How to Crochet for Absolute Beginners: The Complete Starter Guide
Crochet is one of the easiest crafts to pick up and one of the most relaxing to keep. All you truly need is a hook, some yarn and a few core stitches. This guide takes you from zero to your first finished swatch.
Choosing yarn and a hook
Start with a smooth, light-coloured worsted weight yarn and a 5 mm hook. Light colours make it easy to see your stitches while you learn.
Holding the hook and yarn
There is no single correct grip. Most people hold the hook like a pencil or a knife and loop the working yarn over the index finger to control tension.
Your first stitches
- Make a slip knot.
- Work a row of chain stitches.
- Come back across with single crochet.
- Practise until your edges are straight.
Learn the key stitches next
Once the chain and single crochet feel natural, move on to the 10 basic stitches every crocheter should know.
Your first project
A simple swatch turned into a dishcloth is the classic first project. After that, try a quick crochet flower.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to learn crochet?
Most people can crochet a simple project within a few days of practising the basic stitches for 20 minutes a day.
