Learn to Knit, Skip the Overwhelm (and the Urge to Throw Your Yarn) 🧶
Does knitting feel confusing or intimidating? You are not alone. If you are curious about knitting but do not know where to begin, or feel nervous about making mistakes, this free starter kit is made just for you. Whether you are brand new or need a reset after a frustrating experience (like that scarf you accidentally turned into a tangled spaghetti monster), this free knitting starter kit helps you feel confident from your very first stitches.
You will receive a printable pattern, a quick-start cheat sheet, and calm, clear video tutorials that walk you through every step. It is like having a knitting coach in your inbox (without the pressure).
What You Will Get in the Free Knitting Starter Kit:
🧶 Beginner-Friendly Pattern A cozy, practical project designed to teach you as you go. Printable, accessible, and frustration-free.
📋 Quick-Reference Cheat Sheet Learn the essential stitches and techniques with a one-page guide you can keep at your side.
📺 Video Tutorials Calm, clear instructions filmed in natural light. A relaxed pace and peaceful setting help you follow along with ease.
Why this Free Knitting Lesson Starter Kit Works:
I’ve spent more than 10 years helping real people learn practical knitting skills, both online and in person.
Thousands of knitters have trusted my tutorials for their gentle pace, no-fluff instruction, and beginner-friendly guidance.
I focus on building your confidence so you can relax and actually enjoy knitting.
Ready to Start Knitting?
Sign up now, and I’ll send everything straight to your inbox. Your knitting journey starts with clarity, comfort, and maybe even a happy squeal when it clicks into place. Grab your yarn and let’s cast on together!
Join the Free Knitting Starter Kit List 🎁
About the Creator
Hi! I’m Liz Chandler, the founder of PurlsAndPixels and the author of Liz Chandler’s Knitting Guide: Learn to Knit with Practical Patterns. I create clear, approachable tutorials that help everyday people build real skills. My teaching style blends calm encouragement with lighthearted empathy (all we can do is laugh at our mistakes right?).
How to Sell Your Knits, Crochet, and Handmade Items Online or at Craft Fairs (Without Losing Your Mind or Your Profit) 🧺
Thinking about selling your handmade hats, scarves, dishcloths, or other cozy creations? Whether you knit, crochet, weave, or dabble in all things fiber, there is a way to turn your skills into extra income (without totally burning out). If you’re wondering how to start a handmade business or sell your crochet and knitting projects online, you’re not alone. This guide will walk you through how to sell handmade items on Etsy, at craft fairs, and more. It is not about becoming the next craft empire (unless you want to); it is about finding the sweet spot between joy and income.
I have sold finished pieces, taught classes, and now I mostly stick to designing patterns and running my own cozy little corner of the internet. I stepped back from selling handmade items full-time because the returns, yarn costs, and time crunch made it tricky. That does not mean you cannot do it, and do it well. With a few smart strategies and realistic expectations, you absolutely can turn your fiber skills into a sustainable side hustle (or more).
Here is what I wish I had known when I started.
What Actually Sells (and Why It Matters) 🧶
What handmade knit and crochet items sell best?
The truth? Not every handmade item is worth selling. Focus on things that are:
Small and quick to make (such as hats, dishcloths, and headbands)
Useful or giftable
Seasonal (such as chunky scarves in fall and cotton washcloths in spring)
Pro tip: Check Etsy, craft fair booths, or social media for bestsellers in your niche. Do not copy, but take notes on what gets attention.
Where to Sell Your Fiber Art 🛍️
There are several places to sell handmade items online and in person (including Etsy, craft fairs, and social media marketplaces).
Your Own Website: You are in control of your sales and returns on your own site. Especially if you already have a following, this can be your highest-margin option.
Amazon Handmade: Use caution here. While it offers broad visibility, the return policy can be risky for handmade sellers. I once had a hat returned with a jazz CD as a marketing ploy from a musician, and another time, someone returned worn earrings in the wrong box. I was out the fees and could not resell either. On the other hand, it’s great for reaching a global audience if you’re up for the high return rate.
