.
I would bring the yarn with you if need to add to the baby sweater. My two children were 6 months bigger . Just a suggestion. You do you. Love your videos. Have a safe trip.
Totally had this experience as both a crocheter and knitter. I learned to ignore it. I've been crocheting for decades and I love the rhythm. I find it fun and relaxing. I've been knitting for around 6 years. Some times I get in a groove. I figure it'll be more rhythmic in a few more years 😂. I love each craft so much, I hope to never stop!
Cute sweater 🙂 A warning; There's a good chance you'll need to extend that sweater sometime next winter, if not sooner, unless your niece is small for her age. The sizes of baby clothes tend to be way off, as in a lot of 6month olds were actually in size 12months. Both my kids were out of 18mo clothes before they were 18 months old. Granted, they're entlings, but a lot of other parents in my ravelry due date groups had the same issue.
What a gorgeous jacket! I love it. Just one thing: that pale solid you used is so close - on my screen! - to that grey, I really don't get why you picked that. However, like I said, it's on my screen, maybe it's lovely in real life! In my teens I was in hospital for many months and I spent my time crocheting jackets. No pattern, just a hook and wool. At the end at least half of the women there had a jacket I made them! Such fun.!
I LOVE to knit. I HATE to crochet. I learned to crochet in 2nd grade and have awful memories of having to spend a couple hours every Sunday in December crocheting Christmas presents (potholders, etc) instead of getting to play! I have to laugh about it now. But to this day (I'm 70 now) I still cringe at the idea of crocheting something. But I really enjoyed seeing you crochet this cute little sweater. Glad I didn't have to crochet it! 🤣
Lovely little jacket! I've got two nephews and I knit for them both as well as for my godchildren, friends, their kids etc. At the moment I'm knitting a baby version of the Anker's shirt by PetiteKnit for my younger nephew who is also my godson and is now 10 months old. Also on the list is the Terpsichore scarf by Sari Nordlund for my friend, I gave her a self-made knit gift card for Christmas and she chose that scarf. Lately I've been mostly knitting although I just used crochet to reinforce the steel of my steeked cardigan. Crocheting felt fun so I might have to find a summer crochet project!
Fatigue is rarely the limiting factor on my crafting time because I have a little son, but really I started doing more sewing and started crocheting because of him, because I needed something I could pick up and work on in a very brief spare moment that would more or less stay done 😂 That said, I can keep going for a couple of hours if I have them, but I take many mini breaks to get snacks, walk around, stretch... I used to get a tired wrist after a while, then I switched to holding my hook like a pencil and for me that solved that problem (no doubt other have the opposite experience) and now only my eyes get tired. I would love to know how to improve that! I don't knit yet (though I learned to knit as a child). I do sashiko embroidery and I find it less tiring than crochet, it's super relaxing and I love the results, only drawing the pattern on the fabric first is very tedious. I also do lots of hand sewing and it's not tiring but it's not as much fun as crochet. I am crafting gifts for everyone now ❤ I love making things for my toddler. I am very tempted to make the little hexi jacket for him but we don't really ever get sweater weather here in Chennai! Thank you for your work. I love your channel, I've been feeling low and I feel l find your videos so uplifting 😊
Another great video. I do more crochet simply because if I make a mistake, I am able to fix it much more easily than my knitting. I’m also much better at it. I realize that is a matter of practice but I tend to crochet take along projects to occupy time while waiting in doctor’s offices, etc. and those environments don’t lend themselves to complicated patterns or frogging. But I would love to become even a fraction as proficient as you are in knitting. Maybe I’ll try a new, more complex pattern this summer. You have inspired me to push my boundaries. The sweater is precious and is sure to become a family treasure.
I’m so in awe of your knitting, Mark! Your sweaters are gorgeous. I love the little hexi-cardi, too… what a special gift! I’m primarily a crocheter, but you inspire me to get out of my comfort zone and pick up my knitting needles. Thanks for all you share with us! 🩵🧶🩵
I'm a crocheter. I tried knitting when I was young, and never took to it. I learned crochet last summer- never thought I'd pick up again/learn knitting or crocheting.. Never say never, I'm in my mid/late 40's, and I- can't- stop.. I think people do tend to gravitate to one or the other, and they are so different. I feel like I have a brain that grasps crochet better than knitting, though I may revisit knitting sometime again, because there are so many beautiful knitting patterns out there. I feel that with crochet, it lends itself alot more to wild abandon, it's something one can build on and add to easily, do all sorts of odd and crazy things. It's like it was made to break rules, and my quiet anarchist brain loves that. I'm a steak knife hook holder BTW, pencil seems weird😂 As for avoiding know it alls and crappy people, finding a good group of crafters is essential, and they are out there. The first fiber arts group I attended, was terrible!! They hated me, and felt fully entitled to let me know. Then I found an amazing group at the local library, and what a difference it makes. We all support and help each other out, I've taught people how to crochet, and yes, the first rule is, there are none, except those that might affect the outcome of a project. And I can watch knitters or crocheters, makes no difference to me, I love watching the process of making
I enjoyed this. I am so happy to see you include some crochet in your channel. I am new to crochet . I know how to knit. I was glad when I came across your channel. I binged watched. My favorite is your video on how you organized your knitting needles, stitch markers and cords. I appreciate you linking where to get the things you use. I bought them. It was so helpful. Can you show us what crochet supplies you use? Especially hooks.❤
You posed a really good question about the difference between knitting and crochet and how long you can do it. I have come very late to crochet, for years I dabbled with it crocheting very much as I knit with hook and yarn both in my right hand. Recently I have started holding the yarn in my left hand. I’ve got better at it and have to admit it’s quicker crocheting in this way but at times it still feels awkward to me. I’ve been knitting for so long that it’s my comfort zone. I knit English style mainly and reasonably quickly. I have osteo-arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis so try not to get carried away with my knitting. I take plenty of breaks and can no longer sit and knit for hours like I used to. I’d just like to say to every one, look after your hands and care for them, the last thing you want is repetitive strain injury or tunnel carpel problems.
What a cute project - I've gotten so I might need to learn how to do more crochet I am very limited in my skills but this was adorable and what an easy design doing the folding of a hexy - I am so enjoying your videos and your stories are fun and interesting. Marcia
I just recently found your channel. First of all I have to say I find your voice very soothing. I love drinking my coffee in the morning, knitting, and listening to your podcast ❤. I totally agree with you about knitting versus crochet. I do both, but I always have a harder time reading my stitches in crochet. I do gift knit, I have made a knitted or crocheted blanket for everyone in the family, and as new babies come along I hope to keep up with gifting them each a blanket. So far I have only made garments for myself and my girls and granddaughter. Sad to say my husband runs to warm and would never wear a sweater. 😢
Mark, is there anyway you could do a video on how you make your yarn cozies? I would love to make me some of my own, I have never seen them before I started watching your channel, they look so handy to use. I have been crocheting for 50 years or so and when I started having trouble with my hands from not knowing when to rest them, I taught myself how to knit from watching RUclips videos so I would be using different muscles, when my hands start aching from knitting I switch back to crochet and vice versa. I have been retired for 10 years and can sit for upwards of 8 or so hours and knit or crochet, no wonder my hands ache, right, lol. I am addicted to your channel and can’t wait for the next video to post. Thank you for all the hard work you put into your videos, it is much appreciated by me!
