2023 Knit and Crochet Goals: Move the Bar with Marly!

Of course, your 2023 knit and crochet goals are top of mind right now, yes? Wait a minute…do you even have any crafting goals for this year?

Image of hands knitting and group of crochet hooks. Text says: Move the Bar! Crush Those Goals.

No?

I know, I know – it’s been a crazy festive season, and you need a bit of a break. But, sometimes, a change is as good as a rest. So, why not flip your crafting time to another skill set or try learning something new?

“But it’s only the first couple weeks of January,” you say! Yes – and you know the way time flies. So, there’s no time like the present to lay down some ideas to get this year off to an amazing start. You know me…go, go, 2023 knit and crochet goals!

I’m your cheering squad, teacher, friend, and mentor, and I’m here to tell you – it’s time to plan your year. Okay, let’s just plan these first few weeks for now.

But, you know I’ll have tons of stuff for you to do this year, so clip in and hang on tight. If you know me at all, you’ll know it’s gonna be one heck of a ride!!!

Here’s what I’m thinking…

If you make too many goals at once, you won’t complete any of them. So, I’m going to suggest you take me up on this ONE goal and ONE deadline.

Stay with me…there’s a method in my madness!

Your 2023 Knit and Crochet Goals

If you’re a knitter…learn something crochet.

Here’s some simple crochet projects ideal for a beginner crocheter:

Beginner Crochet Hat

Smiley Emoticon Keychain

NOTE: This pattern has errata – Round 4 should say:

Round 4: [Sc in next 2 sc, 2sc in next sc] 6 times, slip st in first sc of this round – 24 sc.

Cozy Fringed Cowl

Easy Street Hat

Quick Pompom Hat

Berry Stitch Scarf

On The Town Shawl

If you’re a crocheter…learn something knit.

Check out these easy knit projects so you can get used to 2 needles (or at least two points instead of one hook.):

Knit Ombre Blanket Scarf

Shifting Rib Knit Dishcloth

Knit Bias Striped Blanket

Fading Stripes Lumbar Pillow

Basic Knit Beanie

Basketweave Scarf

Easy Knit Rib Hat

Now, I don’t mean go ‘all-in.’ You don’t have to learn everything in one go. Choose something basic if you’re a beginner, or if you have a little more experience, learn a new technique to build your skills. There’s always another cast-on or bind-off to learn, cables, lace, or color work to try, not to mention the enormous amount of stitch patterns out there.

More Free Patterns for Practicing Skills

If you’re bi-crafty…good for you, but practice your weaker craft. There’s always room for improvement. Small, quick projects are ideal for practicing new skills!

Try out one of these other projects that still won’t take you too long:

Adventurous Beginner Knit Beanie

Cozy Hygge Crochet Wrap

Brighten My Day Knit Wrap

Two-for-One Crochet Hat & Cowl

Cozy Rib Knit Cowl

Rise & Shine Knit Armwarmers

Warm Ribbed Crochet Boot Cuffs

Wafflin’ Around Crochet Cowl

Cell Phone Resting Place

Charming Crochet Headband

Crochet Stadium Seat Cover

Knit Stadium Seat Cover

And here’s even more free patterns in case you run out of ideas…

Where to learn? You’ll find all kinds of videos on my YouTube channel.

If you can’t knit or crochet (yet), choose a craft and a small, simple project, watch a few videos, and just get started. Get some basics under your belt. It’s much easier and more productive to learn by DOING! And, by the way…mistakes are a GOOD thing! We can learn from them!

Tips to make your first project or two simpler from the start:

  • Use a smooth, single-color yarn.
  • Choose worsted-weight yarn for easier handling.
  • Use a hook or needles the size quoted on the yarn ball band (or one size larger.)
  • Don’t stress out – this is a learning experience, and it should be fun!

Your 2023 Knitting and Crochet Goals Deadline…Should you Choose to Accept it…

Play around. Practice some new skills. Flex those creative muscles. Get yourself warmed up.

Why?

Your deadline is February 11th!

Because Sunday, February 12th, brings a special event! GAME DAY! It’s Superbowl Sunday!

What does that have to do with knitting and crochet?

Well…for every Superbowl, I plan a special crafting event. I can’t say too much about it just yet, but I wanted to give you a heads-up to block out your day for some serious crafting fun!

Frequently Asked Questions

I’m a knitter, but I want to try crochet… where should I start?

So here’s the thing… if you’re a knitter looking to dip your toes into crochet, I’ve got some super simple projects just for you! Check out the Beginner Crochet Hat, the Smiley Emoticon Keychain, or the Cozy Fringed Cowl. They’re all great for getting a feel for the hook!

I’m a crocheter and want to learn to knit… what are some easy projects?

Honestly… learning to knit when you’re used to crochet can feel a little strange at first, but it’s totally doable! I recommend trying out the Knit Ombre Blanket Scarf, the Shifting Rib Knit Dishcloth, or the Basic Knit Beanie. They’ll help you get the hang of those two needles!

What’s the deadline for my 2023 knit and crochet goals?

Yes! You’ve got until February 11th to get a handle on your new skills or projects. It’s a great little nudge to get you going before a special event I have planned for February 12th!

I’m already pretty good at both knitting and crochet… what should my goal be?

Oh, that’s awesome that you’re bi-crafty! Honestly… keep practicing your weaker craft… there’s always room to improve, right? Or try learning a new technique like cables or color work. Small, quick projects are perfect for practicing those new skills!

My yarn is a bit slippery, and I’m having trouble handling it. Any tips?

Don’t you worry about that! For your first projects, I always suggest using a smooth, single-color yarn that’s worsted-weight. It’s just easier to handle when you’re getting used to things, and it makes the stitches much clearer to see.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Person displays a vibrant Tunisian crochet scarf, highlighting its colorful stitch detail; accessories on shelves behind.

The One and Only, Marly

Marly is a knitwear and crochet designer (and yarn addict) that is here to help you learn how to knit and crochet in a way that's fun and approachable.

Meet Marly

Knitting & Crochet Projects for Every Mood" in pink and blue fonts on a light background.
A white bird with pink accents crochets a textured blue scarf with blue needles, seated in a green armchair.

Netflix & Chill

Simple projects for when you want to relax and zone out

Amigurumi turkey with white body, pink accents, and tail feathers in blue, green, yellow, orange, red, and purple. White background.

Social Butterfly

Frustration-free projects that you can easily work on in public areas

Crocheted bird amigurumi with pink wings, curled lines, flower details, and outstretched limbs; Tunisian crochet texture.

Smooth Jazz

Projects that require a bit more intense focus (but music is nice!)

A decorative bird amigurumi with floral patterns, knitting needles, notepad, and pink flower details in Tunisian crochet style.

Shhh Be Quiet!

Advanced projects requiring deep focus (but a big payoff, too!)