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Crocheting is a delightful craft that allows you to create beautiful items with just a hook and some yarn. Whether you’re drawn to the cozy comforts of blankets, the charm of amigurumi toys, or the elegance of wearables, crochet offers endless possibilities for creativity. Personally, I’m drawn to making clothes and have a dream of customizing my whole wardrobe. If you’re an absolute beginner, you’ve landed in the right place. We’re going to go over everything you need to get started, the slip knot, foundation chain, and single crocheting. This Ultimate guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started on your crocheting journey.
If you’re ready to move on to other basic stitches check out this post!
Getting Started
Before diving into crocheting, you’ll need a few essential supplies:
- Crochet Hooks: These come in various sizes, each suited for different yarn weights. For beginners, a medium-sized hook (around 5mm) is a good starting point. Take a look at this post where I go in depth on crochet hook. There is a reference photo for you to keep there.
- Yarn: Choose a smooth, medium-weight yarn in a light color. This will make it easier to see your stitches as you learn. The package says the weight of the yarn. You are looking for a size 4. Luckily this yarn tends to be inexpensive. I would avoid getting anything too small or too big and fluffy right now. I know for some (me included) medium weight acrylic yarn is not my absolute favorite to work with. However, this yarn will be the best for you to learn on. There are some pretty awesome projects you can make with medium weight yarn that make it worth it too.
- Scissors: You’ll need them to cut the yarn.
- Yarn Needle: This is used for weaving in ends and finishing projects. .99 cents on amazon
- Stitch markers (optional but helpful). These are great for counting stitches and keeping your place.
- Pattern: Start with simple patterns designed for beginners. There are plenty of free patterns available online. You can find a list of free summer crochet projects here!
I also have a blog post on how to read patterns here.
Basic Crochet Stitches
This blog post would be a little too lengthy if I included all the basic stitches. In this blog post were going to over the very basic fundamentals of creating a slip knot, the foundation chain, and the single crochet. As well as turning your work. After this tutorial you will be equipped with the tools to make a basic project! I’m a visual learner so the more tutorials the better, I hope these help you! Here’s the whole foundation of crochet step by step. Everything you need to know to be successful starting out.
If you’re ready to move on to the half double crochet, double, and treble see this blog post!
The slip knot
First of all, to even start the chain stitch you need to know how to do a slip knot. This is a basic knot that you will use to start every single crochet project.
Step 1: Make a loop with the tail end on the top of the working yarn
Step 2: Bring the top yarn under the loop and through
Step 3: tighten the slip knot by pulling on both ends of the yarn
How to Hold the yarn and hook
I didn’t think about it until I started making this post but I’m left-handed so all of this might look a little different for you! All the steps are the same, but you’ll just be holding the hook with the opposite hand. whatever is comfortable for you.
To hold the hook, you hold it like you would a pencil.
Next, hold the knot with your thumb and middle finger and wrap the yarn around your index finger.
How to yarn over
Getting used to the way you hold the yarn will make this easier for you.
Yarning over is how you make virtually every crochet stitch.
wrap your yarn around the hook.
When you are pulling the yarn through the loop that is already on your crochet hook, you will turn the crochet hook slightly towards your finger so that the “hook” part catches on.
The foundation chain
The foundation chain is the very beginning of virtually every project you will complete.
Yarn over like we did in the last step. Next you will be turning the crochet hook towards your finger and pulling that loop through the loop already on the hook.
After you pull the yarn through the loop your foundation chain will look like this.
This is your first crochet stitch.
The single crochet
Place your hook through the last foundation chain you completed!
Yarn over. Pull through the stitch.
You should have 2 loops on your hook
The initial chain and the yarn you just pulled through.
Next you need to yarn over again, and pull through the last 2 loops on your hook.
You should be left with 1 loop.
Finishing Off Your Work
An important section we can’t forget. When you’ve reached the desired length of your project or completed your pattern, it’s time to finish off:
- Cut the yarn, leaving a tail of a few inches.
- Yarn over and pull the tail through the loop on the hook to secure it.
- Use a tapestry needle to weave in the ends of the yarn to hide them within your work.
- Try not to just knot your work. Although it sounds like a great idea it doesn’t leave the most professional finish. Get those yarn needles.
Tips for Success
As you embark on your beautiful crocheting journey, keep these tips in mind:
- Practice, Practice, Practice: Like any skill, crochet improves with practice. You’re first project won’t be perfect! It’s your first project. I still make total flops, things I hate, things that just don’t make sense or work at all. They won’t all be perfect, and that is okay.
- Read Patterns Carefully: Take the time to understand patterns before starting a project. Pay attention to stitch abbreviations and special instructions. To understand how to read patterns!
- Stay Relaxed: Crocheting should be enjoyable, not stressful. Keep a relaxed grip on your hook and yarn to prevent hand fatigue.
- Count Your Stitches: Miscounting stitches can lead to wonky projects. count your stitches regularly, especially at the end of rows. This is one of the most common beginner mistakes. If you notice that your rows are getting smaller or larger, then you especially need to start counting your stitches.
- Experiment: Once you’ve mastered the basics, don’t be afraid to experiment with different stitches, yarns, and patterns.
Good luck and get crocheting!
Crocheting is a wonderfully rewarding hobby that offers endless possibilities for creativity. With the right tools, basic stitches, and a lot of patience, you’ll be crocheting like a pro in no time. Remember to start small, practice regularly, and most importantly, have fun!
Once you master the basics try one of these free crochet patterns from this post and others!
