The Beginner’s Guide to Crochet
Learning crochet for the first time can feel daunting. What is single and double crochet? How is half double crochet different than single crochet? And what in the world is a magic ring?!
These are all questions I’ve been asked by others that have wanted to learn crochet. There is so much terminology, steps, muscle memory, coordination, creativity, and patience that goes into the beautiful craft that it almost doesn’t seem worth the hassle. My goal is to help you learn crochet as pain-free as possible, and maybe even have some fun in the process.
I love teaching new crocheters how to make their dreams come to life at my university’s Crochet Club that I host every week. We make anything from hats, scarves, and blankets to snail shells with paracord and three foot tall mushrooms!
So let’s dive in and learn about crochet!
What is crochet?
- The most basic definition of “crochet” is using a yarn and hook to make crafts such as clothing, blankets, stuffed toys, and decor.
Why is crochet important?
- But crochet is so much more than just a craft, it’s a creative outlet, homemade gift, unique decor piece, and relaxing hobby!
- Crochet is one of those things I admired from a very young age as a wonderful tool for making beautiful things. Whether you want to make a cute gift or fun thing for yourself, crochet have virtually no limit to what you can make with it.
- This international study highlights the most common benefits that come with crochet, including relaxation, creativity, and sense of accomplishment! Others said they felt calmer, happier, and more useful.
How to get started with crochet
- The bare minimum to get started is just a hook and some yarn!
- My recommendation is to stay within the “medium” range size of hooks for your first time (somewhere around 4.00-6.00mm) and just some normal worsted weight yarn.
- Crochet 365 Knit Too has a plethora of great tutorials for all crochet beginners! She has information on anything from parts of a crochet stitch, making a foundation ring or learning single crochet, to checking gauge and reading patterns!
Tips for success in crochet
- Don’t expect perfection on the first try!
- When I was thirteen, I was so excited to go with my mom to her little crochet get-together with her friends and learn crochet. I ended up crying when I got home because I couldn’t get past a simple chain.
- Crocheting takes time; give yourself grace and try to enjoy the process of learning. Even many years into my crochet journey, I love learning new things. There is so much of crochet yet to be explored for me, and for you too! Relish that!
Frequently Asked Questions
The last thing you need to know about crochet
- Everyone’s journey in learning crochet is different! Sometimes people catch on crazy fast, and for others it takes longer. There are so many resources out there right now for beginner crochet tutorials, written and video formatted, to cater to each person’s learning style.
I hope this helped put your mind at ease as you start your crochet journey. I’m so excited to help you on your way to making beautiful crochet creations! What is your reason to learn crochet? Comment below!