Love how tiny the little squares are on your project. Adorable ! I started with crochet and am now learning knitting. For me the difference in the two hobbies is knitting produces a nicer fabric for wearables and I find the rhythm calming. Like you said I can do it for hours. With crochet I enjoy the process but I always feel like I am rushing to get something or some part done. I used to make crocheted items to my daughter for our grandchildren.. But I noticed she never put them on. They were never perfect ofc, I wasn't and still am not that skilled at the craft. But it kind of hurt my feelings that she didn't even use the bonnets or hats, preferring the commercial store bought stuff when she took the children' out. So not as punishment to her, but I decided as I am learning to knit, to keep it focused on me and what I want to make for myself. I want some wearables made of nice materials that I probably couldn't afford to buy commercially premade, and made to fit my shape perfectly. So maybe some day if I am around long enough to feel like I really have a good handle on the knitting craft, so that I can create wearables good enough to meet her standards,, maybe I'll try making my grands some cute rompers or cardies. But until then, I'm going to keep knitting as a selfish skill because I know I'll wear them even if they are flaw and mistakes because I put the hours of work in so I appreciate the finished product and don't have to wonder if it's good enough to please anyone else.. Which for me kinda sucks the joy out of any hobby or art. What is it they say about comparison is the thief of joy? Absolutely true.
Your project looks beautiful and you have excellent consistency in your stitches! I crochet and knit and completely agree that each have a rhythm when doing the work but I find the one you like most is typically the first craft the individual dove into. The more familiar you are with a craft, understanding the inns and outs, the easier it is and more fluid your work will become. I try to take breaks frequently, stretching and giving my wrists break, when learning a new craft since your body isn’t used to this new motion and/or position. It takes time to learn something new and that applies to your body as well. Give yourself time, especially if you don’t pick it up very often then that’s fine and understand you aren’t going to be perfect in your technique but hopefully you’ll still enjoy the process/project.
10:46 on the subject of “doing it wrong” and hook holds, I once saw someone holding the yarn and the hook in their right hand, and they were flicking. Like how you do in knitting. I also saw another person have the hook kind of tensioned against their abdomen and they were working stitches my moving the yarn and the project. But the hook stayed still. If you’re getting the result you want and your body is happy, it’s not wrong!
Such a cute baby jacket. I crochet better than I knit. I am very relaxed when I crochet. I tension my yarn correctly but I work over my index finger and hold my hook like I would hold a screwdriver. I have been criticized for both. I have blue ribbons on my crochet from fairs. I think the critics need to be ignored.
I'm a lifelong crocheter slowly learning to knit. I've learned to relax my hands for crochet and take stretch breaks when crocheting. i already see what you mean about knitting. I'm just knitting dish clothes right now, but it is so relaxing! My goal is to knit socks. Already bought all the sock knitting stuff ❤
Lovely jacket! I alternate between knitting and crocheting. At the moment I'm knitting a west and socks (I always have a sock project) and crocheting 2 blankets of which one is a temperature blanket with a hexagon a day.
I am a 99% knitter and a 1% crocheter. 😮. That little cardigan is adorable. I have knit the Christopher Bunny by Susan B Anderson 3 times for my grandsons. It’s a great pattern.
I'm bistitchual, I learned most needlecraft when I was about 5-7, in fact, I was selling crochet vests at 9,(4th grade)....as I grew, I preferred knitting, its less stressful on my hands.. You craft how is most comfortable for you. I was told I knit wrong because I don't knit Continental.... And I should knit Continental because I crochet.. nope, my brain refuses. I knit the way I was taught by my grandmother (she was born Jan 1, 1900!!!).. We're also Russian...so I was told that I'm not doing "Russian knitting" correctly... The only place I've ever seen "Russian knitting" is on RUclips.... I know NO ONE that knits that way. Believe me, BOTH of my parents had numerous siblings & they all knitted or crocheted. 🤷🏻♀️ LOVE urth yarns!! My favorite project was "papillon". 😊 The jacket is adorable, maybe I should make one for my god-neice.
I learned crochet first and taught myself knitting. They are definitely different crafts. Knitting is more work for me cause I havent found a way to comfortably hold my yarn. It's funny how crocheters say that knitters are snobs and vice versus. It doesn't matter what craft you do. You will always have people who look down on your craft preference or how you do it. I've seen it with people who think needlepoint is superior to cross stitching. 😐 To me, no craft is superior to another. They are all unique.
The cardigan came out very cute!! Really good work. I wonder if upping your crochet hook size by just one tick might help you establish a rhythm a little bit more. That way you're less likely to split stitches. It does affect your gauge a little bit but if you're just trying to get the hang of getting crochet in your fingers that's a little suggestion I would offer. I couldn't tell you if knitting or crocheting was more intense for me. I think for both I've learned how to limit my movements to cause the least amount of strain on my body. However, I will say crochet tires my hands out differently from how knitting tires my hands out
The steaming was funny and with 'special effects' 🤭 I am making a hexacon cardigan for adults: the first panel. A lot of crocheting to go. Your cardigan is adorable. Nice weekend!
I like to knit but I love to crochet. If you make a mistake it is so much easier to frog a crocheted item than a knitted one. That is what makes knitting more stressful for me even though I love the look of knitted garments
That is so true! And it's much easier to take my crochet with me on a trip and carry it around, because we have only one loop on the needle (hook) instead of many. When we lose that stitch, it's no big deal.
On offering feedback: ask "how do you feel about...." insert the topic be it the seams, the bindoff, the Guage, etc. It will open a more organic discussion to let you understand their process and offer your favorite techniques. Just make sure to emphasize that is your favorite technique and not the only way to do it. 😊
100% agreed. Unsolicited style corrections are not cool. Case in point, I recently became an admin member of a queer crafters group and one of our beginner crochet members declared that they were going to start selling their makes. Having only been crocheting for about 4 months, I happened to notice they had the 'wrong side of their crochet fabric' (they were doing amigurumi) on the outside, making their projects technically inside out. Rather than say, oh you need to turn them rightside out. I recommended just double checking they had the 'correct' side showing. I shared a link I used to teach myself about the right side of crochet and let them take care of it. They came to the realisation themselves, without me being the bad guy that said they were doing things wrong.😅❤ there are more useful ways to teach than just saying...you're doing it wrong
Yes, its lousy to be told you’re doing it wrong. It is like a lot of things in life, you get things done your way. There is no right or wrong and that applies to most crafts and some of the most beautiful things that are hand made are the result of an error that returned a most unexpected beautiful result. I believe that if you do not experiment, try a different technique you will never learn and we are all different. Thank you for your lovely RUclips’s, so calming ❤ P.S. as with knitting needles the fibre might ‘drag’ a little on the hook as you go and to help with the fatigue it might be worth trying a wood or dare I say it a plastic hook depending on the fibre.
