How to Knit

How to Start: Cast On

Every knitting project begins with one simple loop.

1. Make a slipknot and place it on your needle. - that's your first stitch.
2. Cast on the number of stitches your pattern requires.
   • Insert your working needle (right for right-handed knitters, left for left-handed knitters) into the loop, wrap the yarn around, and gently pull it through.
3. Keep your stitches even — not too tight, not too loose.

Your First Stitches: Knit and Purl

Here’s where your knitting comes to life. The two basic stitches are knit and purl.

Let’s start with the knit stitch:

• Hold your needles so that your stitches rest on your main needle (left for right-handed knitters, right for left-handed knitters).
• Insert your working needle into the first stitch.
• Wrap the yarn around the tip of that needle.
• Pull the loop through and slide the old stitch off.

Well done! You've just made your first knit stitch!

The purl stitch is similar, but the yarn stays in front of your needles. These two stitches form the foundation of all knitting patterns.

Once you’ve mastered both, you can create any pattern you like!

Shape Your Piece: Increase and Decrease

As you keep knitting, your fabric begins to take shape — soft, flexible, and full of character.

To make your piece wider, increase stitches. To make it narrower,  decrease stitches (by knitting two together).

These simple steps let you create sleeves, curves, and edges with shape and style.

Bind off (Finish your Edge)

When your project is the right size, it’s time to finish neatly.

• Knit two stitches.
• Lift the first stitch over the second and off the needle.
• Knit one more and repeat until only one loop remains.
• Cut your yarn, leaving a 4-inch tail, and gently it through.

You’ve finished your first knitted piece — congratulations!

Care for Your Piece

Your handmade creation deserves love and care. Wash it gently, reshape it while damp, and lay it flat to dry.

All Hoooked yarns are made from recycled textiles — soft on your skin and kind to the planet.

Start with a DIY Project

Once you’ve learned the basics, try one of our Hoooked DIY Knitting Kits.

Each kit includes everything you need — recycled yarn, knitting needles, and an easy-to-follow pattern.

Start with a soft scarf, a chunky cushion, or a cosy tote bag — perfect beginner projects to build your confidence.