Beginner Knit Kits: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your First Knit Kit
Embarking on your knitting journey is an exciting adventure full of colour, texture, and a world of designs you can make for yourself or for others. If you’ve ever been captivated by the idea of creating cozy scarves, stylish hats, or beautiful blankets, choosing your first beginner knit kits can feel overwhelming. With countless options and endless possibilities, where do you even start? This ultimate guide is here to demystify the selection process, breaking down everything you need to know to make an informed choice. From understanding essential tools to picking the perfect yarn, we’ll help you find knitting kits already tailored for newcomers plus how to create your own. Let’s unravel the art of knitting together and unlock the joys of handmade creations!
Benefits of Starting with a Beginner Knit Kit
When you are new to knitting, the sheer variety of tools and materials can be overwhelming. This is where a beginner knit kit comes in handy. These kits are designed specifically for novices, providing all the essentials you need to start your first project. With everything conveniently packaged together, you can avoid the confusion of selecting individual items and focus on learning the craft. Beginner knit kits typically include yarn, needles, and a simple pattern, making them an ideal choice for first-timers and the perfect gift for kids or adults.
One of the main benefits of starting with a knit kit is the curated experience it offers. The yarn and needles included are usually chosen to complement the project, ensuring that you have the appropriate materials for your skill level. This eliminates the guesswork and reduces the chances of frustration, allowing you to concentrate on building your knitting skills. Moreover, the patterns provided in beginner knit kits are often straightforward and easy to follow, giving you the confidence to complete your first project successfully.
Key Components of a Beginner Knit Kit
A well-rounded beginner knit kit will typically include several essential components designed to help you get started on your knitting journey. The most important of these components are the yarn and needles. They are the primary tools you will use to create your projects. Yarn is available in various weights and fibers. The kit will usually include a type that is easy to work with for beginners. Needles come in different sizes and materials, such as wood, metal, or plastic. The kit will provide needles that are suitable for the included yarn.
In addition to yarn and needles, a beginner knit kit will often contain a pattern or instruction booklet. This pattern will guide you step-by-step through the process of creating your first project, whether it’s a simple scarf, hat, or dishcloth. The instructions are typically written in a way that is easy to understand, with clear diagrams and explanations of techniques. Some kits may also include links to online tutorials or videos, providing additional support for visual learners.
Other useful items that might be included in a beginner knit kit are stitch markers, tapestry needles, small embroidery scissors and a gauge ruler. Stitch markers help you keep track of your progress. They indicate important points in your pattern, such as where to increase or decrease stitches. Tapestry needles are used to weave in loose ends and join pieces of knitting together. Small scissors are often decorative as they have the important job of cutting the end of the yarn when the project is finished. A gauge ruler allows you to measure your knitting to ensure that you are achieving the correct tension. This is crucial for ensuring that your finished project turns out the expected size.
Check List
Most often in the kit
- Needles
- Yarn
- Pattern
Optional. You only need to buy them once.
- Darning needle
- Stitch markers
- Small scissors or thread cutters
- Stitch gauge board
Below I’ve listed what I consider to be good to excellent Knitting Kits for Beginners. Some of them contain everything needed. Others contain pattern and yarn. The kit page will say what sort of needles and other equipment are needed and you will be able to add those to your cart from the same online store before you check out. You can contact them if you need help finding the right tools. When they arrive at your house, you can slip the extra tools into the kit.
Why do they sometimes leave out the equipment needed? Lucky for knitters, once you buy good quality equipment, it will often last a lifetime. If you bought a gift for someone which included say, size 6 needles last time, you won’t need to buy size 6 again, if that is what is needed for the next kit.
What Is A Suitable Pattern For A Beginner Knitter?
The simplest is a scarf in the shape of a rectangle. Hats are ok and are great if you are budget conscious but take a little more care.
When I taught myself, I made a number of very simple scarfs using thick wool. They were either in the shape of a flat rectangle or “in the round” (otherwise known as a cowl which is a closed tube you pull over your head). From there, I bought a really basic “learn to knit” book and made a very simple sweater, also using thick wool. My goodness, that felt like such an accomplishment. After that, I started to learn more about the patterns you can create in the fabric. I bought some smaller needles and finer wool to make more sophisticated shapes. Socks were further along the journey as they can be quite fiddly. Don’t assume they are basic!
Not everyone follows that journey but, if you have made a few things yourself, or the person you are buying the kit for has maybe already made a scarf, then you might use my journey as a guide of what pattern to buy for lifting them to the next level.
You’ll notice I’ve not included any Amazon links in this list. Let’s support the privately owned businesses in our community!