I'm the opposite, 10% knitting/90% crochet. I love the freedom of the single live loop of crochet - it's frogging or not to fix, while fixing knitting is tinking and lifelines. But I find them both fun, meditative and immersive. I think one of the reasons crochet feels slower is that you use up to 30% more yarn than you would knitting, so if you measure it by yarn inches through your fingers per second, it seems slower. The fiber craft form police are always interesting to me now but bugged me when I was a kid learning from gramma. It's not a sport and there's no judging, just your internal editor. And if you find a fiber craft meditative, complaining about form is a little weird. No one tells a person that they are manipulating prayer beads wrong after all. I like the gray in the yarn, it sets off the other colors beautifully. Strategic that you set that side in the back.
I’m about 99% knitting and 1% crochet, so my crochet is not smooth or well understood by me. I am self taught, and have never been comfortable doing crochet. It looks you are doing well, and I wouldn’t know you aren’t an expert! Such a cute jacket and I hope she wears it often! Keep the leftover yarn to increase the size in the future.
I can do both and seem to go through stages where I’m all one or the other. Sometimes I flick back and forth because it’s what interests me. I have a in progress granny hexie cardigan which I keep coming back to as it’s kind of boring around the bottom lol. I hold my hook similar to you. Like writing, holding a crochet hook differs between people. My best friend used to hold her pen almost upright whereas my pen is so close to the paper in angle that some pens don’t write right. I know 8 hold my hook totally different to how my mum uses her hook. And guess what it’s okay!
Whoever discovered/invented that folding hexi sweater design is a genius! I made one for myself that I am really happy with. P.S. I'm a crocheter with limited knitting experience, but I don't feel excluded when I watch knitting podcasts at all. I find it peaceful and comforting to watch someone work on their craft while I work on mine, even if they are not the same!
I’m so glad you spoke up about people saying “you’re doing it wrong”…I’ve had this happen to me before and it’s so unpleasant. We are all making beautiful things and in our own way. We don’t tell an artist they’re doing it wrong when they make a painting like no one else. I look around the room in knitting/crochet circles and even people making the same pattern are doing it differently. There are as many right ways to do something as there are people in the world! …okay…stepping off my soapbox now… lol 😂
The way you described the reasons why you prefer knitting to crochet is actually how I feel. I can easily read my stitches in knitting but in crochet I feel like I'm trying to read a language I've never seen before. I love that you are going to give the parents the option of having it grow with the child.
I would love to see a photo of the child (no face is fine) wearing the gift if possible.
I recently made a shawl for the mother-in-law of a friend. Her husband was in the ICU. When I heard about his accident and that his wife was staying with him night and day I wanted to make something for her to let her know that someone was thinking of her. I spent several days with my mom in the ICU. Aside from the stress of having someone you care for in such a fragile state, it was cold. I thought a shawl would be something she could put around her shoulders. Sadly, her husband passed before I finished it. However, I gave her the completed shawl to let her know that I understood what she was going through.
What a beautiful gesture. So caring. Made with care and concern. That gift helps to heal.
I hold my hook exactly like you do. And the few times I've had negative comments about it, my reply has been "It feels better with arthritis to hold the hook this way".
I totally get into a rhythm, and it feels meditative to me. I can and have crocheted all day, lol. Surprisingly, crocheting makes my arthritic fingers feel more limber.
I am a crocheter 💜🧶
Speaking of rhythm, there is nothing more poetic than Tunisian crochet. I needed a new challenge and picked up the stitch this past Fall/ Winter season and became engaged to the point that people I regularly ran into were gifted an asymmetrical scarf: parking attendant, postman, crossing guard... As an avid daily walker (our Cleveland Metroparks are so beautiful) 5-10 miles a day, I balance my day by crocheting/knitting and the more excited I am about a project, the longer I can work on it.
Love tunisian crochet however I can do it for to long , since the crochet gives me cramps in my hands, no more than an hour or two
Wow!!! You’re amazing, fellow Buckeye.
Oh! That sweater is adorable.
I do gift my projects at Christmas time. It depends on the recipient what I make. I think a couple of my boys would shoot me if they didn’t get their socks 🤣 My granddaughters always get a sweater. I’ve made everyone over the years many blankets, hats, scarves,cowls etc. I start as soon as Christmas is over for the next year I sometimes wondered if they really appreciated them until this last Christmas. My question was answered. I walked in the house and first thing my granddaughters said was grandma here and can’t wait to c what she made us with so much excitement that it brought a tear to my eyes. I said hmmm maybe this year I didn’t make anything kidding around with them. The look on their faces told me not to say that again. A total look of disappointment. I immediately said just kidding and the big smiles returned. A friend of mine told me I’m so lucky my grandkids love their gifts from grandma cause most kids don’t. That made me feel good. I put a lot of thought into each and every one. Each is unique with their own style and colors. I love designing for one granddaughter the most. She’s my funky one. The crazier the better. I won’t be caught dead in anything I’ve made for her but she totally loves them. Her friends have asked her where she got her sweater from cause they want one. She proudly tells them my grandma made it for me. When they ask her if I would make them one and she tells them NO cause I’m special 😃 yes she is.
this is so special and beautiful ❤ i love using my craft to show love to my loved ones. it's so special designing something for a special person and seeing their joy when you give it to them 🥹 recently finished 2 of my first completed blankets, one for my boyfriend on his bday and one for a friend's niece who is turning 1. I've made bags for my sisters and scarves and hats that I've donated. i just love sharing love thru crochet
it’s funny how some of us can be so familiar with one craft and others so familiar with the other! where you feel like you’re a bit clumsy and unsure of your stitches while crocheting, i feel really confident with my crochet and have felt so awkward each time i’ve tried to learn to knit haha. i’m sure if i put in some more time i could get a bit more comfortable, but i imagine that even then, crochet would still be my personal go-to :-)
i’m glad you could find a project that suited you, and the idea of having the sweater grow over time is so sweet!
I'm a crocheter that wants to learn to knit. My grandmother did both, my mother knit and I have always crocheted. I do the pencil method, and watching you crochet, it looks almost like you're knitting. You have a different method that's very interesting looking. Either way, I love watching you, you are so soothing and calm.
The sweater is darling. If the way you knit or crochet is comfortable for you and the garment or blanket comes out right then you are doing it right. I knit and crochet my way, I don't care what anyone says. Ignore them!!!
Even tho I don’t care for doing crochet myself, I do knit and find your videos to be great to knit to. You have a very melodious voice (which makes sense given you sing). I also weave and frequently make knitted or woven gifts. I’m currently knitting a cotton market bag and have a lap blanket on my floor loom. There are other WIPs but those are my current active ones. The jacket is so cute and you are a wonderful uncle to make it. And I always include ‘care’ instructions with handmade gifts because many recipients just don’t know how to manage handmade cleaning. And it saves them the angst of ruining something unintentionally.
Thanks for this video Mark. It was a fun to watch you crochet. When I was a young boy, I learned how to crochet before I learned to knit. No one wanted to teach a little boy to crochet or knit so I taught myself from a "Learn How" booklet, hiding away in the attic of my childhood home. Crocheting isn't something that I do very often anymore as it tends to make my hands hurt. I do make very intricate crochet cotton snowflakes for Christmas gifts and Thank You gifts but that's almost the limit of my crocheting time anymore. Most of my time is filled by knitting which for some odd reason doesn't hurt my hands and I enjoy more. When I do crochet, I use the "classy" technique of holding my hook. I laughed when you mentioned that in this video. Anyway, I love this little sweater for your niece and your color choices are perfect for a young girl. Congratulations on a job well done!
