Cross-Stitch conversion

I have a bunch of old cross-stitch pattern books and was wondering if the some of patterns could be converted to knitting. Would I use the patterns like any other chart once I learn to read one? Some are simple patterns not unlike the intarsia.

Sure, I don’t see why not. Remember though that knitting is taller than it is wide for stockinette so it will stretch it out vertically.

When i learn to read a chart I will give it a try. I wasn’t sure if I should keep the old books or donate them to someone else.

Yes, you can use them. Like Jan said - keep in mind that a cross stitch square is a perfect square but a stitch in stockinette is not. It will distort your design, but for many that may not matter.

I should start with quite a simple pattern and don’t try to put too many colours in there because you will have more to tangle at the back.