Category: Blog Posts

Luxury gifts for someone who crochets: Tool bags.
If you’re trying to think of what kind of nice, luxury gift you can give to a crocheter who seems to have everything, look no further than this range of stylish tool bags and holders.
I’ll talk you through five of our favourite luxury crochet hook tool bags and organisers.
I’ve hand-picked tool bags and pouches with more than 4 stars in their reviews!
Maisie Moo Gifts Personalised Crochet Hook Pouch. £12.99 ($17.50)
This crochet hook storage pouch can be personalised. What’s even better is that this one is made by a small business in the UK. Shop small this Christmas with something special. Here’s what you get with this pouch:
1. Measures Approx 21cm x 13cm x 6cm
2. Includes Two Internal Zipped Compartments
3. Exclusive Maisie Moo Gifts Design
4. Personalised with your choice of name, making it extra special for the recipient of the gift.
What the reviews say: Reviewers day that it fits all of their crochet hooks as well as scissors, stitch markers, measuring tapes and small, on-the-go crochet projects.
You can get the Maisie Moo personalised crochet hook case on amazon.
2. Teamoy Crochet Hook Case. £14.99 ($20)
This crochet hook case will store everything a crocheter can throw at it in the tools and notions department. Easily fit crochet hooks, measuring tapes, stitch markers, knitting needles, stitch counters and more in this handy, portable storage pouch. This is a lovely gift to give to a crocheter as it has a pretty, floral design on the outer cover, too.
Here’s more information on this crochet tool storage pouch:
- Easily store a range of crochet hooks in the elastic loops.
- Zip pockets for smaller tools and stitch markers.
- Top flaps to stop hooks falling out when in transit.
- A stylish rope-tie to close the case.
- Dimensions are 53cm long when opened out. 21 cm tall.
- Choice of design (cats alternative pictured below).
You can get your Teamoy crochet hook storage pouch here.
Please note that this post contains affiliate links meaning that if you decide to purchase from those links, I earn a small commission at no cost to you.
3. Becko Yarn Bag For Crochet And Knitting Projects and Tools. £19.99 ($27).
This bag is beautiful, boasting functionality and a stylish, minimalist design. As you can see, not only is there room for crochet hooks but also knitting needles (and Tunisian crochet hooks) as well as an outer pocket for stitch markers, row counters and other useful accessories. In the inside compartment, you can store yarns or a current project. This storage bag makes travelling with your knitting and crochet simple.
Here are more specifications for this yarn storage bag:
- High Quality – Becko yarn storage bag is crafted out of premium printed linen fabric, lightweight yet durable. Printed olive leaves just add to an elegant look.
- Large Capacity – Our yarn bag measures 15.6 × 7 × 11.7in, capacious enough to hold all items and kits for knitting. The main compartment not only provides spacious enough for your unfinished needlework, but also has two slots to store your phone, wallet and other items in need.
- Orderly Storage – The smaller zipped pocket on the front is for organizing and storing knitting needles, crochet hooks, and other tools and accessories needed. Holds knitting needles of up to 13.6 inches and guarantees fast access to the tools and accessories you need.
- Considerate Design – A slip pocket on the back is for storing yarn balls in use and spare ones. Three grommets are for conveniently threading yarn through from the yarn balls being used to the main compartment, which effectively prevents yarn threads from tangling. The lower part of the back pocket is a transparent window and offers you a clear view to the colors and sizes of the yarn balls inside.
- Portable & Practical – Our knitting bag comes with a comfy handle and a detachable shoulder strap for being effortlessly carried as a shoulder bag or a cross-body bag. It goes very well along with every fashion styles and also serves as a stylish shopping bag. Definitely an ideal gift for knitting fans.
If you’d like to get this bag for someone you love, you can find it here.
4. Muud Stockholm leather Needle Organizer Case. £65 ($87)
Although this case has been advertised as a circular knitting needle storage pouch, it is also incredibly useful for crochet. In each of the pockets, you can easily fit at least a crochet hook. It also has a wider pouch at the side for hooks, stitch markers, measuring tapes and other accessories.
This case is also excellent for other crafts such as embroidery and crochet. There are three other pouches inside as well as a larger zipped pouch to secure other accessories. It also folds up beautifully.
Here are some more specifications from Muud:
- Made from genuine leather
- Height: 31 cm, width: 38 cm, length: 8 cm
- Care instructions: Muud Care & Clean
- This beautiful Stockholm leather case by Muud makes it possible to carefully store and organise your knitting needles and all sorts of accessories. An absolute favourite accessory for all knitting enthusiasts. The case is both luxurious and practical. The various compartments and storage spaces help you keep an overview of all your knitting needles and utensils.
- The case holds up to 12 interchangeable needle tips in sizes 2.5mm – 8mm. There are three pockets for needle ropes and a large zipped compartment where additional knitting accessories such as scissors, tape measure and stitch markers. Perfect for those who value quality and good craftsmanship
- Leather is a natural material, so its appearance may vary from product to product. The actual colour of the product may also vary from the visual representation on this website.
What reviews say: Reviewers say it is a beautiful and practical case for their needs. The case not only looks great, but also offers plenty of space for a whole set of needle tips and cords. The compartments are designed so that everything fits in well and nothing accidentally slips out. Crafters love to use it, especially when they’re on the go.
You can get the Muud Stockholm accessory pouch here.
5. Muud Frida Wollhaus handmade leather shoulder bag for knitting and crochet tools. £77 ($103)
This bag is beautiful and really is a luxury gift for a crocheter or knitter. This zipped shoulder bag does not look like a tool storage bag at all, making it well-suited to the commute and crafting on-the-go.
More specifications from Muud:
- 100% genuine leather
- Width: 22 cm, height: 15 cm
- Available in two colours: whisky and black
- Removable and adjustable shoulder strap
- Compartments with space for knitting needles and needle ropes
- A practical inner pocket with zip with space for small items
- Closes with a zip
Get your muud X Frida Wollhaus cross-body tool bag here.
What reviewers say: reviewers love the storage capacity and sleek, useful design.
Overall, these are our favourite crochet tool bags to give as a luxury gift to someone in your life who can’t get enough of hooks and yarn.
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October 2, 2025
How to create crochet fabric that drapes.
In this post, I’ll be talking about drape in crochet and how you can make a few simple tweaks to ensure your crochet fabric hangs as you want it to.