Selling In Person
Craft Fairs: Local and fun, but physically demanding. Invest in a few cute signs and an easy setup.
Local Boutiques: Try consignment or wholesale (make sure you read the fine print).
Pricing Without Guilt 💸
Do not shortchange yourself just to make a sale. Here is what to consider:
Yarn and material cost
Hours spent making it
Your skill level
Market demand
A simple formula: (Materials + Hours Worked × Fair Hourly Rate) × 2 = Retail Price
And yes, your time is worth more than minimum wage.
Returns, Refunds, and Boundary Setting 🚫
Have clear policies and stick to them. Things to include:
No refunds on worn or custom items
Clear shipping and handling timeframes
How to handle lost or damaged packages
If someone pushes back, remember: being kind does not mean being a doormat.
5. How to Stand Out in a Crowded Market 🌟
A few easy ways to shine:
Take bright, clean photos (natural light is your friend)
Write descriptions like you are talking to a friend
Add a thank-you note, care tag, or freebie with each order
Use your unique story (your voice matters)
Is Selling Handmade Items a Good Idea?
Selling your handmade work is not for everyone, and that is okay. However, if you feel passionately, go for it! Start small, price fairly, and lead with kindness (to your customers and to yourself).
You are not just selling stitches. You are offering comfort, beauty, and creativity in every piece. And that is always worth something.
Designs You Can Sell
P.S. All of my patterns include a license to sell the handmade items you create from them (no extra fees or hoops to jump through). So if you are ready to start stitching for profit, you are welcome to use my designs! Get my Knitting Guide or Knitting the Simple Things (both books include 15 designs in all the sizes) or find all my digital pattern downloads on my knitting patterns page.
If you’re looking for knitting patterns to sell at craft fairs or online shops, I’ve got you covered. Looking for some beginner-friendly patterns that are perfect for selling? Take a peek at my Knitting Patterns Collection. Simple projects like washcloths, hats, and scarves are great sellers, and they are even better when you make them your own. Try using your favorite yarn colors, add a few pom poms, some embroidery, or a fun tag to stand out. Your creativity is your secret weapon!
Here are five of my top knitting patterns that are especially popular for selling:
🧼 Double-Thick Washcloth Pattern – Quick, practical, and always a favorite at craft fairs. Bonus points if you are also a handmade soap maker (it’s the perfect bundle)!
Feel free to use your favorite yarns and experiment with color combos. Add pom poms, embroidery, or even a little sparkle. Your handmade items should reflect your personality and style!
Pollinator-Friendly Gardening in the High Desert of Southwest Colorado 🌱
Gardening in the high desert of Southwest Colorado is not for the faint of heart, but let’s be real: neither am I. 😉 With scorching summers, bone-dry soil, and surprise frosts that show up like an uninvited guest, you have to work with nature, not against it. And that means going local. Native plants don’t just survive here; they thrive with minimal effort, leaving you more time to sip your iced tea and admire your handiwork. Plus, choosing native plants for high desert gardening ensures your landscape is pollinator-friendly and sustainable.
Yarrow and Honeybees 🍯🐝
If there is one plant that honeybees absolutely adore, it is yarrow (Achillea millefolium). With its delicate clusters of tiny flowers in white, pink, or yellow, yarrow is like an all-you-can-eat buffet for pollinators. This tough, drought-tolerant plant thrives in high desert conditions and keeps the bees happy all summer long. Plus, it doubles as a medicinal herb for humans, so you get a win-win situation with beauty, biodiversity, and practical uses.
