For crafters looking to expand their textile skills beyond crochet, knitting offers a complementary avenue for creating beautiful handmade items. The Purl Soho Learn to Knit Kit has become one of the most popular beginner knitting kits available in 2026, promising to teach fundamental techniques through a hands-on project. This comprehensive review examines whether this kit delivers on its promises and how it compares to learning other fiber crafts like amigurumi.
What’s Included in the Purl Soho Kit
The Purl Soho Learn to Knit Kit comes packaged as an all-in-one beginner system designed to take complete novices from zero knowledge to their first completed project. The kit includes a pair of size US 10 bamboo knitting needles, two skeins of Line Weight yarn in your choice of color, a tapestry needle for finishing, and detailed printed instructions with step-by-step photography.
The needles are 14 inches long, which provides a comfortable length for beginners without being unwieldy. The bamboo material offers a slight grip that helps prevent stitches from sliding off accidentally, a common frustration for new knitters. The Line Weight yarn is a worsted weight cotton blend that’s smooth and forgiving, making it easier to see individual stitches and correct mistakes.
The instruction booklet is the heart of the kit, featuring clear photographs and written directions for casting on, the knit stitch, the purl stitch, binding off, and weaving in ends. The project included is a simple dishcloth or washcloth, a practical first project that allows beginners to practice basic techniques without committing to a large time investment.
Quality of Materials and Construction
One of the standout features of this kit is the quality of materials provided. Purl Soho has built a reputation for premium yarns and notions, and this beginner kit doesn’t cut corners despite being entry-level. The bamboo needles are smooth and well-finished without rough spots that could snag yarn. They’re sturdy enough to withstand the tension that beginners often apply while learning to control their gauge.
The yarn is soft, has good stitch definition, and comes in a range of attractive colors. Unlike some beginner yarns that can feel scratchy or split easily, the Line Weight cotton blend is pleasant to work with for extended practice sessions. The generous amount of yarn included means beginners can complete the included project and still have enough left over to practice swatches or start a second small item.
The packaging itself is thoughtfully designed, arriving in a reusable drawstring bag that can serve as a small project bag after you’ve removed the materials. This attention to detail reflects the brand’s overall aesthetic and commitment to creating a positive unboxing experience.
Learning Experience for Complete Beginners
For someone who has never picked up knitting needles before, the Purl Soho kit provides a structured introduction to the craft. The instruction booklet breaks down each technique into manageable steps with accompanying photographs that show hand positioning and needle movement. This visual approach is essential for beginners who need to understand the physical mechanics of creating stitches.
The progression from casting on through basic stitches to binding off follows a logical sequence that builds skills incrementally. However, some beginners may find that written instructions alone aren’t sufficient for mastering the techniques. In 2026, most learners supplement printed instructions with video tutorials found online, and Purl Soho does offer companion videos on their website that correspond to the kit instructions.
The dishcloth project is an excellent choice for first-time knitters. It’s small enough to complete in a few hours once you’ve developed basic proficiency, yet substantial enough to give you real practice with the fundamental stitches. Unlike scarves, which can become tedious for beginners, a dishcloth provides quick satisfaction and a genuinely useful finished item.
Compared to learning crochet techniques for amigurumi, knitting has a different learning curve. Crocheters often find that managing two needles feels awkward initially after working with a single hook. However, the muscle memory develops relatively quickly with consistent practice, much like mastering tension control in crochet.
Value for Money and Alternatives
At its current price point in 2026, the Purl Soho Learn to Knit Kit sits in the mid-to-upper range for beginner knitting kits. You’re paying a premium for the Purl Soho brand, quality materials, and curated experience. Budget-conscious beginners can certainly assemble their own learning kit for less by purchasing needles and yarn separately and finding free tutorials online.
However, the value proposition extends beyond just the physical materials. The convenience of having everything selected and packaged together eliminates decision paralysis for beginners who don’t yet know what needle size or yarn weight is appropriate for learning. The cohesive instruction set that’s specifically designed for the included materials creates a smoother learning experience than trying to adapt generic tutorials to whatever supplies you’ve purchased.
For crafters already invested in fiber arts through crochet and amigurumi, this kit represents a low-risk way to explore knitting without a significant financial commitment. The skills learned transfer well to other projects, and the needles and remaining yarn can be used for future knitting endeavors.
Alternative beginner kits on the market in 2026 include options from We Are Knitters, Lion Brand, and various craft store house brands. These alternatives often include different project types like cowls, headbands, or beanies. The Purl Soho kit’s dishcloth project may seem less glamorous, but it’s arguably more practical for learning proper technique without the frustration of shaping or working in the round.
Who Should Buy This Kit
The Purl Soho Learn to Knit Kit is ideal for several types of crafters. Complete beginners with no fiber arts experience will find it a gentle introduction that doesn’t overwhelm with too many techniques at once. Experienced crocheters looking to add knitting to their skillset will appreciate the clear instructions and quality materials that respect their existing craft knowledge.
This kit also works well as a gift for someone who has expressed interest in learning to knit. The attractive packaging and comprehensive nature of the kit make it a thoughtful present that shows you’ve put consideration into supporting their new hobby. Unlike giving loose yarn and needles, a complete kit signals that you’re giving them a genuine learning experience, not just supplies.
The kit may be less suitable for very young learners or those who strongly prefer video-based learning exclusively. Children and teens might benefit from kits with chunkier needles and yarn that create faster visible progress. Learners who struggle with written instructions should plan to supplement with the companion videos rather than relying solely on the booklet.
For makers focused primarily on amigurumi and crochet, adding knitting skills opens up possibilities for mixed-media projects. Knitted garments for amigurumi characters, combined crochet and knit blankets, or knitted accessories paired with crocheted toys all become possible once you’re comfortable with both techniques.
Final Verdict and Recommendations
The Purl Soho Learn to Knit Kit delivers on its promise to provide a quality introduction to knitting fundamentals. The materials are excellent, the instructions are clear and well-photographed, and the project is appropriately scaled for beginners. While you can learn to knit for less money by assembling your own supplies, the curated experience and convenience justify the premium for many learners.
The kit’s greatest strength is eliminating the guesswork from getting started. You don’t need to research needle sizes, yarn weights, or which projects are appropriate for your skill level. Everything has been thoughtfully selected to work together and create a positive first experience with knitting.
Minor drawbacks include the reliance on printed instructions when many modern learners prefer video, though this is easily remedied by accessing Purl Soho’s online resources. The dishcloth project, while practical, may not excite crafters hoping to make wearable items immediately. However, building a strong foundation with this simple project sets you up for success with more complex patterns later.
For crocheters expanding their skills, this kit offers a bridge into knitting that respects your existing crafting abilities while acknowledging that knitting requires different techniques. The quality aligns with what experienced crafters expect in their materials, avoiding the disappointment of flimsy beginner supplies. Whether you’re starting your fiber arts journey or adding to an established skill set, the Purl Soho Learn to Knit Kit provides a solid foundation for future knitting projects.