Wow! You are the only person that I have seen that crochets like me! For example, when you YO, you hold the yarn on the hook with you right thumb. It seems more efficient to do it that way in my opinion. You hold the yarn in your left hand like me too. By the way, we also knit the same, but I'm not as fast as you. I've only been knitting a few years, but have been crocheting 40+ years. Love your videos and stories!
Being left-handed, I was flat-out told in the beginning that I would never be able to learn how to crochet. That was 38 years ago, and I'm still at it. Never tell a Capricorn what he or she can't do, because we'll find a way, particularly if it's just out of spite.
Also, just about every expert knitter and crocheter I've seen on RUclips always advises that you should take a break every half-hour, and that it hurts if you don't. I also know that they go at breakneck speeds, building up their inventory for market. I refuse to sell anything, they're always gifts, so I take my time, and I find that neither knitting nor crochet hurts at all, no matter how many hours I'm devoting to it. Comparison is the thief of joy, so go at your own pace, and don't listen to the yarn snobs, because there's more than one way to get most things done.
Hello, fellow lefty capricorn! lol. Noone ever said anything so foolish to me, fortunately. But then, I was taught by my then-17yo bff. She's still _way_ better at it than me. I have heard a lot of "lefties should just learn to do it righthanded!". Grr.
I am a crocheter only - have not been able to get the hang of knitting, but I love the look of it. I like to watch knitting channels because knitters tend to use the kinds of yarns that appeal to me, whereas on crochet channels I see a lot more acrylic value yarns than I like. Yes, these yarns have their place and are useful for certain projects, but I love merino, BFL, and other breed-specific wools as well as alpaca and other more exotic fibres.
Your hexi cardigan turned out very well and I am sure it will be loved. I for one will be thrilled however when this trend dies because i detest all things granny stitch. But I do understand the appeal and appreciate why it is so popular right now. It harkens back to a simpler more peaceful period in our history. Nostalgia will getcha every time! I enjoy your content, Mark, and I like to crochet as I listen to your soothing voice. Looking forward to hearing all about your summer adventures - sounds like you are going to have an epic time.
I knit and crochet to.
I hold my yarn and hook the same way as yourself. I love the different aspects of both crochet and knitting and the different outcomes you can achieve with both.
I made my teenage niece a crocheted blanket for her birthday this year and she loves it
dunno what you mean, watching you crochet is very relaxing! :3
I started crocheting first, and just recently knitting, so I pretty much have the opposite experience. Crocheting is mindless and/or playful because I'm comfortable with it, and knitting still stresses me out, as I feel like tension is much more unforgiving in knitting, and I'm still struggling with it. Practice will surely help with that, let's do our best! o/
I know you mostly knit, but you are also a great companion video for me to watch or listen to while I work on my crochet. As somebody once told me, this kind of art form no matter what we do it’s just loops in loops. I appreciate you sharing more about your experience with crochet. When first getting into yarn stuff, I was terrified admitting, I saw those two little pins going at, and it frightened me how complicated it looked, crochet just required one tool, and I didn’t feel as intimidated by it. That is why I crochet. It’s always interesting to hear the opposite about how knitters can feel intimidated by the very tool I feel at ease to use.
I've been knitting and crocheting for years, but I only get a high heart rate alert from my fitness tracker when I crochet lol. It's probably different for everyone, but I think you're right about crochet being more of a workout.
Yay, a crochet vid, thank you! I hope your niece likes it 🙂
I only crochet and crochet until I fall asleep, I recently discovered it and am addicted. I find it magical, yarn and 1 hook and with a combination of more or less 2 stitches I can make anything.
I also see the elegant way people crochet, it looks cool, but I can’t.
A growing cardigan, wow, what a great idea.
I am typing and watching at the same time 🙂
This came out so nice, I'm sure your niece will love it ❤
Hi Mark, I think you crochet beautifully! 💜 💜💜
I'm a 100% crocheter and am completely addicted to this craft, for at least 10 years now. I usually crochet every day and on my days off work I can crochet all day😁
I find it depends on the pattern, size of hook, type of yarn and thickness of the yarn whether or not I get pain or fatigue. I find thicker cotton (DK or more) is the most difficult. Also thicker yarns (worseted +) with denser stitiches, such as mosaic designs can become painful after a few hours too.
For thicker sized yarns I also change my grip on the hook to the butter knife hold that you use. But for thinner yarns and hooks I use the chopstick/ pencil hold . That was the grip I was taught by my nana as a child so it comes more naturally
I prefer fingering 100% cotton, mostly because I live in a sub tropical climate and that makes it more practical for wearables and washes well. I need to wash my crochet clothes a lot as it is very hot and humid here so pretty sweaty weather.
For jumpers prefer DK wool and blankets DK acrylic (for ease of care)
I follow another RUclips channel called 'Show me, Romi' that you might find interesting. He figures out how to make a lot of men's crochet tops that he has seen and liked on shows or the like. So if you ever want to make some fun crochet summer tops it could inspire
Appreciate this crochet episode❤
Hi Mark - I consider myself an intermediate crocheter and I just wanted to let you know that I almost always end up frogging my first few rows of a project and starting over. I don't think it is at all uncommon to lose some stitches or get confused at the end of a row and I need a warm up to get it right. I also still use a ton of stitch markers to indicate my beginning stitch, etc. You know crocheters are famous for counting and counting and counting stitches... Honestly, I think it's just part of the craft.
I have been crocheting longer than knitting but I enjoy both and use them both as a way to relax after a long day working. I am a therapist so I use both to just relax. It would be beautiful with a solid color around the edges. The blue would be beautiful.
I love the little jacket you made for your niece. I am both a knitter and crocheter and i find it easier to fix mistakes in crochet than with knitting. I just found your channel and i enjoyed watching you very much. 😊
I learned to knit first and taught myself to crochet. Although the crafts are similar, there are some major differences and I find that I have to adjust tension between the two crafts. I hold my crochet hook like you do, and I think it may be because it’s similar to how we hold knitting needles. I tend to enjoy knitting more, but I do feel like crochet projects come out faster, and there’s never a fear of dropping a stitch 😅
I love the grays in your baby sweater, and I also like the trim color you ultimately decided on. Knitting or crocheting for other people is partially what keeps me motivated 😊
I have been crocheting longer than knitting and my real rhythm comes from crochet as a result. In the beginning, I tried holding the hook as a pencil but it produced so much pain in my wrists while crocheting. With the knife hold, however, I learned to twist the needle between my fingers so I don’t have to move my wrist as much and now I can crochet for hours without pain. Right now, I am working on the second baby afghan for my niece who was born just a couple of months ago. My sister loves my crochet work and asked me to make the afghans specifically. That made me SOOO happy and I feel so honored! I love gifting my work to people who also love crochet work!!
Hi there. What size is the blanket you are making? It does make a difference when chosing to gift a work to someone. They are created with care stitch by stitch.
