This guided series will take you from being an absolute novice who knows nothing about knitting to being able to do the two most essential stitches in knitting confidently. You will make 9 facecloths/dishcloths that combine the knit and purl stitch to create textures and patterns.
The guide is annotated, with explanations on knitting terms and links to helpful tutorial videos created by a variety of skilled knitters. While it's possible to follow on your own, it is best if you can ask questions at your local knit shop or have a knitter friend who can help you troubleshoot mistakes.
 
The "Learn to Knit" series is also an excellent resource for anyone who wants to teach a friend to knit but doesn't know where to start. Complied by a school teacher, each successive pattern builds on previous skills and guides you (and your learner) to make the next small, attainable step successfully.