Crochet is one of those hobbies that can really inspire you to want to learn. I remember growing up and admiring all the handmade items my grandmother used to make. She could crochet for hours and create some of the most gorgeous pieces. I still remember her crochet hat covers, for toilet paper. They were truly a work of art. Growing up I became more inspired, and a few years ago I decided to re-learn crochet. Now, I’d love to show you exactly what you need to get started.
In this crochet tutorial I will be sharing with you the basics on how to get started on your crochet journey. I can assure you that once you start learning how to crochet, you won’t be able to stop. Crochet is a wonderful stress reliever once you get the hang of it. You will be more focused on what you are doing, plus if you have depression and anxiety like me, you will feel better and calmer, and more inspired to create. So with that in mind, let me show you what you need to get started.
What You Need
- Worsted Weight Yarn (Category 4) or Bulky Weight Yarn (Category 5) – When I first started I used Vanna’s Choice Yarn In Honey From Lion Brand Yarns. The color isn’t too bright or too dark and it makes it easy to see your stitches, especially as a beginner. If you decide to try bulky weight, I recommend Hue and Me Chunky Yarn.
- Crochet Hooks (I/9 5.5 mm, for worsted weight yarn) and (K/10.5 6.5 mm, for bulky weight yarn). I recommend Ergonomic Crochet Hooks, which are easy on the hands, plus, they have a softer grip.
Get A Hold On It
Once you have your materials on hand, it’s time to learn how to hold a crochet hook. Holding a crochet hook comes in various styles. It’s up to you to decide what you are comfortable with. These are a few ways in which you can hold your hook, before you get started.
The Pencil Hold
The Butter Knife Hold
The Baby Hold
These are just some of the ways to hold a crochet hook. There really isn’t any “wrong way” to hold a crochet hook. We are all unique. It’s the yarn holding that comes in many forms. Before we get to the yarn hold, you may want to first learn how to create a slip knot.
How To Hold The Yarn
Over Your Index Once (This is for those who crochet loosely)
Wrap the yarn around your finger while your pinky and ring finger hold down the yarn, and you middle finger and thumb hold the loop underneath your hook.
Over Your Index Twice (This is for those who have a tighter tension when crocheting)
Wrap the yarn around your pointer finger twice, while your ring finger and pinky hold down the yarn, and your middle finger and thumb hold the loop under the hook.
I call this one the Tension Saver (This yarn hold helped me when I started to learn to crochet)
Place the trailing end of your yarn between you pinky and ring finger, and wrap around pinky, then under your ring and middle finger and over your pointer.
I hope that these quick beginner tutorials help you get started on your crocheting journey. I will soon be adding videos to my YouTube channel, which will be more detailed. If you’re ready, let’s move on to how to crochet a chains, single crochet stitches, and more!
