When starting with yarn crafts, the choice between knitting and crochet often depends on your project goals. Knitting uses two needles to create stretchy, smooth fabrics, perfect for garments and lightweight blankets. Crochet, with its single hook, produces thicker, more structured pieces like toys, bags, and textured home decor. Both crafts have their learning curves, but crochet is often easier for beginners due to its one-loop-at-a-time method, making mistakes simpler to fix.
Knitting Starter Kit
Hooks & Needles’ 35-piece knitting kit ($59.97) includes stainless steel needles, bulky yarn, row counters, and more. It’s designed for projects requiring flexibility and drape, like sweaters or scarves. Beginners benefit from the included tools and instructions, which simplify learning.
Crochet Starter Kit
The 29-piece crochet kit ($54.99) offers ergonomic hooks, worsted-weight yarn, and essential tools for structured projects like amigurumi or baskets. Its simple, single-hook system makes it beginner-friendly and easy to manage.
Subscription Box Option
For ongoing inspiration, the $34.97 monthly subscription delivers yarn, patterns, and tutorials for knitting or crochet, helping you expand your skills over time.
Ready to start? Browse Hooks & Needles kits and find the perfect fit for your crafting journey.
What's Included in a Knitting Starter Kit
Knitting Tools and Materials
Hooks & Needles has designed its knitting starter kits to give beginners everything they need to dive into their first project. Each kit typically includes straight or circular needles, yarn, and tapestry needles for finishing touches. The needles, often made of stainless steel or aluminum, are chosen for their durability and smooth surface, making it easier for yarn to glide as you knit.
In addition to these essentials, you'll often find helpful extras like row counters, stitch markers, a 60-inch measuring tape, and a gauge ruler. To keep everything tidy and portable, many kits include a drawstring bag or a zippered case.
The yarn provided in these kits is usually bulky or chunky weight, paired with 6mm needles. This combination makes it easier to see and handle stitches, which is especially helpful for beginners. Materials range from soft 100% Merino wool to sturdy acrylic-wool blends, offering both comfort and practicality. For example, the Hooks & Needles 35-piece knitting starter kit, priced at around $59.97 (regularly $94.93), includes circular needles marked in both US sizes and millimeters, a locking row counter, and snag-free metal needles. These thoughtful additions ensure that beginners can focus on learning without unnecessary frustrations.
How Knitting Kits Help Beginners
The structured design of these kits simplifies the learning process for new knitters. With all the tools pre-selected and matched, there's no need to worry about finding the right needle sizes or compatible yarn weights. Hooks & Needles kits take the guesswork out of preparation, allowing you to start knitting right away without multiple shopping trips.
Many kits also include pattern books or step-by-step instructions to guide you through essential techniques like casting on and mastering the basic knit stitch. Using 6mm needles with bulky yarn not only makes the process more manageable but also helps beginners build muscle memory. Hooks & Needles has fine-tuned its kits to combine high-quality tools with clear, easy-to-follow guidance, making it easier for new knitters to stay motivated and enjoy the craft.
What's Included in a Crochet Starter Kit
Crochet Tools and Materials
Hooks & Needles' crochet starter kits are thoughtfully designed to include everything a beginner needs. At the heart of the kit is a set of ergonomic crochet hooks, typically available in 7 to 9 sizes. These hooks, made from durable aluminum or premium wood, feature comfortable handles that reduce hand strain, allowing you to practice and improve without discomfort.
The kit also comes with worsted-weight acrylic yarn, chosen for its smooth texture and durability. Its 4-ply design helps prevent accidental snags or splits while you work. To complete your projects, you'll find finishing essentials like blunt-tipped tapestry needles for weaving in ends, sharp scissors or snips, and removable stitch markers that clip onto your fabric to mark your place.
Additional tools include a retractable measuring tape, a row counter, and a gauge ruler to ensure your project dimensions stay on track. All these items are neatly organized in a zippered pouch or carrying case, making it easy to keep everything together. The Hooks & Needles 29-piece crochet kit, priced at $54.99 (regularly $90.83), combines these tools into one convenient package, giving beginners a smooth start.
Why Crochet Kits Work Well for Beginners
Crochet is beginner-friendly because it uses just one hook, making it easier to manage compared to crafts requiring multiple tools. This single-tool approach simplifies the learning process and removes much of the coordination challenge.
Another advantage of a crochet kit is that it eliminates the guesswork. There's no need to figure out which hook size matches which yarn weight or make multiple trips to gather supplies. Hooks & Needles has already done the work for you, so you can dive into your first project right away. The worsted-weight yarn and larger hooks included in the kit make stitches easier to see and count, helping you identify and fix mistakes early on. Plus, crochet is forgiving - if you drop a stitch, it's usually easy to recover, giving beginners the confidence to keep going without worrying about ruining their work.
