Welcome to the ultimate beginner’s guide to crochet! Whether you’re completely new to the craft or looking to brush up on your skills, this guide will provide you with the essential knowledge you need to get started. From choosing the right crochet hook to understanding crochet terminology, you won’t need to wonder how to crochet any longer!
How to Crochet: Before You Start
Where to Buy Crochet Supplies
When it comes to purchasing crochet supplies, you have a variety of options. Local craft stores often carry a selection of crochet hooks, yarns, and other essentials. Online retailers such as Amazon, Etsy, and specialised yarn stores are also great places to find a wide range of crochet supplies. For cheaper options, budget stores such as Poundland and Home Bargains can be a good go to for basics such as starter crochet hooks and inexpensive acrylic yarns. Consider your budget, preferences, and the specific materials you’re looking for when choosing where to buy.
Choosing the Right Crochet Hook
One of the first things you’ll need to consider when starting your crochet journey is which crochet hook to use. The size of the hook will depend on the type of yarn you’re working with. For DK yarn, a hook size between 3.5mm and 4.5mm is generally recommended. If you’re working with chunky wool, you’ll want to use a larger hook, such as a 6mm or 8mm. It’s important to match the hook size to the yarn weight to achieve the desired tension and stitch size. If you’re lost on which hook to go for, check the label of your chosen skein of yarn. Most yarns have recommended hook sizes noted on the label. If the label only states the size of recommended knitting needles, you can safely assume that the recommendation for crochet hooks would be roughly the same size.
Choosing the Right Yarn
Selecting the right yarn is a crucial step that can significantly impact your experience and the outcome of your projects. As a beginner, opt for a smooth and medium-weight yarn in a light, solid colour. These characteristics make it easier to see your stitches and track your progress. Choose a yarn labeled with a recommended hook size to ensure compatibility with your crochet hook. Acrylic or cotton yarns are excellent choices for beginners due to their affordability, versatility, and ease of care. Steer clear of overly textured or fuzzy yarns initially, as they can make it challenging to identify stitches. As you gain confidence and experience, you can explore a broader range of fibers and textures. Ultimately, selecting the right yarn enhances your learning process and sets the foundation for successful and enjoyable crochet projects.
How to Crochet: The Basics
Slip Knot and Chains
Understanding the slip knot and chains is fundamental in the world of crochet. The slip knot serves as the inaugural loop on the crochet hook, created by forming a loop with the yarn, crossing the ends, and pulling it through. Chains establish the length for your project that you’ll continue working into. To make a chain, simply yarn over and pull it through the slip knot loop, repeating the process until the desired chain length is achieved. Mastery of these basic elements, the slip knot and chains, lays the groundwork for progressing to more intricate crochet stitches.
Starting the Second Row
Once you’re done chaining the required number of stitches as specified in your pattern, turn your work. You’ll then want to chain either 1 or 2 chains depending on which stitch you’ll be doing in the second row. If you’re going to be working on either single crochet or half double crochet, I recommend chaining only once. However, when working with double crochets, I like to chain twice. You’ll then start stitching back along the foundation chains, starting in the first stitch on the right hand side unless stated otherwise.
Where to Insert the Hook
Knowing where to insert the hook is crucial for creating accurate and even stitches. In most cases, you’ll insert your hook under the top two loops of the stitch, unless otherwise specified in the pattern. It might help to picture the two loops at the top of the stitch form a V shape. You’ll want to make sure your hook goes under both sides of the V.
Turning in Crochet
Turning in crochet refers to flipping your work over to start a new row. After completing a row, you’ll typically turn your work to begin the next row in the opposite direction. Usually you’ll also need to chain before starting the actual stitches of the row, just like you did when starting the second row. When working from a pattern, the number of chains needed at the start of the row should be specified by the pattern designer.
How to Crochet: The Stitches
How to Crochet the Single Crochet (SC) Stitch – US terms
The single crochet is the shortest of the three basic stitches. Because the stitch is so short and tight, it creates a dense fabric that is good for anything needing firm texture. It’s commonly used in amigurumi, small accessories like hats and gloves, as well as projects that require a sturdy and less flexible fabric. Here are the steps to making a single crochet stitch:
- Insert your hook into the desired stitch.
- Yarn over and pull up a loop, so you have two loops on the hook.
- Yarn over again and pull through both loops on the hook.
- That’s it! You’ve completed a single crochet stitch.
How to Crochet the Half Double Crochet (HDC) Stitch – US terms
The half double crochet is a bit taller than the single crochet and has a bit more flexibility to it. The fabric created by working half double crochet stitches is more flowy and drapey while remaining opaque and solid in colour. It’s often used in a variety of projects, including scarves, blankets, and garments. Because it provides a nice combination of density and drape, it’s the go to stitch for many crocheters. Here are the steps to making a half double crochet stitch:
- Yarn over and insert your hook into the desired stitch.
