A Beginner's Guide to Crochet: Starting Your Journey to a More Relaxed You
Are you looking for a calmer, more creative hobby? If so, crochet may be perfect for you. Not only does crochet produce beautiful, functional items, but it's also deeply satisfying and relaxing, perfect for quiet evenings and rainy afternoons. In this post, we will show you how to get started with crochet and create your first project.
Crochet and its power of calm
Before you pick up your crochet hook and yarn, let’s look at what crochet is and why it's so great for relaxation.
Crochet is the process of creating fabric from yarn, using a crochet hook. It is known to help people relax and manage stress due to its repetitive motions, which can be very soothing and meditative. It can also enhance your creativity and sense of accomplishment.
The Neuroscience Behind the Calm
Crochet has been shown to lower the heart rate and blood pressure due to the calming, repetitive movements required. The focus needed to create intricate designs can also take your mind off worries and negative thoughts. This state of focused relaxation is great for managing anxiety and has benefits similar to mindfulness practices.
Crochet hanging basket. The pattern is available here.
Tools you need to get started
Fortunately, crochet requires minimal equipment, making it an accessible hobby for many.
What You'll Need
Crochet Hook: The size of your hook will depend on the yarn you choose, and it's usually indicated on the yarn label.
Metal, plastic, and wooden hooks are all available, offering different weight, texture, and grip benefits. I recommend beginners start with a larger hook like a 4mm hook, also known as size G-6 in the US.
Yarn: Start with a yarn that's easy to work with, such as a medium-weight yarn, often labelled as "worsted”.
A higher weight indicates the need for a larger hook size, resulting in a larger final project size. It’s also good to pick use yarn in a light color, which allows you to see your stitches more easily.
Yarn Needle: Used for weaving in the ends of your project once you've finished.
Scissors: A good pair of scissors for cutting yarn is essential.
Measuring Tape: Crochet often requires specific sizing, so a measuring tape can help ensure your project is the right size.
Stitch Markers: These are essential for marking the beginning and end of your rounds or rows, or any other important points in your pattern.
Rounds vs Rows
Crochet projects generally fall into two categories: crocheting in the round or crocheting in rows.
Let's delve into each type:
Crochet in the round
Crocheting in rounds.Crocheting in the round: Crochet done in the round is often used for crocheting items like hats, baskets, bags, or amigurumi. There are two primary methods for starting crochet in the round. Our preferred technique involves using a magic loop. Another method is to begin with a foundation chain, but this can leave a small hole at the centre of your work. Opting for a magic loop ensures a seamless finish. We will guide you through creating a magic loop or a foundation chain later in this guide.
Crocheting in rows
Crocheting in rows.Crocheting in rows: Crochet worked in rows is ideal for creating flat pieces such as blankets, scarves, or washcloths. To start crocheting in rows, you'll start with a foundation chain. After creating the foundation chain, turn your work and start crocheting back into the chain. Continue turning and crocheting until you achieve your desired size.
The Basic Crocheting Techniques to get you started
Before you can crochet, you need to understand a few basic techniques. Here's what you need to know before you start.
How to Hold a Crochet Hook
There are several ways to hold a crochet hook, but the most common is the "pencil grip." Hold the hook as you would a pencil, with your thumb and forefinger near the hook's tip for control.
The “knife grip” is a method of holding a crochet hook that resembles how one would hold a knife. This grip involves holding the thumb rest with the thumb and third finger while the pointer finger stretches along the back of the working area. The knife grip is known for allowing smaller hand movements and potentially being easier on joints and wrists compared to other grips.
Holding your crochet hook: Pencil gripHow to hold your yarn
There are also various techniques for holding yarn, and there isn't a single correct method. Let's explore the preferred Mouse and Sparrow approach to yarn holding!