Knitting vs. Crochet Starter Kits: Side-by-Side
Knitting vs Crochet Starter Kits Comparison Chart
What's in Each Kit and How Much They Cost
When comparing knitting and crochet starter kits, the differences in tools and pricing become clear. Knitting kits typically include pairs of needles - options like straight, circular, or double-pointed - crafted from materials such as stainless steel, wood, or plastic. On the other hand, crochet kits center around a single hook, often featuring ergonomic rubber or plastic handles with aluminum or steel heads. Knitting kits tend to have more components due to the variety of needle types needed for different project shapes. For example, the Hooks & Needles 35-piece knitting kit is priced at $59.97, while the 29-piece crochet kit comes in slightly lower at $54.99.
Both kits include shared finishing tools like stitch markers and scissors, but the primary tools set them apart. Additionally, the cost difference extends beyond the kits themselves. Crochet projects typically use about 33% more yarn than knitting, which could lead to higher long-term material expenses despite the lower upfront cost of the crochet kit. These distinctions are essential to consider when choosing a kit that fits your crafting goals and skill-building needs.
Learning Difficulty and Fixing Mistakes
One of the biggest contrasts between knitting and crochet lies in how stitches are handled. Knitting requires keeping an entire row of "live" stitches on two needles, meaning you're managing multiple loops at once. In contrast, crochet uses a single hook and works with just one active loop at a time, simplifying the process for beginners.
When it comes to fixing mistakes, crochet offers a clear advantage. If you drop your hook, only one stitch is affected, and it’s easy to pick it back up. Knitting, however, can be less forgiving. Dropped stitches can unravel large portions of your work because all the loops are interconnected and "live" on the needles. The single-loop approach of crochet not only makes it beginner-friendly but also minimizes the risk of unraveling. Each crochet stitch secures the previous one, while knitting demands constant attention to prevent mishaps. For those just starting out, crochet’s simplicity in both learning and error correction can be a major plus.
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Which Kit Fits Your Project Goals
Now that we’ve looked at the tools and ease of learning, it’s time to match your project goals with the right kit. Opt for knitting if you want smooth, stretchy fabrics, and choose crochet for textured, sturdy creations. Knowing these basics will help you make confident choices when starting out.
Choose Knitting for Stretchy Clothing and Blankets
If you’re planning to make garments or baby items, a knitting starter kit is the way to go. Knitting uses two needles to create thin, flexible fabric that stretches and moves with ease - perfect for fitted shirts, cozy ribbed scarves, or baby sweaters. It’s also ideal for soft, draping blankets and throws that are lightweight but warm. The smooth finish of knitted pieces gives them a polished, professional look.
For beginners, starting with bulky yarn and 6mm needles can make it easier to see your stitches and complete projects more quickly. The Hooks & Needles 35-piece knitting kit includes everything you need to dive into wearable creations and other stretchy projects.
If your focus is on textured, dimensional designs, crochet might be a better fit.
Choose Crochet for Textured Items and Small Projects
Crochet shines when making stuffed toys (amigurumi), hats, bags, and home decor - projects that benefit from thicker, more structured fabric. Using a single hook, crochet creates dense, stable stitches that hold their shape, making it perfect for items like market bags, winter beanies, or decorative baskets. Unlike knitting, crochet allows you to easily work outward from a center point, which is key for creating three-dimensional designs.
Beginners often start with a granny square, a simple modular project that introduces foundational stitches. Crochet’s thicker fabric also makes it quicker to complete smaller projects compared to knitting. If you’re drawn to textured afghans, chunky scarves, or table runners with intricate stitch patterns, the Hooks & Needles 29-piece crochet kit provides ergonomic hooks and the finishing tools to bring your ideas to life.
Hooks & Needles Starter Kits
Starting your knitting or crochet journey is easier with Hooks & Needles beginner-friendly kits. These thoughtfully crafted kits take the hassle out of hunting for individual tools and materials. With everything you need in one place, you can focus on learning and creating. Each kit includes high-quality needles or hooks, measuring tools, accessories, and convenient storage, all neatly organized for immediate use. Let’s take a closer look at what these kits offer and the subscription options available to enhance your crafting experience.
Explore Hooks & Needles Kits
The 35-piece knitting kit ($59.97, regularly $94.93) is packed with essentials to get you started. It includes stainless steel and aluminum needles labeled in both US and metric sizes, a row counter with a lock, a universal gauge ruler, a retractable 60-inch measuring tape, 9 stitch markers, yarn snips, and 8 bent aluminum yarn needles. Everything comes in a soft drawstring bag, making it easy to take your projects on the go.
I was surprised by the kit's thoroughness, and the row counter with a lock was a cool surprise. The needles were made with quality and you could see the measurements which was also an added plus.
- Daniela J., verified buyer
The 29-piece crochet kit ($54.99, regularly $90.83) is designed with comfort in mind. It features 7 ergonomic hooks that are perfect for long crafting sessions, along with the same must-have accessories as the knitting kit, all stored in a colorful, organized case.
I love these hooks – they're comfortable and well designed, making crocheting a joy.
- Barbara, verified buyer
Both kits are ready to ship within 24 to 48 hours and come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, ensuring a risk-free start to your crafting adventure.
