Hot Knitting & Crochet How-Tos
How To: Knit on Double Pointed Needles
Knitting on double pointed needles (abbr: DPN or DP) is scary to most knitters. That being said, there will be times that you will want to, or need to use them, so you might as well learn now. You'll need to use DP needles for small projects when there are too few stitches for a circular needle (as for socks or mittens). Once you cast on and get into a rhythm, it's easy. Don't be afraid to try it.
How To: Make the Afghan or Tunisian crochet stitch - entrelac
If you're someone who enjoys crochet, you may want to watch this video and check out this technique. It's called the Afghan or Tunisian crochet stitch, or 'entrelac'. This is not quick stitch to do, but the results can be truly wonderful. This video is very detailed, with excellent descriptions and will help you get on the path to a new and exciting crochet creation. You will want a larger and smaller crochet needle for this project, so be sure to have both on hand.
How To: Knit the Rice Stitch
The rice stitch is another easy and versatile stitch. Both sides are different, however they both look nice. This means the work can be used on either side. Pictured in the thumbnail image above is side one of the rice stitch. Pictured below is side two of the rice stitch.
How To: Do the Same Stitch on Different Sized Knitting Needles
A fun thing to do in knitting is to experiment by trying the same stitch on different sizes of needles. A thin yarn knitted on a small sized needle will look totally different than a thin yarn on a medium sized needle. On the small needle the stitches will be tight. On a medium sized needle they will be looser and more lacy. If you knit it on a large sized needle it will look even more different and, in fact, very holey.
How To: Knit a bracelet with an "A" letter
Already a bona fide friendship bracelet weaver? Then get ready to knock your friends' socks off with this personalized bracelet emblazoned with the letter "A." This step-by-step video will turn your mind to a whole new world of friendship bracelet possibilities, and you may find yourself stringing together batches of these for friends, family, and coworkers.
How To: Knit a valentine-worthy heart into your knitting projects
Valentine's Day is near, and Judy Topaz has the perfect project for you… a knitted heart. If you want to add a little bit of sweetness to your scarf, sweater or other knitting project, then this knitted heart will surely do the trick. Just make sure to choose a good yarn for good color contrast. Watch all four parts of this comprehensive Valentine's Day knitted heart!
How To: Knit a Decorative Flower
This beautiful flower can be used as decoration on a hat, scarf, headband or purse. You name it. There are many uses. On the photo above, I added it to a hat. I have also used it as a decoration on a napkin ring. The flower is knit in three parts. Check out the instructions below. And see the closeup photo of the finished flower at the bottom of the page.
How To: Crochet a pair of wristies in the style of Jolene Sugarbaker
Wristies are useful for any cook - use them to hold your sleeves in place while you're cooking. You will need a size J hook, scissors, some clear jewelry thread and a ball of eyelash yarn in your favorite color.
How To: Crochet a beautiful bouquet of pansies and flowers
A pansy is a delicate, two-tone flower. This tutorial shows you how to crochet an entire bouquet of beautiful pansies. This makes a great gift or get well present - especially if your recipient is allergic to flowers! Make sure you choose your yarn carefully.
How To: Tell the difference between loose and tight crochet techniques
Depending on your personal technique, you might find that you are a tight crocheter, or that you often end up with looser projects. This tutorial shows you the difference between using a tight or loose technique. Here is how you can determine the gauge of your projects, as well.
How To: Crochet mats for a dog or cat using granny squares
Want a place for your pet to sleep? This tutorial shows you how to use the granny square technique to crochet a comfy mat for your dog or cat. You will need a size P hook to make this project.
How To: Crochet a beautiful spring wreath with flowers and butterflies
Just because it's spring doesn't mean you have to forego wreaths! This tutorial shows you how to crochet leaves, butterflies, daffodils and flower buds to assemble into a spring wreath. Since this is for spring, choose pastel colors for your yarn.
How To: Use the single crochet technique for extreme crochet
Extreme crochet is when you bring multiple strands of yarn together and treat it like one big strand. You will definitely need a size P hook to be able to work with this much yarn. Here is how to use single crochet stitches when making something with extreme crochet.
How To: Use the half double crochet stitch when using extreme crochet
By bringing multiple strands of yarn together, you can create a beautiful look for your crochet projects. This tutorial shows you how to execute the half double crochet stitch when you are working on a project using the extreme crochet technique.
How To: Set up your extreme crochet project and execute a basic chain stitch
What is extreme crochet? Extreme crochet is the technique of using different strands of yarn at the same time. You will need a P size hook for extreme crochet. This video shows you how to set up your project and execute the chain stitch.
How To: Execute the double crochet stitch when using extreme crochet
Extreme crochet brings together several strands of yarn, which you can use to quickly make things like afghan blankets. This tutorial shows you how to do the double stitch when working with extreme crochet. Make sure you have a size P hook!
How To: Execute a triple crochet stitch with extreme crochet
Looking to expand your extreme crochet technique? This tutorial shows you how to do the triple crochet stitch when you're working with extreme crochet. You will need a size P hook for extreme crochet, and more yarn than you normally would use.
How To: Crochet with multiple strands of yarn using a P hook
Want to create an extreme crochet project? Start with a P size hook and a few balls of your favorite yarns. You can use the large P hook to combine multiple strands of yarn together for an extreme effect in your next project.
How To: Crochet huge granny squares using the extreme crochet technique
Want to learn how to make huge granny squares? The answer lies in extreme crochet - using multiple strands of yarn together. You will need your yarn and a size P hook. Then follow along, and learn how to make your own extreme crochet projects!
