If you’ve ever typed “is crochet easy?” into Google, you’re not alone. As a crochet teacher who’s helped hundreds of people learn to hook with confidence, I’ve heard this question more times than I can count. So here’s the honest answer…with a few truths you won’t find on YouTube…
Is Crochet Easier Than Knitting?
As you’ll know if you know me well, I’m not one for gossip (don’t give me that look!), but I feel duty bound to tell you about this vicious rumour going around that crochet is… whisper it… easy.
I know, I know – if you’re reading this, you probably already know that it’s a laughable rumour with no base in reality. But some people really do believe it! And in the spirit of crochet love, I’m here to put this myth to bed once and for all.
So what are the dirty details of this “crochet is easy” gossip, I hear you cry? Well, for one, some say it’s a lot easier than knitting. Why wouldn’t it be?! You’ve only got one ‘stick’ to wrangle rather than two, so it must be more simple, right? Surely half the difficulty level of knitting, if anything?
Nope – I’m afraid that’s not how it works.
The similarities between knitting and crochet begin and end with the fact that they both use yarn and create stitches. That’s it. And I say this with nothing but love for the knitters out there, but some of you come to crochet with such great skill, confidence and knowledge in the craft you already know and love, you expect to pick it up with ease. And when you can’t? You get frustrated. I get it!
My advice: come at crochet afresh. Leave your knitting mind behind and embrace something brand new.
Why Crochet Isn’t Actually Easy
A lot of knitters have been lucky enough to be taught by their mums or grandmas, who’ve drilled in the importance of tension. But in crochet, you need to let go of that knowledge! Crochet is a different beast…it’s more fluid, more relaxed, and (dare I say it?) a little more fun?! (Don’t be cross, knitters, we all have our favourites!)
So in crochet, feel free to release the tension – literally and figuratively.
And here’s another difference: there aren’t as many rules in crochet. That can be wonderfully liberating! In knitting, one mistake often means unpicking rows and rows. In crochet? Bung in an extra stitch. No one will notice. Some knitters find that maddening, but others find it freeing. Crochet is knitting’s more chilled, rebellious sister: happy to bend the rules, break the rules, or make up new ones entirely.
Sorry, knitting…you’re beautiful, but crochet is cooler.
But Wait – Can Anyone Learn to Crochet?
Here’s the truth: crochet can also be a cruel mistress. Some people find it intuitive from the get-go, but others really struggle. Just because you’re only using one hook doesn’t mean you’re doing half the work, your other hand is just as busy, prepping the yarn and managing the tension.
I honestly believe that most people can learn to crochet if they commit to a bit of practice. I can absolutely teach you the basics in a lesson, but the real magic happens in the repeating. That’s how you build muscle memory and make it feel second nature.
So if you’re still unsure, here’s my advice: don’t expect perfection. Enjoy getting it wrong, laugh when you drop a stitch, and celebrate every small win.
Crochet vs Knitting: A Final Thought
This isn’t a full-scale attack on knitting (promise). But it’s important to know that the two crafts are completely different, and crochet deserves its own space and pace. If you’re a knitter, be kind to yourself when trying something new. And if you’ve never picked up any yarn before? Even better. You’ve got no habits to unlearn!
Now, before you grab a hook, there’s one more thing I want to mention…
Need a Hand Getting Started?
The crochet community is a wonderfully inclusive one, and I’m so proud to be part of it. But I always like to mention this to new learners: crochet involves a fair bit of hand movement. You’ll need decent dexterity to get going, so if you have arthritis, hand pain or limited movement, it’s worth thinking carefully before diving in.
It’s also helpful to know that there’s quite a bit to remember when you’re first learning – from how to hold the hook and yarn, to recognising stitches and following instructions. For some people, especially those facing health challenges or cognitive difficulties, this can feel overwhelming rather than relaxing.
That said, crochet can also be wonderfully therapeutic, calming and confidence-boosting – so it’s really about what works best for you. If in doubt, it’s always worth having a gentle chat with a health professional or someone who already crochets.
Still Wondering If Crochet Is For You?
Maybe you’ve tried crochet already and some of this blog is ringing painfully true. Or maybe you’ve always loved the idea of crochet but can’t quite get the hang of it.
You’re not alone.
If you’d like to give it a proper go – without jargon, pressure or confusion – I’d love to help.
🧡 You can book a 1-2-1 lesson with me at the Crochet Cabin.
🧡 Or join the Secret Crochet Club on Facebook for more support, beginner tips, and friendly encouragement.
And remember: if you’ve ever found yourself wondering “is crochet easy?” – the answer is, not always at first…but once it clicks, it’s magic.
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