Is there one hobby that always seems to be on your list but is always prioritized lower than your other plans?
Once you get the basics of crocheting down, you can create some fantastic pieces. Most importantly, it’s a perfect way to de-stress and unwind or calm yourself down from anxiety.
Do you find yourself daydreaming about learning how to crochet? Well, this is the article for you! Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about how to start crocheting!
Supplies You’ll Need to Start Crocheting
Starting to crochet is easy and only requires a few supplies. You will need a crochet hook. Crochet hooks come in different sizes, so choose one that is comfortable. Next, you will need some yarn. There are many types and colors of yarn to choose from such as Scheepjes whirl which has many scrumptious colorways.
Then, you will need a pair of scissors and a tapestry needle. These are not necessary, but they will make your life much easier. Finally, you will need a place to keep your yarn while working. A yarn bowl or a basket will work nicely.
How to Hold Your Crochet Hook
To start crocheting, you’ll need to choose the right size crochet hook for your project. The material and size are the two most important things to consider when selecting a hook.
The type of material will determine how easy the hook is to hold and how slippery the yarn is. The size of the hook will determine the gauge or how tight the stitches are.
To hold your crochet hook, start by holding it like a pencil. Place your index finger over the top of the shaft and your middle finger under the shaft. Wrap your thumb around the shaft so that all four fingers hold it. You can also place your pinky finger under the shaft for a more secure grip.
Crochet Terms You Need to Know
Crocheting is a fun and easy hobby; you’ll be on your way to creating beautiful projects in no time! But it is essential to read a crochet pattern and know a few terms.
The most common stitches are the slip stitch, single crochet, half double crochet, and double crochet. These stitches are abbreviated as sl st, sc, hdc, and dc.
How to Do the Basic Crochet Stitches
The most basic stitch is the single crochet stitch. You will insert the hook into the foundation chain, yarn over, and pull the loop through the chain and up onto the hook. Then, you will yarn over and pull the loop through both loops on the hook. You will continue this until you reach the end of the row.
The other basic stitches are double crochet, triple crochet, and half double crochet. These are all similar to the single crochet, but you will yarn over the hook several times before inserting it into the foundation chain.
The double crochet is made by yarn over, inserting the hook into the foundation chain, yarn over, and pulling the loop through the chain. Then, you will yarn over and pull the loop through the first two loops on the hook, yarn over again, and pull the loop through the last two loops on the hook.
How to Make a Slip Knot
Start by making a loop with your crocheting yarn, leaving a long tail. Insert your hook into the loop, and then catch the long tail with your hook.
Draw the long tail through the loop on your hook to tighten. This forms your first slip knot, and you can pull on the tails to adjust the size of the loop.
How to Make a Chain
To start crocheting, you will first need to make a chain. To do this, start with a slip knot, yarn over, and pull through the loop on your hook.
Continue yarn over and pull through loops until you have the desired length of the chain. Once you have your chain, you can start crocheting basic stitches like single or double crochet.
How to Increase and Decrease Stitches
If you’re new to crocheting, you might wonder how to increase and decrease stitches. Luckily, it’s easier than it might seem. To increase stitches, make two or more stitches in the same stitch.
To decrease stitches, work two stitches together. You’ll be a pro with a bit of practice in no time!
Shape Your Work
The crochet piece will take on a more rectangular shape as you work. To prevent this, turn your work after each row by spinning the piece around so you can work across the previous row.
This will keep your piece from becoming too wide and help maintain its shape.
Finishing Your Work
To finish your work, cut the yarn, leaving a tail about 6 inches long. Draw the tail through the last loop on the hook, and pull tight. Weave in the ends by threading the tail on a needle and weaving it in and out of the stitches. Trim the ends close to the work.
Learn How to Start Crocheting Today
Start crocheting today with this quick guide to the basics! You can make various projects with just a crochet hook and some yarn, from hats and blankets to toys and home decor. You’ll learn to hold the yarn and crochet hook, make a slip knot, and do the basic stitch.
Be confident with the learning process. There are plenty of resources available to help you on how to start crocheting. Once you know the basics, the sky’s the limit!
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