Sewing vs Knitting – Which craft should you choose?

Sewing vs knitting is often a discussion or even debate among those interested in crafting or wanting to take up a new hobby. Sewing predominantly utilizes a sewing machine or hand sewing techniques with sewing needles to join fabric pieces, while knitting uses knitting needles or a crochet hook to loop yarn into textured fabrics. Let’s consider the tools of both trades and see other distinct and even subtle differences between them. Keep in mind both sewing and knitting are very rewarding arts that both allow you to create garments that are beautiful and of high quality.

Sewing Machines vs Knitting Needles

Within the realm of sewing vs knitting, the tools are very different. Sewing machines, from domestic to industrial sewing machines, are the tools of sewing, allowing you to create a variety of stitches, including the zigzag stitch and straight line stitch.

In contrast, knitting needles, ranging from straight needles to circular knitting needles, are the architects of crafting yarn loops into delicate fabrics and intricate patterns.

Sewing Joins Fabric vs Knitting Creates Fabric

Sewing primarily joins existing fabric pieces, whereas knitting is a process to create fabric from a continuous strand of yarn. This fundamental difference in manipulating yarn and fabric underpins the distinct outcomes and applications of sewing and knitting.

Advanced Techniques in Sewing and Knitting

Advanced techniques in both domains open avenues for crafting masterpieces. From sewing delicate fabrics with precision to employing the garter stitch and stocking stitch in knitting, advanced techniques elevate the craft to art.

The Learning Curve: Sewing vs Knitting

The learning curve is distinct for both the sewing vs. knitting journey. Sewing requires mastering the operation of sewing machines or hand needles and understanding different fabrics and threads. Learning knitting involves grasping how to use knitting needles and understanding knitting stitches and patterns.

An Array of Needles: Sewing Needles vs Knitting Needles

Sewing needles are diverse, from sharp needles like ballpoint needles to hand-sewing needles catering to various fabric types.

A close up look at a sewing needle:

Sewing thread with a sewing needle.

The knitting needle isn’t left behind with variations like plastic needles and circular needles, each serving distinct knitting projects with precision.

Techniques Unleashed: Sewing Stitches vs Knitting Stitches

Delving deeper into sewing vs knitting, stitches are the essence. Sewing stitches join fabric pieces, creating durable seams and exquisite designs. Knitting stitches, on the other hand, are the DNA of knitted fabric, with the knit stitch and purl stitch being foundational to creating diverse textures and patterns.

Basic Sewing Stitches – Create stitches to begin

• Running Stitch:
  • Simplest and most fundamental stitch.
  • Small, evenly spaced stitches that ‘run’ through the fabric.
  • Ideal for gathering fabric and temporary stitching (basting).
• Backstitch:
  • Strong, durable stitch that starts with a small stitch forward followed by a larger stitch backward.
  • Often used for seams in garments due to its strength.
• Slip Stitch (Ladder Stitch):
  • Invisible stitch used to join two folded edges or a folded edge to a flat edge.
  • Often used for hemming and closing gaps in linings.
• Blanket Stitch:
  • Stitch used to finish the edges of blankets or felted projects.
  • Yarn or thread is looped through the fabric and then through itself, creating a secure edge.
• Zigzag Stitch:
  • Stitch moves diagonally, creating a zigzag pattern.
  • Ideal for finishing edges to prevent fraying and for sewing stretch fabrics.

These stitches offer a foundation for various sewing projects, allowing for versatility and adaptability in different crafting scenarios.

Whether hand sewing or using a sewing machine, mastering these basic stitches is crucial for successful sewing endeavors.

Basic Knitting Stitches

• Garter Stitch:
  • Simplest knitting stitch.
  • Knit every stitch in every row.
  • Creates a fabric that is squishy and stretchy with a distinct texture.
• Stockinette Stitch:
  • Made by alternating knit rows and purl rows.
  • Creates a fabric with a smooth side (known as the “right” side) and a bumpy side (known as the “wrong” side).
• Rib Stitch:
  • Combination of knit and purl stitches within the same row.
  • Creates a stretchy fabric often used for cuffs and hems.
• Seed Stitch:
  • Alternating knit and purl stitches within a row and between rows.
  • Produces a fabric with a textured, bumpy surface that doesn’t curl.
• Purl Stitch:
  • The opposite of the knit stitch.
  • Yarn is held in front, and the stitch is created in reverse.
  • Often combined with knit stitches to create various textures and patterns.

Understanding and mastering these basic stitches when knitting yarn provides the foundation for just about any knitting project, enabling the knitter to explore a wide range of patterns and creations with confidence and skill.

