People mix them up all the time, and we don't mind. Both turn yarn into fabric. The difference comes from how it's made, and that changes how each piece looks, feels and wears.
How each is made
Knitting uses two long needles and holds many loops open at once. Each row is built on the one before it, and the whole piece is a set of loops pulled through loops.
Crochet uses one hook and works one loop at a time. Each stitch is finished before the next one starts. That's why crochet can go in any direction, in circles, squares and flowers, and why it's used for lace and motifs.
How they look and feel
Knit fabric looks smooth, with rows of little V shapes. It's stretchy and soft, which is why most sweaters and socks are knit.
Crochet looks more textured and more structured. It can be dense and sturdy or open and lacy, and it holds its shape better than knit does.
Which is warmer
It depends on the yarn and the stitch. A tight crochet stitch in wool is very warm, and a loose knit in cotton is not. As a rough rule, dense crochet and fine knit are both warm, and open lace in either is not.
Which lasts longer
Both last for decades if you look after them. The main difference is how they fail. If a knit stitch breaks, a run can travel along the row. A broken crochet stitch is usually more contained, because each stitch is knotted off. Whichever you own, hand wash it and dry it flat.
Which suits what
- A blanket. Crochet is a good choice because it's sturdy and can be made in big patterns like mandalas and granny squares.
- A dress or tunic. Crochet gives you lace, openwork and shaping that knit can't do as easily.
- A fitted sweater. Knit is usually the easier choice, because it stretches evenly.
What we make
Everything Ellie makes is crochet. A few examples:
The Persian Mandala Blanket is a full-size statement blanket crocheted in mandala form in teal, magenta and gold. It's a soft blend of cotton, wool and 10% polyester.
The Patchwork Granny-Square Tunic is made of granny squares in pinks, sage and grey around a crocheted floral medallion. It has a slouchy, relaxed fit and uses a silk and cotton mix.
The Sunset Ombre Crochet Tunic is a gradient tunic that melts from amber through fiery red to black, finished with a fluted fan-stitch hem. It's one of a kind.
Persian Mandala Blanket$1299 CAD
Patchwork Granny-Square Tunic$350 CAD
Sunset Ombre Crochet Tunic$300 CAD
Choosing a gift
A crochet piece is a good gift for someone who likes things made slowly. A blanket suits a wedding, a housewarming or a new baby. See our handmade baby blanket guide and gift guide.
Keeping it nice
Hand wash in cool water and dry flat, whether it's crochet or knit. Our care guide goes step by step.
See Ellie's crochet
Every piece is one of a kind. Browse them on our crochet page.
Heirloom crochet by Ellie
Every piece is one of a kind, crocheted by hand in silk and natural fibres.
Explore the crochet →