Popular Beginner Knit Kits in America
There are many beginner knit kits available on the market, each offering a unique combination of materials and patterns to suit different tastes, budgets and skill levels. One popular option is the Knit Picks Beginner Kits, which include high-quality yarn, wooden needles, 3 beginner level patterns and a book to teach you how to knit and purl. The kit also comes with stitch markers and darning needle, making it easy for beginners to follow along and complete their first project. The only thing I would add are the small scissors / thread snips.
Another highly recommended brand of kits is the Lion Brand Yarn Beginner Scarf Kit. This kit includes everything you need to knit a cozy scarf, including soft acrylic yarn, bamboo needles, and a step-by-step instruction booklet. The pattern is designed to be easy for beginners to follow, with clear diagrams and explanations of each technique. The Lion Brand Yarn kit is also budget-friendly, making it an excellent choice for those looking to start knitting without a significant investment. Navigate to “Kits”, then “Knit” in the top menu.
If you are interested in eco-friendly options, the Wool and the Gang Newbie Kit is an excellent choice. This kit includes sustainably sourced yarn, biodegradable needles, and a pattern for a stylish hat or scarf. The instructions are beginner-friendly and include links to video tutorials for additional support. Wool and the Gang is known for their commitment to sustainability and ethical production practices, making their kits a great option for environmentally conscious crafters. They have bases in UK and America. SPECIAL NOTE: Type “Annabelle Drumm” at the checkout when you buy anything on this website and you will get 20% off.
Knit Kits from Europe and the UK
That Crafty Stitch has some excellent, well priced Beginner Knit kits including pattern, needles and a choice of colours for your yarn. A lot of the projects are small like hats and scarfs so they don’t take long to complete. Use the word “cosy” as a coupon when you check out for 15% off.
Hobbii in Denmark have some good basic patterns that are either free or low cost. You can see below the pattern they recommend the needles and yarn. Here’s an example. https://hobbii.com/cyanit-scarf They also have the other equipment I’ve listed in the kit components above. If you don’t like their patterns, feel free to use the one I’ve suggest below. Hobbii also have a great range of bags for your kit here: https://hobbii.com/accessories?subcategory=Yarn%20Bags
There’s a range of prices in the Stitch and Story Beginner level knitting kits. Most contain the yarn, pattern and a darning needle. You simply add the needles they recommend to complete the kit. If you subscribe to their newsletter before you buy, you get a 20% coupon code for your first order.
Australia And New Zealand Knitting Kits
Ashford Craft Shop The best packaging I’ve seen so far for Beginner Knit Kits. This would make a lovely gift. Includes pattern, gorgeous yarn and knitting needles encased in an organza drawstring bag. You’ll find good value stitch markers, Quick Gauge, darning needles and scissors (thread snips) listed under Yarn/ Accessories.
Wild and Woolly Yarns. Kits include yarn and pattern and any buttons or notions. They have needles though you will need to add them separately to your cart.
Meanwhile, in Australia, there’s an excellent choice of kits at Little Yarn Co, with price points ranging from around $30 to over $200. This varies depending on the size of the project and also the quality of the yarn, ranging from inexpensive cotton through to luxury, hand dyed merino. Make sure the pattern is included, what needles and equipment you will need to add.
How to Evaluate the Quality of a Knit Kit
When selecting beginner knit kits, it’s important to evaluate the quality of the materials and instructions included. High-quality yarn and needles can make a significant difference in your knitting experience, making it easier to work with and resulting in a more polished finished project.
>Look for kits that include yarn made from natural fibers or high-quality acrylic, as these materials are typically more pleasant to work with and provide better results.
The quality of the needles is also important. Wooden or bamboo needles are often recommended for beginners due to their smooth surface and slight grip, which helps prevent stitches from slipping off. Metal needles will carry you through as you become a better knitter. They are well suited to a faster knitting speed. Plastic needles can be less durable and may not provide the same level of comfort and control as wooden or metal needles.
In addition to the materials, consider the quality of the instructions provided in the kit. If you are in a store, look for kits that include clear, detailed patterns with step-by-step instructions and diagrams. Some kits also offer access to online tutorials or videos, which can be incredibly helpful for visual learners. Reading reviews from other knitters can also provide valuable insights into the quality and ease of use of a particular knit kit.
Making Your Own Beginner Knit Kit
Whether the Knit Kit is for yourself or you want to create a gift for someone just beginning, it can be great fun putting together your own kit.
- Start with a pattern and tutorial like this one. It’s free to download, includes instructions to get you started plus several basic patterns. You can print it on heavy paper at home or at a printing/photocopy service.
- Bind it in a slim folder and use your scrapbook skills to create a nice front cover with a personal message for the lucky recipient. For a smaller kit, simply staple the pages together and fold them up.
