All CALs, KALs, and MALs
Would you like to join a large crochet or knitting project step by step? In this collection, you’ll find all the CALs, KALs, and MALs in one place. Think of Crochet Along kits, Knit Along kits, and Make Along projects for blankets, baby blankets, cushions, home decor, and other special craft projects.
This collection page is perfect if you’re not quite sure yet whether you want to crochet, knit, or join a broader Make Along project. Here you’ll find kits from well-known brands, designers, and Yarnplaza projects, so you can easily compare them by technique, style, skill level, and project type.
What is the difference between a CAL, KAL, and MAL?
A CAL, KAL, or MAL is a project in which you work on a design step by step. The pattern is often released in several parts—for example, weekly or by project phase. This allows you to work on a larger project at your own pace and learn new stitches and techniques along the way.
The main difference lies in the technique. A CAL focuses on crocheting, a KAL on knitting, and a MAL is broader in scope. A MAL can involve crocheting, knitting, or a combination of techniques. Therefore, always check the product description to see which technique is used.
CAL: Crochet Along
CAL stands for Crochet Along. This is a crochet project in which you participate in a group project in stages. CALs are especially popular for blankets, cushions, wall decorations, table runners, and other home decor projects.
In a CAL, you often work with color, texture, and repetition. Think of Granny Squares, mosaic crochet, overlay mosaic, relief stitches, tapestry crochet, or different pattern sections that come together to form one large project.
KAL: Knit Along to knit
KAL stands for Knit Along. This is a knitting project in which you follow along step by step to create a design. KAL kits are popular for Blankets, throws, and larger projects that feature different stitches or textures.
A KAL is great if you like to work in an organized way and want to tackle a larger knitting project in sections. Think of Dream Blanket KAL kits, throw blankets, and projects featuring garter stitch, stockinette stitch, cables, ajour, or other knitting patterns.
MAL: Make-Along Projects
MAL stands for Make Along. A MAL is broader in scope than a CAL or KAL and can incorporate various techniques. In practice, many MAL projects are crochet projects, but some Make Alongs may also involve knitting or combine other craft techniques.
MAL kits are ideal if you enjoy creative projects with a clear structure. Think of Blankets, Cushions, Bags, Scarves, Home Accessories, and projects where you work step by step toward a unique final result.
Kits for Blankets and Home Decor Projects
Many CALs, KALs, and MALs focus on blankets and home decor projects. And for good reason: a blanket is a large-scale project that you’ll enjoy for a long time and that beautifully combines color, technique, and texture. Cushions, table runners, wall decor, and other home decor projects also lend themselves well to this type of crafting.
In this collection, you'll find cozy throw blankets, colorful designer projects, baby blankets, textured blankets, mosaic blankets, Granny Square projects, and other kits for your home.
Projects by well-known designers and Brands
At Yarnplaza, you'll find CAL, KAL, and MAL kits from well-known brands and designers. These include projects by Yarnplaza, Scheepjes, Haakplein, Stylecraft, Yarn and Colors, Rosina Plane, Jane Crowfoot, Anke Wintermans, Helen Shrimpton, Arne & Carlos, and other creative names.
As a result, this collection is very diverse. You’ll find accessible projects with clear patterns, as well as challenging kits featuring lots of colorwork, texture, edge finishing, and techniques.
For beginners and advanced learners
Are you a beginner? If so, choose a project with clear instructions, plenty of repetition, and a straightforward structure. A smaller blanket, a baby blanket, a simple cushion, or a low-key home decor project is often a great way to start.
Do you have more experience? Then you can choose projects that involve mosaic crochet, overlay mosaic, Granny Squares, cables, ajour, colorwork, relief stitches, or elaborate edging techniques. That way, the project stays challenging right up to the very end.
How to Choose the Right Project
Choose by technique: Do you want to crochet, knit, or join a larger Make Along project?
Choose by project type: Are you looking for a blanket, baby blanket, cushion, table runner, wall decoration, scarf, or another home decor project?
Choose based on your skill level: beginners should opt for clear explanations and repetition. Advanced creators can opt for more technical content and details.
Choose by style: calm and natural, colorful and eye-catching, modern, classic, floral, graphic, or playful.
Choose based on the schedule: some projects go live on a specific start date, while others can be created later. Check the availability of each pattern by product.
What's included in a CAL, KAL, or MAL kit?
The contents vary by kit. The kit often includes the yarn for the project. Sometimes the pattern is included; other times, it is provided digitally or made available through an external page, community, or the designer’s website.
Additional tools & supplies such as Crochet Hooks, Knitting Needles, Darning Needles, Stitch Markers, Cable Needles, Stuffing, or Blocking Materials are not always included. Therefore, always read the product information carefully before placing your order.
Order all CALs, KALs, and MALs from Yarnplaza
Whether you want to crochet, knit, or join a larger Make Along project, at Yarnplaza you’ll find all the CALs, KALs, and MALs neatly organized in one place. Browse the collection and choose the kit that suits your technique, skill level, style, and schedule.
FAQs About CALs, KALs, and MALs
What does CAL stand for?
CAL stands for Crochet Along. This is a crochet project in which you participate step by step in a group project.
What does KAL stand for?
KAL stands for Knit Along. This is a knitting project in which you follow along step by step to complete a project, often together with other knitters.
What does MAL stand for?
MAL stands for Make Along. This is a broader project in which you work on the same design together with other creators. This can involve crocheting, knitting, or another technique.
What is the difference between CAL, KAL, and MAL?
A CAL is all about crocheting, a KAL is all about knitting, and a MAL is broader in scope. A MAL can involve multiple techniques or be used more generally as a "Make Along" project.
Are CALs, KALs, and MALs suitable for beginners?
Some projects are suitable for beginners, while others require more experience. Always check the difficulty level, technique, and product description.
Is the pattern always included?
Not always. Some kits include patterns, while others provide them digitally or make them available through an external website. Always check the product information.
Can I still join a CAL, KAL, or MAL later on?
That's often possible. Many projects remain available even after the start date. Check each product to see if all pattern pieces are available and how to access them.
What materials do I need?
It depends on the project. You’ll often need yarn, a Crochet Hook or Knitting Needle, a darning needle, and scissors. Sometimes Stitch Markers, cable needles, stuffing, or blocking materials can also come in handy.