Knitting is one of those hobbies that can look expensive from the outside — beautiful yarns, fancy tools, and endless project inspiration on Instagram and Pinterest. But is it really a costly pastime? Let’s take a closer look at what knitting actually costs, what you need to get started, and how it compares to other crafts like crochet.
What Do You Need to Start Knitting?
The good news: getting started with knitting doesn’t have to break the bank. You don’t need a studio full of supplies or dozens of needles to begin.
Here’s what you really need:
- A pair of knitting needles (start with medium size, like 4.5 mm or US size 7)
- Yarn (a soft, medium-weight yarn is perfect for beginners)
- A yarn needle for weaving in ends
- Scissors
- A simple pattern or guide
That’s it! You can start knitting with just a few basic tools — most of which you can find at a craft store or online for under €20. If you’re unsure what to buy, I’ve created a free guide that walks you through everything you need to get started (including beginner-friendly yarn suggestions and where to shop).
👉 Download the free e-book here: Everything You Need to Get Started with Knitting
So… Is Knitting Expensive?
The answer is: it can be — but it doesn’t have to be.
Knitting can be as affordable or as luxurious as you want it to be. You can find yarn for €2 a skein or splurge on hand-dyed merino wool for €30+. The same goes for tools: a basic pair of needles might cost €5, while interchangeable needle sets can go for €100+.
Why does knitting sometimes get expensive?
- High-quality yarns: Natural fibers like wool, alpaca, or cashmere are pricier than acrylic or blends.
- Specialty tools: Once you dive deeper, you might want ergonomic needles, blocking mats, or a swift and ball winder.
- Project size: A large sweater or blanket will require more yarn (and therefore more budget) than a simple scarf.
That said, many knitters enjoy the process just as much as the end result. It’s not just about saving money — it’s about creativity, stress relief, and making something with your own hands. And that’s worth a lot.
What’s Cheaper: Knitting or Crochet?
This question comes up often, and the answer is… it depends.
In general:
- Crochet uses more yarn than knitting for the same size project, so you may need to buy more skeins.
- Knitting tools are usually simpler — one pair of needles vs. many different hook sizes for crochet.
- Patterns for both crafts can be found for free or paid, so that doesn’t impact the cost much.
If you’re comparing beginner kits, knitting is often slightly more affordable. But again, your spending depends more on your taste and project choices than the craft itself.
Final Thoughts
Knitting doesn’t have to be expensive — but like many creative hobbies, it can be if you go all-in. For beginners, it’s totally possible to knit beautiful items on a budget, with affordable yarns and basic tools.
If you’re just getting started, don’t let price hold you back. Start small, enjoy the process, and upgrade your materials over time as your skills grow. And don’t forget to grab my free beginner’s e-book with all the tools and tips you need to begin your knitting journey confidently.
🧶 Click here to download: Everything You Need to Get Started
Happy knitting!