@@lisamalone441 I went with 40 by 40 inches. I have my sister a range of standard sizes and she wanted a standard baby afghan size. :)
I hold my yarn and needles/hook in a similar way making the transition between crochet and knitting easier. The goal for me is finding the rhythm in either craft. Im definitely not a speed maker! You are right, there are so many ways to hold the crochet hook and wrap the yarn. Very cool. I sometimes incorporate both crafts in one garment. A crochet slip stitch is helpful in reinforcing a simple knitted neckline. Enjoy!
I commented before, but i hadn't gotten to the end of the video. I crocheted a dinosaur and gave it to my nephew, he's only 2 but at least his parents appreciated the cuteness of it 😂❤
I see the difference in knitting and crocheting by my attention to what I am doing with the needle. When I do the crochet projects my attention needs to be full on with crochet since the placement of the hook changes you do your stitching. With knitting I can look away and not miss where I am and what I am doing with the needle. By the way the little sweater looks absolutely beautiful and it will be cherished. 🧶🧶❤️❤️😉
I think the knife hold (I use it myself) lends itself to a more natural feel, especially as someone who goes back and forth between crochet and knitting. I've tried the pencil hold before just out of curiosity, and it feels very foreign to me. Excellent video - as always - I hope you enjoy the birthday party and that your family appreciates the labor of love that is a handmade gift like this! The jacket is precious ❤
I crochet and knit. I’ll an English knitter/thrower. I hold my crochet hook as you do , but with the working yarn in my right (dominant) hand and “throw” my yarn overs. I find crochet to be more physically demanding. I can (and do) knit or crochet for hours, and don’t notice I’ve stressed my body until the middle of that night. Love your Squared up sweater and plan to make one soon. I love knitting and crocheting gifts. Great idea to give the delicates bag as part of the gift. Finally, don’t “sweat-er” during the hot summer months without AC. Maybe display a different one of your sweaters in your background on a mannequin while it’s too hot to wear them.
Morning Mark - I love that you reiterate staying true to yourself during makings. I recently taught my sister knitting and showed her various ways so that she could find her best fit in holding working yarn. She was later in a group and a woman was frustrated 😣 with her 'English' technique and I had to encourage sister again to do what feels best to her especially while learning. Later she can try other styles and change if she wishes.
👋🏼 I absolutely get hand fatigue with crochet. I do not believe it is as ergonomically friendly as knitting continental is. I can only go 1-2 rows before needing to stretch hands and rest.
I also cross stitch which again requires an even a tighter pinching, so need more resting time. I love it all and each making is so different with unique designs to each.
Crocheting 40 yrs
Cross stitching 38 yrs
Knitting 4 yrs
Machine Quilting 30 yrs (no hand stitching)
Many other makings too
Craft and a cuppa has a great tutorial for this hexi cardi, it's helpful to watch her crochet each section alongside reading the pattern to help visual what it means 👍🏻
I couldn't help but giggle when I saw you pick up your hook & start crocheting... because you and I hold the hook & yarn the same way! I agree with you too that being rude to someone is not the best approach to helping the person learn. There's no set in stone it's this way and that is final... To each their own. 😊
lol love how you crochet! It works for you. I have crochet books that say they are two main forms of holding the hook, knife hold ( the way you hold it ) or pen hold ( I crochet that way) that both are acceptable and that you should use the way it feels best for you. I agree with you that helping someone when they are having issues or learning is good but correcting them (specifically in a nasty manner) because their way is different from them is uncalled for and unnecessary. Hope the more you do crochet the more comfortable and confident you will be with your project. Enjoy the process. I crochet only love the process. Have a great day and weekend.
its so funny because the way you feel about crochet is exactly the same way i feel about knitting! i first learned how to knit but never was able to progress past making scarves, i couldnt fully understand shaping, etc. i just learned how to crochet maybe a month ago and ive already made like 5 finished objects and i feel like my skill is actually progressing. i looove the movements of crochet compared to knitting as well and i could(and do!) sit and crochet for hours. i just thought that was so interesting :)
I only crochet although I want to get into knitting. I’ve made a knit scarf years ago but didn’t continue since I found crochet to be easier.
I love making things to give to my loved ones and my nephews have always seemed to love the custom gifts because I can cater to their interests.
I’ve crocheted for 21 years and I’m fairly certain I don’t crochet “correctly“ whatever that means but I think as long as someone enjoys something it shouldn’t matter if it’s “by the book.”
You're doing fine. And its ok to prefer one or the other when you're not being a snob about it. I crochet (it feels easier on my bad wrist and honors my gramma) and sometimes knitters are a wee dismissive but Mamma ignores them. I can crochet for hours and often do in the evenings. Your baby sweater is ridiculously cute.
I started crocheting during the pandemic and came across your channel about a month ago and decided to try knitting. I am currently working on a garter stitch shawl, which is my first knitting project. I find knitting more difficult, especially when you have to fix errors. I tried the purl stitch and just can’t get it to work so I decided to learn the Norwegian purl method. My second project will be an all purl tank top so that I can get a lot of purl practice before I move to the stockinette stitch. I love the hexagram cardigan and will need to crochet one for my granddaughter. I love your channel!
What a beautiful gift and it's made with love. That's what matters most.
😢It's so great when you find the craft you love but still give other crafts a go. I am a crocheter, I struggle to knit. I can Tunisian crochet which is closer to knit stitches. But using 2 needles just confuses me 😂
Crafting and making things is so individual, I appreciate people sharing tips and asking for them but as a community we shouldn't say someone's technique is wrong etc. you do what works for you.
I am loving your channel even though I am more into crochet and using acrylic yarns. But I love seeing your work, hearing your passion for the yarn and the patterns you use and hearing about your life.
Thank you for putting yourself out there, you are a joy to watch ❤
Thank you for being here with me! I agree with everything you've shared :)
I am starting a crochet rectangle shawl while watching you this morning. A friend is making this granny hex sweater for herself. I am tempted to try it, too. I find that my posture is different knitting or crocheting and use my right wrist much more crocheting. Knitting is almost all small finger movements. For rhythm, I like Tunisian best. The return pass is so soothing.
For the summer, wear a T-shirt and display a sweater on a dress form in the background.
Love your channel!
I actually started by crocheting first but waaaay back then, I felt the crochet patterns looked more “homemade” and I didn’t like the heaviness of the fabric. Of course time has changed all that and now you’ve made me want to start back up again!
I crochet exactly like you. I think those that knit a lot the continental way as you and me do, have the tendency to keep the hook as a knitting needle. The social group of crocheers is very supportive, they noticed, but that was all. I tried the other way, but it is not confortable for me, so I do it this way. After all, what matters, is the result.
Funny thing ... only watching your video I realized that both knitting and crocheting are so much internalized in my daily life ... like writing ... no surprise perhaps knowing that I some fifty years ago learned all at the same time ... what a wonderful gift of my late mother and grandmother ... 💚
This is awesome! I crochet and do not knit. I can go for a while, an hour or two. I think the limit is due to having to look at the project while working it. I see you knitting on the other videos and you are looking at the camera while knitting! My eyes get tired so I take a break.
