Knitting Vs Crocheting: What’s the Difference?
This image is of someone crocheting. Try to Spot it on your own after reading this article!
Written By: Fluffy Detail
One of the most common questions I get asked at my crochet markets is, “what is the difference between crochet and knitting?” I sell crochet items and to the untrained eye, it’s hard to tell the difference because both artforms use tools to loop yarn. Once I explain the difference, you’ll become better at spotting it when out and about!
Knitting and crocheting are two most popular yarn crafts, but they are significantly different in terms of tools, techniques, and what they’re best suited for. Knitting needs two needles to create interlocking loops, which results in a soft and stretchy fabric perfect for making sweaters and scarves. On the other hands, crocheting uses a single hook to create stitches, making it perfect for shaping and adding structure to any project. Crocheting is the perfect method for animal plushies, where it allows for more control and precision when creating adorable 3D animals.
One of the standout differences between knitting and crocheting lies in the stitches. Knitting relies heavily on the knit and purl stitches, while crocheting offers a much larger variety of techniques, such as single crochet, double crochet, increases, and decreases. These unique crochet techniques make it easier to create tight, sturdy stitches that keep stuffing, which is what is used to create 3D designs, securely inside your plushies. If you’re interested in crafting your own animal plushies, my readily-available crochet patterns have easy-to-follow instructions that point out these crochet-specific stitches, allowing you to easily bring lovable critters to life with confidence.
Crocheting is also much faster and more versatile than knitting, making it the go-to choice for handmade plush toys and other small creations. Since crochet stitches are larger and use one hook instead of two, projects often come together much quicker without sacrificing any detail. From floppy bunny ears to textured raccoon tails, crocheting allows for custom shapes and charming details that give each plushie its own personality. Each stitch that you create leads to another and another, which eventually gives you a huggable, whimsical creature for everyone to enjoy!
Whether you’re new to yarn crafts or looking to expand your yarn skills, crocheting opens up endless creative possibilities, especially when it comes to adorable animal plushies. With its structured stitches and everlasting flexibility, crochet makes it easier to design toys that are not only cute but durable. I encourage everyone to start a passion craft. Even though I am a crochet focused store for now, there are many places to start to learn knitting! Explore my shop to find the perfect crochet pattern to get started on your next cuddly creation and discover just how rewarding crocheting plushies can be.
