Let's say that you've finally found the perfect pattern that you want to try to create. But there's a problem: the pattern is for knitting and you crochet. If this sounds like a problem you've had, don't worry. We've done the research to explain how to convert a knitting pattern to crochet.
Follow these steps to convert a knitting pattern to crochet:
- Read the pattern carefully.
- Choose your stitches.
- Create a gauge swatch.
- Convert the measurements.
- Create a sample.
Before we get into the process further, it's important to note that it isn't easy for a beginner to convert a knitting pattern to crochet. However, if you have intermediate or advanced experience, this shouldn't be hard for you to do. Continue reading for more specific instructions on how to do each step.
How To Convert A Knitting Pattern To Crochet
1. Read the Pattern Carefully
Reading the pattern carefully is important because not all knitting patterns can be converted to crochet. It isn't always possible to convert long or complex patterns to crochet because there may be no way to recreate them.
Looking at the whole pattern is also necessary in order to make sure that you understand what the steps and symbols mean. If you don't understand something, you cannot properly convert it. It can also give you an idea of what your finished project should look like.
2. Choose Your Stitches
Knitting patterns may call for different types of stitches, so your next step should be to choose the types of crochet stitches you'll need to recreate the knitted project. Three main types of crochet stitches can be used to replicate a knitted pattern.
Slip Stitch
This type of crochet stitch looks similar to a knitting garter stitch. It is called slip stitch because it is created by slipping each stitch into the front loop of the stitch in the row before it. The finished product will have a delicate texture and be semi-flexible, making it a good choice for delicate items.
Waistcoat Stitch
This is the best crochet stitch to use if the knitting pattern requires a stockinette stitch. To create the stitch, insert your crochet hook into the center of the post and use single stitch crochet to complete the stitch. The finished product will be very sturdy and thick.
Back Loop Only
The third type of stitch is called the back loop only method. It is great for create ribs in order to make your crochet look knitted. To create this stitch, you will want to crochet into only the back loop of a stitch instead of into both loops. The finished project will have a ribbed appearance and can be stretchy depending on the type of yarn that you used.
3. Create A Gauge Swatch
After you've decided which type of crochet stitch is best to use for the pattern, you need to create a gauge swatch to determine how many stitches you will need to create the pattern. Creating a gauge swatch is also necessary in order to make sure that you can convert the knitting pattern to crochet.
Knitting patterns offer a suggested needle size, so the first thing you need to do is to convert the needle size to the size hook you should use. If you're unsure how to do this, there are conversion charts available online, such as this one from knitting supply retailer, NuMei. You will also need to choose the type of yarn you want to use to ensure that the yarn is compatible with the crochet hook.
Check out this crochet hook set on Amazon.
The knitting pattern will also recommend the size of the gauge swatch that you should create, usually five inches by five inches. Once you've chosen your yarn and crochet hook, create a row of stitches that is the same length as the length of the swatch recommended in the knitting pattern. Be sure to use the stitch that you decided on in Step 2 above.
If the knitting pattern suggested a swatch that was five inches by five inches, you'll need to crochet a row of stitches that is five inches long. Continue stitching rows until you have created a square that is five inches long and five inches wide. You can then use your swatch to determine how many stitches you will need for each inch of crochet by counting how many stitches make up an inch.
If the finished swatch doesn't look the way you want it to, you can change the size of your hook to create larger or smaller stitches. Changing the hook will also create tighter or looser stitches. The type of yarn you use can also change the appearance of your swatch.
You might also like: "Does Using A Larger Crochet Hook Use Less Yarn?"
4. Convert The Measurements
Knitting patterns will give you the dimensions of how big the finished product will be. It is a good idea to sketch a quick diagram of what the finished project will look like. Then, write the dimensions on the sketch in the appropriate places.
Next, you will need to figure out how many stitches you need to create the length and width. Using your swatch, multiply the number of stitches per inch by the width of the finished product. This calculation will tell you how many stitches you need per row. Do the same calculation for the length. The length calculation will tell you how many rows you need to create the pattern.
Write your calculations down so that you can remember them later. However, they may not be exact due to slight variations in stitch size. They are only an estimate to help you better visualize and create the project.
5. Create A Sample
You will want to practice making the pattern before you start on the actual project. It helps to create a sample using your length and width measurements. Making a sample will help you to make sure that the crocheted project looks like the knitting pattern.
You may have to make adjustments to your diagram or stitches if your sample doesn't look the way you want the finished product to look. Once the sample looks the way you want it to, you can begin working on the permanent project.
Is It Quicker To Knit Or Crochet?
Crocheting is faster than knitting because it is easier to maneuver. With knitting, you have to use two needles. When you crochet, you only have to use one hook. Crocheting also requires you to only work with one live stitch at a time. If you make a mistake, it is easier to undo. Even large crochet projects such as an afghan can be finished in as little as two nights. It could take up to a month or two to make a knitted afghan.
See more: Is Crochet Faster Than Knitting?
Do You Use The Same Yarn For Knitting And Crochet?
For the most part, knitting and crochet use the same type of yarn. There are actually different types of yarn that can be used to create different projects depending on the texture and thickness that you want it to have.
But whether you are knitting or crocheting, the project doesn't really matter. You can use the same type of yarn for either, although crochet might use slightly more yarn. However, there is an exception to this rule, and it's called crochet thread. Crochet thread is designed to use with thin crochet needles to make delicate projects. It doesn't work well for knitting.
Click here to see this 24-pack of knitting and crochet yarn on Amazon.
Can You Use A Knitting Pattern For Tunisian Crochet?
Tunisian crochet is a needlecraft that combines crochet and knitting. A single, longer hook is used like in crochet, but all of the stitches are kept on the hook as with knitting. The finished pattern will look like a waffle knit.
Another great thing about Tunisian crochet is that you can use Tunisian stitches and crochet stitches. Since you can use other types of crochet stitches in the Tunisian technique, you should be able to use a knitting pattern. This is especially true since Tunisian crochet is a blend of knitting and crochet.
Click here to see these Tunisian crochet hooks on Amazon.
In Closing
We hope you found the steps to convert a knitting pattern to crochet both helpful and easy to follow. Remember that not all knitting patterns can be converted to crochet. But as long as you can create crochet stitches that mimic knitting ones, you shouldn't have a problem. Just be sure to plan out your project carefully. Thanks for reading!
