# Tin Can Knits — user reviews

> 86 indexed App Store user reviews of Tin Can Knits by Tin Can Knits Inc., rated 4.10/5 from 133 ratings.

- Source: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/tin-can-knits/id6444720146/reviews
- App overview in markdown: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/tin-can-knits/id6444720146.md
- Rating breakdown: 5★ 91 · 4★ 12 · 3★ 6 · 2★ 5 · 1★ 19

## What do users think of Tin Can Knits?

Overall sentiment: mixed

**Pros**

- 👍 Intuitive and user-friendly interface
- 🎯 Size-specific pattern display eliminates confusion
- 💡 Integrated tutorials and technique links within patterns
- 🧮 Automatic row counter and repeat tracking
- 📱 Responsive pattern format adapts to yarn weight and size
- 🎨 Clean, attractive design
- 🆓 Free patterns available
- 📚 Helpful abbreviation explanations with hyperlinks
- ✨ Customizable pattern options (yarn weight, size, fit)
- 🔄 Seamless Ravelry integration

**Cons**

- 🌐 Requires internet connection to function
- 💾 Unreliable progress saving and data loss
- 🔄 Recent update significantly degraded user experience
- 🐛 Frequent crashes and error messages
- ⚠️ Confusing dropdown menus and navigation
- 📖 Pattern instructions changed and less clear
- 🔐 Requires frequent re-authentication
- 📊 Limited pattern library
- ⏱️ App times out during use
- 🔍 PDF patterns difficult to read (small font)

**Commonly reported bugs**

- App fails to open or displays blank white screen
- Progress on projects lost after update
- Row counter and repeat tracker removed or non-functional
- Tutorial links not working within pattern steps
- Patterns not loading or displaying correctly
- Inconsistent stitch counts between app and PDF versions
- Notes and progress not saving without strong internet
- Legacy projects inaccessible after update
- Free pattern links broken or non-functional
- App crashes when opening or navigating between sections

**Most requested features**

- Offline access and pattern downloads
- Persistent row counter that saves progress reliably
- Ability to check off completed steps
- Chart highlighter for tracking position
- Larger, bolder font for accessibility
- Keep user signed in between sessions
- Access to previously purchased patterns from Ravelry
- Print functionality for patterns
- View all sizes in PDF format for gauge adjustments
- Prevent screen timeout during knitting sessions
- More patterns added to library

## Newest reviews (10 of 86)

### 2/5 — Doesn’t save progress

*2026-02-23, version 2.0.8*

As others have stated I’d happily pay for a premium for this app if it would just save my progress.  It’s just not trustworthy to leave and come back and know your progress is saved.

The ability to look at the pdf in the app is useless, you’re unable to increase the size to be able to read it.

### 3/5 — Needs offline access

*2026-02-15*

So many features of the app (row counters, ability to add notes, single size view) are fabulous, however the need for internet access makes it really limiting. It will not save my row counter or notes (and therefore be inaccurate) if used in a place without great internet, and you can’t use it at all offline. I would totally pay for the subscription if it had the option to download the pattern you’re working on and use it offline, but without that ability its usefulness is really limited, and I can’t trust it to save my progress.

### 2/5 — So disappointed by the update

*2026-01-24*

Tin Can Knits was how I taught myself to knit, and I’ve recommended it to so many people — whenever I have a new project, I tried to use the app-enabled patterns as my first preference. But the new update made it so much less user-friendly. It used to automatically count my rows with just the down arrow, and now I have to enter it in manually. Instead of seeing only the info for my pattern, I’m now seeing drop downs for different versions of the pattern (I’m working on the basic beanie 2x2 rib). I had it set to have the full terms throughout the pattern, and now it’s all abbreviations that I have to click through to read. I really, really want to support y’all and keep using this, but the update made it so much less user-friendly that I will probably just go to paper patterns after I finish this project.