You may have heard that crochet fabric doesn’t look as good as knit fabric. Did you know that it can? Here I will explain how to create fabric that drapes!
If you’re a frequent knitter and you’ve dabbled with crochet, one of the main observations you may have made is the difference in drape. You may have heard knitters say that they don’t like the ‘stiff’ fabric that crochet produces, but I want to tell you that it doesn’t have to be stiff and boxy. Here I will show you how to create crochet fabric that drapes well.
What is drape and why does it matter in crochet?
Drape is the way that a fabric flows or hangs. It allows it to sweep, gather or float off the body or sway in the wind. It’s gorgeous and it is absolutely what we want when it comes to shawls and garments. Think of chiffon sarongs, velvet curtains or lace shawls. How something drapes is down to a few factors of which I will explain below.
Example above: The Daphne shawl.
As a rule, crochet stitches do tend to produce a thicker, denser fabric as the method of crochet requires wrapping and ‘knotting’ in the way the stitches are formed. If we were to compare crochet fabric with knit fabric according to the recommended hook and needle sizes on a ball band, the crochet will most probably be thicker, but this does not mean that crochet fabric is always stiff and dense. It is a common misconception that crochet fabric makes rubbish garments and that it is always stiff.
You can create drape with crochet fabric and it doesn’t just have to be with lace and openwork.
There are many ways that you can create looser, draping fabric with crochet that doesn’t have to result in it being completely see through and vulnerable to door handles.
This could be done in several ways:
1. The size of the crochet hook used.
2. The direction of the stitches e.g. vertical is less see through than horizontal.
3. The thickness of the yarn.
4. The stitch pattern.
5. The yarn used. Some yarns are just softer and have more drape, or a thinner feel to them. Not all 4ply and DK is the same thickness, for example.
6. Blocking.
Size matters when creating drape.
If you use the crochet hook size recommended on the ball of yarn, I can almost guarantee that you will end up with a dense fabric. If you go up half a millimetre or a full millimetre, it will become a looser fabric. You can keep experimenting with this until you get to a hook size that creates the drape you want.
Horizontal vs vertical can improve your results when creating drape in crochet fabrics.
If you turn a crochet piece on its side, the layout of the stitches and the drop changes. This could help with drape too (depending on yarn).
Thickness of the yarn can affect drape
Using an aran or chunky yarn will cause problems if you don’t go up a hook size. If you have loose enough tension, you can get away with the recommended hook size, but if you can’t, you need to increase your hook size. Here is an example of a chunky/bulky weight yarn that has drape in a cardigan.
Believe it or not, you can get chunky weight yarn to drape. Creating crochet fabric that drapes with chunky yarn may seem unlikely but it is possible. Above is my Starburst crochet cardigan pattern and although it asks for chunky yarn and a 6mm hook, it has drape! It hangs off the body and the sleeves drape too. It is not a stiff jacket, it’s a cardigan. Bear in mind that although the pattern may ask for a specific size, you will know from your test square whether the finished item will drape how it is supposed to or not. Most makers will achieve the desired fabric if they go up a hook size, as my tension seems to be quite loose! You should always test your personal tension with the yarn to see if the yarn is thin or thick enough!
The stitch pattern used will affect the finished result.
The stitch pattern you use affects drape considerably. For example, double (UK treble) crochet is a longer, looser stitch than its predecessor, the single crochet stitch.
Single crochet (UK Double) is also the most dense stitch you can make. It is therefore brilliant for items that require structure, stiffness or an opaque, tight fabric. Here are some examples of where single crochet works wonders:
- amigurumi (pictured below)
- baskets
- bags
- rugs
- hard wearing throws e.g. dog blankets
- Pet beds
- Bath mats
- Face scrubbies
- Pouches and cases
It’s not just single crochet that will cause stiffness though.
Using any stitch can cause stiffness. All you have to do is use a crochet hook a couple of sizes smaller than the yarn recommends. It works just the same with knitting.
Yarns
We have briefly covered the yarn and the recommended sizes that come on the ball band. In my experience, the ball band isn’t always correct. This is because they are a guide rather than an absolute. That ball band does not take into account what your personal tension is. I was also saying that not all 4ply or DK yarns are the same. This is where wraps per inch (wpi) comes in handy. I will explain further in another blog post, but basically:
Working out WPI:
Wrap your yarn around a pencil or a pair of knitting needles for 3-4 inches. Using a ruler, measure how many wraps per inch. This gives you a clear idea of how thick your yarn actually is. Although Cygnet boho spirit says it is DK, the recommended hook/needle is 4.5-5mm. If I were to work out wpi with Cygnet boho and Cygnet DK, they would be different thicknesses.
Blocking creates drape!
If you are using natural fibres, blocking is invaluable for altering the drape and the feel of the finished item. It can help it to hold it’s shape and open out any stitches that are deliberately loose e.g. lace stitches. You can also block acrylic by ‘killing’ the fabric with steam or a warm iron just hovering above it, but most of the time, acrylic can drape if you just use the right hook.
Overall, I think experimenting with crochet and trying out crochet drape is worth the time. I don’t think knitters should shy away from crochet because the stitches are different.
August 4, 2025
There’s more to crochet than granny squares but it’s a good place to start
It’s a common misconception that crafters make to think that crochet is only about granny squares and anything that vaguely resembles a granny square. That’s not true. There is so much more to crochet than granny squares but it is a good place to start and I will tell you why in this post.
What else can I crochet?
First, we should talk about what other options there are for crocheters who don’t want to have a go at crochet squares. There are many things you can crochet without having to make anything square. Using any of the four basic crochet stitches, you can create garments, bags, blankets, toys, home decor and much much more.
All crochet stitch patterns are made of one of the following stitches:
- Single crochet (UK treble)
- Half double crochet (UK half treble)
- Double crochet (UK treble)
Every stitch following these stitches is just a variant or a ‘build’ on the basics. To make a triple stitch (UK triple treble) you make a double crochet twice. To make a shell or fan stitch, you need to make 5 double crochet stitches into the same chain. To make a v stitch, you make two double crochet stitches into the same chain, with one chain separating them to create the v shape.