Start by grasping the yarn with your left hand (if you're right-handed) and loop it around your pinky finger. Next, pass the yarn over your index finger. Lastly, secure the yarn between your thumb and middle finger. Your thumb and middle finger will act as a stabilizer while you work on your project.
Hold the yarn in a way that feels most natural and comfortable for you. And for our left-handed companions, we haven't overlooked you! While discussing yarn holding for right-handed individuals, here's a helpful guide tailored for left-handed crocheters.
Holding your yarn.Basic stitches
The Chain Stitch (ch)
This is the most basic crochet stitch and forms the foundation of nearly every crochet project.
The Slip Stitch (sl st)
This stitch is used to join pieces together, to move the yarn a short distance, or to create a decorative line or color change.
The Single Crochet (sc)
This stitch is the shortest, and often the tightest, of the basic crochet stitches.
The Half Double Crochet (hdc)
This stitch is taller than the single crochet but shorter than the double crochet.
The Double Crochet (dc)
This tall stitch is one of the most common in crochet and is used in a wide variety of projects.
The Treble Crochet (tr)
This is the tallest of the basic crochet stitches and is great for projects that need a bit more coverage but still need to be lacy.
How to get started with your first crochet piece
The first step to crocheting anything is starting with either a foundation chain or a magic loop.
Crocheting in the round.How to Start Crocheting in the Round
To begin crocheting in the round, you'll first need to create a slip knot and chain a certain number of loops. Then, you'll slip stitch the last loop to the first to form a ring. This ring is the beginning of your round crochet piece.
To get started in crochet using a magic loop, follow these step-by-step instructions:
Prepare the Loop:
Start by making a loop with the yarn around your fingers as you would normally.
Create the Circle:
Once you have the loop, instead of chaining 1, chain 3 to form the initial circle.
Hold the Yarn:
Hold the yarn in your left hand and stick out your index finger. Wrap the yarn over the top of your finger.
Continue Wrapping:
Wrap the yarn around your finger, going under the finger and back over it as you continue wrapping.
Insert the Hook:
Insert your crochet hook into the circle you created with the chained stitches.
Begin Crocheting:
Pull up a loop through the circle using the hook.
Chain Stitches:
Chain 1 (or as required for your pattern) to secure the loop.
Following these steps will help you create a magic loop, also known as a magic ring or adjustable loop, which is a versatile technique used to start many crochet projects.
How to Start Crocheting in Rows
For crochet pieces that are worked back and forth in rows, you'll start with a foundation chain. The number of chains you make at the start determines the width of your piece. You'll then crochet into the chain to make your stitches.
Crochet foundation chains and turn work.
Keep repeating the rows until you’ve reached your desired length.
To begin crocheting in rows, here are step-by-step instructions
Create a Slip Knot:
Make a slip knot at the end of your yarn and place it on your crochet hook.
Begin with a Foundation Chain
Make a foundation chain by chaining the desired number of stitches for the width of your project.
Turn Your Work:
Once you have the foundation chain, turn your work so the back side is facing you.
Start the First Row
Insert your hook into the second chain from the hook (or as directed by your pattern).
Crochet Across:
Work across the row by crocheting stitches according to the pattern you are following.
Turn Again:
When you reach the end of the row, chain one (turning chain) and turn your work so you can start the next row.
Continue Crocheting:
Repeat the process of crocheting across the row, turning your work at the end of each row, and chaining one before starting the next row.
Repeat Rows:
Keep repeating the rows until your project reaches the desired length.
By following these steps, you'll be able to start crocheting in rows effectively, creating flat pieces like blankets, scarves, or washcloths.
How to read a crochet pattern as a beginner
Seeing your first written crochet pattern may initially seem daunting and confusing. However, it's important to understand that most patterns utilize abbreviations instead of spelling out every stitch. While this may seem overwhelming at first, fret not! Many pattern creators provide a key for reference. In the event you find yourself without one, here are some common abbreviations you're likely to encounter and their corresponding meanings in US crochet terms.
