Learn to knit
Everything you need for your first stitches: cast on, knit, purl and bind off, explained step by step for complete beginners.
How to knit: a complete beginner's guide
Learn the four skills that make up every knitting project: cast on, knit, purl, bind off. Follow our step-by-step path from first stitch to first scarf.
How to read a knitting pattern (a beginner's guide)
Knitting patterns look like code until someone explains them. Learn to read gauge, abbreviations, brackets, repeats and sizing, step by step, with examples.
Knit vs purl: what's the difference?
Knit and purl are the two basic knitting stitches, and they are the same stitch seen from opposite sides. Learn how to tell them apart and what each one makes.
How to purl (the purl stitch)
The purl stitch is the knit stitch in reverse. Learn to purl step by step, and combine it with knit stitches to make stockinette and ribbing.
What you need to start knitting
A short list of what a beginner needs to start knitting: which needles, which yarn, and the few notions worth buying. No expensive kit required.
How to read a knitting chart
A knitting chart is a picture of your fabric. Learn to read the grid, the symbols, and which way to go, flat and in the round, with clear examples.
How to knit the knit stitch
The knit stitch is the first and most important stitch in knitting. Learn it step by step, Continental style, with the simple "in, pick, through, off" motion, and make your first fabric.
How to cast on (knitting)
Casting on is how you put the first stitches on your needle. Learn the easiest beginner method step by step, plus when to use long-tail, cable and stretchy cast ons.
How to bind off (cast off)
Binding off secures your stitches so your knitting will not unravel. Learn the standard bind off step by step, plus when to use a stretchy bind off instead.