Learning to crochet from scratch is possible with the simple basic steps we’ll offer you in this article. Nowadays, there are numerous techniques to achieve the perfect project; you just need to learn the classic stitches and unleash your imagination. As with anything, the first step is to overcome your fear of learning and practice freely.
We’re going to explain in a simple way some essential keys to get started in the world of crochet, that creative and versatile art.
How to get started in the world of crochet: initial tips
Choosing the needle
Knowing how to choose the right hook for the type and thickness of yarn you’ll be working with, as well as the task at hand, is essential when starting in crochet.
It’s important to know the thickness of the yarn, wool, or t-shirt yarn; this is usually specified on the product labels, but to give you a general idea, here’s a helpful chart:
You should choose one that is comfortable in your hand, lightweight, and well-finished. To start, a metal needle is best , and once you gain experience, you can try materials like wood or ABS plastic .
1. The assembly
There are several ways to start the work; we present one of them with simple steps and images.
Begin crocheting by making a slip knot. Pass the yarn over the index finger of your left (auxiliary) hand, and then, from the bottom up, pass the yarn over your thumb.
Next, firmly grasp the two loose strands with the other fingers of the same hand and, with the other hand, insert the crochet hook into the loop on your thumb.
Using the hook of the needle, pick up the yarn coming from your index finger from right to left, pulling it through the loop of your thumb. After this step, release the loop and gently pull the yarn until the stitch is loose on the crochet hook.
And now you have the starting point where you will begin your first chain.
2. Chain stitch for crochet
The chain stitch is the foundation of any crochet project, although some techniques do not use it. It’s the simplest stitch and is used to begin a new row. We’re going to explain how to make it—don’t miss a thing!
Pass the yarn from the outside in between your pinky and ring fingers, then wrap it twice around your index finger, securing the knot you made during the assembly step.
This will be your starting point. Now, simply pick up the taut yarn with the needle and pass it through the eye, creating the first stitch.
Make as many chain stitches as you consider necessary for your work, keeping in mind that the starting point where the needle is located is never counted.
3. Single crochet stitch
Also known as a half double crochet, this is a compact stitch that creates a dense, thick fabric. Its purpose is to transition to the next row and even out the height difference. To do this, make one extra chain stitch in addition to the number you need for your project, and then we’ll begin with the steps for the single crochet.
Pass the needle from front to back through the second-to-last chain stitch and hook the yarn underneath. Now, with the yarn in hand, pass it through the chain stitch where the needle was, creating two loops on the needle. Pick up the yarn again and pass it through both loops.
This will be your first single crochet in the second chain.
Continue working with identical stitches until you have reached the required number of stitches. At the end of the row, chain one to begin the next row. Turn the finished piece and insert the hook under the two top loops of the first single crochet.
Pick up the yarn again and pass it through the single crochet stitch as well, then pick up the yarn again and pass it through both loops created.
4. Crochet stitch
It is a very commonly used stitch that is twice as high as a single crochet and creates a looser fabric; you will also know it as a double crochet stitch because it has a stick shape.
Before starting the double crochet, make three more chain stitches than your project needs (to be able to move on to the next row leaving more space).
We begin with the double crochet stitch, so yarn over and pass the hook from front to back through the 4th chain stitch, counting from the last one. You will have one loop under the hook and two loops over it (step 2).
Pass the taut yarn through the chain stitch, and you will get three loops on your needle. Yarn over again and pass it through the first two loops (step 4), yarn over again and pass it through the remaining loops.
Continue this process and at the end of the row, make three chain stitches and turn the work, starting again with a new loop (step 6).
Insert the crochet hook into the 2nd double crochet of the previous row, yarn over and pull through the first two loops (step 7). Yarn over again and pull through the remaining two loops.
5. Finish off the threads or join pieces
When you have finished your work, secure all the loose threads at the edge. To do this, you will need a wool or embroidery needle, which has a particularly wide and long eye.
Use it also to join pieces by sewing them together, alternately taking two threads from the right side and two from the left side.
There are many types of stitches and techniques, but we wanted to highlight the most commonly used ones for crocheting.
We hope this is helpful for you as you get started in this field. With a little enthusiasm, patience, and care, you’re sure to create something unique.