This pattern is amazing
I have done a LOT of crochet in my life (large afghans for family members) but am now in an exclusively knitting phase of my crafting life. Because I am a pianist, I go to the piano and play (or practice technique) for half an hour or so to give my hands a rest from the repetitive motion of knitting or crochet. I have found this is an excellent method for relieving hand fatigue. Kneading bread is also a great way to give your hand muscles a break from fine motor skill fatigue. :-) Your baby jacket is beautiful! If the parents of the baby will allow it, please post a photo of the baby wearing it.
I would say I'm a process knitter and a product crocheter. I learned to knit first, through my middle school, and learned crochet in my 20s via youtube. I am so much more comfortable and comforted with knitting, and I do so every day, multiple projects at a time. I'll only search out one of my crochet hooks if there's a specific amigurumi or speedy blanket I want to make.
I only crochet and the amount I sit and work for usually depends on how much free time I actually have, but when I have nothing else to do I can crochet for 6-7 hours before my wrists need a break usually !
Hi Mark, I love the design, very pretty way of using the traditional granny stitch. I have been knitting and crocheting for the better part of 5 decades now and in my opinion there are only 2 things that make a project a success, do you like the finished look and is it fit for purpose. If the answer is yes then does it matter how you get there? Technically I knit wrong, I am left handed and I was taught by sitting in front of my nan and watching, so I work backwards as it were. Does it matter, no, does it make my work look different, yes, but I like the look and so do the people I make things for, hence it is not wrong. You do you and ignore the naysayers.
This was lovely to watch as someone who mainly crochets but is currently working on my first knit beanie 😊 I'm making this beanie it for my partner, who also has a crochet scarf I made for them back when I was still pretty new to crochet.
I definitely agree with crochet being more athletic in a sense. I'm here chilling while I knit but my arms ache after I spend a day crocheting 😂 I still love it though.
Hi Mark: Uber cute, cheerful, and very useful especially awesome the crocheter can add more mileage to the garment with each spurt in growth!
Yes, I’ve seen this cute jacket you featured when I was making baby garments. I never crochet it because I am not very good with following written instructions. I learned to crochet in home economics in the 7th grade. For a long while, I crochet more than I knit. I crochet a lot of my kids’ blankets and booties when they were babies. However, I knit more than I crochet nowadays. I’ve done crochet puff squares following a RUclips tutorials video. They came out great, but it was not as quick as I knit. Simple crochet blankets, I made two for gifts. During the pandemic lockdown, I crocheted many mini granny squares to make the Battenburg blanket, but I never sew them together because I was yarn for the main color squares. That is my only WIP.
Two years ago, there was a daisy corner to corner blanket kit that I’ve attempted, and I failed miserably. My cousin crochet corner to corner baby blankets quite often. I thought I would be able to crochet it too. Unfortunately, the pattern was too intricate and some of the stitches were not lining up and there were too many bundles of yarn everywhere!
Sadly, I have come realize after knitting a year of really cute baby garments and blankets for my so far only grand baby that some young people don’t appreciate hand knits it as much. My DIL likes cute manufactured outfits more, so she never let the baby wear any of the cute outfits I knitted. They used the blankets I have knitted, but none of the accessories and garments.
I have also knitted dog sweaters and socks for my kids, relatives, and friends who are first time grandmother. Some of them love knitted gifts and some did not. Hence, nowadays I resorted to buying gifts unless I know for sure they are really knitworthy. I learned a lot about sweater construction and various knitting techniques with baby knits, but I am slightly disappointed that I learned too late that some people do not like knitted items for their babies. I think of all the time, effort, and sourcing of just the right yarn, color, patterns, etc., being wasted! Needless to say, nowadays I mostly knit for myself.
Thanks so much for sharing this very informative video. I’ll keep in mind and refer to it, should I ever want to attempt this pattern! Happy crafting! ❤
Beautiful work!!
I can only crochet, and whilst I love watching you knit, this episode was fabulous!
I was watching / listening as I was working on the first few rows of a crochet poncho for winter here in Oz 🇦🇺
I think it’s so important to teach people in the right way. When I was in college I took some classes at the old lion brand studio in nyc and they were amazing. At that point I’d been knitting for at least 14 years. And I knit in a way that “seemed” very strange. Basically all of my stitches were backwards on the needle and then I knit through the back. So the result was identical but the process was reversed. Instead of correcting me the teacher just gave me a heads up that the pattern might be confusing because “front leg” meant something different for me. It was amazingly helpful and left room for me to ask for correction only if I wanted it.
I knit and crochet but I crochet way less. I find it way harder to know if I’m making mistakes with crochet (counting stitches especially). I did try Tunisian and it was an improvement for me. Basically I will only crochet hats. Everything else I knit.
I would bring the yarn with you if need to add to the baby sweater. My two children were 6 months bigger . Just a suggestion. You do you. Love your videos. Have a safe trip.
Totally had this experience as both a crocheter and knitter. I learned to ignore it. I've been crocheting for decades and I love the rhythm. I find it fun and relaxing. I've been knitting for around 6 years. Some times I get in a groove. I figure it'll be more rhythmic in a few more years 😂. I love each craft so much, I hope to never stop!
Cute sweater 🙂
A warning; There's a good chance you'll need to extend that sweater sometime next winter, if not sooner, unless your niece is small for her age. The sizes of baby clothes tend to be way off, as in a lot of 6month olds were actually in size 12months. Both my kids were out of 18mo clothes before they were 18 months old. Granted, they're entlings, but a lot of other parents in my ravelry due date groups had the same issue.
Your crocheting is perfectly perfect Mark. You are pretty good at everything from what I’ve seen 😊
What a gorgeous jacket! I love it. Just one thing: that pale solid you used is so close - on my screen! - to that grey, I really don't get why you picked that. However, like I said, it's on my screen, maybe it's lovely in real life!
In my teens I was in hospital for many months and I spent my time crocheting jackets. No pattern, just a hook and wool. At the end at least half of the women there had a jacket I made them! Such fun.!
I LOVE to knit. I HATE to crochet. I learned to crochet in 2nd grade and have awful memories of having to spend a couple hours every Sunday in December crocheting Christmas presents (potholders, etc) instead of getting to play! I have to laugh about it now. But to this day (I'm 70 now) I still cringe at the idea of crocheting something. But I really enjoyed seeing you crochet this cute little sweater. Glad I didn't have to crochet it! 🤣
Lovely little jacket! I've got two nephews and I knit for them both as well as for my godchildren, friends, their kids etc. At the moment I'm knitting a baby version of the Anker's shirt by PetiteKnit for my younger nephew who is also my godson and is now 10 months old. Also on the list is the Terpsichore scarf by Sari Nordlund for my friend, I gave her a self-made knit gift card for Christmas and she chose that scarf. Lately I've been mostly knitting although I just used crochet to reinforce the steel of my steeked cardigan. Crocheting felt fun so I might have to find a summer crochet project!