Native Plants That Laugh in the Face of Drought 🌵
After years of experimenting (and watching many ill-fated garden center plants meet their untimely demise), I have learned that native perennials, shrubs, and flowers are the best way to go. Native plants for high desert conditions are built tough, and they attract beneficial pollinators while requiring minimal water. Here are some of my all-time favorites:
Rocky Mountain Penstemon (Penstemon strictus): These bright purple-blue flowers are the life of the party, attracting hummingbirds, bees, and compliments from passersby.
Rabbitbrush (Ericameria nauseosa): If you need a plant that thrives on neglect and explodes in golden blooms in late summer, this one’s for you.
Serviceberry (Amelanchier alnifolia): Delicious berries and a great shade provider? It’s a win-win for humans and wildlife alike.
Apache Plume (Fallugia paradoxa): This beauty gives you delicate white flowers and feathery pink seed heads–like a desert fairy tale come to life.
Yucca (Yucca glauca): Tough, spiky, and fiercely independent–basically the Clint Eastwood of desert plants.
How to Find Pollinator Magnets for Your Region 🐝
Not all pollinators are fuzzy, friendly bees! Wasps may look intimidating, but they play an important role in your garden. If you take a peek inside the Rocky Mountain Penstemon at night, you might just find a wasp curled up asleep. While they might not be the first insects you want to befriend, wasps are fantastic at keeping aphids and other pesky garden pests under control. So, the next time you see one snoozing in a flower, give it a little nod of appreciation for its pest-control services.
Want a buzzing, fluttering, nectar-drunk crowd in your garden? Creating a pollinator-friendly gardening space starts with choosing the right plants. Here’s how to find the best native pollinator-friendly plants, no matter where you are:
Check with Local Extension Services – Universities and state agricultural programs love handing out plant lists like candy.
Hit Up Native Plant Societies – These folks are the plant nerds you need in your life. Look up groups like the Colorado Native Plant Society for deep-dive resources.
Pollinator Partnership’s Plant Finder – Enter your zip code at Pollinator.org and get a custom guide. It’s like a dating app for plants and pollinators.
Ask Your Local Nursery – The good ones will steer you toward regionally adapted plants rather than big-box store heartbreakers.
Native Plants That Won’t Just Look Pretty, They’ll Feed You Too 🍓
If you want a garden that pulls double duty, consider these edible and medicinal natives that thrive in harsh conditions. Incorporating food-producing native plants into your high desert garden supports sustainability and self-sufficiency.
Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana): Tart berries for jams and syrups. Also, a favorite for birds who think they own your yard.
Prickly Pear Cactus (Opuntia spp.): Eat the pads, eat the fruit, and enjoy a plant that looks like it’s straight out of a Western movie.
Threeleaf Sumac (Rhus trilobata): Berries that can be brewed into a tea? Count me in.
Wild Onion (Allium cernuum): A native plant that gives you free onions? That’s a yes from me.
How to Keep Your Desert Garden Low-Maintenance 🤠
Mulch is your best friend. It conserves moisture and keeps invasive weeds from taking over your life.
Group plants that like the same conditions. Stop forcing your plants into bad relationships.
Ditch the pesticides. Native plants bring in the good bugs that eat the bad bugs–nature’s own pest control service.
Choose seed-grown natives over cultivars. Keep things wild and genetically diverse.
Embrace the Chaos and the Beauty of Native Gardening 🌿
Forget the picture-perfect English garden–out here, we let nature do its thing. Native gardening is about working with the land, not fighting it. Whether you are in the high desert like me or somewhere else, finding plants adapted to your region means less work, less water, and more joy. A pollinator-friendly gardening approach not only helps the environment but also makes your yard a haven for hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees. Start small, plant what thrives, and let the pollinators and wildlife move in. Just be prepared! Once your garden is popping, you may become that person who won’t stop talking about plants at dinner parties.
The early 2000s are calling, and they want their knitwear back! But too bad, we are keeping it! Nostalgic fashion is in full swing, and for those of us who lived through the rise of fuzzy cardigans, slouchy sweaters, and holey-knit tops the first time around, it is both a blast from the past and a prime opportunity to knit or crochet our own throwback wardrobe.
