At Wool and the Gang we have 4 different skill levels; Beginner, Easy, Intermediate and Advanced.

Beginner patterns are great for people who have never knitted before, or have only knitted something simple such as a scarf. Patterns in this category use simple stitches such as garter stitch and stocking stitch, using straight needles and simple seaming techniques.

Easy level patterns are a slight step up and are great for confident beginners who want to learn a few new skills. These patterns may use the long-tail cast on and you can expect more involved stitches such as ribbing and moss stitch. There might be some simple increasing and decreasing, changing colours and garments that involve more construction. Patterns might include circular needles along side straight needles.

Intermediate level patterns are perfect for knitters with a bit more confidence. Techniques might include more complex stitches such as Hexagon stitch, Twisted rib, or simple cables. You might increase or decrease whilst working in a stitch pattern. Colourwork also falls into this category and simple charts and abbreviations might be included. As well as using circular and straight needles, you might also come across double pointed knitting needles in Intermediate level patterns.

Advanced level patterns are perfect for experienced knitters who have made garments before. Patterns include many of the same elements as Intermediate patterns in addition to more complex garment constructions, multiple textured stitches, double decreases and more traditional knit code.

For our crochet patterns the Beginner level patterns are similar to the knitting Beginner level. Usually only one stitch is used such as single crochet, half double crochet or double crochet. The pieces are worked flat and finished with simple seaming techniques.

Easy level patterns include a few more challenges, such as treble crochet, working in the round, changing colour and simple shaping.

We recommend our Intermediate level patterns to makers who are confident with Easy projects, or confident crocheters who are new to Wool and the Gang. Projects might include crochet flat circles, increasing and decreasing and some decorative joining techniques. You will also get to try your hand at multiple stitch techniques and colour changes.

Advanced Level crochet patterns use more traditional crochet code and abbreviations. Multiple stitches might be used alongside lots of colour changes and garments may involve complex construction techniques. These level patterns are suitable for makers with some garment experience.