- Yarn over again and pull up a loop, so you have three loops on the hook.
- Yarn over once more and pull through all three loops on the hook.
- Congratulations! You’ve just made a half double crochet stitch.
How to Crochet the Double Crochet (DC) Stitch – US terms
Double crochet is a taller stitch, creating a more open and airy fabric with lots of drape. It’s frequently used for projects where a lighter and more breathable fabric is desired, like in afghans, shawls, and garments. It works up quickly due to its taller nature and looks great in anything with a lace-like texture to it. Here are the steps to making a double crochet stitch:
- Yarn over and insert your hook into the desired stitch.
- Yarn over again and pull up a loop, resulting in three loops on the hook.
- Yarn over once more and pull through the first two loops on the hook, leaving two loops.
- Yarn over again and pull through the remaining two loops.
- You’ve successfully completed a double crochet stitch.
How to Crochet: Good to Know
Joining Yarns & The Magic Knot
At some point, you may need to join a new yarn color or replace an existing one. To join yarns, the easiest way is to simply start working with the new yarn, yarn over with the new yarn instead of old when starting on a new stitch. However, it’s important to remember to leave long tails on both yarns that you can weave in later. This ensures the durability of your crochet piece. Many crocheters opt to tie knots using the two long tails as it makes the yarn join feel more secure. The best knot for this is the magic knot:
- Overlap the Yarns: Lay the two yarn ends parallel to each other, overlapping by a few inches.
- Create a Loop: With the working end of one yarn, create a loop over the other yarn. This loop should resemble a pretzel shape.
- Pass the End Through: Take the working end of the second yarn and pass it through the loop created in step 2.
- Create a Second Loop: With the same yarn, create a second loop over the other yarn, this time going in the opposite direction.
- Pass the End Through Again: Pass the working end of the first yarn through this second loop.
- Secure and Tighten: Hold both yarn ends and the loops securely and pull them in opposite directions to tighten the knot. Make sure it is snug but not overly tight to avoid distorting the yarn.
- Trim Excess Yarn or weave in ends: You can trim the excess yarn ends close to the knot, leaving a short tail. Be cautious not to cut too close, ensuring the knot remains secure. While this works in most cases, it’s always best to weave in any ends for extra security.
Changing Colors in Crochet
Changing colors in crochet allows you to create beautiful patterns and designs. To change colors, stop right before completing the last stitch of the old color, leaving a tail to weave in later. For example, when working SC, you’d stop right before pulling through the last two hoops on the hook (Step 3 in SC guide). Then, pick up the new color and pull it through the last stitch, completing the stitch with the new color. You can continue stitching with the new color, carrying the old color along the row until you need it again. If you won’t be needing the old colour again, you can cut it. Of course, make sure to leave a long end!
Understanding the Magic Ring
The magic ring, also known as the magic circle, is a technique used to start projects that require a closed center, such as amigurumi or circular motifs. To create a magic ring, first, make a loop with the yarn, leaving a long tail. Insert your hook into the loop, yarn over, and pull up a loop. Then, chain one to secure the loop. From there, you can work your first round of stitches into the ring, pulling the tail to tighten the center as you go. If magic ring seems too intimidating to you, you can also CH2 and SL ST back into the first CH. You can then use the center of the circle you just created as an alternative to the magic ring.
Identifying the Right Side
In crochet, the right side refers to the side of your work that will be visible or facing outwards. The wrong side, on the other hand, is the side that will be hidden or facing inwards. To determine the right side, it’s important to know how your chosen pattern works up. For example, when working back and forth in rows, it often doesn’t matter which side is the right side. In these cases, you can choose the side that looks best to you. However, when working in rounds without turning in between each round, you will have a defined right and wrong side. The right side is the one that’s facing you while you’re working on the project. You can usually tell the right side from the wrong side as the wrong side tends to be slightly bumpier. If your project is made up of single crochets, you should have visible V shapes on the right side of your work. If your project is made up of double crochets, you can look at the small posts created right under the top of the stitch – the right side has horizontal posts while the wrong side has vertical posts.
Getting Started with Crochet
Now that you have a basic understanding of crochet terminology and techniques, it’s time to dive in and start crocheting! Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first few projects don’t turn out exactly as you had planned. With time and experience, you’ll develop your own unique crochet style and create beautiful handmade items.
Crochet is a versatile and rewarding craft that allows you to create beautiful and functional items. By choosing the right crochet hook, understanding how to start rows, join yarns, and utilize important techniques such as the magic ring, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of crochet. So grab your hook, select your favorite yarn, and let your creativity soar!
