Welcome to the world of crocheting! I'm assuming that if you're reading this, you probably googled some or all of the worlds in the title of this post (How To Crochet for Beginners) just as I did when I started. I was fortunate enough to not only inherit a natural niche and undying passion for crochet (from my now decreased grandmother, my Mom Mom, God bless her), but also to have a successful crochet business that has taken off over the course of the past few months. I'll get to the business part later. I'm sure you're asking yourself (and Google) questions like "where do I start?" "How do I start?" "What will I need?" You've come to the right place!
I decided about a month ago that I would like to give back to the world in some way for all of the support, assistance and encouragement I've received and still received. Without my crochet support system, you wouldn't be reading this. So, through a combination of this blog and step-by-step YouTube videos that I will be creating and linking to these posts, I hope to take your hand and lead you as so many others have done for me. Let's get started!
Step 1 - You'll need to make a trip to your local craft store. I personally chose A.C. Moore as my go-to for all things crochet, but anywhere that provides general craft supplies will work for you in the beginning. Wal-Mart, Michael's, Hobby Lobbby and JoAnne's Fabrics are some to consider as well. Make sure to sign up for rewards cards at any and all craft stores that you visit, as there are always awesome coupons, deals and discounts waiting for you when you do so.
What you'll need to buy:
If you're picky like me, you can find the book section and search for beginners' crochet books so that you have something in front of you to refer to. My first book was a beginner afghan book, with 11 very simple patterns and charts/instructions in the back to help you to understand all of the abbreviations and terminology. You do not need to purchase any books, as there is an infinite number of patterns and resources available on the internet. My suggestion would be to browse through both and see what feels more comfortable (for internet resources, see Step 2).
Regardless of which method you choose, you'll still need to buy the following:
-Crochet hooks. You can buy one at a time or packs of a couple of different sizes. They come in all different brands, types and textures. I'd recommend having your first pattern picked out (if you buy a book in the store, each pattern will tell you what type of hook you'll need - same for getting your pattern from the internet). I use plastic hooks, metal hooks, hooks with handles and hooks without. Some people prefer one type. You'll find what works for you over time.
-Yarn. For your first pattern, make sure that it specifies the amount of yarn you will need. Try to find one that requires a 4-ply worsted weight yarn (yes, this matters, but don't worry about that for now - I'll cover that in the future). Purchase a little more than what you need. The color doesn't matter as long as the type of yarn matches what the pattern says. Each skein of yarn has information on the labels that you can match up to the pattern.
-Scissors. If you already have scissors, you don't need to buy any. If not, you will need to buy some.
-Tapestry needle(s). Look for a very thick one with a pretty wide hole for feeding the yarn through. I bought a set of 3 (from big to small) that came in a small, tubular container with a lid that screws on and off.
This concludes your first shopping trip! Do not be afraid to ask associates for help or guidance. That's what they're there for. DO NOT stand in the middle of the store looking at patterns in books, put everything back and walk out - LOL! I almost did this, and now I am SO GLAD I didn't! It's going to look like a foreign language, but I promise that with dedication it will soon become more native to you than whatever you speak now. Grab the basics, head home, and get ready to become an artist! I firmly and strongly believe that crochet is most definitely an art form. I'm positive that you'll soon agree with me if you don't already!
Thank you for reading! Please continue to follow me as I will always be updating and adding posts and videos. Don't ever give up - you CAN do this!
Happy hooking,
Lisa from Loves Me Knot Crochet.
P.S. Feel free to contact me at any time and for any reason by emailing me at lovesmeknotcrochet@yahoo.com.