As a true child of this era, this trend is giving me flashbacks. Yes, I am aging myself (shhh don’t tell)! The fashion, the music, the questionable style choices; it is all coming back, and I am here for it.
Chunky, Oversized Sweaters! 🧶
Remember those ultra-slouchy, oversized sweaters that draped over your jeans or, let us be honest, your low-rise cargo pants? They are back, and the bigger, the better. Knitters and crocheters alike are loving loose silhouettes with exaggerated sleeves and plush, cozy textures. Whether you are crafting a ribbed turtleneck or a roomy pullover, this trend is perfect for layering and lounging in peak Y2K style.
Mesh and Open-Knit Tops! ✨
If you were not layering a sheer, holey-knit top over a spaghetti strap tank in the late 1990s, were you even there? Mesh-inspired knitting and crochet are seeing a huge resurgence, giving us the perfect excuse to recreate those lightweight, grunge-meets-boho pieces. Look for airy, breathable patterns that let you channel your inner early 2000s icon.
Fuzzy and Fluffy Everything! 🐑
Eyelash yarn and mohair are having a serious moment again. Once the go-to texture for cropped cardigans and furry accessories, these soft and fuzzy fibers are making their way into modern knits. Think pastel-colored boleros, plush shrug-style sweaters, and even fuzzy leg warmers to complete the look.
Sleeves That Make a Statement! 🎭
From bell sleeves to extra-long, scrunchy arm warmers, statement sleeves are taking over. Inspired by early 2000s emo, goth, and indie fashion, long knit sleeves that cover half your hands are making a comeback. This trend is perfect for both warmth and aesthetic appeal.
Vertical Stripes & Tall Socks are Back! 🧦
On a recent trip to JCPenney, I could not help but notice the wave of Y2K and ’90s knitwear styles taking over the racks. Chunky striped sweaters, cropped fuzzy cardigans, and knee-high socks in every color lined the displays, bringing back serious 90s nostalgia. It was like stepping into a time machine, only this time, we can appreciate these styles with fresh eyes. Whether shopping for ready-to-wear pieces or knitting your own, the revival of these trends is everywhere, proving that what was once old is new again! You can check out some of these throwback-inspired knits yourself at JCPenney’s sweater collection.
Flipping through old family photos from the ’90s, I could not help but notice one thing: vertical stripes and tall white socks were everywhere! And guess what? They are back in full force. Striped knit sweaters, especially in bold primary colors or pastel shades, are making a huge comeback. Pair them with high-waisted jeans, tennis skirts, or even classic cargo pants for that effortlessly cool retro vibe. And let’s not forget the knee-high white socks, once a staple of preppy and sporty fashion, now being styled with everything from chunky sneakers to platform sandals.
Granny Squares but Modernized! 🎨
Crochet’s revival means the classic granny square is back in a fresh, contemporary way. Think bright, clashing colors or minimalist monochrome sets. Granny square tops, cardigans, and even patchwork-style dresses are flooding fashion runways and indie boutiques alike. Peak Y2K and ’90s knitwear style in 2025 fashion!
The Rise of DIY and Upcycling! ♻️
One of the best things about this nostalgic knitwear revival is that it is perfect for DIYers. Instead of hunting through thrift shops for authentic pieces from the past (which is also great fun!), makers are creating their own retro knits, upcycling old sweaters, and embracing slow fashion. Patterns inspired by Y2K and ’90s knitwear are emerging everywhere, from oversized vests to chunky scarves and knit handbags.
How to Make the Y2K and ’90s Knitwear Trend Your Own! 🌟
Whether you are picking up your needles for the first time or diving into your yarn stash for a full-on 2000s reboot, this trend is all about personal expression. Play with bold colors, mix textures, and do not be afraid to go over the top. That was the true essence of early 2000s fashion and it’s back for 2025.
