Beginner Crochet

To the beginner crochet may at first seem daunting and complicated, but really it is very easy. In fact, most would say that it is easier than knitting. It is certainly far quicker.

All you need is a crochet hook and a ball of wool. Follow the free beginner crochet instructions and you will find learning how to crochet a breeze!

There are just three things you will need to learn to start yourself off:

How to make a slip knot

How to hold the hook and yarn

How to make a basic chain

Once you have mastered these crochet methods you can quickly go on to learn the four basic crochet stitches.

Single crochet (UK double crochet)

Half double crochet (UK half trebles)

Double crochet (UK trebles)

Trebles (UK double trebles)

These can be used as they are, or can form the basis of a vast variety of looks and crochet fabrics

Other useful skills are the use of the slip stitch and also how to increase or decrease. But these are not absolutely necessary for the beginner.

So now, if you are ready to try out your new skills, here are a few easy projects for you

Easy Baby Mittens
Baby scarf
Crochet purse / shoulder bag
Classy Crochet Boa
Crochet Flower Beginner crochet instructions for those who have gained a bit of confidence
baby sweater (jumper)

Further Reading

for US residents.

If you reside in the UK go to

A couple I would particularly recommend for UK residents are

and Beginner's Guide to Crochet By Pauline Turner. I once did a correspondence course run by Pauline, many years ago, long before the internet was available and I know she really knows her stuff!

US residents might like to consider First Crochet by Lesley Stanfield which has a five star rating from Amazon Customers who have used this book, or again the Pauline Turner book Beginner's Guide to Crochet which I know will be good but may contain UK terminology. This should not pose a big problem as conversion is easy and there are many conversion charts on the net.