### 3/5 — Downloaded just before update

*2026-01-14*

Downloaded the app and loved it. The additional instructions/abbreviations were available right in the step. After the update (maybe 2 days later?) I couldn’t access the project. I added it as a new project but everything I liked about the original app is gone. Also not really liking the instructions as much as I thought.

**Developer response:** We're sorry that you're not enjoying the changes we've made. If you're willing, please email us at tincanknits@gmail.com we'd love to hear the things you think we were doing better before the update. We had to make some simplifications to bring all our patterns into the app, but we have plans to improve some of them again.

### 3/5 — Could use improvement

*2026-01-14*

It’s internet dependent. This is a major problem, it means you cannot use it on the plane, or the train, or a boat or in any part of the world where there is no internet (which is most of the world outside the US). As others have said there is no way to check off rows or adjust your project to gauge or look at options for other sizes if you need to modify anything.

**Developer response:** Thank you for your feedback.  The ability to use the app without internet has been requested quite a lot. It's definitely something we want to add.

I'm not sure what you mean by "no way to check of rows". The app does allow you to track which instruction you are on. The new update allows you to add a simple row counter and allows you to adjust the current "one size" view to see the numbers for the other sizes. If that's not what you are looking for then please do email us at tincanknits@gmail.com, we'd love to hear your feedback on what else would be useful.

### 2/5 — Update messed up my project

*2026-01-13, version 2.0.2*

I was in the middle of a project when your update erased my spot in the cable series. I was trusting your app with my tracking and now it’s lost. The new layout is not as easy to use while knitting.

### 1/5 — Update ruined an almost-perfect app

*2026-01-12, version 2.0.2*

The recent update made this app a nightmare to use. The updates were unnecessary and I have never seen a less user-friendly app in my life. The patterns are phrased differently and are much less clear. Every section is under a new dropdown menu, which is a hassle and difficult to read. I can’t access my "legacy projects." Why on earth did they do this??

### 5/5 — Awesome for knitters. Free patterns in app

*2025-01-28*

I love this app. I downloaded it to knit the World’s Easiest Mitten. If the pattern calls for a row to repeat, say 10 times, the app keeps track of your rows for you! There’s also places for notes. I used this part to make sure each mitten was the same size. The app even kept track and knew after I went through it twice, the mittens were done. There isn’t another app out there that I’ve found that does this and does it so well. Also, I love TinCanKnit’s patterns.

### 5/5 — INCREDIBLE

*2025-01-14, version 1.6.16 (121)*

This app does all the finicky planning things for you! I am in love. Can't wait to see what patterns get added. 

I have their book and this app shows the same thoughtfulness - really glad they made this!

### 3/5 — I want to love this

*2024-12-29, version 1.6.16 (121)*

And in many ways I do, it’s great having just your size and the links to techniques and explanations. 

BUT….. there is no row counter,  or highlighter ability to show where you are in a charted pattern which means that you need to go outside the app to do these. And if you’re doing that for row counting or chart reading, then honestly you’re just as well off using a different knitting app that has those features and simply highlighting the size you’re making.

## Most critical reviews (10 lowest-rated)

### 1/5 — Sadly this update ruined it

*2026-04-30, version 2.0.8*

The original app was fabulous. This update, as others have said, ruined everything. I scratch my head over why, why would this update wipe out all my progress on patterns that I purchased??  Why eliminate the very useful row counting function? And then expect us to pay for this? I wish/hope TKN will reconsider this update. I will not be using this app for now. It’s too frustrating. ☹️

### 1/5 — Only paid patterns work

*2026-04-20, version 2.0.8*

I downloaded the app to try and get back into knitting and remembered loving tin can knits. Since I want to brush up first I figured I knit something free before paying for a bundle of patterns. None of the links for the free patterns work. You can’t add anything free to your library even though it says you can add two patterns.

