The Beginners Guide to Learning How to Crochet
In this post, you’ll learn everything you need to get started. First, What is crochet? Second, why you should learn how to crochet. Then, some common misconceptions. Next, The supplies you need. Finally, how to become a successful crocheter.
My mom taught me the basics of crochet. I’ve been crocheting now for 30+ years. After learning the basics, I searched the internet and books to learn everything I could. I’m here to make your learning experience easier, everything you need to learn in one place.
What is Crochet?
Crochet is a technique of creating fabric by interlocking loops of yarn, using a crochet hook. The name crochet came from the French, meaning small hook.
Why Should You Learn to Crochet?
Crocheting is not only a fun hobby, where you create unique handmade items, it’s also good for you! The repetitive motion used while crocheting helps to relax your mind and body. It’s also an excellent exercise for your hands and helps to tune fine motor skills.
Read 7 Ways Crochet Can Benefit Your Mental Health to learn more ways crochet is good for you.
Some Common Misconceptions About Crochet.
- Crocheting is only for Grandmas.
- This one cracks me up! I began learning crochet when I was a teenager, I’m in my 40’s now, and I’m not a grandma! There is a whole new culture of young artists creating “hip” and unique designs. Don’t believe me? Check out Megmadewithlove.com, Meg’s style is rustic and current.
- While we’re at it, Crocheting is not just a hobby for women. It’s for all sexes and ages, Men, Women, and Children. Everyone can benefit from learning a new craft.
- Crocheting is hard to do.
- Just like anything new in the beginning, it can be awkward, but if you take your time and practice, it gets easier. It’s about getting comfortable with holding the hook and mastering the basic crochet stitches.
- Knitting and Crocheting are the same things.
- They are two completely different crafts. Crocheting uses one small curved hook. Knitting uses two long tapered needles.
How to Get Started with Crochet?
- What supplies do you need to crochet?
- There are very few supplies needed to get started with crochet. You’ll need a crochet hook, a skein of yarn, a pair of sharp scissors, and a tapestry/yarn needle.
- What should you learn first when learning to crochet?
- When you first start, you’ll want to get familiar with the basic terms of crochet, Learn how to hold your needle and yarn and how to make a slip knot.
- What crochet stitch will you learn first?
- The first stitch you should learn to do is the chain stitch. The chain stitch will be the foundation of almost every item you make. You’ll also use the chain stitch to keep your edges straight when starting a new row. Practicing the chain stitch will also help you perfect your crocheting tension.
- How many crochet stitches are there?
- There are five basic crochet stitches – Single Crochet stitch, Half Double Crochet stitch, Double Crochet stitch, Treble/Triple Crochet stitch, and Slip stitch. After learning these five stitches, you’ll be able to mix them to make more advanced crochet stitches.
- What is Gauge in Crochet?
- Gauge is influential in making sure that your crocheted garments fit correctly.
- Learn how to read a simple crochet pattern.
- Learning how to read a crochet pattern is crucial in this craft. The pattern will give you a list of materials used, and step by step directions to follow to complete a finished crochet project. Most crochet patterns are written with a lot of stitch abbreviations and crochet terms; you need to be familiar with them. If you never learn to read a crochet pattern, you’ll never move beyond crocheting stitch swatches.
Tips for Success in Crochet.
My number one tip for success is… Don’t Give Up! Practicing is everything when it comes to being a successful crocheter. At the beginning of learning crochet, holding the hook is going to feel uncomfortable, and maybe you’ll crochet too tight or loose. As long as you keep going, it will begin to feel more natural. Pick your crochet hook up every day!
For more tips, check out My Best Tips for Beginners!
The Last Thing You Need to Know about Learning to Crochet.
Don’t feel overwhelmed. I know that everything listed in this post seems like a lot. It’s not when you follow my tutorials. I broke it all down into small steps to focus on one at a time. You go at your own pace and practice each step until you feel comfortable with it. You’ll be crocheting a masterpiece in no time.
Do you have any questions about getting started with crochet that I haven’t addressed?
