Knitting and Crocheting are two handicraft projects that have interested many people but have caused quite an uncertainty among some of them as well.
It must be spelled out to everyone that there is nothing similar between the two, not in the appearance of their finished products or in the materials used, and certainly not in their stitching patterns and strokes.
The common feature that can only be said about them is probably the fact that they fall under the same craft or industry.
Firstly, knitting requires two pointed needles while crocheting can be accomplished with only a crochet hook on hand.
Secondly, knitting uses thicker yarns while crocheting involves finer threads, wherein in both instances, they come in different colors, grades and weights.
Sometimes, though, the yarns and threads can have the same width and are actually used interchangeably, which possibly contributes to the confusion.
Thirdly, the two have different stitching patterns and strokes, owing to the shape and number of needles used by each craft.
For one, knitting has two basic stitches known as the knit and purl stitches.
When these stitches are combined, they produce the cable stitch, which is a distinguishing characteristic of a knitted project.
On the other hand, crocheting begins with the making of a base row out of chain stitches.
This row serves as a foundation for all other succeeding stitches that will complete the pattern.
In addition, while knitting involves more or less even stitches, crocheting uses a wider variety of basic and taller stitches that are usually made alternately according to the desired effect.
Lastly, another distinguishing mark between the two is that which pertains to the effect of their needle works.
Knitting involves tighter and closer stitches, thereby producing more pliable fabrics, thereby creating and adding shape to cardigans and sweaters, bonnets, socks and scarves or anything that is allowed to cling to any part of the body when worn.
On the contrary, crocheted stitches are sturdier so that they are less tied up alongside one another and that laced and open patterns are incorporated into the design to give breadth to the garment.
The common crocheted projects are bags and pouches, coasters, mats and table covers.
The two being entirely different from each other, it is highly advisable that any person interested should first learn a craft only after he has familiarized himself with the other.
Otherwise, the stitches could get pretty mixed up.
But these dissimilarities aside, both handicrafts are fun and enjoyable to learn, particularly for those who have lots of time to spare.
If truth be told, especially for the beginners, when one has completed a project for either craft, the distinction would not even matter anymore.