Crochet vs knitting – what’s the difference?

Are you not sure what the difference is between crochet and knitting?

Knitting involves two needles with pointed ends, long enough to hold all the loops. The structure is very elastic. It is typically used for sweaters, scarves, socks and mittens.

Crochet is with one needle with a hook at the end. The structure is firmer and more compact and while it can be used for clothing, it is more commonly used when you look for a thick and/or firm structure. Think of bags, fine tablecloths, laces, oven mitts or puppets and figures.

There is also a technique called Tunisian crochet, which is like a mix of crochet and knitting: involves a long needle with a hook that holds all loops, and you move back and forth to the left and the right without turning the piece.

Both crochet and knitting allows for many different patterns and structures, and both can be used for metal wire.

For the kind of metal work I’m doing I have focused on crochet, so far. It gives a better control of where the wire is, as you can hold it more firmly, and you can easily make round shapes (looking like messy cobwebs), or any shape you want, really.

Do you do any craft involving yarn, and if so, do you have a favourite technique?
Do you know other textile techniques that you think would be worth trying with metal wire?

I have always liked the idea of mixing hard metals with soft techniques. This year, my theme for the A to Z challenge is “Metal meets textile”. From A to Z, I talk about work with metal wire, textile techniques like crochet and knitting, show some pieces I’ve been working on, share some thoughts on metal, textile and jewellery. I hope that you’ll find something of interest to you!