Fatigue is rarely the limiting factor on my crafting time because I have a little son, but really I started doing more sewing and started crocheting because of him, because I needed something I could pick up and work on in a very brief spare moment that would more or less stay done 😂 That said, I can keep going for a couple of hours if I have them, but I take many mini breaks to get snacks, walk around, stretch... I used to get a tired wrist after a while, then I switched to holding my hook like a pencil and for me that solved that problem (no doubt other have the opposite experience) and now only my eyes get tired. I would love to know how to improve that! I don't knit yet (though I learned to knit as a child). I do sashiko embroidery and I find it less tiring than crochet, it's super relaxing and I love the results, only drawing the pattern on the fabric first is very tedious. I also do lots of hand sewing and it's not tiring but it's not as much fun as crochet. I am crafting gifts for everyone now ❤ I love making things for my toddler. I am very tempted to make the little hexi jacket for him but we don't really ever get sweater weather here in Chennai! Thank you for your work. I love your channel, I've been feeling low and I feel l find your videos so uplifting 😊
Another great video. I do more crochet simply because if I make a mistake, I am able to fix it much more easily than my knitting. I’m also much better at it. I realize that is a matter of practice but I tend to crochet take along projects to occupy time while waiting in doctor’s offices, etc. and those environments don’t lend themselves to complicated patterns or frogging. But I would love to become even a fraction as proficient as you are in knitting. Maybe I’ll try a new, more complex pattern this summer. You have inspired me to push my boundaries. The sweater is precious and is sure to become a family treasure.
I’m so in awe of your knitting, Mark! Your sweaters are gorgeous. I love the little hexi-cardi, too… what a special gift! I’m primarily a crocheter, but you inspire me to get out of my comfort zone and pick up my knitting needles. Thanks for all you share with us! 🩵🧶🩵
I'm a crocheter. I tried knitting when I was young, and never took to it. I learned crochet last summer- never thought I'd pick up again/learn knitting or crocheting.. Never say never, I'm in my mid/late 40's, and I- can't- stop.. I think people do tend to gravitate to one or the other, and they are so different. I feel like I have a brain that grasps crochet better than knitting, though I may revisit knitting sometime again, because there are so many beautiful knitting patterns out there. I feel that with crochet, it lends itself alot more to wild abandon, it's something one can build on and add to easily, do all sorts of odd and crazy things. It's like it was made to break rules, and my quiet anarchist brain loves that. I'm a steak knife hook holder BTW, pencil seems weird😂 As for avoiding know it alls and crappy people, finding a good group of crafters is essential, and they are out there. The first fiber arts group I attended, was terrible!! They hated me, and felt fully entitled to let me know. Then I found an amazing group at the local library, and what a difference it makes. We all support and help each other out, I've taught people how to crochet, and yes, the first rule is, there are none, except those that might affect the outcome of a project. And I can watch knitters or crocheters, makes no difference to me, I love watching the process of making
I enjoyed this. I am so happy to see you include some crochet in your channel. I am new to crochet . I know how to knit. I was glad when I came across your channel. I binged watched. My favorite is your video on how you organized your knitting needles, stitch markers and cords. I appreciate you linking where to get the things you use. I bought them. It was so helpful. Can you show us what crochet supplies you use? Especially hooks.❤
Yay! Crochet!!
I would love to see you explore summer crochet wearables!
You posed a really good question about the difference between knitting and crochet and how long you can do it. I have come very late to crochet, for years I dabbled with it crocheting very much as I knit with hook and yarn both in my right hand. Recently I have started holding the yarn in my left hand. I’ve got better at it and have to admit it’s quicker crocheting in this way but at times it still feels awkward to me. I’ve been knitting for so long that it’s my comfort zone. I knit English style mainly and reasonably quickly. I have osteo-arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis so try not to get carried away with my knitting. I take plenty of breaks and can no longer sit and knit for hours like I used to. I’d just like to say to every one, look after your hands and care for them, the last thing you want is repetitive strain injury or tunnel carpel problems.
I love alternating between crochet and knitting projects. Currently knitting a cardigan, and crocheting a polo top and blanket! Gorgeous jacket, Mark❤
What a cute project - I've gotten so I might need to learn how to do more crochet I am very limited in my skills but this was adorable and what an easy design doing the folding of a hexy - I am so enjoying your videos and your stories are fun and interesting. Marcia
I just recently found your channel. First of all I have to say I find your voice very soothing. I love drinking my coffee in the morning, knitting, and listening to your podcast ❤. I totally agree with you about knitting versus crochet. I do both, but I always have a harder time reading my stitches in crochet. I do gift knit, I have made a knitted or crocheted blanket for everyone in the family, and as new babies come along I hope to keep up with gifting them each a blanket. So far I have only made garments for myself and my girls and granddaughter. Sad to say my husband runs to warm and would never wear a sweater. 😢
hi i enjoy watching you i am a new knitter the most i can knit is 2 hours i was crocheting dish clothes now i am knitting them
Mark, is there anyway you could do a video on how you make your yarn cozies? I would love to make me some of my own, I have never seen them before I started watching your channel, they look so handy to use. I have been crocheting for 50 years or so and when I started having trouble with my hands from not knowing when to rest them, I taught myself how to knit from watching RUclips videos so I would be using different muscles, when my hands start aching from knitting I switch back to crochet and vice versa. I have been retired for 10 years and can sit for upwards of 8 or so hours and knit or crochet, no wonder my hands ache, right, lol. I am addicted to your channel and can’t wait for the next video to post. Thank you for all the hard work you put into your videos, it is much appreciated by me!
Love how tiny the little squares are on your project. Adorable ! I started with crochet and am now learning knitting. For me the difference in the two hobbies is knitting produces a nicer fabric for wearables and I find the rhythm calming. Like you said I can do it for hours. With crochet I enjoy the process but I always feel like I am rushing to get something or some part done.
I used to make crocheted items to my daughter for our grandchildren.. But I noticed she never put them on. They were never perfect ofc, I wasn't and still am not that skilled at the craft. But it kind of hurt my feelings that she didn't even use the bonnets or hats, preferring the commercial store bought stuff when she took the children' out. So not as punishment to her, but I decided as I am learning to knit, to keep it focused on me and what I want to make for myself. I want some wearables made of nice materials that I probably couldn't afford to buy commercially premade, and made to fit my shape perfectly.
So maybe some day if I am around long enough to feel like I really have a good handle on the knitting craft, so that I can create wearables good enough to meet her standards,, maybe I'll try making my grands some cute rompers or cardies. But until then, I'm going to keep knitting as a selfish skill because I know I'll wear them even if they are flaw and mistakes because I put the hours of work in so I appreciate the finished product and don't have to wonder if it's good enough to please anyone else.. Which for me kinda sucks the joy out of any hobby or art. What is it they say about comparison is the thief of joy? Absolutely true.
Thank you very much. Enjoy the weekend
Your project looks beautiful and you have excellent consistency in your stitches! I crochet and knit and completely agree that each have a rhythm when doing the work but I find the one you like most is typically the first craft the individual dove into. The more familiar you are with a craft, understanding the inns and outs, the easier it is and more fluid your work will become.
I try to take breaks frequently, stretching and giving my wrists break, when learning a new craft since your body isn’t used to this new motion and/or position. It takes time to learn something new and that applies to your body as well. Give yourself time, especially if you don’t pick it up very often then that’s fine and understand you aren’t going to be perfect in your technique but hopefully you’ll still enjoy the process/project.
