Guides
Kinusaiga
How to make kinusaiga step by step
Learn how to make kinusaiga from foam board and fabric, from cutting the grooves to tucking the edges, wrapping the sides and framing.
How to make a kinusaiga pattern from a photo
Turn a photo into a kinusaiga pattern. Learn which pictures work, how to pick colours and detail, and how to print a full-size template.
Kinusaiga supplies: what you need to get started
A simple kinusaiga supplies list covering foam board, adhesive sheets, knives, tucking tools and the best fabric for beginners.
12 kinusaiga tips and common mistakes to avoid
Practical kinusaiga tips for neat grooves, crisp corners and smooth fabric, plus the common beginner mistakes and how to fix them.
What is kinusaiga? A beginner's guide
Kinusaiga is a Japanese no-sew fabric art. Learn how it works, how it differs from quilting, and what you need to make your first picture.
Crochet stitches
How to chain stitch in crochet
Learn the crochet chain stitch step by step, including how to count chains and keep a foundation chain loose.
How to double crochet
Learn how to double crochet step by step. The tall stitch behind granny squares and fast blankets, with US and UK names.
How to half double crochet
Learn how to half double crochet step by step. A warm, quick stitch for hats, scarves and blankets, with common mistakes.
Crochet increase and invisible decrease
How to increase and decrease in crochet, including the invisible decrease that gives amigurumi a smooth, neat shape.
How to make a magic ring in crochet
How to make a magic ring (magic circle) in crochet, the closed start for amigurumi and anything worked in the round.
How to single crochet for beginners
Learn how to single crochet step by step. The firm stitch behind amigurumi, with beginner tips and common mistakes.
How to slip stitch in crochet
Learn how to slip stitch in crochet step by step, and when to use it to join rounds and finish your work neatly.
Knitting stitches
Garter stitch: how to knit it
Learn garter stitch, the easiest knitting stitch. Knit every row for a flat, reversible fabric that is perfect for scarves and blankets.
How to bind off in knitting
Learn how to bind off in knitting, step by step, so that your edge stays stretchy and your stitches cannot unravel.
How to cast on knitting for beginners
How to cast on in knitting with the long-tail method. A stretchy, beginner-friendly start for scarves, hats and blankets.
How to knit and purl for beginners
Learn how to knit and purl step by step. The two basic knitting stitches behind almost every scarf, hat and blanket.
How to knit rib stitch
How to knit rib stitch, including two purl, one knit ribbing, for stretchy scarves, cuffs and hat brims.
How to knit seed stitch
How to knit seed stitch, a bumpy, reversible texture made from alternating knit and purl. Also called moss stitch in the UK.
How to knit stockinette stitch
How to knit stockinette stitch, why its edges curl and how to stop them with a simple border.
Projects and tips
Best yarn for amigurumi: how to choose
Choose the best yarn for amigurumi. Compare cotton, acrylic and chenille, pick the right weight and find a hook size that keeps stuffing hidden.
Easy crochet blanket for beginners
How to pick an easy crochet blanket pattern for beginners: the best stitches, yarn weights and sizes for a first blanket you will actually finish.
Crochet gauge swatch for amigurumi
How to make and measure a crochet gauge swatch, and why stitches per 10 cm decide how big your amigurumi will be.
How many granny squares for a blanket?
Work out how many granny squares you need for a blanket from one finished square, with a simple sum and common blanket sizes.
How to crochet a beanie for beginners
How to crochet a beanie that fits. Measure the head, work a flat crown and set the right stitch count for your yarn and gauge.
How to crochet a granny square
How to crochet a granny square for beginners, with the first rounds explained and tips to keep corners square and flat.
How to crochet an amigurumi doll
How to crochet an amigurumi doll for beginners: parts, proportions, hair and safe embroidered faces, from head to final assembly.
How to make amigurumi keychains
How to make amigurumi keychains that last, with tips on yarn, firm stuffing and attaching the keyring securely.
How to sew a tote bag with boxed corners
How to sew a tote bag with boxed corners and strong straps. Beginner steps for choosing fabric, cutting and finishing.
How to read an amigurumi pattern
How to read an amigurumi pattern. What abbreviations, brackets and stitch counts mean, explained for your first round.
How to print a PDF sewing pattern
How to print a PDF sewing pattern at the right size. Printer settings, test squares and how to join pages accurately.
Quick Christmas crochet gift ideas
Quick Christmas crochet gift ideas that use little yarn, from snowmen to tree ornaments, plus how to plan your holiday makes.
How to turn a picture into a crochet pattern
How to turn a picture into a crochet pattern. Choose the right image, colour count, size and stitch for a clear pixel chart.