Dust off your knitting needles, dig out that fuzzy yarn, and get ready to relive the fashion era that gave us butterfly clips, cargo pants, and, most importantly, unforgettable knitwear. The best part is that this time, you get to make it exactly the way you want.
Spring break: the season of college kids flocking to beaches, families heading to amusement parks, and, if you’re like me, knitters swapping out thick wool for breezy cotton. Right now, I am knitting a cotton washcloth in front of a palm tree in Arizona. Yes, you read that correctly. While others are sipping umbrella drinks 🍹 and making questionable life choices, I am clicking away with my needles, making the smooth transition from winter knits to spring essentials.
From Cozy to Cool: The Spring Knitting Shift 🧶
Winter knitting is all about survival: bulky scarves, hats you could store snacks in, and blankets that double as emergency shelters. But once the temperatures rise, no one wants to wrestle with a wool blanket in their lap unless they enjoy marinating in their own sweat. Spring knitting is the perfect excuse to lighten things up.
Enter cotton yarn, the MVP of warm-weather knitting. It is breathable, soft, and perfect for quick projects like washcloths, market bags, and lightweight shawls. I, myself, am working on a ribbed double stripped dishcloth (pattern here).
Knitting with cotton also forces a mindset shift. The dense, structured feel of wool yarn gives way to a looser, more relaxed stitch. It is like going from wearing a parka in the Rockies 🏔️ to lounging in flip-flops under an Arizona palm tree 🌴. You have to adjust your tension, embrace the drape, and accept that cotton knitting does not have the same forgiving stretch as wool. It is a little stubborn… kind of like me when someone tells me knitting is for grandmas. 🙄 (See Knitting Myths Unraveled for my unfiltered opinion on that!)
🌞 Spring Break, But Make It Knitting
Spring break is traditionally about relaxation, which means your spring knitting projects should follow suit. A cotton washcloth is the perfect project: small enough to toss in a beach bag 🏖️, easy enough to knit while half-watching a sunset 🌅, and practical enough to use later. Plus, let’s be honest, it is a good excuse to knit in warm weather without sweating through a half-finished sweater.
Speaking of unexpected things in the desert, did you know that Lake Havasu City is home to the original London Bridge? 🌉 Yes, the one from the nursery rhyme. A businessman in the 1960s decided to ship the whole thing from England to Arizona, because why not? It is now a tourist attraction, spanning a canal where spring breakers cruise by on jet skis. Meanwhile, I am over here knitting a washcloth and admiring a piece of British history in the Southwest. Not exactly a wild spring break story, but if you ask me, a stress-free afternoon with my knitting needles beats a sunburn and regret any day.
The Takeaway: Seasonal Knitting Wins 🌷
Transitioning from winter knitting to spring knitting is not just about yarn choice. It is about embracing the season, shifting to smaller, lighter projects, and letting your knitting patterns match your environment. Whether you are knitting in Arizona, on a road trip 🚗, or in your backyard with a fresh breeze 🍃, the key is to keep it simple and enjoyable.
So, if you find yourself swapping wool for cotton yarn and trading in cable knitting needles for a mindless garter stitch, welcome to the club. Spring break knitting might not be mainstream, but neither are we, and honestly, that is what makes it fun. 🎉🧶
Let me tell you how much I love the stars. There is something about looking up at a sky full of them that makes everything else feel small in the best way. I have always been a stargazer, watching meteor showers, learning constellations, and tracking the moon through its phases. When a Blood Moon comes around, you better believe I will be outside watching every second of it.
On the evening of March 13 & 14, a total lunar eclipse will turn the moon a deep red. If you have never seen one before, this is your chance. It is one of those rare moments when the night sky puts on a show you will not forget. Now, we just have to hope the storm clouds clear enough for us to actually see it.
What Is a Blood Moon?
