Knitting & Crochet Classes in Chicago (Beginner to Advanced)
learn to knit & crochet • chicago area
Knitting & crochet classes near Chicago: how to choose the right option
Ready to learn to knit or crochet—or return after a long break—but not sure where to start? This guide compares local classes, meetups, and online tutorials and explains why many Chicago makers head to AriYARN Shop & Studio in Park Ridge for small-group classes, Tunisian crochet, and a free Thursday Stitch Night.
Quick summary – knitting & crochet classes near Chicago
- Local yarn shops are the best place for small, hands-on knitting and crochet classes.
- AriYARN in Park Ridge offers beginner and returning-maker classes, Tunisian crochet, and private lessons.
- Thursday Stitch Night (5–7 pm) is a free meetup where you can practice in our craft lounge.
- Use online tutorials as backup, but rely on in-person help at AriYARN when you want someone to actually fix your stitches.
Quick answer: where can I find knitting & crochet classes near Chicago?
For hands-on knitting and crochet classes near Chicago, look for an independent yarn shop that teaches in small groups, offers beginner-friendly projects, and lets you practice in a comfortable space.
In the northwest suburbs, AriYARN Shop & Studio in Park Ridge offers beginner and advanced knitting and crochet classes, Tunisian crochet workshops, and private lessons. Classes are held in a cozy craft lounge just a short walk from the UP–NW Metra line. Students learn how to read patterns, fix mistakes, and choose yarns and needles that match their goals.
You can also learn from online tutorials and video courses, but pairing those with in-person classes at a local yarn shop like AriYARN gives you the best of both worlds: on-demand videos plus real humans who can look at your stitches and help you move forward.
Ways to learn: classes, meetups, and online tutorials
Best for beginners & returning makers
- Step-by-step guidance from someone watching your hands in real time.
- Small groups so you can ask questions without feeling rushed.
- Instant help when your stitches twist, split, or mysteriously disappear.
At AriYARN, classes focus on natural-fiber yarns (wool, alpaca, cotton, linen) so your projects feel comfortable and are easier to work with than squeaky acrylic.
Practice time with other makers
- Our Thursday Stitch Night, 5–7 pm, is a relaxed, free meetup in the shop lounge.
- Great for practicing what you learned in class and seeing other projects in progress.
- Perfect if you know the basics but want accountability and community.
Helpful support between classes
- Use videos to review cast-ons, increases, decreases, and pattern abbreviations.
- We’re happy to suggest trusted channels and pattern designers during class.
- Combine videos with in-person help when you’re truly stuck or want to level up.
What to expect in an AriYARN class
Small groups in a cozy studio
- Classes are held inside AriYARN Shop & Studio at 153 N Northwest Hwy, Park Ridge, IL.
- Most sessions are small enough that the instructor can check each person’s work.
- You’ll sit in our craft lounge rather than at a fluorescent-lit folding table.
Clear outcomes for each level
- Beginner knitting: cast on, knit & purl, bind off, and read a simple pattern.
- Beginner crochet: foundation chains, single and double crochet, simple increases and decreases.
- Next-step classes: cables, lace, colorwork, or amigurumi once you know the basics.
Most classes list recommended yarn and tools on the Workshops page. If you’re not sure what to bring, you can always stop in early—our staff will help you choose the right natural-fiber yarns and needles from our /store selection.
How to learn to knit or crochet as an adult
Step-by-step path for absolute beginners
- Pick your craft: knit, crochet, or try both.
- Book a beginner class at AriYARN through the Workshops page.
- Get materials: choose yarn and tools in the shop or via /store for pickup.
- Practice between sessions using recommended video tutorials.
- Join Thursday Stitch Night to keep momentum and meet other learners.
What about Tunisian crochet?
- Tunisian crochet blends features of knitting and crochet using a long hook.
- It’s excellent for scarves, shawls, blankets, and textured fabric with less curling.
- AriYARN periodically offers Tunisian crochet workshops; watch the Workshops page and our newsletter for dates.
Free practice time: Thursday Stitch Night (5–7 pm)
What happens at Stitch Night?
- Bring any knit or crochet project—no formal lesson, just friendly support.
- Great place to practice new techniques, ask quick questions, and see yarns in action.
- Open to all skill levels, from first garter scarf to complex lace shawls.
Good to know before you come
- Stitch Night is free; no RSVP required.
- AriYARN is a cashless shop—bring a card or digital wallet if you plan to buy yarn or tools.
- Check the Workshops page or social media for any holiday schedule changes.
FAQ: knitting & crochet classes near Chicago
Where can I find knitting classes near Chicago?
Independent yarn shops are your best option for small, supportive knitting classes. AriYARN Shop & Studio in Park Ridge offers beginner and next-step knitting classes just a short ride from Chicago on the UP–NW Metra line. You can see current options and book your spot on the Workshops page.
Where can I find crochet classes near me?
Look for local yarn shops or community studios that teach crochet in small groups. At AriYARN, beginner classes cover foundation chains, single and double crochet, shaping, and how to read a simple pattern. We also host amigurumi and project-based classes for students who know the basics.
How can I learn to knit if I’ve never picked up needles before?
Start with a beginner class rather than trying to memorize a dozen YouTube videos. In a first-time knitter class at AriYARN you’ll learn how to cast on, knit and purl, fix common mistakes, and bind off, all while working on a simple project. After class, you can reinforce what you learned with video tutorials and Stitch Night practice.
What is Tunisian crochet and where can I learn it near Chicago?
Tunisian crochet uses a long hook that holds multiple loops, creating fabric that feels like a blend of knitting and crochet. It’s ideal for scarves, wraps, and blankets. AriYARN periodically offers Tunisian crochet workshops—watch the Workshops page and our newsletter for upcoming dates.
Are there free knitting or crochet meetups near Chicago?
Yes. AriYARN hosts a free Thursday Stitch Night from 5–7 pm in our Park Ridge studio. It’s open to all fiber artists—bring your current project, meet other makers, and get informal help in a relaxed setting.
Do I need to bring my own yarn and tools to class at AriYARN?
Most classes list recommended yarn and tools in the description. You’re welcome to bring materials from your stash, but many students prefer to choose yarn and needles in the shop so we can make sure they match the class pattern. AriYARN is cashless, so please bring a card or digital wallet for any purchases.
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