How to Crochet

Learning how to crochet is easy. I taught myself from an old crochet book, and then I was able to teach a friend who can't learn from books and needs to actually see things demonstrated.

how to crochet

Basic Instructions for How to Crochet

I feel that crochet is easier than knitting since you use one hook and mistakes are easy to pull out and fix.

  1. Make a slipknot on the hook.
  2. Make a foundation chain by pulling the yarn over from right to left, hooking it, and pulling it through the loop.
  3. Repeat until you have the right number of chains.
  4. For single crochet, leave a turning chain of 1 then insert the hook into the following chain loop, leaving two threads above and one below.
  5. Yarn over, pull the loop through. There should be two loops on the hook handle.
  6. Yarn over and pull the loop through loops on the handle for single crochet. Remember it this way: For single crochet, you go through two loops once.
  7. Repeat for the row, make a turning chain, and flip the piece over to work on the next row.
how to crochet

That should get you started with single crochet! Please see the links below to learn more.

Crochet Stitches
To learn how to crochet, you need to know the basic stitches like single crochet and double crochet. Advanced stitches build on these.

How to Read Crochet Patterns
Read crochet patterns correctly to understand the gauge, yarn, and hook size, and you'll know how to do crochet projects successfully!

Crochet Pattern Books and Hooks
Here's a list of my favorite pattern books. I also explain crochet hook sizes in a useful chart.

Crochet Terms
Learn to understand the terms and the specialized vocabulary. Do you know the differences between filet crochet, Tunisian crochet, and granny squares?

Crochet Baby Patterns
I love to make baby patterns from baby booties to toys. You can make a whole baby layette pattern!

Crochet Afghan Patterns
Find the best crochet afghan patterns and ideas on how to use your leftover yarn scraps.

Crochet Hat Patterns
Looking for some crochet hat patterns? Take a look at the various hat styles and find one you like.

Crochet Scarf Patterns
Experiment with various stitches and types of yarn in scarf patterns. They're so fast and easy to make!

Crochet Poncho Patterns
Go retro with some poncho patterns! Handmade ponchos were popular in the 1970's during the colonial revival and are now back in style, and shawls are classic elegance.

Crochet Sweater Patterns
Find the best sweater patterns to learn how to make yourself a vest or sweater.

Crochet Doily Patterns
Try some crochet doily patterns and get hooked! Some lacy designs are quick and easy.

Other Crochet Projects
Here are some other random crochet projects that don't fit in the other sections.

With the right crochet patterns and stitches, you'll soon be ready to make some projects!

More to Explore

crochet pattern books and hooks
crochet sweater patterns
crochet stitiches
crochet afghan patterns
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