A Blood Moon happens when the Earth moves directly between the sun and the moon, casting a shadow that filters out all but the deep red and orange wavelengths of light. The result? The moon turns a stunning shade of red, glowing eerily against the night sky.
Unlike solar eclipses, you do not need any special glasses or equipment to watch a lunar eclipse. All you need is your own two eyes and a clear sky.
When and Where to See the Blood Moon Eclipse 2025
I will be out there, bundled up in a blanket, watching the whole thing unfold. Here is when to look:
Date: Night of March 13 into the early morning of March 14
Eclipse Begins: 9:57 p.m. MST
Total Eclipse (Best Viewing Time): 12:26 a.m. MST
Eclipse Ends: 4:00 a.m. MST
Where You Can See It: North America (weather permitting)
How to Get the Best View of the Blood Moon Eclipse 2025
Lunar eclipses are completely safe to watch with the naked eye, but if you want to make the most of it, try the following:
Find a Dark Spot. The farther from city lights, the better. If you can get out to a rural area, you will see much more detail.
Use Binoculars or a Telescope. The moon looks incredible during an eclipse, and a little magnification makes it even better.
Be Patient. The moon does not just turn red in an instant. It slowly changes over a few hours, so settle in and enjoy the process.
Take Photos. A smartphone on a tripod with night mode can capture some amazing shots. Or, if you have one, this is a great time to practice your nighttime photography with your camera and zoom lens.
Why This Blood Moon Eclipse Matters
Total lunar eclipses do not happen all the time. This is the last total eclipse North America will see until 2026, so if you miss it, you will be waiting a while for the next one. There is also something special about looking up at the sky and realizing you are watching the same moon as people across the world at the exact same moment.
For me, stargazing has always been a way to feel connected to something bigger. Watching the moon shift to red, with stars sparkling all around it, reminds me why I love the night sky so much. It is peaceful, awe-inspiring, and, for a little while, makes you forget about everything else.
Dark Skies for Best Viewing
If you are lucky enough to live near Mesa Verde National Park or another one of the country’s official Dark Sky Parks, this eclipse will be even more incredible. Dark Sky Parks are designated areas with minimal light pollution, meaning you will get the clearest, most breathtaking view possible. Even if you are not near one, do not worry; just head to the darkest spot you can find, and you will still get a great show.
How to Keep Dark Skies on Your Homestead
If you live in a rural area or on a homestead, you have the power to help protect the night sky from unnecessary light pollution. Even small changes can make a big difference in keeping the stars visible.
Use Warm, Low-Intensity Lighting. Harsh white or blue-toned lights scatter more and create more glare. Warm, yellow-toned lights are softer on the eyes and the sky.
Install Motion Sensors. Instead of leaving lights on all night, use motion-activated security lights. This keeps your property safe while reducing unnecessary light pollution.
Shield Your Lights. Downward-facing lights prevent excess light from spilling into the sky. Simple covers or shades can help direct light where it is actually needed.
Turn Off What You Do Not Need. If you do not need the porch light on, turn it off. A simple habit like this can help keep your night sky clear.
These small steps will not only help you enjoy better stargazing but also keep the ecosystem around you healthier. Artificial light affects wildlife more than we realize, and cutting down on excess lighting can help nocturnal animals navigate the night as nature intended.
Love stargazing as much as I do? Don’t forget to look up at tonight’s blood moon eclipse…
2025 Blood Moon Eclipse: Do Not Sleep Through This One!
If you can, stay up late for this. Wrap yourself in a warm blanket, grab a hot drink, and take a few minutes to look up. The universe is putting on a show, and it is absolutely worth watching.
If you are lucky, you might even be wrapped in a blanket you made yourself. Nothing beats stargazing under something handcrafted, whether it is a cozy knit shawl or a thick wool blanket. If you have not started one yet, now might be the perfect time. A hand-knit blanket will keep you warm through every celestial event to come, and who knows? By the time the next Blood Moon rolls around in 2026, you might have a new favorite stargazing companion.
