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.
By Julia WallinKnyt Co-founder and editorTo start knitting you need two things: a pair of knitting needles and a ball of yarn. The best beginner combination is a smooth worsted-weight (medium) yarn in a light colour, with 4.5 to 5.5 mm (US 7 to 9) needles. Everything else is optional. This guide explains what to buy, what to skip, and why the right yarn and needle size make learning easier.
The two essentials
Yarn
Choose a smooth, light-coloured, worsted-weight (category 4 / medium) yarn, ideally a plain wool or wool-blend. Each part matters:
- Smooth (not fuzzy) so you can see the individual stitches.
- Light colour so the stitch structure is visible. Dark yarn hides the mistakes you need to see in order to learn.
- Worsted weight because it is thick enough to knit quickly but not bulky.
- Wool or wool-blend because it has a little grip and stretch, which is more forgiving than slippery acrylic or cotton.
→ More on weights: yarn weights explained
Needles
Start with 4.5 to 5.5 mm (US 7 to 9) needles, the mid-range size that pairs with worsted yarn. Straight needles are the traditional choice for learning. A circular needle (two tips joined by a cable) works just as well and is more versatile as you progress. Material matters too: bamboo or wooden needles grip the yarn slightly and stop stitches sliding off, which most beginners find easier than smooth metal.
→ Convert sizes: knitting needle sizes chart
Nice-to-have notions
You do not need these on day one, but they are cheap and useful within your first project or two:
| Item | What it's for |
|---|---|
| Tapestry / yarn needle | Weaving in loose ends when you finish. |
| Scissors | Cutting yarn. |
| Stitch markers | Marking your place in a pattern (a loop of contrast yarn works too). |
| Tape measure | Checking length and gauge. |
| Row counter | Keeping track of which row you are on (an app works fine). |
What you can skip at first
Beginner "kits" often bundle extras you will not use yet. You can skip stitch holders, cable needles, blocking mats and large needle sets until a specific project calls for them. One ball of yarn and one pair of needles is enough to learn every basic skill.
Frequently asked questions
What size knitting needles are best for beginners?
4.5 to 5.5 mm (US 7 to 9) paired with worsted-weight yarn. They are large enough to see and handle your stitches easily without being unwieldy.
What type of yarn should a beginner use?
A smooth, light-coloured worsted-weight wool or wool-blend. Avoid dark, fuzzy or very slippery yarns while you are learning. They hide stitches or slide around.
Do I need straight or circular needles to start?
Either works. Straight needles are the traditional choice for flat projects like scarves. Circular needles do everything straights do and also let you knit in the round later, so many knitters start with them.
How much does it cost to start knitting?
Very little. One ball of yarn and one pair of needles is enough, often for the price of a takeaway meal. You can add inexpensive notions as you go.
What should I knit first?
A garter-stitch scarf or dishcloth. These projects use only the knit stitch and do not need to fit. See How to knit a scarf.
Co-founder and editor of Knyt. Avid knitter!