FYI your outro video art was so cute.
What a nice little jacket. Crafted with love ❤. I’m sure your little niece will look adorable wearing it. Enjoy the party.🎉
10:46 on the subject of “doing it wrong” and hook holds, I once saw someone holding the yarn and the hook in their right hand, and they were flicking. Like how you do in knitting. I also saw another person have the hook kind of tensioned against their abdomen and they were working stitches my moving the yarn and the project. But the hook stayed still.
If you’re getting the result you want and your body is happy, it’s not wrong!
Such a cute baby jacket. I crochet better than I knit. I am very relaxed when I crochet. I tension my yarn correctly but I work over my index finger and hold my hook like I would hold a screwdriver. I have been criticized for both. I have blue ribbons on my crochet from fairs. I think the critics need to be ignored.
I hold my hook and yarn weirdly too but ite gets things done and its the way my GMA taught me. Critics be darned.
I'm a lifelong crocheter slowly learning to knit. I've learned to relax my hands for crochet and take stretch breaks when crocheting. i already see what you mean about knitting. I'm just knitting dish clothes right now, but it is so relaxing! My goal is to knit socks. Already bought all the sock knitting stuff ❤
I LOVE THIS!!! AND...I love your idea of taking it apart and adding rows to extend the life of the little jacket, genius!
Lovely jacket!
I alternate between knitting and crocheting. At the moment I'm knitting a west and socks (I always have a sock project) and crocheting 2 blankets of which one is a temperature blanket with a hexagon a day.
I use furls hooks which are weighted. I generally can do a solid 5 hour stint, I can Tunisian crochet longer but uses different muscle memory.
Currently making a hexi too, it’s the spring chill hexi from black sheep wools. It’s so nice.
I am a 99% knitter and a 1% crocheter. 😮. That little cardigan is adorable. I have knit the Christopher Bunny by Susan B Anderson 3 times for my grandsons. It’s a great pattern.
I'm bistitchual, I learned most needlecraft when I was about 5-7, in fact, I was selling crochet vests at 9,(4th grade)....as I grew, I preferred knitting, its less stressful on my hands..
You craft how is most comfortable for you.
I was told I knit wrong because I don't knit Continental.... And I should knit Continental because I crochet.. nope, my brain refuses.
I knit the way I was taught by my grandmother (she was born Jan 1, 1900!!!).. We're also Russian...so I was told that I'm not doing "Russian knitting" correctly... The only place I've ever seen "Russian knitting" is on RUclips.... I know NO ONE that knits that way. Believe me, BOTH of my parents had numerous siblings & they all knitted or crocheted.
🤷🏻♀️
LOVE urth yarns!! My favorite project was "papillon". 😊
The jacket is adorable, maybe I should make one for my god-neice.
I learned crochet first and taught myself knitting. They are definitely different crafts. Knitting is more work for me cause I havent found a way to comfortably hold my yarn. It's funny how crocheters say that knitters are snobs and vice versus. It doesn't matter what craft you do. You will always have people who look down on your craft preference or how you do it. I've seen it with people who think needlepoint is superior to cross stitching. 😐 To me, no craft is superior to another. They are all unique.
The cardigan came out very cute!! Really good work. I wonder if upping your crochet hook size by just one tick might help you establish a rhythm a little bit more. That way you're less likely to split stitches. It does affect your gauge a little bit but if you're just trying to get the hang of getting crochet in your fingers that's a little suggestion I would offer.
I couldn't tell you if knitting or crocheting was more intense for me. I think for both I've learned how to limit my movements to cause the least amount of strain on my body. However, I will say crochet tires my hands out differently from how knitting tires my hands out
The steaming was funny and with 'special effects' 🤭
I am making a hexacon cardigan for adults: the first panel. A lot of crocheting to go.
Your cardigan is adorable. Nice weekend!
I was always jealous of knife grips! Lol
I like to knit but I love to crochet. If you make a mistake it is so much easier to frog a crocheted item than a knitted one. That is what makes knitting more stressful for me even though I love the look of knitted garments
That is so true! And it's much easier to take my crochet with me on a trip and carry it around, because we have only one loop on the needle (hook) instead of many. When we lose that stitch, it's no big deal.
On offering feedback: ask "how do you feel about...." insert the topic be it the seams, the bindoff, the Guage, etc. It will open a more organic discussion to let you understand their process and offer your favorite techniques. Just make sure to emphasize that is your favorite technique and not the only way to do it. 😊
100% agreed. Unsolicited style corrections are not cool. Case in point, I recently became an admin member of a queer crafters group and one of our beginner crochet members declared that they were going to start selling their makes. Having only been crocheting for about 4 months, I happened to notice they had the 'wrong side of their crochet fabric' (they were doing amigurumi) on the outside, making their projects technically inside out. Rather than say, oh you need to turn them rightside out. I recommended just double checking they had the 'correct' side showing. I shared a link I used to teach myself about the right side of crochet and let them take care of it. They came to the realisation themselves, without me being the bad guy that said they were doing things wrong.😅❤ there are more useful ways to teach than just saying...you're doing it wrong
Yes, its lousy to be told you’re doing it wrong. It is like a lot of things in life, you get things done your way. There is no right or wrong and that applies to most crafts and some of the most beautiful things that are hand made are the result of an error that returned a most unexpected beautiful result. I believe that if you do not experiment, try a different technique you will never learn and we are all different. Thank you for your lovely RUclips’s, so calming ❤ P.S. as with knitting needles the fibre might ‘drag’ a little on the hook as you go and to help with the fatigue it might be worth trying a wood or dare I say it a plastic hook depending on the fibre.
I'm the opposite, 10% knitting/90% crochet. I love the freedom of the single live loop of crochet - it's frogging or not to fix, while fixing knitting is tinking and lifelines. But I find them both fun, meditative and immersive. I think one of the reasons crochet feels slower is that you use up to 30% more yarn than you would knitting, so if you measure it by yarn inches through your fingers per second, it seems slower.
The fiber craft form police are always interesting to me now but bugged me when I was a kid learning from gramma. It's not a sport and there's no judging, just your internal editor. And if you find a fiber craft meditative, complaining about form is a little weird. No one tells a person that they are manipulating prayer beads wrong after all.
I like the gray in the yarn, it sets off the other colors beautifully. Strategic that you set that side in the back.
I enjoy both.
I’m about 99% knitting and 1% crochet, so my crochet is not smooth or well understood by me. I am self taught, and have never been comfortable doing crochet. It looks you are doing well, and I wouldn’t know you aren’t an expert! Such a cute jacket and I hope she wears it often! Keep the leftover yarn to increase the size in the future.
I can do both and seem to go through stages where I’m all one or the other. Sometimes I flick back and forth because it’s what interests me. I have a in progress granny hexie cardigan which I keep coming back to as it’s kind of boring around the bottom lol.
I hold my hook similar to you. Like writing, holding a crochet hook differs between people. My best friend used to hold her pen almost upright whereas my pen is so close to the paper in angle that some pens don’t write right. I know 8 hold my hook totally different to how my mum uses her hook. And guess what it’s okay!
Love that little jacket. 💝