Dynamic Crafting: Machine Sewing vs Hand Knitting

Machine sewing, predominantly using sewing machines, is a cornerstone of rapid and precise garment creation. Whether you employ domestic sewing machines for personal projects or leverage industrial sewing machines for mass production, these devices significantly hasten the sewing process.

• Speed & Productivity:
  • Machine sewing is inherently faster, facilitating the completion of projects in a shorter timeframe. This speed is crucial for both hobbyists working on extensive projects and professionals meeting tight deadlines.
• Consistency:
  • With a sewing machine, each stitch is uniform, ensuring consistent quality throughout the project. This consistency is paramount when working on pieces where precision is non-negotiable, like in tailored garments.
• Versatility:
  • Modern sewing machines come equipped with a myriad of stitch options and attachments, accommodating various fabrics and sewing techniques without manual adjustment, making the process more streamlined and versatile.
• Ease of Use:
  • Once acclimated to the machine, users can execute complex designs and stitches effortlessly, with the machine handling the intricate and labor-intensive aspects of sewing.

Hand Knitting: Flexibility and Personal Touch

Hand knitting, while seemingly straightforward, is a deeply engaging and flexible craft. Using knitting needles, including straight needles and circular needles, or a crochet hook, knitters have the autonomy to create a wide array of items, from garments to accessories.

• Customization:
  • Hand knitting affords unparalleled freedom for customization. Each stitch can be adjusted, and patterns can be altered on the fly, allowing for the creation of truly unique pieces.
• Therapeutic Value:
  • Many enthusiasts find the rhythmic, repetitive motion of knitting to be calming and meditative, offering a creative outlet and a means of relaxation and stress relief.
• Portability:
  • With minimal equipment required, knitting can be done virtually anywhere, making it an ideal craft for individuals on the move. Knitting can be a constant companion whether you’re at home, commuting, or traveling.
• Sense of Accomplishment:
  • Completing a hand-knitted item provides a tangible sense of achievement and satisfaction, as every stitch is crafted with personal effort and attention to detail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I knit with sewing thread or sew with knitting yarn?

While not conventional, you can knit with sewing thread and sew with knitting yarn. Knitting with sewing thread will yield a delicate and fine fabric, ideal for crafting intricate lacework.

On the other hand, sewing with knitting yarn may suit projects that call for bold, visible stitches or when working with chunky fabrics.

What is the learning curve difference between sewing and knitting?

Both sewing and knitting require dedicated time to learn and master. Beginners in sewing need to familiarize themselves with operating sewing machines, selecting appropriate sewing needles for different fabrics, and executing basic stitches confidently.

Knitting beginners must learn to use knitting needles or crochet hooks, understand yarn weights and types, and execute basic stitches like knit and purl. The learning curve is subjective and depends on an individual’s commitment and practice.

Is it expensive to start sewing or knitting?

The initial investment for both crafts can vary. For sewing, purchasing a reliable sewing machine represents the bulk of your initial cost, alongside other essentials like sewing needles, threads, and fabric.

In knitting, the start-up costs can be more modest, with primary expenses being knitting needles (or crochet hooks), and yarn. Over time, building a collection of various needles, yarn types, and perhaps even upgrading to more specialized knitting needles like circular needles will increase costs.

How do I choose between sewing and knitting for my first project?

The choice hinges on your project’s nature and your personal affinity. Sewing might be better suited to create garments with a professional finish and precise fit. Should you desire to craft cozy, textured accessories or enjoy a portable and relaxing crafting experience, knitting could be the way to go.

Are hand-sewn pieces stronger than knitted items?

The durability of hand-sewn or knitted items is not necessarily dependent on the technique but on the material used and the stitches executed. For instance, a garment sewn with a strong, resilient thread and tight stitches can be very durable, just as a knitted item crafted with wool yarn and tight knitting stitches can withstand wear and tear effectively.

Can I create patterns in sewing like in knitting?

Yes, you can introduce patterns in sewing, though the process differs from knitting. In knitting, patterns emerge as you manipulate the yarn with knitting needles, creating various textures and designs with stitches. In sewing, patterns are often introduced through the fabric itself or by combining different fabric pieces creatively and strategically.

Do I need an ironing board for sewing?

Having an ironing board is beneficial but not mandatory for sewing. Ironing your fabric before sewing makes it smoother and easier to work with, and pressing seams as you sew can produce a more polished and professional-looking finish.

Wrapping up

When deciding between sewing vs knitting, consider your crafting preferences, time to invest, and the joy each craft offers. Every person is different, and the craft picked by one person may be different from someone else. Also, keep in mind you can do both! While you may primarily enjoy one craft over another, you can certainly learn both and enjoy the rewards that come with each.