Get started
Crochet is a relaxing and creative craft that uses yarn and a hook to create fabric. This guide will help you get started with the essentials.
What you need to get started
Section titled “What you need to get started”- Yarn: Comes in different weights (thickness). Beginners often start with medium worsted weight (#4).
- Crochet Hook: Available in various sizes (measured in mm). Choose the size recommended for your yarn.
- Tapestry Needle: For weaving in ends.
- Stitch Markers: Help mark places in your work and to keep track of rounds.
- Scissors
Basic terminology
Section titled “Basic terminology”| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
Chain ch | The foundation row of loops |
Slip Stitch sl st | Join or move stitches without adding height |
Single Crochet sc | Basic short stitch |
Double Crochet dc | Taller stitch than single crochet |
Yarn Over yo | Wrapping yarn over the hook |
Stitch st | Each loop or unit created in fabric |
Basic terminology
Section titled “Basic terminology”- Yarn: Comes in different weights (thickness). Beginners often start with medium worsted weight (#4).
- Crochet Hook: Available in various sizes (measured in mm). Choose the size recommended for your yarn.
- Tapestry Needle: For weaving in ends.
- Stitch Markers: Help mark places in your work and to keep track of rounds.
- Scissors
Basic stitches
Section titled “Basic stitches”If you are new to crochet, there are many YouTube crochet tutorials that provide clear, helpful guidance for crochet stitches.
Slip knot
Section titled “Slip knot”- Loop the yarn, insert the hook through the loop, and pull it through to make a loop.
- Pull gently on both yarn ends to tighten the knot against the hook.
Chain ch
Section titled “Chain ch”- Make a slip knot on your hook.
- Yarn over, pull through the loop.
- Repeat to desired length.
Single crochet sc
Section titled “Single crochet sc”- Insert hook into stitch.
- Yarn over, pull through stitch (2 loops on hook).
- Yarn over, pull through both loops.
Double crochet dc
Section titled “Double crochet dc”- Yarn over.
- Insert hook into stitch.
- Yarn over, pull through stitch (3 loops on hook).
- Yarn over, pull through 2 loops.
- Yarn over, pull through remaining 2 loops.
Reading a crochet pattern
Section titled “Reading a crochet pattern”See reading crochet patterns for more information.
Reading a yarn labels
Section titled “Reading a yarn labels”See reading yarn labels for more information.