Crocheting is a perfect pastime, but can be confusing for beginners. Finding out what materials to use & how to crochet stitches. Beginner crocheters want to know where to start their crochet journey.
The first things to crochet are those that use basic stitches such as single crochet, half double crochet, double crochet and slip stitch. These stitches are the most common in beginner patterns because they are easy to learn and don’t require much time or effort.
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What beginners should know before starting
Crocheting is a fun and easy hobby that can be done by anyone. It is a great way to relax and unwind after a long day. However, before you start crocheting, there are some things you should know.
- Learn your 5 basic crochet stitches. The crochet chain stitch, slip stitch, single crochet stitch, half double crochet, and double crochet stitch are foundation to all crochet stitches. Once mastered, more advanced patterns can be accomplished
- Learn to read crochet patterns. These patterns are written in a language called crochet abbreviations or symbols that represent stitches in the pattern. Following along to a video tutorial that has a written pattern is a quick way to learn. Follow along to beginner-friendly tutorials to quickly improve your skill level.
- Difference between Rows vs Rounds. Rows are where you turn your work at the end of a row. This creates a stack of stitches that has to be reversed when you come back round to continue your pattern. Rounds are crocheted in one continuous direction.
- US vs UK. The main difference between the two is the starting point. They are basically an offset of one another. After the Chain & slip stitch, US terms start with single crochet, while UK terms begins with the double crochet stitch. The next step-up is the US double crochet, called treble stitch in the UK.
- Wrong Side vs Right Side. When crocheting, the side of the fabric that you’re working from is known as the Right Side. It is the side facing you while you work. When you crochet, the side of the stitch that is not facing you as you work is called the Wrong Side.
- Choose the right Hook Size. There are at least 57 different size crochet hooks, according to The American Craft Yarn Council. There are 3 sizing methods for American Crochet hooks; American Numbered Crochet Hook Sizes, American Letter Crochet Hook Sizes, and US Steel Hook Sizes. Picking the right hook can also determine the smoothness and ease of a project as it is created. Yarn that flows easily on one type of hook, may snag and split on another
- Yarn Weight. There are six different categories of yarn weights, and according to the Craft Yarn Council, ranging from fine to super bulky. Each weight can change the thickness of your project.
- Know where to place your hook. Patterns tell you where to place the hook. Such as, the back/front loop or around the post of a stitch. Hook placement can easily change the texture of your project.
- Learn one new stitch at a time. Anything that is new is difficult, so take it easy on yourself. There are many crochet patterns you can make with only single crochet stitches.
- Learn to regulate your tension. This is one of the biggest problems that new crocheters face. If you notice that your stitches are too tight (or loose).
Materials you need to start crocheting
- Yarn
- Crochet Hook(s)
- Scissors
- Stitch Markers (optional)
- Tapestry Needle (Darning Needle)
- Hook Case (optional)
In general, crochet projects don’t require many supplies. But not to worry if you have a lack of notions, the internet has the best link to some great tutorials on great crochet sites. Some materials to consider using are cotton thread or wool yarn, a medium-sized crochet hook, and some tapestry needles or thread clippers.
Remember that crochet hooks come in different sizes. The size of the hook will determine the size of the stitches you make. You should choose a hook that is comfortable for your hand and not too big or too small for your fingers to grip onto it easily.
With these basic supplies in hand, you can create adorable washcloths, hats and scarves, and shawls.
Stitches to learn first when crocheting
The Crochet Chain Stitch is the first basic stitch you’ll create using your hook. It’s the foundation row for many crochet patterns. It’s made by yarning over the hook and pulling through the loop on the hook. This process can be repeated as many times as desired to create a long chain of stitches.
There are 5 basic crochet stitches. The crochet chain stitch, slip stitch, single crochet stitch, half double crochet, and double crochet stitch are the foundation to all crochet stitches. Once mastered, more advanced patterns can be accomplished.
These tutorials are often extremely useful in learning new stitches & how to read patterns.
1. How To Chain Crochet
The chain stitch is made by wrapping the yarn over the hook and pulling through the loop on the hook. This process can be repeated as many times as desired to create a long chain of stitches.
2. How To Slip Stitch Crochet
The Slip Stitch is created by inserting the hook into the next stitch, yarn over, pull through stitch & loop on hook.
3. How to Single Crochet
Insert hook into next st, yarn over, pull through stitch (2 loops on hook), yarn over, pull through 2 loops on the hook.
4. How To Half Double Crochet
To complete the Half Double Crochet, yarn over, insert hook into next stitch, yarn over, pull through stitch (3 loops on hook), yarn over and pull through all 3 loops on the hook.
5. How To Double Crochet
To complete the Double Crochet, yarn over, insert hook into next stitch, yarn over, pull through stitch (3 loops on hook), yarn over and pull through 2 loops on the hook (2 loops on hook), yarn over and pull through last 2 loops on the hook.
The first patterns a beginner should crochet
The first patterns to crochet are those that use basic stitches such as single crochet, half double crochet, double crochet, and slip stitch. These stitches are the most common in beginner patterns because they are easy to learn and don’t require much time or effort.
Crochet scarves, blankets, and some shawls are all simple rectangle shapes. They don’t require you to know advanced beginner crochet skills like increasing and decreasing.
Every free written pattern comes with a YouTube tutorial. Watching video instructions along with written instructions will help you learn how to read crochet patterns
1. Crochet Dishcloth
It’s a quick, simple dishcloth design. I like it because it’s fast to crochet and produces a dishcloth that’s about 6 in x 6 in. If your dishcloth is not big enough for you, you can use a larger hook size and add on an extra row or two. If it helps, when you see it close up, the starting square will have rows extending off of it (rather than chains).
2. Crochet Cup Cozy
Beginners can liven up their morning coffee with an easy reusable coffee sleeve pattern with a bow. This pattern only uses single crochet stitches, and you will be able to practice your invisible join. It’s the perfect first-time crochet project.
3. Crochet Wrap
This luxuriously simple crochet wrap is simple to create! If you can create the double crochet, you’re on your way to your first stylish crochet project! Let a beautifully colored skein of yarn do all the work for you.
4. Crochet Blanket
If you want to learn how to begin crocheting a blanket, give this crochet baby blanket a try. This Bernat Blanket Stripes yarn makes the project even easier as you don’t have to stop and change colors, yet it still produces a fantastic blanket. You might want to use Bernat Blanket yarn for this project, which comes in many colors.
5. Single Crochet Headband
Stay extra warm with the free Thermal Twist Headband is a free crochet pattern. There’s a crochet video to show you this stitch, along with videos on how to seam the piece in the end. This is such a great way to learn one new stitch and make something wonderful while practicing! I’m sure you’ll like it.
6. Scarf
Crochet Infinity Scarves are one of the best beginner crochet patterns. Make a simple stitch look more intricate by working in the round. This pattern comes with a full video tutorial
7. Crochet Beanie
Everybody loves a crochet chunky beanie. Depending on our crochet speed, you can finish this hat in under an hour. I finished this hat in about 30 minutes. Another great pattern for beginners
8. Crochet Bag
This messenger bag is easy to customize in your favorite colors. The bag is made using two granny squares seamed together. Two buttonholes are worked into the strap, making it fully adjustable too!
9. Crochet Necklace
If you can make a crochet chain, you can make this necklace! It is super simple, and tons of fun. This necklace is a great way for those just learning to make a finished item, it is a wonderful project for kids
Happy Crocheting!
Psst… If you love free crochet patterns (I know…duh) make sure to follow my blog on Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest! Littlejohn’s Yarn posts original designs and free crochet pattern round-ups regularly for you to enjoy.