### 1/5 — Inexcusably bad

*2026-04-12*

I loved this app before. It’s how I learned to knit and was so intuitive and quietly helpful. They recently did an “upgrade” and everything that was good about it is gone. The tutorials aren’t linked within the steps anymore (despite what the recent update claims); I have to navigate away from my library and then come back to it in order to see the patterns I’ve purchased; and half the time whatever I’m trying to open or load or just do throws an error message and tells me to try again. I don’t care that there weren’t as many patterns in the old version. It worked. This one may have more patterns but it’s completely worthless from a usability standpoint. I’ve bought a couple of patterns from TKN but I won’t be buying any more. I can’t believe the audacity of offering a paid/subscription version of this slop.

### 1/5 — Used to be 5 stars, update ruined it

*2026-04-10*

The update ruined this. I would have been happy to pay a fee for the app, or if they had added certain pay-for premium features, but everything I used to love about the app is ruined. I had two projects in progress when the update came out. I promoted these “legacy” projects and the app has saved literally nothing—Hope I can figure out where the f I was. They’ve removed (ruined? Who knows) the repeat tracker. What is even the point of this app when it’s now worse than just using the pdf reader on my phone? At least I can do that offline and trust it not to lose my info. There’s no way in hell I’d pay for a subscription when a chance update could completely lose all of my information overnight.

### 1/5 — What’shappened

*2026-03-04, version 2.0.8*

Used to be brilliant. Now app is much worse. Inbuilt counters gone.  Link to extra help blank. Please fix it was amazing

### 1/5 — Used to be good, then it updated.

*2026-01-30, version 2.0.4*

This used to be easy yo navigate and see what was next. I used it for 2 years with no problems, it was intuitive and easy to find your next step and any other information. Then it was updated and is now a confusing mess of an interface that isn’t user friendly. I was going to have my daughter use this to help her with her first sweater but not now. Cancelled my subscription.

### 1/5 — Update SUCKS

*2026-01-25, version 2.0.4*

The “you only see your size” feature has been about 80% erased. Now you get the combined size same instructions (I.E. newborn-L, repeat 5 times, etc) and you can’t save completed projects anymore. You have to delete them in order to start a new pattern. Your archived projects are still there, but you can only “promote” 2 in order to see instructions, and again, then you have to delete them in order to start a new project. This update is garbage. Utter garbage.  It’s not easy to use, it’s not intuitive, the outright instructions written have changed, and it’s all around terrible. Deleted this app and will probably drop TCN altogether now. Far better designers available out there.

### 1/5 — Terrible update

*2026-01-23, version 2.0.4*

With the update you completely lost your progress markings on projects. How absolutely terrible for people with in projects in process. Had been using the app for months. Deleted app and not going back.

### 1/5 — AI slop written update

*2026-01-23, version 2.0.4*

This “update” is trash. It screams that it was written by AI and is just awful. Everything that was user friendly and nice about the app was removed and put into stupid drop down tabs, and the instructions have been made worse and I don’t think the instructions are any bit the same. Just dump this awful update and go back to what it was. Wish I could give this negative stars

### 1/5 — Disappointed

*2026-01-14*

I discovered this app about a month and half ago and have made four different projects, I have been contemplating what to do because the app was so amazing I never wanted to knit without it again. Then I was forced to update the app. I was initially so excited, more patterns! I could subscribe to get access to more patterns, amazing! But then I went to continue my project currently cast on…. It’s not the same app with the same ease of use, it no longer counts your rows as you go through the instructions of repeating a specific set of rows 16 times, and doesn’t keep your place in the pattern. The pattern doesn’t even give the breakdown of how to increase the row, where before it outlined a (k2, m1, K3, M1) pattern, it now just tells you to increase by 92 stitches evenly.  I am upset I have already purchased my next pattern because I know it will not be the experience I thought I would have when I bought it.

**Developer response:** We're sorry that the changes we made haven't been to your liking.  We had to simplify some things in order to bring all our patterns into the app.  We have plans to bring some of that back, it's just going to take a little longer.

If you're willing, email us at tincanknits@gmail.com (or use the app's "help & contact" option in the main menu) and tell us which pattern the increase instructions are missing from. It may be something we missed when we were preparing the pattern.

