Here's how I stopped doomscrolling and started knitting
From tools and starter kits to the real mental health benefits of needlework, here's everything beginners need to know about the hobby.
Kyley Warren- Young people are increasingly choosing analog hobbies like knitting and crochet over screen time.
- Repetitive crafts can offer health benefits, such as calming the mind and practicing mindfulness.
- Essential tools for starting include yarn, needles for knitting, and a hook for crocheting.
In the past year, I've managed to cut my screen time in half—not because I'm some emblem of discipline (I wish), but because I've replaced my usual binge-scrolling tendencies with actual hobbies. More specifically, with needlework projects like knitting and crochet, which help keep my hands busy and my mind grounded.
Evidently, I'm far from alone; recent data shows that young people are increasingly rejecting their phones in favor of analog activities or "grandmacore" hobbies, with some scientists even arguing that repetitive crafts like knitting and crochet offer more health benefits than people might think, including the ability to "calm the mind" and practice more mindfulness.
If you're looking to pick up a new hobby this year, but don't know where to start, I've curated the ultimate knitting and crochet guide for beginners—with digestible breakdowns of each hobby, plus the tools you'll need to start any crochet craft or easy knitting project.
Below, check out the best knitting and crochet essentials for beginners—with items ranging from amateur knitting kits and storage solutions to the best yarn for beginners, needlepoint tools and so much more:
Knitting vs. crochet: Which hobby should you start with?
There are many differences between knitting and crochet, but the primary contrast is in the types of items you're looking to create. Crochet is the best hobby for beginners (even over knitting), as it involves faster projects like 3D knits or plushies, whereas knitting often entails more detailed projects like garments and textured materials.
You can create blankets and scarves through both techniques, though crochet is generally considered easier to pick up faster. Explore each hobby more in depth below; plus, keep reading to shop the best knitting supplies and best crochet supplies:
- The basics of knitting + essential knitting tools
- The basics of crochet + essential crochet tools
- Starter kits for knitting and crochet
- Storage solutions for knitting and crochet supplies
The basics of knitting
Contrary to what you might think, knitting is a surprisingly easy skill to pick up and learn; the needlework craft involves four primary techniques, including:
- Creating a slip knot—aka the foundation loop with which you'll start a project from.
- Casting or starting stitches
- Forming fabric (the knit stitch technique)
- Binding off the material
This hobby is great for practicing mindfulness, as it entails a smooth, meditative repetition—and can enable you to make clothing, blankets and more from scratch. All you'll need to get started are two needles, medium or bulky weight yarn and a few more knitting supplies. Shop the top knitting tools for beginners here:
Shop essential knitting tools for beginners
The basics of crochet
Crocheting is a popular needlework technique that relies on one hook to complete stitches (as opposed to knitting's two needles), and is great for creating a variety of small, fast-paced projects—namely 3D items like plushies and amigurumi, as well as blankets, beanies and more. Key crocheting techniques include:
- Creating a slip knot—aka the foundation loop with which you'll start a project from.
- Mastering a chain stitch, where you'll wrap yarn over the hook and pull.
- Practicing single crochet, half-double crochet or double crochet techniques.
The hobby is great for beginners who are interested in more fast-paced needlework projects, as well as those looking to practice more mindfulness with a technique that's grounding and requires intense concentration. All you'll need to get started is a crochet hook, medium-weight yarn and a few more crocheting supplies. Shop the top crochet tools for beginners here:
Shop essential crochet tools for beginners
Shop more starter kits for knitters and crocheters
If you need a little extra direction before starting your first knitting project or crochet craft, consider a starter kit—which often comes equipped with all the tools you'll need to conquer one specific project, along with a guide on how to crochet step-by-step.
Shop our top picks for the best starter knitting kits and crochet bundles for beginners:
- Shop craft kits for beginners from The Woobles
- Super Duper Sweater Beginner Knitting Kit from Wool and the Gang
- Knit Kit Winterland Three Stitch Blanket from Lion Brand Yarn
- Beginner knit kits from Etsy
- Itty Bitty Knit Kit from Five Below
Affordable storage and organization ideas for your new hobby
Now that you've stocked up on all the best knitting and crochet supplies for beginners, there's only one thing left to do: find somewhere to store all of it. Luckily, there are tons of knitting storage solutions and crochet bag organizers that'll help you keep your yarn tidy and projects in tact—even when you're in the thick of creating them.
Shop top-rated craft storage options:
Are knitting and crochet good hobbies for stress relief?
Absolutely—and I say this from experience. In theory any hobby is great for brain development and sharpness, but repetitive stitching, in particular, is considered a great mindfulness activity—as it requires focused attention and can help ground the mind (similar to meditation).
In fact, a study from Cardiff University in the United Kingdom even found that knitting has significant psychological and social benefits, with 3,545 knitters surveyed knitters (many of whom cited knitting for stress relief and relaxation) reporting higher cognitive functioning, improved social contact and communication with others.
How long does it take to learn to knit or crochet?
It's totally dependent on the types of knitting patterns or crochet crafts you're looking to try—and how much time you're willing to invest in each. Intricate cablework or lace knits are often considered more advanced projects that require years of experience, while toques, beanies and even felt/knit crafts are marketed as the best beginner tasks.
I personally started with the latter and began a tradition where I knit felt ornaments for friends during the holidays; after one holiday season (and countless hours spent stitching), I was confident enough to advance into more robust knit projects—like fabric embroidery and crochet work.
Discover more shopping guides
- Best indoor gardening kits for vibrant, healthy plants all-year long
- Find kid-friendly events and activities for April 2026
- Your guide to the most popular sites to buy theater tickets online
- Best eco-friendly meal kit delivery services for sustainable living
- Your summer skincare shopping guide for hydration, sun protection
- Your ultimate guide to the best places to buy concert tickets
USA TODAY Shopping will be covering all the best deals and drops, so be sure to sign up for text alerts, check us out on Flipboard, follow us on TikTok, sign up for our newsletter and follow us on Instagram to stay updated!
Our editors independently choose our recommendations. Some content is produced with paid support from a third party, however our editorial decisions remain independent. If you buy through our links, the USA TODAY Network may earn a commission. Prices and availability may change.