Understand the Stitch Abbreviations
Familiarize yourself with common crochet stitch abbreviations such as:
ch - chain
sc - single crochet
dc - double crochet
hdc - half double crochet
tr - treble crochet
sl st - slip stitch
Stitch Instructions:
Each pattern guides you through every round or row, detailing the steps to follow.
But how exactly do you interpret the instructions?For example, if the pattern says "sc in next st," it means to make a single crochet stitch in the next stitch.
Or when the pattern states: sc x 20
Referring to the chart, we know that "sc" stands for single crochet. Therefore, you would crochet 20 single crochets - placing one in each stitch.
How about: [sc, inc] x 5
Initially, this might appear complex, but it simply indicates that you should repeat the actions within the [brackets] a total of five (x 5) times. Meaning, perform a single crochet in one stitch, then an increase in the following stitch. Repeat this alternating sequence of single crochet and increase five times in total.
Pay Attention to Repetition:
Look for repeat symbols or instructions in the pattern. Common repetitions include asterisks (*) and brackets ([]), indicating which stitches or sets of stitches should be repeated.
For a more in depth look at crochet patterns download this guide here: How To Read Crochet Patterns For Beginners
Step-by-Step Learning of Basic Crochet Stitches
The basic crochet stitches are the building blocks for any crochet project. Here's how to do them:
The Chain Stitch
Make a slip knot and place it on the hook.
Yarn over (YO) the hook and draw the yarn through the slip knot.
This motion completes one chain stitch.
The Slip Stitch
Insert your hook into the next stitch.
Yarn over and pull the yarn back through the stitch and the loop on your hook.
This motion completes one slip stitch.
The Single Crochet
Insert your hook into the next stitch.
Yarn over and pull up a loop – you'll now have two loops on your hook.
Yarn over again and pull through both loops on your hook.
This motion completes one single crochet.
The Half Double Crochet
Yarn over (YO) and insert the hook into the next stitch.
Yarn over again and pull up a loop.
Yarn over and pull through all three loops on your hook.
This motion completes one half double crochet.
The Double and Treble Crochet
For the double crochet (dc), you'll need to yarn over before inserting the hook into the next stitch.
Yarn over again and pull up a loop, then yarn over and pull through two loops on the hook.
Yarn over once more and pull through the remaining two loops.
For the treble crochet (tr), you’ll yarn over the hook twice before making your way into the stitch.
Pull up a loop.
Yarn over and pull through two loops on the hook, and continue until you have pulled through all but the last loop.
Yarn over and pull through the final two loops.
The Increase Stitch
This is when you add two or more stitches into a single stitch from the previous row or round. The most common increase stitch is to do two stitches in the same stitch.
The Decrease Stitch
This is when you remove one or more stitches by combining them to work as one. The most common decrease stitch is to do a few stitches together.
Great Beginner's Crochet Projects
One of the most enjoyable aspects of crochet is seeing your creations come to life. Here are some great starter projects:
A Simple Scarf
A straight scarf is a perfect first project. You can start to vary your stitches, learn to maintain a consistent shape, and make something practical.
A Basic Dishcloth
A dishcloth is a simple square project. It’s great for practising foundation chains, single crochet, and working in rows.
A Cozy Beanie
A beginner-friendly beanie is a wonderful, quick project that anyone can wear. Crocheting a beanie, you’ll learn to work in the round and increasing stitches.
Blankets:
These large projects take time but are perfect for practising stitches and watching your work grow..
There are plenty of resources available for those who wish to learn crochet. From books and online tutorials to local classes, you're sure to find something that suits your learning style.
Take your time, be patient with yourself, and enjoy the process. Crochet is as much about the experience of making as it is about the finished product. Each stitch you learn is a tool to help quiet your mind and bring you joy.
Happy crocheting!
Do you have any tips for crochet beginners? Let me know in the comments below!
Additional resources to help you get started:
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