If you do want to start with the granny square, that’s fantastic! You can learn a few things from this clever shape:
1. You can learn how to build in rounds.
2. Learn to change colours.
3. Learn to make corner spaces.
4. Learn how a chain space works.
5. Keep them small or make something massive!
As you can see, you can learn a lot from that humble square. There’s something pretty and comforting about a granny square throw. This one is available as a free pattern here.
The humble granny square is a great place to start and here are some further posts to help you get going:
Free Granny Square Patterns to try:
Totes Crochet Bag. Free Granny Square Tote Bag Pattern.
Free Beginner Granny Square Pattern For Beginners
Kits and patterns that build on the granny square:
These kits and patterns contain affiliate links. This means that if you choose to purchase, I do receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Sirdar Stories Crochet Metro Top
Sirdar Stories: Poetic Pastels Our Metro Square Top puts the fashionable crochet granny square front and centre. If you haven’t tried a granny square to wear yet, this is an easy crochet pattern to get you started. As well as your granny square, you’ll crochet panels of double crochet and use gradual shaping to create the flattering deep u-shaped neckline, tapered shoulders and neat fit that will make this top a summer staple. Great for beginners!
Sirdar Stories DK Urban Hues Cardigan Crochet Pattern
Crochet some pretty pastel granny squares, add a flattering open neckline and wide airy sleeves to make your summer essential Urban Hues Cardigan. Perfect pattern for intermediate. Use panels of granny stripes to get a neater fit and give your new favourite crop cardigan a crisp finish with a double crochet trim.
July 10, 2025
Cuddle and play crochet cat blanket kit. Crochet kits for baby gifts.
This article highlights the crochet cat blanket kit by Dreamy Wool. Crochet kits for baby gifts have everything you need for that special, handmade gift.
Whether you are more of an avid amigurumi creator or a blanket connoisseur, these crochet cat kits combine both of those things to give you a toy that unravels to become a blanket!
This article contains affiliate links. This means that if you choose to purchase, I earn a small commission at no cost to you.
This cat crochet kit is adorable, and it’s a popular hit with those looing for a simple crochet gift they can make themselves. Take the guesswork out of it with a Dreamy Wool crochet cat blanket kit.
Cuddle and Play Cat Blanket Kit
This crochet cat kit comes in three variations:
- A baby blanket and cushion kit. (RRP £66.98)
- A child sized blanket kit. (RRP £76.96)
- An adult sized blanket kit. (RRP £86.94)
Left to right: Silver sprinkles/stripes, peppercorn and marmalade/stripes.
This adorable crochet cat also comes in five colour variations:
- Marmalade
- Marmalade/Stripes
- Silver Sprinkles/Stripes
- Peppercorn
- Strawberry ice cream
Cat kit shown in Strawberry Ice Cream
The patterns for these kits are intermediate level. They are designed by crochet designer Aneta Wawro (Crochet Arcade) and include all the materials to make the cat and blanket that you choose.
Materials not included in the kit:
- 6 mm crochet hook (3.5 mm hook optional)
- Large loop yarn needle
- Stitch markers
- Sharp ended needle
- Scissors
You can also get their crochet starter kit which is a crochet hook, stitch markers and a darning needle!
These kits make excellent gifts as a kit, or for you to make and then give to someone who loves cats. If you want to learn more about Dreamy Wool’s cuddle soft chunky yarn, you can see it here.
Overall, these adorable crochet cat blanket kits make excellent gifts for a baby shower, christening or if choosing the larger blanket…your sofa!
July 10, 2025
Best Granny Square Yarn and Kits out there in the UK right now.
Here’s a round up of the best granny square yarn and granny square kits out there right now from UK retailers. These retailers do also provide international delivery, so do have a look if you’re reading this from somewhere else in the world!
I’m rounding up some of my favourite yarns for granny squares as well as blankets.
This article contains affiliate links. This means that if you choose to purchase from the links I have provided, I do earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
First up: Granny square yarn? Is that a thing?
All yarn can be granny square yarn, it’s true. However, there is yarn out there more specifically tailored to your crochet needs.
Taken quite literally, there is now a range of self-patterning yarns out there that can make the granny square colour changes so you don’t have to. Let’s have a look at them:
Red Heart Granny Square Yarn
Here is a yarn that was designed just for granny squares. It is an interesting concept, but tension-allowing, you can get some granny squares out of this.
This image perfectly illustrates why this yarn is worth a punt. You don’t have the messy ends. However, you would have to match the tension exactly to get the same accurate colour change!
This yarn is available in a range of colours. This one is called Hyper Violet. It comes in a range of colours meaning no matter your preferred shades, there will be a granny square palette for you.
Key things about this granny square yarn:
- It comes in a 250g ball.
- It is a worsted weight/aran weight yarn, so will make a chunky granny square.
- It’s made by Red Heart Yarns, who are a US brand.
- This particular one that I’ve shared comes as a pack of 3, and it’s quite pricey compared to other yarns on the market.
Hanna’s verdict: don’t knock it ’til you’ve tried it, but I like the old fashioned method of joining new colours.
Classic Granny Square Yarn Favourites
Stylecraft special DK.
You can get this in just about every colour there is in the world. It’s a long time favourite for crochet as well as knitting. It’s an affordable, reliable yarn and it’s another 100% acrylic yarn. You may have to sew in or join the ends if you change colours, but you get so much more granny square out of each 100g ball.
Woolbox currently have Stylecraft Special DK in every colour under the sun and as well as this yarn, they also have several discounts, including ones you can claim with loyalty points.
Key things about this yarn:
Fibre Content 100% Acrylic
Washing Instructions 40 Wash
Brand Stylecraft
Size 4mm Needles
Metres Per Ball 295m
Tension 22 stitches x 30 rows to 10cm square
Ball Weight 100g
Yarn Weight Double Knit
Hanna’s verdict: The sky is the limit with this colour palette. I love it.
