Knitting uses two needles and keeps lots of live stitches on the needle; crochet uses a single hook and works one loop at a time. Both turn yarn into cozy things, and both are wonderfully portable for road trips, soccer practice and TV nights.
American yarn labels use the Craft Yarn Council's numbered weight system, from 0 (lace) to 7 (jumbo). Medium #4, usually called worsted, is the go-to weight for beginners and the one most patterns call for.
Supplies worth knowing about
Worsted weight (#4) yarn
The all-American workhorse for blankets, hats and scarves. Acrylic is affordable and machine washable; wool and blends are warmer.
Bulky (#5) & super bulky (#6) yarn
Big yarn on big needles means fast results, great for a first scarf or a chunky throw.
Knitting needles
US needles are labeled with a US size number and a millimeter size (US 8 is 5 mm). Bamboo needles are less slippery for beginners.
Circular needles
Two tips joined by a flexible cable. Used for hats, sweaters and any project knit in the round, and for big flat blankets.
Crochet hook sets
US hooks have a letter and a millimeter size; an H-8 (5 mm) hook pairs well with worsted yarn. Ergonomic handles are easier on hands.
Notions
Stitch markers, a yarn needle for weaving in ends, a row counter and small scissors. Keep them together in a zip pouch.
Pro tip: Start with a light, smooth yarn in a solid color. Dark, fuzzy or variegated yarn makes it hard to see your stitches while you're learning.
Know before you buy
Are US and UK crochet terms the same?
No. Stitch names are shifted: a US single crochet is a UK double crochet, and a US double crochet is a UK treble. American patterns use US terms, but check before following a video or pattern from overseas.
What is a dye lot?
Yarn is dyed in batches, and each batch can differ slightly. Buy enough yarn from the same dye lot for your whole project.
Do I really need a gauge swatch?
For fitted items like sweaters and hats, yes. It's the only way to know your stitches will match the pattern's measurements. For blankets and scarves, it matters less.