By Kat Giannetto

My oldest daughter once asked me, “How did you learn to crochet baby blankets?” I told her that my grandmother had taught me the basics of crochet, such as how to make a chain, single crochet, double crochet, etc. I also told her that another good way is to read books, especially pattern books, to learn more of the difficult stitches. (This was before the days of internet research!)

These days I would suggest that anyone wanting to learn how to crochet baby blankets, or any other crochet items, should go online to watch videos. The reason I suggest videos as opposed to just books is that in the videos you can see how to hold the yarn and hook, as well as any other steps needed to make certain stitches.

I’ve found YouTube to be a great resource in finding these videos. You simply type in “crochet” or “crochet baby blanket” in the search bar and you’ll find lots of how-to videos.

You can also go to Google and type in the words “crochet videos” or “crochet baby blanket videos” to bring up lots of results.

Of course, there are many different patterns for baby blankets and afghans. Each pattern will have different stitches that you’ll need to learn, if you don’t already know how. Most times the patterns will have instructions for the basic stitches and other more advanced stitches. If you’re new to crocheting, I’d suggest starting out with a very basic pattern. I’ve found fairly easy patterns to follow are granny squares or ripples.

If your pattern calls for stitches that you’re not familiar with and the instructions don’t seem clear, do another search for videos using that specific stitch in your search term. For example, in Google or YouTube you might try searching for “double crochet stitch” or “double crochet stitch video.”

Another great way to learn is like I did, by having someone experienced show you. If you don’t have a grandmother, mother, aunt, etc. who is skilled at crocheting, try asking some of the women you associate with such as co-workers, church groups, friends and other family members. Many churches have a time when the ladies get together and bring in their various craft projects. This would be a great resource.

Good luck!

Looking for a place to find baby crochet patterns, instructions and supplies? Check out my baby crochet blog!

Article Source: Kat Giannetto == Learn How to Crochet Baby Blankets

By E. Sullivan

Knitting is something that takes time, and a lot of practice, it is something that is an art that can be mastered over time. There are several guides and books that are available to help teach you at different levels. From Beginners’ guides to mastering the art of knitting. If a book isn’t really your style, and just don’t have the time to sit down and read, than try some of these videos.

At KnittingHelp.com there are several different resources for you to check out. Time to grab your knitting needles. Today, you can learn a new knitting skill the easy way: sit back and watch and learn! It would be good to start at the basics with things like the Long Tail cast-on and the knit and purl stitches. Those three techniques make up the vast majority of any knitting project, so give yourself a pat on the back. This will get you off your feet and headed to pro knitting in no time. You can always look at their help page. Once you have the basics mastered, and feel you are ready for the advanced stuff, dive right in. If you get stuck along the way or just want to talk to other knitters hop online, drop by their user friendly online knitting forums on their website for your help!

KnittingAtNoon.com also has several different lessons available on video as well. How to make mittens, socks and other small clothing items. There are distinct and easy to download knitting videos for you to learn how to make these specific items. For the beginner you should consider looking at eHow.com they offer different easy levels all the way up to experienced videos on knitting.

KnitWitch.com is another website I recommend for you to check out for the beginners. This woman has dedicated her life, and fulltime work to knitting, and has created a website for you to utilize and learn from. She offers different videos and techniques that you may not already be familiar with. Along with several different easy how to videos. All of these are available to order straight from her website.

Emily is a knitting enthusiast who loves to shop with the friendly people at Knitch. Emily is currently rocking out a new sweater with her Lantern Moon Needles. Knitch is known for the largest selection of luxury yarns in the Southeast, original knitwear designs, and creative, knowledgeable and always helpful staff.

Article Source: E. Sullivan == http://EzineArticles.com/?Great-Video-Resources-For-Knitting&id=2909636