Stylecraft Special Aran
If you like your granny squares to work up quicker, you can also get Stylecraft Special in Aran. The colour palette for their aran range isn’t as vast as the DK range, but you can get every colour (just not a range of shades for each colour!)
This is a perfect granny square yarn for fuller-bodied blankets and throws. I’ve recommended acrylic here because of its machine washable qualities. If you were making a baby blanket for example, you can easily bung this in the machine and not end up shrinking it. It is therefore excellent for blankets that will end up in the hands of exhausted parents! It’s also excellent for picnic blankets and pet throws.
Key things about this yarn:
Fibre Content 100% Acrylic
Washing Instructions Machine Wash 30, Cool Tumble Dry
Brand Stylecraft
Metres Per Ball 196m
Tension 18 st x 24 rows
Hook/Needle size 5mm
Hanna’s verdict: This yarn is just as soft and durable as its DK cousin. I love that it’s a little bit thicker, helping me make more granny squares in front of the telly!
Paintbox Yarn ‘Simply’ DK, Aran or Chunky
This is Lovecrafts’ own brand yarn and it is a worthy rival to Stylecraft special for how durable, washable and soft it is. It is also a 100% premium acrylic yarn and makes vibrant, solid granny squares for throws, cushions and more.
See below for blanket patterns featuring Paintbox Simply yarns. This is an excellent granny square yarn in an equally vibrant palette and huge range of colours.
More Granny Square inspiration:
- Beginner Granny Square Blanket Pattern.
- Why you should try the granny square.
- How to make a granny square.
- How to get your granny squares right every time.
- How to join granny squares.
Granny Square Crochet Kits To Inspire You.
Paintbox Yarns Amour Afghan Blanket Kit.
You can get the pattern and yarn for this blanket in the warm Passion Rouge or the cool Romance Blue. This kit contains absolutely all the yarn you’d need for this granny square blanket.
Paintbox Yarns Casa Kahlo Blanket Kit
Crochet kit for Paintbox Yarns Simply Chunky Casa Kahlo Blanket. Bursting with folk-inspired granny patterns, Katie Jones’ Casa Kahlo Blanket is a rainbow of colour encased in blues. Granny octagons and hexagons full of bobbles, hearts, clusters and overlay flowers are brought together with coloured seaming and this heavenly blanket of colour is the perfect antidote to low spirits and chilly afternoons.
I realise that this is not technically a granny square throw but if you know how to make a granny square, you can crochet this amazing blanket!
July 8, 2025
How to make pom poms. Making pom poms and choosing the best pom pom maker.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you.
In this post I’m going to show you how I make perfectly round, full pom poms for hats and other craft projects. Pom poms can be notorious for falling apart or falling off after a few wears but I’m going to show you how I make them tightly, securely and in a way that ensures they’re full and easy to attach.
I’ll also show you the tools I recommend for making your own pom poms with a standard pom pom maker or a novelty style pom pom maker.
First, let’s talk about what you will need and why.
Do I need a good pom pom maker?
This is entirely subjective as I believe the technique is more important than the kit you use but saying that, using a great pom pom maker will help. I’m using a Knitpro pom pom maker for this tutorial. You can use two pieces of card if you would prefer but this method I have used here is the best way for me. I’ve made several pom poms over the years and I keep coming back to the pom pom maker because:
1. It’s accessible.
2. I don’t need to find new cardboard each time I want a pom pom.
3. It’s ready to use every time you need it.
Here’s my favourite pom pom maker, the Knitpro (known as knitters pride in the US) maker. Click here to shop for the pom pom makers that I used.
Pom poms are always shown as very fluffy, poofy additions to handmade hats. I’m going to show you how to make the best pom pom you can.
Here’s what you actually need to make a great pom pom:
1. A pom pom maker. You can use any maker (I’ve recommended some in this guide). Just choose something that you find easy to use.
2. Sharp, sharp scissors. The best scissors for this job are fabric scissors. I used Fiskars scissors which can be found here.
3. A darning needle.
4. At least 25g of good quality yarn.
Why is yarn important?
How the yarn has been plied (how many strands were twisted to make the yarn) will matter when it comes to making pom poms. For example, a 2ply yarn (as in, plied twice, not 2ply weight) will tend to be looser with a roving texture. This doesn’t make for good pom pom yarn as it can come apart when you are pulling tightly and wrapping it around the pom pom maker.
The higher the ply, the stronger the yarn.
For this tutorial I am using 50g of 4ply yarn. It’s a merino yarn with 25% nylon and it is known as a good all rounder and is plied to ensure that it does not easily break when it meets some tension.
You need really strong yarn as you want something that can be pulled tightly without breaking. The fabric scissors will handle them when you come to cut your pom pom.
How to make a pom pom, step by step.
- Step 1:
Set up and open up your maker. You should have received instructions for this in your package.
- Step 2:
Using your thumb to hold the tail end of the yarn in place, start winding back and forth until the arm is covered. It can take a while, but be patient. It’ll be worth it!
- Step 3:
Wind the yarn until the hard edges of the maker are softened. At least 1mm of yarn thickness required. You shouldn’t be able to feel the edges of the maker when you press it between your thumb and forefinger.
- Step 4:
Open up the other pair of arms and start wrapping yarn around them.
Step 5: Cover the second pair of arms in the same way.
- Step 6:
When you’re happy with the thickness of the yarn wrap, it’s time to cut.
- Step 7:
Take your fabric scissors and cut, making sure that your scissors are placed in the groove of the maker. Cut all edges, making sure there are no uncut threads.
- Step 8:
Cut about 30cm (12in) of yarn. Tie it around the pom pom. Come around and tie the other side too and then finish with another tie and a knot. Make sure that you have tied the pom pom as tightly as you can.
- Step 9:
Release the pom pom and trim to size. Your pom pom should feel full, tightly secured and heavy.
If you want to know how to securely attach your pom pom to a hat, you can see the full video tutorial here:

