Crochet Classes Showdown: Skillshare vs. Craftsy
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In the world of online learning, especially for those passionate about creativity and crafts, Skillshare and Craftsy are two platforms that often come up. Both offer online crochet courses but have distinct features that make them unique. If you're a crochet beginner or a creative learner, this guide will help you decide which platform suits your needs better.
Introduction to Skillshare and Craftsy
Skillshare is a learning community for creators. It offers thousands of classes ranging from graphic design and photography to crafts, culinary arts and of course crochet. Its mission is to inspire discovery and growth through creative education.
Craftsy, on the other hand, is specifically tailored towards makers. It offers classes in knitting, sewing, quilting, crochet, and more. With a focus on hands-on projects, Craftsy aims to be your go-to resource for all creative endeavours.
Variety and Depth of Courses Offered
Skillshare:
Variety: Skillshare offers over 25,000 classes across multiple creative disciplines, including a significant number of courses on drawing, painting, and even business skills.
Depth: While it has a wide variety, the depth can sometimes vary, with some courses being more comprehensive than others.
Craftsy:
Variety: Craftsy has a more focused range of topics, primarily revolving around crafts such as knitting, sewing, quilting, and crocheting.
Depth: The depth of each course is substantial, with detailed tutorials that cater from beginners to advanced learners.
Verdict
If you're looking for a wide range of creative classes, Skillshare is the way to go. However, if your focus is purely on crafts like crochet, Craftsy offers more in-depth and specific courses.
Quality and Expertise of Instructors
Skillshare:
Instructors on Skillshare include industry leaders and professionals. Notable creatives such as Aaron Draplin and Ali Abdaal teach courses here.
The quality can vary since anyone can become a teacher, but top-rated classes are usually taught by experts.
Craftsy:
Craftsy features instructors who are experts in their fields, often with years of experience and specialization.
The platform is more curated, ensuring a consistently high level of expertise across its courses.
Verdict
Both platforms boast high-quality instructors, but Craftsy's more curated approach may offer a slight edge for those seeking consistent expertise, particularly in craft-related fields.
Crochet Classes:
Skillshare and Craftsy offer a wide range of classes to help you grow your crochet skills. Let's take a look at the different features and offerings for crochet classes on each platform.
Skillshare:
Offers over 1000+ crochet classes taught by experienced instructors.
Classes cover various techniques such as amigurumi, Tunisian crochet, lacework, and more.
Most classes include downloadable PDF patterns and resources.
Community feature allows for interaction with other students and the instructor for feedback and support.
Craftsy:
Offers over 500+ crochet classes taught by expert instructors.
Classes cover techniques such as basic stitches, advanced stitches, and project-specific classes.
Offline viewing options are available for some classes.
Option to purchase class kits with supplies included.
Verdict
Both offer a diverse selection of crochet classes taught by experienced instructors. However, Skillshare may be more appealing for those looking for downloadable resources and a community aspect, while Craftsy's offline viewing option and class kits may appeal to others.
Platform Usability and Ease of Navigation
Skillshare:
The platform is user-friendly with easy navigation. Courses are well-categorized, and the interface is clean.
Offers a mobile app for learning on-the-go, which is highly rated.
Craftsy:
Craftsy’s interface is also user-friendly, with intuitive navigation tailored specifically for craft projects.
The mobile app allows for offline viewing, making it convenient for learning without internet access.
Verdict
Both platforms offer excellent usability, but Skillshare’s broader focus might make it easier to explore different creative avenues.
Cost and Value for Money
Skillshare:
Offers a free trial for new users and then charges a monthly or annual subscription fee.
Unlimited access to all courses once subscribed, providing good value for those interested in multiple disciplines.
Craftsy:
Offers individual classes for purchase or a subscription model for all-access.
Often runs promotions and discounts, especially for new members.
Verdict
Skillshare might offer better value if you're interested in exploring various creative fields, whereas Craftsy provides flexibility with its class-specific purchases and is ideal for focused learning.
User Community and Interaction Options
Skillshare:
Strong community aspect with project galleries, discussion forums, and group challenges.
Students can engage with instructors through comments and feedback.
Craftsy:
Craftsy has a vibrant community with live events, Q&A sessions, and member forums.
The platform encourages sharing projects and getting feedback from both peers and instructors.
Verdict
Both platforms excel in fostering a sense of community, but Craftsy’s live events and Q&A sessions might offer more direct interaction opportunities.
Access to Materials and Offline Viewing
Skillshare:
Provides access to downloadable resources and project files associated with classes.
Offers offline viewing through its mobile app.
Craftsy:
Extensive library of downloadable patterns, guides, and recipes.
Offline viewing is available with the mobile app, making it convenient for crafting anywhere.
Verdict
Craftsy's extensive library of downloadable materials gives it a slight edge for those who prefer having physical or downloadable resources.
Skillshare is ideal for those who want variety and flexibility in their creative learning. It’s perfect for individuals who want to explore multiple creative fields beyond just crafts.
Craftsy shines for craft enthusiasts, particularly crochet beginners, offering in-depth and specialized courses. Its focus on detailed instructions and a strong community makes it a haven for those dedicated to specific craft skills.
Ultimately, your choice should depend on your specific needs and interests. If you have a broad interest in various creative disciplines, Skillshare might be your go-to. However, if your passion lies within the realms of knitting, sewing, and especially crochet, then Craftsy is likely the better fit.
Whichever you choose, both platforms offer valuable resources and communities to help you grow in your creative journey.
Ready to start?
Check out Skillshare here or Craftsy here and begin your learning adventure today!
I would love to know about your favourite platform.
Let me know in the comments below!
Happy crocheting!
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