Let me know if you will be watching. If you snap any photos, I would love to see them! Here is hoping for clear skies. 🌕
Knitting is supposed to be fun, right? But thanks to a few lingering knitting myths, some people never even pick up the needles or, worse, give up too soon. Let’s unravel these myths and get you stitching with confidence.
1. 🚫 “Knitting is Just for Grandmas”
✅ Reality: Have you seen social media lately? Knitting is everywhere, and it’s for everyone. Cozy-loving homesteaders, edgy fashion designers, and creative minds of all kinds are picking up needles. Plus, have you ever met a grandma? They’re hardcore. If knitting is just for them, we should all aspire to be as cool as they are. 👵💞
2. 🚫 “You Have to Be Good at Math to Knit”
✅ Reality: If you can count to ten and do a little basic stitch tracking, you’re all set. Most of the “math” in knitting is just making sure you have the same number of stitches you started with. And if things go a little off? That’s just creative flair. 🧶💃
3. 🚫 “Expensive Yarn is Always Better”
✅ Reality: Just because it costs as much as your rent doesn’t mean it’s the best choice. Acrylic won’t betray you with a surprise felting incident in the wash, and budget-friendly wool blends can be just as soft as the fancy stuff. You don’t have to buy into this knitting myth. The best yarn? The one you’ll actually use.🧵💰
4. 🚫 “I Don’t Have the Attention Span for Knitting”
✅ Reality: If you’ve ever scrolled social media for an hour instead of doing literally anything productive, you absolutely have the attention span for knitting. The trick is to knit while watching TV, listening to a podcast, or pretending to pay attention in Zoom meetings (Shhhh 🤫 I didn’t suggest that last one!). 📺🎧
5. 🚫 “You Have to Follow the Pattern Exactly”
✅ Reality: Patterns are like recipes. Some people follow them to the letter; others throw in a pinch of this and a dash of that. Want longer sleeves? Go for it. Hate the neckline? Change it. You’re the boss of your yarn. 📜✂️
6. 🚫 “Knitting Takes Too Long”
✅ Reality: You don’t need to spend months knitting a sweater to be a “real knitter.” Some projects take an evening; some take a year. Your stitches don’t expire if you set them down for a while. Start small, take your time, and if all else fails, a chunky yarn and big needles will have you cranking out projects at lightning speed. ⏳⚡
7. 🚫 “I’ll Just Finish This Row Before Bed”
✅ Reality: We both know you’re about to finish the whole sleeve and fall into a knitting-induced time warp where suddenly it’s 3 a.m. and your alarm is in four hours. Accept your fate. 🌙😴
Easy Tips for Fresh Herbs All Year from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels🪴
It’s cold and icky today, and I miss my plants. So, I’m working on growing an indoor herb garden. I picked up three little herb plants at the grocery store last week. It seemed like a great idea at the time. Sadly, the mint got powdery mildew and the basil came pre-loaded with aphids. The chickens got to eat the basil since it’s good for them and they don’t mind the little bugs, but the mint had to go in the trash because mold is bad for chickens. Now it’s just me and the rosemary holding strong. Lesson learned: starting from seed is the best way to grow an indoor herb garden. That’s what I’m doing today to get my winter plant fix. 🌿
Why Grow an Indoor Herb Garden?
Beyond the obvious perks of having fresh ingredients at your fingertips, herbs are a whole experience. Just brushing your hand against a rosemary plant or pinching off a basil leaf releases a burst of fresh scent that can instantly lift your mood. They bring a little life to the kitchen, even in the dead of winter. Plus, growing an indoor herb garden means no mystery pesticides or surprise infestations – just fresh, happy plants ready to make your food (and your space) better. 🍃
Picking the Right Herbs
Some herbs thrive indoors, while others throw a fit and die. If you’re just getting started, go for low-maintenance, high-reward options like:
Basil – Loves warmth and plenty of sunlight.