Other makers to try in order to make great pom poms:
Benecreat wood pom pom makers.
These pom pom makers are similar to the classic style that we make out of card and cardboard, but as they’re wood, they last longer! You get 12 pieces in the set so it’s great value for a lot of different pom pom sizes. What I also like about this pom pom maker set is how the pieces are flat, meaning they store flat!
The pom pom loom maker.
This particular set is from woojfcang. These styles of maker have actually been praised for their ease of use for arthritic hands. There are no tricky parts to put together, making this pom pom maker one of the most accessible on the market.
What else I like about this style of maker is that it is a flat shape that can store really well in your craft bag. No pieces will come off or go missing, either. I have children, so I’ve lost half of my pom pom maker a few times!
This particular tool doubles as a tassel maker. It’s perfect for a range of crafts.
Novelty pom pom makers
Youngwier Heart Pom Pom Maker
I not doubt for a second that with some trimming of a regular pom pom, you could shape your own hearts but having done that myself, it’s messy and if you’re not well practised in topiary or hairdressing, you can mess it up! I have a heart pom pom maker.
Bear with me on this: when you first cut and release the yarn from this pom pom maker, it will just look like a regular pom pom at first. You will see though that it is slightly uneven. You then trim it to shape without having to guess, because it comes with instructions!
July 8, 2025
Knitting flat with circular needles
Can you knit flat with circular needles? Yes! You absolutely can.
I’ve seen this question come up several times in knitting groups. Even advanced knitters will ask, ‘can you knit flat on circular needles?’ and the answer is yes. In this blog post I’ll talk you through the pros and cons of circular needles, and how you can use them to knit anything! I will also guide you through the essential kit you need for knitting with circular needles.
This article contains some affiliate links. This means that if you choose to purchase via the links provided, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
You can knit flat with circular needles, and here are a list of benefits you get from doing that:
- Eases the weight on your wrists and arms.
Unless you’re an armpit knitter, you’ll probably start feeling the weight of your flat needles after a couple of hours of knitting. You can always take a break, but if you want to get back into it, using circulars can help take the pressure off. As your piece gets bigger, it can start putting pressure on your hands and wrists. Sliding the stitches onto circulars is a more efficient, lighter way to knit larger pieces.
- You can knit larger things
If you have a long cord on your circular needles, you can knit anything! Knit men’s XXL sweaters; knit baby blankets right up to king size throws with circular needles. Little coats and cardigans also benefit from being knit on circulars, as you can hold the entire thing on the cord while you attach the sleeves or knit the collar. Look out for cardigans and coats that are ‘top down’ or ‘bottom up’ in their construction, and have fun knitting the whole thing on one cord without the need of several stitch holders.
- Use the circular needles as stitch holders.
If you need a rest from the project you’re working on, you might find leaving it on circular needles more handy than finding a huge stitch holder. If you are using circular needles that have removable cords, it’s even easier! Unclip or unscrew the needles you’re using and knit something else with them. Your project will be safe on the cord.
- Make your project more portable.
Knitting with straight needles is fine when you’re on a sofa at home, but if you’re trying to knit on public transport or on a park bench, you might benefit from knitting flat with circular needles. If you’re an English knitter like me, you’ll find that your arm action can cause your needles to catch everything around you! There’s nothing more tragic than seeing your stitches slide off the end because you got caught in a curtain and dropped the needle. I can’t guarantee that this won’t happen with circular needles, but it presents a much slimmer possibility of slip-offs.
Common misconceptions about knitting flat with circular needles.
“You can’t use circulars because you have to keep flipping your work.” No, no you don’t. You finish your row and start working back on the other needle, just like with straight knitting pins. There is no flipping involved unless you’re knitting a pancake.
“Circular needles aren’t suitable for beginner knitters.” Again, this is nonsense. It’s like with exercise: do something you enjoy and you’ll do it often. The same goes for knitting. If you learn to knit on circular needles, that’s fine. It’s perfectly doable. Circular needle tips come in every size out there, so I don’t see why a beginner couldn’t do it. Some knitters with mobility issues might actually find starting with some light aluminium circulars quite comfortable! The weight is taken out of it, and the cord can rest on your lap or on a cushion.
“Circular needles are only good for knitting in the round.” No, they’re handy for every project. Every project!
Drawbacks of knitting flat with circulars
There are only some, but you should still watch out for them:
- They’re incredibly light so you could have trouble casting on.
Keep hold of them and keep an eye on them. Perhaps lay the needles on your lap or on a hard surface to make sure they don’t fall onto the floor. The casting on is the trickiest part, I find, as they’re not hard and heavy like straight needles.
- Sliding on to the cable.
Stitches will slide on to the cable and this is where you need to manage your tension. If you’re casting on too tightly, those stitches won’t slide back up the needle so that you can knit with them! try and keep the stitches even and wide enough to fit onto the needles.
- Dropping stitches.