Monthly Subscription Box for Continued Learning
Once you’ve mastered the basics, the Hooks & Needles monthly subscription box is the perfect way to keep your creativity flowing. This subscription delivers fresh projects every month, helping you refine your skills and try new techniques. You can choose between the standard Crochet & Knit Box or the Amigurumi Box, which focuses on adorable stuffed toys. Each box includes premium yarn, exclusive patterns, detailed tutorials, and fun surprises to keep things interesting.
I am enjoying this box. I am a bit slow but I am sticking to it. The yarn is great and the hook is great. The little surprises are so cool. Overall very clever and I love it.
- Claire D., verified subscriber
Subscription boxes ship quickly - within 2 to 6 business days in the US for just $5.97 shipping - and come with everything you need for each project, saving you the trouble of finding matching materials. At $34.97 per month, with over $120 in value and the option to cancel anytime, it’s an easy, affordable way to grow your skills and enjoy new crafting adventures month after month.
Conclusion
Pick knitting for smooth, stretchy fabrics or crochet for textured, speedy projects. Knitting is ideal for creating soft, elastic pieces like sweaters and socks, or garments that drape naturally. The Hooks & Needles 35-piece knitting kit ($59.97) comes with everything you need to master the two-needle technique and craft elegant, flexible designs. This kit is perfect for those aiming to bring their unique style to life with timeless projects.
Crochet, on the other hand, is a great choice for those who love textured finishes or want to create 3D shapes like amigurumi toys. The 29-piece crochet kit ($54.99) includes ergonomic hooks designed for comfort during long crafting sessions. Plus, the single-hook technique ensures your work stays intact if you need to pause. While crochet typically uses about a third more yarn than knitting for projects of the same size, it offers the advantage of speed and structure.
Both kits come with fast delivery and a risk-free 30-day guarantee, so you can start crafting with confidence. Once you’ve mastered the basics, the monthly subscription box ($34.97) provides fresh projects and premium materials to keep your creativity flowing. With over 225,000 boxes shipped to makers around the globe, Hooks & Needles has earned its place as a trusted resource for beginners transforming yarn into beautiful creations.
Ready to begin? Explore the full range of starter kits and find the perfect fit for your crafting journey.
FAQs
What’s the difference between knitting and crochet for beginners?
Knitting and crochet are two popular yarn crafts, each with its own tools, techniques, and results. Knitting involves using two needles (or sometimes circular ones) and managing multiple active stitches on the needles. This approach can feel a bit more intricate for beginners. Crochet, by contrast, uses a single hook and works with just one active loop at a time, making it a bit simpler to start and easier to pause mid-project.
The end results also set these crafts apart. Knitted fabrics are soft and stretchy, making them ideal for clothing like sweaters and socks. Crochet, on the other hand, creates denser, more textured pieces, which work wonderfully for sturdy blankets, toys, or decorative items. If you’re after faster results and prefer simpler tools, crochet might suit you best. But if you’re drawn to stretchy, garment-friendly fabrics and are up for learning a slightly more detailed technique, knitting could be the perfect choice.
How can I choose between a knitting and crochet starter kit?
Choosing between a knitting or crochet starter kit comes down to your crafting goals, how you like to learn, and the type of projects that excite you. Crochet relies on a single hook and just one active loop at a time, making it easy to pause and pick up without worrying about dropped stitches. This straightforward approach is ideal for beginners and works wonderfully for projects like scarves, blankets, or amigurumi. Knitting, on the other hand, uses two needles (or circular needles) to manage multiple active stitches. This technique is perfect for creating smooth, stretchy fabrics that are great for garments like sweaters or socks.
Both Hooks & Needles starter kits are packed with essentials to help you get started. The Crochet Beginners Kit includes ergonomic hooks, stitch markers, a row counter, and other handy tools. Meanwhile, the Knitting Beginners Kit provides a selection of circular needles, a needle gauge, and finishing tools. If you're drawn to quick, adaptable projects, crochet might be your perfect match. But if you’re aiming for more structured, flowing pieces, knitting could be the better choice.
Consider the type of yarn and patterns that catch your eye. Crochet often shines with bulky yarns, creating textured, eye-catching designs. Knitting, however, works beautifully with lighter yarns, producing smooth and stretchy finishes. By thinking about your project preferences and the tools included in each kit, you’ll find it easier to pick the craft that aligns with your style and goals.
Are there resources to help me improve my knitting or crochet skills over time?
Hooks & Needles provides a range of tools and resources to help you build your knitting or crochet skills with confidence. Their 35-piece Knitting Beginners Kit comes packed with everything you need to get started - needles, gauges, markers, yarn needles, and more. Plus, it includes a detailed, step-by-step instruction booklet that walks you through basic stitches and beginner-friendly projects.
Beyond the kit, the Hooks & Needles website offers a treasure trove of free resources. You’ll find patterns, video tutorials, and practical tips designed to help you master new techniques, tackle common challenges, and spark ideas for your next creation. With these tools at your fingertips, you’ll have everything you need to keep learning and enjoying your craft.
