Crochet vs. knitting: differences, similarities, and how to choose your technique

When you start knitting, it's normal to wonder: "What's the difference between crocheting and knitting?" or even "Which is easier to start with?" In this article, I'll explain clearly and practically what the two techniques are and what they have in common, so you can choose the one that best suits you or combine them with confidence.

Table of Contents

1. What is crocheting and what is knitting?
2. Main differences between crochet and knitting
3. Similarities between both techniques
4. When to choose crochet and when to choose knitting needles
5. Common mistakes when changing techniques
6. Final tips

What is crocheting and what is knitting?

Crocheting involves working with a single hook that creates each stitch independently. The fabric is built stitch by stitch , giving you a lot of control over each row.

Knitting with two needles (knitting or tricot) involves casting on all the stitches to the needle , which are then transferred from one needle to the other with each row. This creates a flexible fabric with a beautiful drape.

Main differences between crochet and knitting

1. Tools

• Crochet: a single needle with a hook.
• Two needles: two straight, circular or interchangeable needles.

2. Fabric construction

• Crochet: each stitch is formed separately; if a stitch falls, the whole work is not undone.
• Two needles: all stitches are active; if one falls off, it can be easily undone.

3. Final texture

• Crochet: denser and firmer fabric, ideal for amigurumi and accessories.
• Knit: a more elastic and soft fabric, perfect for garments with drape.

4. Speed

• Crochet: usually progresses faster.
• Two needles: a slower pace, but a lighter result.

5. Thread consumption

• Crochet: uses a little more material.
• Point: It performs better with less thread.

6. Forms and structures

• Crochet: allows for organic shapes and 3D pieces.
• Point: stands out for its homogeneous textures, braids and openwork.

Similarities between both techniques

Although they may seem very different, they share several essential points:

• Both work with a continuous strand .
• The thread thicknesses and 10×10 cm samples work the same.
• Both allow you to create clothing, accessories and decorations.
• They share concepts such as tension, turns, increases and decreases .
• They are complementary techniques and can be combined in the same project.

When to choose crochet and when to choose knitting needles

✨ When to choose crochet

• Do you want to knit amigurumi , bags, or structured projects?
• You're looking for a technique that progresses quickly.
• You prefer to correct mistakes easily.
• You like bold textures.

✨ When to choose two needles

• You want clothes with a soft drape .
• You're interested in using less yarn on large projects.
• You enjoy braids, openwork or jacquard.
• You're looking for a lightweight and comfortable finish.

🤝 When to combine them

• You knit a knitted top with crocheted edges.
• You want a granny square blanket finished with two needles.
• You seek to enrich the texture by mixing techniques.

⚠️ Common mistakes when changing techniques

• Use the same size needle. For crochet, use a slightly larger size.
• Expect the same elasticity. The knit is always more flexible.
• Trust in muscle memory. Each technique has its own specific movement.
• No sample required. Essential in either case.

🌸 Final tips

Choose your technique based on the project, not the difficulty. Try both, combine them, and adapt your tools until you find what you enjoy most. Knitting is a creative process, and each project is an opportunity to learn.