As I said before, no one can guarantee that you won’t drop stitches.
Dropping stitches is sometimes really hard to avoid. I actually tend to drop a lot of stitches on straight needles as I seem to knock into them a lot or get them caught in my sleeve.
With circulars, you could drop the stitches simply because the circular cord has been weighed down too much by your work. This will then pull the needle downwards and out of the stitches! Keep an eye on it and work with your lap or a hard surface when you are starting out.
You will also drop stitches if you’re using a really smooth material to knit with. Aluminium can be very sleek, so just remember to be careful when you put you knitting down. You can also use needle stoppers or a connector, like the one that comes with addi click needles.
What to consider when choosing circular needles:
What is the project? This is an important question to ask as if it is socks, you’ll want needles that are lightweight and easy to port around.
What material do you like to use?
Bamboo and driftwood are popular for their lightness and warmth, but they’re prone to snapping if you’re not careful! For something small like a sock, you may want to try a metal needle as they can go really thin without risking breakage.
How pointy do they need to be?
If you’re knitting lace, you will want a sharper, more accurate tip on your needles.
What length do they need to be?
If you’re using magic loop for a hat, socks or gloves, you need to consider how long your cord is. Likewise, you need to consider how long the cord is if you’re wanting to simply fit the whole thing on it! Circular needles come in a range of cord lengths from around 40cm to over 150cm. The sky really is the limit.
Shop the range at Lovecrafts.
My personal circular knitting needle favourites:
Addi Click Basic Interchangeable Set
I have always loved my addi click set. They’re just basic aluminium needle tips with a plastic cord, and they click into place! You just click and go. I think as with all interchangeable needles, they come with a risk of disconnecting mid-project. In the 12 years I’ve had these, I think they’ve only come off once, and I’m not even 100% sure that it wasn’t my fault!
Addi are a perfect introductory brand for knitters. I also use Addi lace and Addi turbo for my projects. I started out with an Addi Click set, and these days you can get them in all the material types. There is a set for every budget. My cords are a little bit kinked these days (they’re over 10 years old!) but if you can’t straighten them with hot water, you can find replacement cords easily in any of the main knitting supplies stores. What knitter won’t need a few extra cords?
Chiaogoo interchangeble needles. These were a birthday present a few years ago, and I love them. They’re sharp, strong steel and although they can sometimes unscrew themselves mid-project, this rarely happens! You get a little pin that helps you secure them nice and tight. The cords don’t kink as easily as my addi needles or knitpro needles. They have a coil inside that keeps them straight. Really handy to have. You also get a nice little ruler for gauge, as well as stitch markers, life saving cord stoppers and T pins.
Knitpro Zing circular needles: These are so, so handy. Out of the needle types that I have, I think the Knitpro cords are the trickiest to keep straight. They can kink and knot in my knitting bag. Also, because the metal needles have a colour coating on them, they don’t help the stitches glide as easily. They have a good sharpness to the tips, so that’s great if you’re using them for a range of projects.
They come in a different colour for each size, so you really can collect them all. You can also get them in an interchangeable set:
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July 7, 2025
How to graft the toe of your sock. Kitchener stitch tutorial.
Here’s a quick, step by step photo tutorial showing you how to graft the toe of your socks. This is a really handy technique for sock knitting and once you get used to the direction of the darning needle, you’ll be ready to cast on your next pair of socks!
Did you know?
This method is also known as Kitchener stitch but knitters nowadays prefer to call it grafting. You can find out why here.
Grafting, step by step.
To start, you have to end your toe knitting with an even number of stitches and they have to be divided between two needles. You can use any needles for this part but they have to sit parallel. Make sure that the two wrong sides of your work are facing.
To set up, you first need to have your darning needle to hand with your yarn tail threaded through it.
1. Put your darning needle through the first stitch on the front needle (the one closest to you) as if to purl and pull your yarn through. Leave the stitch on the needle.
2. Put your darning needle through the first stitch on the back needle as if to knit and pull your yarn through. You also need to leave that stitch on the needle.
The next 4 parts of this will be repeated to the end and they are as follows:
3. Put your darning needle through the first stitch on the front needle knitwise, thread the yarn through and slip that stitch off the needle.
4. Put your darning needle through the first stitch on the front needle purlwise, thread the yarn through and keep that stitch on the needle.
5. Put your darning needle through the first stitch on the back needle purlwise, thread the yarn through and slip that stitch off the needle.
6. Put your darning needle through the first stitch on the back needle knitwise, thread the yarn through. Leave that stitch on the needle.
Now repeat the last 4 steps (3-6) until you’ve closed your toe. Weave in ends and wear with pride!
Video demonstrating the grafted toe.
Do you still need help with grafting? Here’s a handy video from my youtube channel demonstrating how to graft the toe of a sock. The instructions are at the end of this video.
Tip: Why not try making a series of mini socks to practise your grafting technique? They make a fun decoration for advent, too.

