How to Learn to Crochet: A Beginner’s Guide

Are you interested in learning how to crochet but don’t know where to start? Crochet is a fun, creative, and relaxing hobby that anyone can learn. Whether you want to make scarves, blankets, amigurumi, or home decor, mastering crochet opens up endless possibilities.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to start crocheting, share useful tips, and recommend resources perfect for beginners.

Why Learn to Crochet?

Crocheting is more than just making pretty things. It’s a skill that:

• Boosts creativity — design your own patterns and projects
• Reduces stress — a calming and mindful activity
• Saves money — handmade gifts and home items cost less
• Builds community — join crochet groups and online forums

Plus, crocheting is accessible—just a hook, some yarn, and a little patience!

Step 1: Gather Your Crochet Supplies

To start crocheting, you’ll need:

• Crochet hooks — sizes vary; beginners often start with sizes H-8 (5mm) or I-9 (5.5mm)
• Yarn — worsted weight (#4) yarn is ideal for beginners; acrylic or cotton works great
• Scissors and tapestry needle — for finishing your projects
• Stitch markers (optional) — help keep track of stitches

Step 2: Learn Basic Crochet Stitches

Start by mastering the foundational stitches:

• Chain stitch (ch) — the base of all crochet project 

Make a slip knot and place it on your crochet hook. Hold the hook in your dominant hand and the yarn in the other. Wrap the yarn over the hook from back to front (this is called a yarn over). Pull the yarn through the loop on your hook. You have made 1 chain stitch! Repeat steps 3–4 to make more chains.

Tip: Keep your tension even—not too tight or loose.

• Single crochet (sc) — tight and dense stitch

Insert your hook into the second chain from the hook. Yarn over (wrap the yarn over the hook). Pull the yarn through the chain stitch (you now have 2 loops on the hook). Yarn over again and pull through both loops on the hook. You made 1 single crochet! Repeat steps 1–4 across the chain.

• Double crochet (dc) — taller, more open stitch

Yarn over once before inserting your hook. Insert the hook into the third chain from the hook. Yarn over and pull the yarn through the chain (3 loops on the hook). Yarn over and pull through the first 2 loops on the hook (2 loops remain). Yarn over again and pull through the last 2 loops. You made 1 double crochet! Repeat steps 1–5 across the chain.

• Slip stitch (sl st) — used to join rounds or move yarn

Insert the hook into the stitch where you want to join or move. Yarn over and pull the yarn through the stitch and the loop on your hook at the same time. You made a slip stitch! It creates a flat, tight join without adding height.

Step 3: Practice with Simple Projects

Begin with easy projects like:

• Dishcloths or washcloths — great for practicing stitches and tension
• Scarves — easy shapes that allow repetition
• Granny squares — learn to work in rounds and join pieces

These projects help build your confidence and skill before moving to more complex patterns.

Step 4: Read Crochet Patterns

Learning to read crochet patterns is essential. Most American patterns use US crochet terms, such as:

• ch — chain
• sc — single crochet
• dc — double crochet
• sl st — slip stitch

Patterns will also use abbreviations for repeats, increases, and decreases. Start with simple written patterns or those with clear step-by-step photos.

Tips for Successful Learning

• Start slow and practice regularly
• Use good lighting to see stitches clearly
• Keep your hands relaxed to avoid cramps
• Join crochet communities online or local groups for support
• Be patient—everyone learns at their own pace

Where to Buy Crochet Supplies in the USA

For high-quality yarns and tools, check out Candy Yarn shop — shipping worldwide from Ukraine, with a wide selection of yarns, hooks, and accessories

Final Thoughts

Learning to crochet is a rewarding journey that brings joy and creativity into your life. With the right supplies, basic skills, and a bit of practice, you’ll be making beautiful projects in no time. Start today and join the vibrant global crochet community!

Ready to get started? Browse our beginner-friendly yarns and tools at Candy Yarn and enjoy worldwide shipping!