## Most praised reviews (10 highest-rated)

### 5/5 — Brilliant App for any knitter!

*2026-05-22, version 2.0.8*

This is such a great app. If you are learning to knit it has helpful tutorials for absolutely everything. There are lots of free patterns as well as ones you pay for. Every pattern I have tried has worked really well and it just tells you the weight of yarn to use rather than using really expensive ones you have to try and find substitutions for. If you have queries you can email them and they actually reply with the answer 😊.  The fact you can just type in your yarn weight and the size you want to use and the app then adapts the pattern exactly is so helpful. Have recommended this to all my knitting friends.

### 5/5 — Fabulous and functional

*2026-02-06*

I’m working away on a flax sweater and I’m so impressed with the app - I can easily choose which components I want to incorporate and I love the row counter, notes, and “knit from here” tools!!!

### 5/5 — So great!

*2026-01-16, version 2.0.2*

I’m so impressed with this app - definitely my favourite way to follow a pattern now! Makes it so easy, with really helpful tutorials just a click away. Currently knitting a free pattern but will def browse the paid patterns when I look for my next project. Thank you so much!

### 5/5 — Love this app

*2026-01-14, version 2.0.2*

I love this app, all clothing patterns in every size and 3 weights of yarn.  I love knitting in the round, no seams.  Done the Barley and several of the Antler hats, the mittens and a number of the Vivid squares.  I’ve watched and read the tuition videos and articles.  Based in the UK, I have to substitute yarns but this is not really a problem, I’m not knitting for a specific person.  Enjoy the regular emails too.

### 5/5 — the best knitting app ever!

*2026-01-06*

i’m brand new to knitting and really wanted to knit my first sweater. someone suggested this app and i’m so glad i listened to them!! there are 10 free patterns to choose from. depending on the pattern, you can choose yarn weight, garment size, and other little customizable details. the app does all the math for you and consolidates your choices into a neat, easy to follow pattern! plus each abbreviation and technique have hyperlinks to TinCanKnits’ blog, where you can find in depth, detailed information on how to do a specific stitch! the Flax sweater i knit for my son turned out so well that i jumped right into the Beloved Bonnet pattern, and its knitting up so fast. thank you so much for this wonderful app! i don’t think i would have ever learned to knit this fast.

### 5/5 — Thank You!!

*2025-11-22, version 1.6.24 (143)*

Love their patterns, love this app!!

### 5/5 — Where have you been all my life?

*2025-11-17*

I just started using this app and cannot say enough good things about it. There are a couple of enhancements I’d like to see (like, a way to check off the steps as you go - especially for those patterns whose instructions say, “Do steps 4 through 8 six more times;” to be able to tick off the repeat would be helpful), but I’m certain the tech geniuses are working on it. In a perfect world, every pattern would be able to be uploaded to an app like this one - think of the paper we’d save! Thanks, Tin Can!

### 5/5 — Love this app

*2025-10-08, version 1.6.24 (143)*

Great app, have used lots of the free patterns

### 5/5 — A total delight!

*2025-04-16, version 1.6.22 (141)*

I am currently knitting the flax sweater and this app is a dream! No more trying to remember all the details! It’s all here! I also love that it only shows you the size you’re knitting. My next knitting project will be through this app! It’s so nice to use!

### 5/5 — Love it!

*2025-03-15*

I don’t know what prompted me to download the app, but I’m really glad I did! Makes it so easy to focus in on instructions for the project you’re working on. I’m using it for the Besties hat, which has instructions for all yarn weights. The app makes it easy for you to start a new project, select the yarn weight and hat size and it just shows instructions for those specifications. All of my Rav pattern purchases by TCK are added to the app automatically. It’s awesome!

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*Data collected daily from the US App Store and indexed by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/). User reviews are verbatim App Store reviews. Ratings, prices and chart positions refresh continuously; this snapshot is from 2026-09-09.*