SO YOU WANT TO LEARN HOW TO KNIT AND CROCHET?!
Well, you're in the right place! Cardigang is the perfect place to start your DIY journey.
We're going to guide you through how to learn to knit and crochet, share tips, video tutorials and share how to care for your masterpiece.
⚡️ WHAT'S IN YOUR KIT
Yeah, babe! You just earned yourself (humble) bragging rights.
Inside your kit you'll find all the gear you need to knit or crochet your totally whelming and wonderful masterpiece.
Including;
- Nana approved® high-quality yarn
- The tools you'll use, including sticks to click or a hook to wield
- Incredibly easy-to-follow instructions including links to life-saving video tutorials
- A ‘made by me’ tag to affix to your custom creation (and totally leave ‘accidentally’ exposed)
- A handy draw-string bag to store all your gear
LET'S LEARN THE BASICS
Before your dive into your kit, let's learn the basic techniques we use in all of our knitting and crochet kits.
SASHAY INTO THE WORLD OF CROCHET
Don’t let the fancy french name put you off. Even if it’s your first foray into crochet, everything’s going to be ok!
Crochet involves using a hook to pull loops of yarn through other loops to create a variety of stitches including our beginner favs:
SINGLE CROCHET (SC)
The single crochet stitch (sc) is one of the simplest and most fundamental crochet stitches. This stitch forms a dense, tight fabric ideal for projects like amigurumi, homewares, and accessories.
DOUBLE CROCHET (DC)
The double crochet stitch (dc) is a versatile and commonly used crochet stitch that creates a looser, more open fabric compared to single crochet. This stitch is perfect for blankets, garments, and projects that require a bit more drape and flexibility.
HALF DOUBLE CROCHET (HDC)
The half double crochet stitch (hdc) is a versatile stitch that falls between single and double crochet in height. This stitch is great for creating a fabric that is both sturdy and flexible, making it ideal for garments, accessories, and home decor projects.
LET US TAKE YOU FROM ZERO TO KNITTING HERO!
Knitting involves using two (or more!) needles to create loops of yarn that interlock with each other to form a fabric.
The beauty of knitting is that with just two stitch types you can create almost anything (and certainly all of our Cardigang patterns).
Knit Stitch (K)
The knit stitch is the most basic and essential stitch in knitting. It’s what you’ll use to create the majority of your projects.
Purl Stitch (P)
The purl stitch is essentially the reverse of the knit stitch. Mastering both knit and purl stitches opens the door to a world of textures and patterns.
REMEMBER TO USE YOUR QR CODE
Ready to tackle your kit? Remember to use the QR code in your pattern for step-by-step instructions, videos and pictures.
HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR HANDMADE MASTERPIECE
You've put a lot of work into making your masterpiece. So let's make sure you care for it properly.
WASHING
Try not to wash your piece too often. before you go in for the full wash, consider if you can spot-clean the piece first.
If it is time for a full wash, make sure you're washing by hand. (Hint: putting it in the machine on a hand wash is not technically handwashing – sorry!).
Wash your knit in cool water with a wool detergent and don't leave her in the water for too long.
Roll in a clean towel to remove excess water and dry flat out of direct sunlight.
GROOMING
Your special pieces need special care. It's normal for your woollen pieces to shed or pill (aka get a bit bally).
This is due to the delicate nature of the woollen fibres and tends to happen in places where your knit is coming into contact or rubbing against another surface or on itself - like under the arms.
To get rid of the balls, we recommend you use your fingers and gently remove them from the garment. Work in the one direction and don't overdo it!
If you'd prefer, you can also use an electric depillar (otherwise known as an electric fabric shaver) to groom your knit, just make sure you're gentle.
You can also pat your kit (just with your hands) to help bond the fibres and reduce future shedding and pilling.
BLOCKING
Blocking your knitted or crocheted piece is optional and not all beginners will block their work but it can improve the overall shape and finish of your piece and can help it to last longer.
Blocking your work is a process where you wet your piece to set the finished size and even out the stitches.
You can choose to block your work before you seam it together, or after. if you block before seaming together you might get a better result with your seaming because the stitches will be more lined up.
STORAGE
It's best to fold your handmade pieces and store them somewhere where they can remain flat, rather than hanging them.
Folding them helps them to keep their shape over time. A drawer or shelf in the wardrobe out of direct sunlight is great.
If you can store them in a sealable cotton bag that's even better because moths can't get through cotton!
STILL HAVE SOME BURNING QUESTIONS?
Check out our FAQs
TROUBLESHOOTING COMMON PROBLEMS
Even the best of us drop a stitch or two! Here are some quick fixes for common knitting hiccups:
What if I need help with my project?
We’ve got you covered! You can reach out to us anytime at stitchup@cardigang.com.au. We also have a friendly and welcoming online community where you can share your progress, ask questions, and get tips from fellow makers.
I’ve dropped a stitch, what do I do?
Don’t panic! Dropping a stitch happens to the best of us. Check out our how-to videos and guides for step-by-step instructions on how to pick up a dropped stitch and get back on track.
My knitting/crochet looks uneven, any tips?
Uneven stitches are common, especially when you’re just starting out. Make sure you’re maintaining consistent tension and take your time. Practice makes perfect!
I’m confused by the pattern instructions, help!
We’re here for you! If you’re stuck on a part of the pattern, reach out to us at stitchup@cardigang.com.au. We can provide additional guidance and support to help you through it.
My gauge doesn’t match the pattern, what should I do?
Gauge can vary based on individual tension. Try using a different needle or hook size to achieve the correct gauge. Swatching before you start your project can help ensure a perfect fit.
I’m having trouble with my tension, any suggestions?
Consistent tension takes practice. Try to relax and maintain a steady rhythm. Holding the yarn differently or adjusting your grip can also help. Check out our tips on achieving even tension.
Can I undo my work if I make a mistake?
Absolutely! Knitting and crochet are very forgiving crafts. You can undo stitches to correct mistakes. We have resources available to help you “frog” your work (rip it, rip it!) and start again.
Join the Cardigang Community
Choose one of our kits, and you’re joining the Cardigang community. Share your progress, ask questions, and get tips from fellow crafters who are just as excited about knitting and crocheting as you are. We’re a supportive, creative family, and we can’t wait to see what you create.
Dive in today and discover the joy of knitting. Whether you’re knitting for yourself or creating gifts for loved ones, we’re here to cheer you on every step of the way. 🧶💕
Happy stitching, and welcome to the gang!
