knittinghelp.com

What It Is

KnittingHelp.com is an online learning platform dedicated to knitting skills, co-founded by Amy and Sheldon Finlay in 2004. Built around the core idea that “watching is the best way to learn to knit,” the site provides knitting enthusiasts around the world with a free learning hub that combines video tutorials, community discussion, and pattern resources. It has become one of the most popular knitting-instruction websites on the internet and has also launched an iOS app.

Core Dimensions

• Course Areas: Deeply focused on the craft of knitting, covering a complete skill progression from basics such as casting on, knit stitches, and purl stitches to increases, decreases, binding off, and advanced knitting techniques.
• Teaching Format: Primarily online video instruction, supplemented by forum interaction. The site offers a full beginner’s guide tutorial lasting up to 45 minutes, emphasizing an intuitive “watch and learn” experience. It also includes “Amy’s Advanced Videos” for more advanced learners.
• Instructor/Organization Background: The content is demonstrated and explained by experienced knitter Amy Finlay, who has appeared on the TV show Knitty Gritty and has been recommended by the BBC. Technical support is handled by her husband, Sheldon. The site is operated by Outer Limits Media, Inc.
• Teaching Language: English only.

Pricing

The site’s core learning resources—basic videos, forums, and free patterns—are completely free to access. Its business model mainly relies on supporting revenue streams: an online store selling knitting tools such as interchangeable needle kits with free shipping within the U.S., advertising starting at $150/month, and voluntary user donations. The site navigation mentions “Advanced Videos,” but the text does not clearly state whether they are paid or what the specific pricing is.

Pros and Cons

Pros: 1. Core instructional resources are completely free, making the entry barrier extremely low; 2. Video instruction is intuitive and detailed, especially suitable for absolute beginners; 3. It has an active forum community for Q&A and discussion; 4. It offers systematic content ranging from beginner to advanced levels.
Cons: 1. The site’s underlying technology is somewhat old, using ModxCMS and vBulletin, and the interface feels a bit dated; 2. It does not offer official certification or completion certificates; 3. The exact access conditions for advanced videos are not very clear.

Who It’s For

It is especially well suited to complete beginners who want to get started quickly through video lessons. It is also a good fit for knitters with some experience who want to master specific advanced techniques or find patterns and inspiration in the forums.

Access from China

The text does not mention any access restrictions for users in China. As a standard U.S.-based content website, it can typically be accessed directly, though video loading speed may be affected by the network environment. The exact situation is unknown.