So, you’re knitting vs sewing? unsure what’s for you? Worry not!
We’ve all been there, and I’m here to share some insights that might help you make your decision.
Knitting vs Sewing: A Stitch At A Time
For a start, sewing is like matching a puzzle piece except with a few fabric panel pieces, until you have a perfectly sewn garment to wear.
While knitting is more like building lego, you are slowly crafting something you had in mind into reality with yarn and needles.
Knitting vs Sewing: Tools of the Trade
The basic tools you need is just a needle, thread and a piece of cloth, but that will take ages for you to hand sewn.
Hence why for generations, sewing machines are created to ease our task in sewing clothes.
What you’ll need is a sewing machine of your choice, some needles to go with the sewing machine, threads, rulers to create pattern pieces and nice sharpe scissors.
Sounds like a lot? hang in there! you will get used to it in no time.
Knitting, has lesser tools like knitting needles and yarn that’s it! or maybe a crochet hook to add those finishing touches.
Knitting vs Sewing: Stitches and Patterns
In sewing, we’ve got a whole arsenal of stitches – straight, zigzag, overlock, you name it! Each one serves a purpose in bringing our creations to life.
| Stitch Type | Description | Picture |
|---|---|---|
| Straight Stitch | Seams, edges basic stitching. |  |
| Reverse Stitch | Secures with backstitching. |  |
| Zigzag Stitch | Flexible, prevents fraying. |  |
| Overlock Stitch | Seals edges, reduces fraying. |  |
| Basting Stitch | Temporary for fitting, gathering. |  |
| Blind Hem Stitch | Nearly invisible hems. |  |
| Buttonhole Stitch | Reinforced edges for buttonholes. |  |
| Backstitch | Strong, durable seam stitching. |  |
| Herringbone Stitch | Decorative, strong stitching pattern. |  |
| Topstitch | Visible, decorative or reinforcing. |  |
Knitting, on the flip side, has its own set of stitches like knit and purl, which form the building blocks of every pattern.
| Stitch | Texture on Right Side | Texture on Wrong Side |
|---|---|---|
| Knit Stitch | Smooth | Bumpy |
| Purl Stitch | Bumpy | Smooth |
| Garter Stitch | Bumpy | Bumpy |
| Reverse Stockinette Stitch | Bumpy | Smooth |
| Rib Stitch | Raised vertical lines | Same as right side |
| Moss Stitch | Textured, bumpy | Same as right side |
Sewing vs Knitting: End Products and Styles
Depending on what you aim for sewing and knitting yield different results.
With sewing, you can start from accessories like little pouch bags, fabric bookmarks, hair ties to breathable and light summery clothes to wool fleece and jackets made to clothe you and your family.
Try to be mindful of what you buy and adopt buying less mindset.
You can try upcycling your favourite jacket and turn it into a tote bag, or use fabric scraps to make a long sleeved dress! Let be mindful of our fabric use and get creative while we are at it, the sky’s the limit!
Knitting, on the other hand, yields you comfy jumper for winter months, scarves and blankets.
You can start by making small hair ties, coasters for your mugs, even knitted purse, knit your imagination away!
The Learning Curve
Now, here’s the thing, sewing can be a bit intimidating at first. I remembered ,when I finished my first drafting and sewing class I doubted if I’ll even be able to finish drafting my long sleeved dress(modest-cut because i’m the modest sewist 😉 let alone finish up the garment!
But you know what? I persevered, not only did I know how to sew the dress I even signed up for a pants class.
Now I’m proud to say that I can read patterns and they don’t look as intimidating as I thought!
Take it from me, if you have always dream of creating your own clothes with the style and cut that non of your local seamstress able to get it right,
This is your sign to just START!
Knitting, on the other hand, is something I wanted to dabble in the future.
I personally would be able to understand better with a teacher and be less frustrated when I get stuck.
Maybe you can ask anyone around you, like your mum or grandma to teach you or the lovely granny that lives across you!
I might have a go at it too let me know how it goes for you!
Choosing Your Path
So, the choice between knitting and sewing ultimately comes down to what speaks to your soul.
If you’re drawn to precision and intricate details, sewing might be your jam.
But if you crave relaxation and the comfort of soft textiles, knitting could be your ticket to creative bliss.