I’ve put the instructions together here for you too for a Pinterest pin. Pin it for safe keeping!
Sock knitting patterns to try:
Easy 2 needle flat knit socks patternSimple two needle flat knit sock pattern.
Flock socks knitting pattern. Cuff down sock knitting pattern.
The Andalusian socks. Free textured sock knitting pattern.
Other learning resources for knitters
- Learn how to make a head warmer (headband) with garter stitch and worsted weight yarn. This tutorial shows you how to knit a garter stitch headband in several sizes. Beginners can complete this tutorial, either using the written instructions or the accompanying video. Visit the blog post here.
- Learn how to knit a flat knit sock. Did you know that you don’t have to knit your socks with circular needles? You can also knit them flat on two straight needles. This is my best selling sock knitting pattern that I also added as a free pattern on the blog. Click here to read it.
- Yarn weight and why it matters. This article explores the significance of tension, gauge and why you should always test it before starting out on a knitting project. Yarn thicknesses and needles don’t always match, so I show you what to watch out for and how to get it right every time. Read the post here.
June 17, 2025

Fibre Content	100% Acrylic
Washing Instructions	40 Wash
Brand	Stylecraft
Size	4mm Needles
Metres Per Ball	295m
Tension	22 stitches x 30 rows to 10cm square
Ball Weight	100g
Yarn Weight	Double Knit

