If you’ve ever watched someone knitting and thought ‘I’d love to be able to do that’ - this post is for you. Learning to knit or crochet is one of the most rewarding things you can do for yourself, and Canberra has a warm, welcoming community of makers ready to help you get started.
Why learn to knit or crochet?
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It’s deeply calming. The rhythmic, repetitive nature of knitting has a well-documented meditative effect and is a proven antidote to screen fatigue.
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You make things that last. A handknitted jumper, a pair of socks, a blanket for a new baby - these are objects people keep and treasure for a lifetime.
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It’s a community. The knitting and crochet world is one of the most welcoming creative communities there is. People share patterns freely, help each other, and genuinely celebrate each other’s work.
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It’s portable. You can knit on public transport, in waiting rooms, in front of the television. Once you have a project on the go, you’ll find yourself looking for opportunities to pick it up.
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It’s endlessly learnable. Beginners make beautiful things quickly, and there’s always a new technique, fibre, or pattern to explore no matter how experienced you become.
Where to learn to knit in Canberra
The Woolshed in Manuka is Canberra’s dedicated yarn and knitting shop, and we offer classes for all skill levels throughout the year.
Small group classes
Our small group classes are the most popular way to learn. With a maximum of around 6 people per session, everyone gets real attention and personalised guidance - and you’ll almost certainly meet other local makers whose friendship will outlast the class.
We offer classes in knitting basics, crochet fundamentals, and a range of more advanced techniques. Popular topics include sock knitting, colourwork, and garment construction. Get in touch or visit us in store to find out what’s coming up.
One-to-one lessons
A private lesson with one of our experienced teachers is the fastest way to learn, or to crack a specific problem. Sessions are tailored entirely to you - your skill level, your project, your goals. If you’ve been stuck on something (turning a heel, reading a chart, picking up stitches), a one-to-one lesson will sort it out.
Private lessons also make a wonderful and thoughtful gift. Get in touch to book.
What do I need to get started?
Very little. To learn to knit, you need:
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A pair of knitting needles - for beginners, 4.5mm or 5mm in bamboo or smooth plastic works beautifully.
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Some yarn - 8ply or 10ply in a smooth, light colour makes it much easier to see your stitches.
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That’s genuinely it.
You don’t need a special bag or a fancy needle collection to start. Our team will help you choose exactly the right materials when you come in - just tell us you’re a beginner.
What should my first project be?
The classic beginner project is a simple rectangle - a scarf, a dishcloth, or a small sample square. This lets you practice the two fundamental knitting stitches (knit and purl) without having to think about shaping or sizing.
For crochet, a granny square or a simple dishcloth in single crochet is the perfect starting point. Most people are surprised by how quickly they progress once they have the basics.
The Canberra knitting community
Canberra has a genuinely active and welcoming craft community. Once you’ve started, you’ll find plenty of ways to connect with other makers:
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The Woolshed is a natural gathering place - regulars pop in to browse, get advice, and chat about what they’re making.
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There are knitting and crochet groups across the ACT. Ask us in store and we can point you in the right direction.
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Online, the Australian knitting community is warm and active on Instagram (search #australianknitters) and on Ravelry, the world’s largest knitting and crochet platform.
About The Woolshed
The Woolshed has been part of the Canberra crafting community for many years. We’re a small independent shop in the heart of Manuka, run by a team of passionate knitters and crocheters who love what they do and love helping you find your next project.
We stock a carefully chosen range of quality natural fibre yarns, knitting and crochet tools, books, and patterns. We’re proud to stock Australian-made and locally grown yarns alongside much-loved international brands, and we offer classes for all skill levels throughout the year.
We’re a small business, and every purchase - whether in store or online - makes a real difference to us. Thank you for supporting independent retail in Canberra.
Come and visit us
Address: Shop 2B, Manuka Court, 11-17 Bougainville Street, Griffith ACT 2603
Phone: (02) 6295 0061
Email: shop@woolshed.com.au
Hours: Monday–Friday 10am–5pm | Saturday 10am–4pm
We can’t wait to meet you.