How To: Make a usable and cute button out of crochet thread
You don't have to buy buttons - just crochet your own! These buttons are naturally much softer than regular buttons, making them ideal for blankets or baby clothes. They also can add a cute accent to nearly any crochet project.
How To: Crochet a head wrap
This video will show you how-to crochet a super cool head wrap. These head wraps are all of a sudden really popular so if you get on it, you'll be done making yours while the craze is still hot. If not, at least your ears will still be warm. Crochet a head wrap.
How To: Make an Infinity Scarf/Circle Scarf
Circle or infinity scarves became really popular this year, and this little how-to shows you how to knit one up yourself. Knit 1, perl two. You can do it! Follow the steps and fight that cold neck feeling!
How To: Knit a mobius scarf
Circle or infinity scarves became really popular this year, and this little how-to shows you how to knit one up yourself. Knit 1, perl two. You can do it! Follow the steps and fight that cold neck feeling!
How To: Knit a beginner's version of a circle/infinity scarf
Here's a great little how-to to get you started on knitting a circle or infinity scarf, also known as a mobius scarf. This is a beginner tutorial so don't be shy, grab your needles and get knitting!
How To: Make Your Own Tweed Yarn
Here's a great way to make something that is truly one of a kind. You can do this by making your own tweed yarn. It's very easy to do. You can use 2, 3 or more yarns to do this. The yarns don't have to be the same weight at all. You can mix thick yarns with thin ones for a very interesting effect.
How To: Knit the Fair Isle house stitch
In this knitting tutorial, expert knitter Judy Topaz shows you how to knit the Fair Isle house stitch. If you're not familiar with the basics of knitting, check out some of Judy's other knitting videos for beginner tips and techniques.
How To: Tie basic macrame knots to make a key chain or bracelet
This tutorial shows you how to do two basic macrame ties, which you can use to make keychains, bracelets, chokers and other types of jewelry. Add beads, charms and other decorations to your projects - macrame is cheap, easy and fun!
How To: Crochet a cute pair of ruffled wrist warmers
This is perfect for someone who wants to keep their hands warm but still work with their hands (such as typing, sewing or crafting). Start with medium weight worsted yarn and a size I crochet hook to make these fun wrist warmers.
How To: Make your own little coffee corset or cup holder
Corsets on a coffee cup? Sure! Rather than having to use more paper to insulate your hot coffee cup, you can make your own at home. You can crochet your own little coffee corset out of yarn and a crochet hook. The perfect gift for the eco-conscious coffee lover.
How To: Knit a simple warm scarf for winter for beginners
Knitting, ladies and gents, is not just for grannies who have too much time on their hands. In fact, knitting is fun and quite addicting once you get the basics down.
How To: Darn holes in socks, scarves or other knit garments
Are your socks developing holes? A gap in your favorite scarf? You don't have to throw them out! Darning is a technique used to rejoin a knitted garment that has become undone, and this video shows you how to become your own darner.
How To: Crochet a cute Valentine's Day heart
You can use nearly any colors or ply of yarn and any size crochet hook for this tutorial. Just pick your two favorite colors and follow along with the tutorial to make a cute heart that can be given as a sweet Valentine's Day gift.
How To: Crochet a two tone baby cap with ear flaps
The perfect gift for new or expecting parents! This tutorial shows you how you can crochet a cute little baby cap, complete with ear flaps, out of 3-ply yarn and a size G crochet hook. It even shows you how to make this a two-tone cap.
How To: Crochet a Beautiful Multicolored Pansy (For Left-Handers)
This is a fun and versatile tutorial—choose your favorite colors of yarn, then follow along to learn how to crochet a multi-colored pansy. This lesson has been specifically designed for left-handed crochet artists. Check out Crochet Geek's full guide by Teresa Richardson for more help.
How To: Crochet a striped baby beanie with your left hand
This tutorial shows you how to crochet a baby beanie cap, and has been specifically designed for left handed crochet artists. All you need to do is pick your favorite color and then follow the instructions to create a lovely gift for the new parents in your life!
How To: Crochet a ring potholder for left handed crochet artists
This tutorial has been specifically designed for those who like to crochet left handed. Create a pot holder and include a ring so that it can be hung from a hook or an oven. Just choose your favorite color of yarn and get started!
How To: Crochet a pot holder with a ring corner
This is a great gift for anyone in your life who enjoys cooking. Crochet them a pot holder. This tutorial shows you how to incorporate a ring into the pattern so it can be easily hung from a hook or an oven door.
How To: Crochet a small and elegant snowflake
This is a good tutorial for someone who has just started crochet and is looking for a challenging but still doable project. Crochet a fun and beautiful snowflake - use as a doily, give as a gift or turn into a decoration!
How To: Tie off your crochet project with a short tail
This is a quick little tutorial that shows you a good finishing stitch for your crochet project. If you're down to the end of your thread, here is how you can easily tie off a short tail, no matter what you're making.
How To: Knit a Lacey Eyelet Rib Pattern
There are not many stitches that are more beautiful than this LACEY EYELET RIB STITCH. And, there are few that are easier. Most knitters are apprehensive about knitting any lace patterns, and truthfully, many are difficult because of so many rows. This one, however, consists of only 4 rows. You can use either side of the work and it is a lovely stitch to know. You can use it for a beautiful scarf or for just about anything for a baby. I've made many baby sweaters and blankets using this stitc...