The world is divided into two broad categories - those who know either crochet or knitting and those who don't. If you belong to the latter group, this blog is for you.  

The crochet fever is back in town thanks to the new GenZ craze. Hence the renewed interest in this art form. 

Let me start by giving a brief intro of both activities. 

What is the basic difference between knitting and crochet?

The stitch

• To an untrained eye, the easiest way is to identify the weave. Traditional knitting results in a ‘v’ or the ‘knit’ shape, on one side of the fabric. The other side has a more horizontal or a ‘purl’ pattern. 
• Crochet has a more complex ‘knotted’ or 'swirly' pattern.

The spacing

• A general observation is that knitting weaves are simpler and much closer together than crochet weaves. The simpler designs have less free space between knits than crochet crafts. 
• This is a layman’s differentiation. There are more complex knitting and almost infinite crochet patterns that can simplify or complicate the weaves in each.

The tools used

• Knitting involves two needles, both with pointed ends. Both the needles are held on either hand while the activity is performed,
• Crochet is done with a single needle with a blunt hook. 

Where did it all start?

Unfortunately there is no conclusive evidence that can give the credit for these art forms to one race or civilization alone. However, evidence for knitting goes as far back as the 11th century with origins around the Mediterranean and Arabia and that for crochet goes only as far back as the 15th century, with the regions still contented for. 

Why do people knit or crochet?

Both these activities are art forms of making fabric with the hand and simple tools such as the needle. There are thousands who are “hooked on” (pun intended) to this art form. With the renewed interest among the younger generation, this is one art form that is kept from dying a sudden death like many others. If you are interested in finding more handmade artwork, check out our collection at Strawbiz. 

As someone who does both, I can give you a few reasons for why people are “hooked on”:

1. Addiction: But in a good way. As is the case with any artist, once you learn a craft the possibilities are endless. The artist wants to keep trying new designs and patterns and before you know it, you are hooked on. 
2. Tradition: A lot of folks learn this craft from the previous generation and build their knowledge to it further. A family heirloom that is knitted or crocheted is not unheard of. 
3. Relaxation: This is the biggest reason for me. Both these crafts are great ways to unwind after a long day of stressful work. The repetitive nature of the weave is almost meditative and somehow helps loosen the knots in your mind as you progress with this slow art. 

Which one is better?

There are benefits to both, regardless of whether you are the artisan or the consumer. Let’s look at certain criteria to draw out the differences:

For articles that need a stretch

Knitted crafts give a good stretch and so is ideal for fabrics that are not made to the exact size. This is beneficial while making woollen wear. 

For winter wear, I would only prefer crochet on things that do not need a stretch such as mufflers. 

Winner: Knitting

For all weathers

Crochet on the other hand is a more versatile art. One can make fabric for all weathers from it. It gives a good pattern when made with cotton, acrylic or wool. Hence it can be used to make regular clothes as well. 

Winner: Crochet

What is a fair price for these handcrafted products?

Based on effort and craftsmanship. If you have seen how knitting or crochet is done, you would know how much effort it takes. 

At strawbiz, we price the work as per the effort put in by the artisan and based on the quality of work. We partner with superior artisans and ensure that they are fairly rewarded for the hard work put in. 

Each article is assessed for the number of hours it is crafted upon. An hourly rate is decided for each artisan depending on their location and expertise. 

Further to it, we add the cost of raw material.  

Why should I buy a crochet or knitted product?

At first, it is hard to appreciate the art of crochet or knitting. I can relate to it. I have been wearing sweaters since I was a kid and never really thought much about them till I learnt knitting.

There was also a time when I lost touch with knitting and I realized that I was not sensitive to noticing these products around me at the time as I was so consumed with other priorities. It is only when you are a regular knitter that you actually think more about them. So I will conclude that you need to turn on your artistic mindset in order to appreciate these products. 

I can give you 3 good reasons why you should go for a knitted or crochet article as opposed to a regular machine made fabric:

1. They are handcrafted, which means it is more precious. The mere effort that goes into making one of these items shows that you are buying something limited edition. 
2. They have intricate details. In addition to the many knots and loops that you see on the fabric, it is likely to have intricate designs or special designs. 
3. There is love in the fabric. If you simply observe those involved in the craft of knitting or crochet, they tend to be kind and giving. They love to make these for others. They put in a lot of thought into the making and this can rightly be called a fabric of love. 

Should I have preference for the type of yarn used?

It can get confusing when you need to pick between acrylic, wool, cotton and even other options. Let me try to simplify it for you. 

Purpose  If you are looking for a showpiece or a decorative piece, cotton would be ideal. This will ensure that the wear and tear is minimum as well. 

Weather - if you are looking for winter wear, I would highly recommend a wool and acrylic blend that would be of superior quality.

• You could go for a 100% acrylic or polyester as well, but the comfort for the wearer will be slightly more with a more natural fibre such as wool as it allows more air flow between the layers of the fabric.
• The makers of these articles would have done a lot of research before venturing on the journey of creating these articles, and so I hope you do not find a product that is a 100% wool as it tends to sag and reduce the durability of the article. 

How should I care for these fabrics?

1. Understand the material used - Read the make or inquire with the maker what kind of thread was used. 
1. Cotton can be stored as regular fabrics and requires minimal care,
2. Wool or acrylic will need to be treated the same way as winter wear. 
2. Use sunlight for cleaning as much as possible and reduce the frequency of washing. 
3. Hand Wash or a gentle machine wash is preferred if you would like to preserve the material for long. I recommend this as most artisans are not as savvy as manufacturers to produce industrial quality meant for wear and tear so the threads and the knits may not be as strong. A hand wash can go a long way in ensuring the quality lasts for even up to decades. 
4. In the case of an art work made of too many coloured threads, avoid contact with water and go for dry cleaning. 

Conclusion

Crochet and knit pieces are simply artistic trinkets that are ideal for daily use. With a little bit of knowledge and appreciation you can add them to your routine and also gift them to those you love. 

What next?

Congratulations, you have now understood the craft space a bit more.

Welcome to the world of artisans. You now know how to appreciate handmade articles.  Here's a cute baby dress set crocheted by one of our highly experienced artisan. If you like this and would like to browse more like these, head over to Strawbiz.