- Read what yarn and equipment are needed for say, the Garter Stitch Scarf, which is a great place to start. Head to your local yarn shop, general store or shop online for the equipment. Choose colours that will suit the recipient. TIP: Avoid black and really dark colours. Even advanced knitters can find these yarns difficult to work.
- Get a lovely Tote bag with a zipper to keep everything safe inside. Again you can choose to match the personality and age. If the outside is made of canvas, they can decorate it the way they want with paint or permanent marker.
Types of Yarn: Choosing the Right Material
Selecting the right yarn is a crucial step in any knitting project, especially for beginners. Yarn comes in a variety of fibres, weights, and textures, each of which can affect the look and feel of your finished piece. Common types of yarn fibres include wool, cotton, acrylic, and blends of these materials. Wool is a popular choice for its warmth and elasticity, making it easy to work with and forgiving of mistakes. Cotton, on the other hand, is less stretchy but provides a smooth, breathable fabric that is ideal for warm-weather garments.
Acrylic yarn is another excellent option for beginners due to its affordability, durability, and wide range of colours. It is also machine washable, which makes it practical for everyday items like blankets and garments. While some may find it less pleasant to work with compared to natural fibres, modern acrylic yarns have come a long way in terms of softness and quality. Blended yarns, which combine natural and synthetic fibres, offer the best of both worlds, providing the benefits of each material.
Yarn weight is another important consideration and will be detailed in the pattern. Yarn is categorised by weight, from the finest lace weight to the thickest super bulky. For beginners, medium-weight yarns such as DK, worsted or aran are typically recommended. These weights are easy to handle and provide good stitch definition, making it simpler to see and correct any mistakes.
Tips for Getting Started with Your First Knit Project
Starting your first knit project can be both exciting and a little daunting. One of the best tips for beginners is to choose a simple project to start with. Scarves, dishcloths, and basic hats are great options that allow you to practice the fundamental techniques without getting overwhelmed by complex patterns. By starting small, you can build your confidence and skills before moving on to more challenging projects.
Take your time to read through the entire pattern before you begin. Familiarise yourself with the instructions and make sure you understand each step. If there are any unfamiliar terms or techniques, look them up in a knitting reference book or online tutorial. Understanding the pattern fully before you start will help you avoid mistakes and ensure a smoother knitting experience.
Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Knitting is a learning process, and even experienced knitters make errors from time to time. If you find a mistake in your work, take a deep breath and try to fix it. Many mistakes can be corrected without having to unravel your entire project. Use online resources, such as video tutorials and knitting forums, to find solutions and get tips from other knitters. Remember, every mistake is an opportunity to learn and improve.
Common Mistakes to Avoid as a Beginner Knitter
As a beginner knitter, it’s natural to encounter some common mistakes along the way. One of the most frequent errors is knitting too tightly or too loosely. Tension plays a crucial role in the final appearance and feel of your project, and achieving a consistent tension takes practice. If your stitches are too tight, it can be difficult to insert your needle and your finished piece may be stiff. Conversely, if your stitches are too loose, your work may look sloppy and lack structure.
Another common mistake is misreading or skipping parts of the pattern. Take your time to read through the entire pattern before you begin and make sure you understand each step. If you come across any unfamiliar terms or techniques, look them up in a knitting reference book or online tutorial. I find it useful to tick off the paragraphs I have completed so, if I put the work down for a few days or more, I can easily see where I left off.
Dropping stitches – it’s a problem that cannot be ignored! If I could find a way to collect the dropped stitch on the next row, I would do so. If I tightened my lips saying “she’ll be right” and kept going, the error would sit there gleefully catching my eye each time I looked at the work. Some errors can be “fudged” as we say, where you cheat to fix it. Other times, I would just prefer to undo the work carefully and correct the error and get moving with the mantra “I can do it better this time.”
Finally, many beginners struggle with counting stitches and rows accurately. To avoid this, use stitch markers to mark important points in your pattern and regularly count your stitches to ensure you have the correct number. Keeping track of your rows can also be challenging, especially for larger projects. Consider using a row counter or making notes in your pattern to help you stay on track.
Conclusion: Embracing Your Knitting Journey
Embarking on your knitting journey is a rewarding experience that offers endless opportunities for creativity and self-expression. By choosing the right beginner knit kit, you can set yourself up for success and enjoy the process of learning a new skill. As you gain confidence and experience, you’ll be able to tackle more complex projects and explore new techniques, expanding your skills and creativity. Embrace the journey and let your creativity flourish, knowing that with every stitch, you’re contributing to a rich tradition of handmade artistry.