Mint – Grows like wild but is prone to mildew, so give it some space.
Thyme – Hardy, aromatic, and great for soups and roasts.
Rosemary – Sturdy and resilient, assuming you don’t drown it.
Oregano – Perfect for Italian dishes and super easy to maintain.
Best Location for Your Indoor Herb Garden
Herbs are not high-maintenance, but they do have standards:
Light – Most need six hours of sunlight a day. A south-facing window is best, but a grow light works if your house is more cave than greenhouse.
Temperature – If you’re comfortable, your herbs probably are, too. Aim for 65-75°F.
Air Circulation – Stagnant air leads to mold. A little airflow keeps things fresh.
Keeping herbs like mint indoors can help keep pests (like this grasshopper) at bay.
Choosing the Right Containers
Herbs hate wet feet. Pick pots with drainage holes. If you’re using a decorative pot with no drainage, put a plastic nursery pot inside or add pebbles to the bottom to avoid root rot.
Best Soil for Indoor Herbs
Regular garden soil is too heavy. Use a light, well-draining potting mix. Mixing in a little perlite or sand helps with drainage, which means fewer sad, soggy plants.
How to Water and Feed Your Indoor Herbs
I prefer to water my herbs from the bottom, placing cute or plain white pots onto plates and watering the plate. This way, the plants take up only what they need, and I avoid soggy soil disasters. It also keeps the leaves dry, which helps prevent powdery mildew and mold.
When you grow an indoor herb garden, herbs are not thirsty divas. Stick your finger an inch into the soil. If it’s dry, water. If it’s damp, leave it alone. Overwatering is the number one killer of indoor herbs. A diluted liquid fertilizer every few weeks keeps them happy, but too much can make them grow fast and taste weak.
Since my store-bought herbs turned into a disaster, I’m growing an indoor herb garden from seed. They take a little longer, but you avoid mystery pests and grocery store neglect. Use a seed-starting mix, keep the soil slightly damp (not swampy), and be patient. Some herbs, like basil, sprout quickly, while rosemary takes its sweet time.
How to Harvest Herbs for Maximum Growth
The best part? Snipping off fresh herbs when you need them. But don’t go hacking away randomly. Follow these rules:
Trim regularly – Pinch off leaves frequently to encourage bushy growth. Never let it flower, or the plant will start to decline.
Never take more than one-third of the plant – Keep it healthy and productive.
Harvest in the morning – This is when herbs have the most oils (aka flavor).
Flowering herbs are beautiful, but much less tasty. Try to pinch off the flowers before they open.
Troubleshooting Indoor Herb Gardening: Common Problems & Fixes
Leggy growth? Not enough light. Move them closer to a window or add a grow light.
Yellowing leaves? Overwatering. Let the soil dry out before watering again.
Mildew or mold? Increase air circulation and avoid getting the leaves too wet.
Aphids? Wash them off with soapy water or unleash the wrath of ladybugs.
Ladybugs love aphids… you may not want to actually set them free indoors. Rather, take your herbs outside on a nice day and let the ladybugs eat the aphids.
Start Your Indoor Herb Garden Today
Growing an indoor herb garden is one of the easiest ways to bring a little green into your home. Plus, fresh herbs make everything taste better. Whether you’re dodging winter like I am or just want a steady supply of basil, growing herbs indoors is low-effort and high-reward. So, grab some seeds, plant something, and let’s pretend it’s spring! 🌿
Recommended Supplies for Growing an Indoor Herb Garden
Need supplies? Here are some of my favorite tools and essentials to get started (affiliate links to Amazon):
It’s not too late to start your own seedlings for your summer garden! If you’re already thinking ahead to warmer days, now is the perfect time to get those seeds going. Check out my New Year’s Day seedling planting guide for tips on getting a head start on your best garden yet.
