Crochet Basics
THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS THAT SUPPORT HANDY LITTLE ME CONTENT AND FREE PATTERNS.
In this post, you will see a list of crochet lessons for beginners + video tutorials that will show you all of the basics.
If you are a new crocheter, you have come to the right place!
Here, we will learn how to make a chain, single crochet, double crochet, treble crochet, and other various stitches.
When you have completed this crochet course for beginners, you’ll be able to crochet simple things as well as understand how to read crochet patterns.
The crochet course also includes links further down the page to beginner-level patterns you can try to practice your new-found crochet skills.
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What Is Crochet?
Crochet is a yarn craft technique that involves creating fabric by interlocking loops of yarn with a hooked needle.
The word “crochet” itself comes from the French word “croche,” meaning hook. In crochet, the crafter uses a crochet hook to pull loops of yarn through other loops, creating a variety of stitches and patterns.
This versatile craft allows for the creation of a wide range of items, from clothing and accessories to home decor and toys.
Is Crochet Easy To Learn?
Both knitting and crocheting are fairly easy to learn.
You’ll start with basic stitches, learn to master them and build from there.
For absolute beginners, it is important that you choose the right tools and yarn to start with, then learn how to create a chain, how to single crochet, how to double crochet, and how to treble crochet.
After that, you can start to explore other stitch patterns and techniques.
It will also be important for you to learn how to read and understand crochet patterns and abbreviations.
If you also want to try out knitting, check out the knitting classes here – Knitting Lessons (With Video Tutorials)
Related Post: Is It Easier To Learn To Knit Or Crochet?
What Supplies Do You Need To Crochet?
To start crocheting, you’ll need a few essential supplies.
Firstly, you’ll require crochet hooks, which are available in various sizes to accommodate different yarn thicknesses and project requirements.
Yarn is another fundamental component, coming in a myriad of colors and textures.
Choose a yarn that suits your project and complements your design.
Additionally, a pair of scissors is essential for cutting the yarn, and a yarn needle helps weave in ends and finish off your creations neatly.
Beginners may find stitch markers helpful for keeping track of their progress.
Plus, tapestry needles are great to have in your toolbox if your project needs a little seaming.
What types of crochet are there?
Crochet encompasses a diverse range of techniques and styles, allowing for a variety of creations. Some common types of crochet include:
- Granny Square: A classic crochet motif usually made up of clusters of stitches in a square shape, commonly used in Afghans and blankets.
- Amigurumi: The art of crocheting small stuffed creatures or toys. This technique often involves working in the round and using tight stitches.
- Filet Crochet: A technique that creates a grid pattern, often with open spaces, to form intricate designs.
- Tunisian Crochet: Combining elements of crochet and knitting, this technique uses an elongated hook to work stitches across the entire row.
Helpful Tips For Crocheters
- Start with the Basics: If you’re new to crochet, begin with simple projects and basic stitches like single crochet. Mastering the fundamentals will make more complex patterns easier to understand once you feel comfortable with the basic move to more advanced techniques like the magic circle.
- Choose the Right Yarn and Hook: Like in any of the fiber arts, you need to pay attention to the yarn weight and recommended hook size specified in your pattern. Using the correct combination ensures your finished project matches the intended size and texture.
- Gauge Matters: Take the time to create a gauge swatch to match the pattern’s recommended dimensions. This step can prevent surprises, such as a project turning out too large or too small.
- Count Your Stitches: Consistently count your stitches at the end of each row to ensure you’re maintaining the correct stitch count. This helps prevent the project from becoming uneven.
- Read Patterns Carefully: Before starting a new pattern, read through it entirely to familiarize yourself with the stitches and techniques involved. This can save you from confusion later on.
- Take Breaks: I have been knitting and crocheting for a long time and one thing I learned is that you need to take breaks. Take breaks, stretch your fingers, and practice hand exercises to avoid discomfort or injury.
- Be Patient: Crocheting takes practice, and it’s okay to make mistakes. Learn from them and use each project as an opportunity to improve your skills.
Crochet Course
Dive into the crochet course below and find out how you can get started.
I will be updating and adding new lessons, tutorials, and techniques frequently.
33 Crochet Lessons For Absolute Beginners
In this online crochet class, you will see posts teaching you how to create a chain, how to single crochet, and a whole lot more!
Learn how to crochet and complete various crochet stitches and techniques through a series of step-by-step tutorials and videos.
1
How To Crochet For Beginners | Learn to Crochet
In this post, you will learn how to crochet for beginners.
You can teach yourself how to crochet step by step by learning the basics of this craft and then building on your skills with more complicated patterns.
2
Yarn Weight Guide (+ Yarn Conversion Chart)
In this post, you will see a yarn weight guide and yarn conversion chart.
