Purl & Hook

Knitting Basics

The handful of moves that make a knitter: casting on, the knit stitch and the purl stitch, and binding off to finish. We also cover joining a new ball of yarn, counting your rows and stitches, reading your knitting, and fixing the loose or uneven edges that trip up nearly every beginner at the start.

Knitting Basics

8 guides
Knitting Basics

Stockinette and Garter Stitch: A Beginner's Guide

Learn how to knit stockinette stitch and garter stitch from scratch, understand the differences, and know when to use each one.

July 3, 2026
Knitting Basics

Knit vs. Purl: How to Tell Your Stitches Apart

Learn to tell a knit stitch from a purl stitch by shape and texture. A plain-English beginner guide to reading your knitting confidently.

June 28, 2026
Knitting Basics

How to Cast On in Knitting: A Step-by-Step Guide

Learn how to cast on in knitting with clear, beginner-friendly steps. Covers the long tail cast on, backward loop, and tips for keeping your tension loose.

June 25, 2026
Knitting Basics

How to Fix a Dropped Stitch in Knitting

Learn how to fix a dropped stitch in knitting step by step. Pick up dropped stitches with or without a crochet hook and get back on track fast.

June 24, 2026
Knitting Basics

How to Join a New Ball of Yarn in Knitting

Learn how to join a new ball of yarn in knitting without knots or holes. Four beginner-friendly methods, plus tips for weaving in ends and changing colors.

June 17, 2026
Knitting Basics

How to Bind Off (Cast Off) in Knitting

Learn how to bind off (cast off) in knitting with clear step-by-step instructions. Keep your edge stretchy and tidy every time.

June 13, 2026
Knitting Basics

How to Purl: The Purl Stitch Explained

Learn how to purl stitch step by step. This beginner guide covers technique, common mistakes, and how knit and purl rows combine to make stockinette fabric.

June 9, 2026
Knitting Basics

How to Knit the Knit Stitch for Beginners

Learn how to knit stitch step by step with this beginner guide. Master the knit stitch, build garter stitch fabric, and fix the most common mistakes.

June 5, 2026

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