Learn the two basic knitting styles -- the English method and the German/Continental method -- and get started creating cozy handmade wares for yourself and your loved ones.

The braided, ropelike cable is much easier to stitch than it appears. Basically, you knit as usual but hold a few stitches in reserve on a cable needle until you need them.

How to Knit Cabled Mittens
How to Knit a Cabled Headband

The first step of any knitting project is to knit a gauge swatch to ensure that the dimensions of your finished project will be correct.

Whether you're new to knitting or a seasoned veteran, keeping track of yarn sizes and needle gauges for each project can be a complicated affair. 

Stay organized with knit gauge cards -- simply fill out a card with color, gauge, pattern, and other relevant information for each project and store cards together in an easy-to-access place.

Print the Knit Gauge Cards

A scarf is a good project for beginner knitters; for this classic design, the main body  is worked in stockinette stitch, the most common of all stitch patterns, which is formed by alternating knit rows and purl rows.

Follow our steps to knit a cozy garter-stitch headband and pair of mittens for winter.

How to Knit a Garter-Stitch Headband
How to Knit Garter-Stitch Mittens

Create this ultrathick, cozy cowl for chilly days.

Basic knitting skills are all you need to create this adorable 9-inch mouse.

Soft, shimmering yarns make the most of this basic stocking pattern. 

Knit this adorable owl backpack for the little ones in your life.

There isn't a kitten that wouldn't purr over a catnip-filled knitted pillow.

A knit hat is comfortable, warm, cozy, and surprisingly easy to make.

Knit a smart accessory to keep you both warm and stylish this winter.

Knit yourself a pair of fingerless mittens, one of winter's trendiest accessories.

These mittens are straightforward to make (the basic knit stitch is king here), and the pattern is readily adaptable -- just alter the size to suit the wearer.

Follow our pattern and knit cozy socks for everyone in your family.

This pliable 10-inch-tall knitting basket -- fit for storing all your yarn and knitting supplies -- was made from a snowy Aran sweater.

These homemade needles begin as wooden dowels and end with the button of your choice.

Learn the basic crochet stitches (the chain stitch and the single crochet) and as you become more comfortable, advance to the double-crochet stitch.

One of nature's best decorating ideas is the snowflake: It adds sparkle to upturned eyelashes and embellishment to bare tree branches. With crocheted versions of this seasonal icon, you can bring its frosty filigree indoors.

A handmade blanket and matching toy make wonderful keepsake presents for a new baby.

These adorable ruby-red booties are an excellent project for an experienced crocheter.

Get creative with these iconic blocks of color and turn them not only into afghans but also bookmarks, pot holders, baby blocks, and scarves.