If you are a beginner learning to knit or crochet, you are probably still figuring out yarn weights and categories.
For those new to buying yarn and choosing knitting or crochet patterns, you might just buy yarn you like because you fall in love with it – with no idea what you can make with it!
Learn everything about the different yarn weights: lace, fingering weight yarn, etc.
3
Yarn Types Explained: A Guide To Different Fibers
In this blog post, you will learn about different yarn types.
The first time you enter a yarn shop can be a daunting experience – there are so many different types of yarn and so many colors to choose from!
4
How To Hold A Crochet Hook
Learn how to hold a crochet hook in this tutorial for beginners.
There are many ways to hold your crochet hook.
This post will help you to find the right one for you.
5
How To Make A Slip Knot {Step By Step}
Learning how to make a slip knot is usually the first thing you do when you start to crochet.
There are a couple of ways to do this, and in this post, we will look at both.
This is something that you will do at the beginning of every pattern.
6
How To Start A Crochet Chain
A crochet chain stitch is needed for every crochet pattern, so this is something that as a beginner, you need to learn how to do.
Creating a foundation chain is the next step after making your slip knot.
Then you will create a chain of stitches from which to start working.
7
How To Single Crochet {Step By Step}
If you are learning how to crochet, you will need to know how to single crochet.
This is one of the most basic crochet stitches and one that is commonly seen in many crochet patterns.
It's one of the essential skills you need to have to start your crochet adventure.
8
How To Double Crochet (dc) For Beginners
Learn how to double crochet with this step-by-step tutorial.
Double crochet is one of the basic crochet stitches you will need to learn as a beginner.
Most crochet patterns will feature this stitch, either worked flat or in the round.
This stitch is fun to make and you will meet it in many free crochet patterns like hats, baby blankets, sweaters, and more.
9
How To Treble Crochet {Step By Step}
Learn how to treble crochet, also known as triple crochet, in this tutorial.
The US triple crochet is a basic stitch to learn after you have mastered single crochet and double crochet.
10
Crochet Abbreviations And Terms (US + UK)
Here, you will find an extensive list of crochet abbreviations and terms, including both US and UK terminology.
There is a free download for you to use.
11
How To Read Crochet Patterns
Possibly the most daunting part of learning how to crochet? Learning how to read crochet patterns!
The first time you’re faced with a crochet pattern can be a scary experience, but with an understanding of the abbreviations and a few pointers, you’ll be well on your way to creating beautiful crocheted items in no time.
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How To Make A Single Crochet Decrease
Learning how to make a single crochet decrease is something that all new crocheters will have to know.
Making a single crochet decrease in your work creates a decrease that allows you to shape your crochet project.
13
How To Crochet The Popcorn Stitch
Learn how to crochet the popcorn stitch in this step-by-step tutorial.
This stitch is fun to create and adds much texture to your work.
It adds thickness and can be used in many patterns, from blankets to accessories.
14
How To Crochet The Linen Stitch (Tutorial + Pattern)
In this post, you will see how to crochet the linen stitch with a tutorial and free dishcloth pattern.
This simple crochet stitch pattern gives a dense woven fabric perfect for blankets, dishcloths, table mats, table runners, and pot holders.
15
How To Crochet The Blanket Stitch For Beginners
In this post, you will see the crochet blanket stitch.
This simple crochet stitch pattern gives a dense woven fabric perfect for blankets, dishcloths, scarves, and table runners.
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How To Corner To Corner Crochet (C2C) For Beginners
In this blog post, you will learn everything about how to corner-to-corner crochet (C2C) for beginners.
You will also see a written pattern, a video tutorial showing you how to crochet corner to corner, and a free crochet pattern for a dishcloth.
Make yourself the perfect winter accessory!
17
Crochet Dishcloth Pattern Set {Three Designs}
In this post, you will see a crochet dishcloth pattern set with three designs that will help you practice basic crochet stitches.
Dishcloths are a great first crochet project, as they are small and easy to make.
All you need is a ball of worsted weight yarn in a light color so you can spot mistakes and you are ready to go!
18
Crochet Washcloth Pattern {Beginner Friendly!}
In this post, you will see a crochet washcloth pattern that is totally beginner-friendly!
A great project for new makers to practice their skills.
Make a set easily.
19
How To Crochet A Blanket (+ Free Beginner Pattern)
In this post, you will see how to crochet a blanket + a free beginner pattern.
The benefit of making a crochet blanket is that you can make one over a weekend using super bulky yarn and a 12 mm (US P/16) large crochet hook.
20
How To Crochet A Headband (Easy For Beginners)
This post will teach you how to crochet a headband (easy for beginners).
The crochet headband has a step-by-step tutorial so you can follow along and learn this fantastic ribbed pattern if you are a new crocheter.