Category: Blog Posts

If you’re trying to think of what kind of nice, luxury gift you can give to a crocheter who seems to have everything, look no further than this range of stylish tool bags and holders.

Maisie Moo Gifts Personalised Crochet Hook Pouch. £12.99 ($17.50)

2. Teamoy Crochet Hook Case. £14.99 ($20)

3. Becko Yarn Bag For Crochet And Knitting Projects and Tools. £19.99 ($27).

4. Muud Stockholm leather Needle Organizer Case. £65 ($87)

Here are some more specifications from Muud:

5. Muud Frida Wollhaus handmade leather shoulder bag for knitting and crochet tools. £77 ($103)

You may have heard that crochet fabric doesn’t look as good as knit fabric. Did you know that it can? Here I will explain how to create fabric that drapes!

What is drape and why does it matter in crochet?

You can create drape with crochet fabric and it doesn’t just have to be with lace and openwork.

Size matters when creating drape.

Horizontal vs vertical can improve your results when creating drape in crochet fabrics.

Thickness of the yarn can affect drape

The stitch pattern used will affect the finished result.

Yarns

Blocking creates drape!

What else can I crochet?

Free Granny Square Patterns to try:

Kits and patterns that build on the granny square:

First up: Granny square yarn? Is that a thing?

Key things about this yarn:

More Granny Square inspiration:

Granny Square Crochet Kits To Inspire You.

Do I need a good pom pom maker?

Here’s what you actually need to make a great pom pom:

Why is yarn important?

How to make a pom pom, step by step.

If you want to know how to securely attach your pom pom to a hat, you can see the full video tutorial here:

Other makers to try in order to make great pom poms:

Novelty pom pom makers

Can you knit flat with circular needles? Yes! You absolutely can.

You can knit flat with circular needles, and here are a list of benefits you get from doing that:

Common misconceptions about knitting flat with circular needles.

Drawbacks of knitting flat with circulars

What to consider when choosing circular needles:

My personal circular knitting needle favourites:

Did you know?

Grafting, step by step.

To set up, you first need to have your darning needle to hand with your yarn tail threaded through it.

Video demonstrating the grafted toe.

Sock knitting patterns to try:

Other learning resources for knitters