In one of the comments, 
First of all, this snazzy little video from Brian: How to Knit - the Very Basics. The sound disappears a couple of times, but just keep going, it comes back.
This video covers how to cast on, how to do the easiest, most basic stitch, called "knit" stitch, and how to cast off (english) or bind off (american). The pattern that knit stitch makes when it is used on its own is called "garter" stitch - which comes from when stockings were handknitted and a band of garter stitch was knitted to hold the stocking up (I'm not sure how effective it was)!
A while ago, 
Source Garter stitch colour block scarf.
and these gorgeous little garter stitch bootees:
Source Garter stitch folded bootees.
Some of the patterns are made in stocking stitch (sometimes called stockinette or stockinette stitch). To create this pattern with one smooth side and loops on the other, you will need to learn "purl" stitch: Here's Brian to show you how to purl:
This video covers how to do "purl" stitch. It's the reverse of "knit" stitch and pulls the loop of the stitch to the front of your work (knit stich takes the loop to the back of the work). The fabric created looks like garter stitch.
Learning to knit is easier with thicker needles and thicker yarn. Look for yarn marked "chunky". You'll need US size needles 9-11 or UK/European 5.5-8mm. I like knitting with wool because it's springy and hides mistakes, but a beginner might like to start with acrylic yarn as it tends to be less expensive.
Choose a yarn you like, though - a colour that appeals to you (lighter colours are easier to work with when you are starting than dark colours) and yarn that feels nice to touch. You'll enjoy it more!
It can take a long time to learn how to do something. I learned to crochet last year and I couldn't keep the yarn and the needles connected - my fingers just wouldn't do it! Even now, as a semi-experienced knitter, it can take me several days to learn a new stitch or technique and each time, I have to unravel my knitting and start again.
I used to get very frustrated about this, but now I find it quite relaxing:
Source Image from an article about the health benefits of knitting.
Just take your time and in the words of J. from J's Knit and Purl Jam: "it's only yarn, people, it's only yarn" there's no need to get stressed - just enjoy!