This crochet ear warmer is crocheted with a bulky weight yarn and uses only one skein of yarn, making it a quick and easy crochet project for great gifts.
Make yourself the perfect winter accessory!
21
Basic Granny Square Pattern
Learn how to crochet a granny square with this easy-to-follow basic granny square pattern.
The granny square, also called an afghan square, is probably one of the most well-known crochet patterns.
22
40 Free Granny Square Crochet Patterns (Easy Ideas)
Granny square crochet patterns are seen everywhere including; blankets, afghans, sweaters, cardigans, and accessories.
The classic granny square is one of the most well-known motifs in crochet.
23
Crochet Coasters Free Pattern
Make a set of cotton crochet coasters with this easy free pattern.
The double crochet coasters in this pattern are made from Rico Cotton Aran yarn in nature and clay using a 4mm (US G/6) crochet hook and will teach you how to create flat circles.
24
Crochet Ribbing - Easy Ribbed Pumpkin Patterns
This post will show crochet ribbing – easy ribbed pumpkin patterns.
There are three sizes to make: small, medium, and large, each using a different crocheted rib stitch.
This free crochet pattern uses super bulky yarn and a 9 mm/(US M/N 13) crochet hook.
25
Crochet Pumpkin {Single Crochet Ribbing}
In this post, you will see how to make a crochet pumpkin using single crochet ribbing.
Make a few in your favorite fall colors to decorate your home with.
This free crochet pattern uses super bulky yarn and a 9 mm/(US M/N 13) crochet hook.
26
Free Crochet Pumpkin Pattern For Beginners
In this post, you will see a free crochet pumpkin pattern for beginners.
This free crochet pattern uses super bulky yarn and a 9 mm/(US M/N 13) crochet hook.
27
Crochet Cup Cozy Pattern
In this post, you will see a beginner-friendly crochet cup cozy pattern.
This cozy fits a 12oz and 16oz cup and can, but you can easily adjust it to fit a smaller or larger cup.
A cup cozy can make an excellent last-minute gift for your friends, family, or even those coffee-loving teachers!
It's also a great gift for Valentine's Day!
You can also make them for craft fairs or selling in your Etsy shop.
28
Crochet Produce Bag Pattern
This crochet produce bag pattern is really easy for beginners.
Not only for produce but it can also be used for many things, from storing small toys to bathroom items.
29
Crochet Bag Pattern For Beginners
This crochet bag pattern for beginners is really easy, and you only need a few supplies to make one!
This is a great start for a total beginner, and the step by step photograph tutorial in the pattern will help you to create your own bag.
The stitch pattern is really simple, just rows of single crochet.
30
Carolina Crochet Fingerless Gloves Pattern
This Carolina crochet fingerless gloves pattern will allow you to practice crocheting a simple stitch pattern using only single crochet.
I wanted to share with you a crochet glove pattern that has been inspired by the TV show Outlander.
31
30 Minute Crochet Projects
In this post, you will see 30 minute crochet projects.
Crochet is a fantastic hobby to have!
With just yarn and a crochet hook, you can create whatever your heart desires, from making the perfect gift for friends and family members to making your own garments, accessories, and home decor items you see on TV or social media
32
30 Crochet Stitches For All Skill Levels
In this post, you will see 30 crochet stitches for any skill level.
The stitch crochet patterns include written instructions, video tutorials, or step-by-step photo tutorials.
In your journey to becoming an amazing crocheter, you will soon realize that crochet stitches are at the very core of what you do as a crocheter.
30 different stitches to try out.
33
8 Crochet Baby Blanket Patterns
If you are learning how to crochet, you might want to practice your new skills with one of these crochet baby blanket patterns.
Creating stunning handmade blankets or modern quilts is a great way to make something that you can gift to a baby that has been made with love.
The beautiful baby blankets in this post can be made in a variety of yarns and colors depending on your personal taste.
Free Patterns
To view more patterns, you may like to browse the following:
- Free Crochet Patterns
- Crochet Bag Patterns
- Earth Friendly Crochet Patterns
- Crochet Blankets
- Christmas Crochet
- Spring/Summer
- Fall/Winter
Share your work with us…
If you enjoyed making any of these projects, I’d love to see yours on Instagram, be sure to tag me @handylittleme.
If you are on Facebook, stop over to the handylittleme Facebook group and share a photo, I’d love to see your work!
You may also like to see the crochet video tutorials that are on my YouTube channel here.
You can also find us on Pinterest and Ravelry.
Happy Crocheting!
Related Posts:
- How To Read Crochet Patterns For Beginners
- How To Crochet For Beginners: Easy Complete Guide
- How To Double Crochet (dc) For Beginners
