easiest crochet guide for absolute beginner( all you need to know to get started )

Introduction

Welcome to the creative world of crochet! when I first started crocheting I had no idea what I was doing and sins then I have surprised by the mystery this world has to offer.

It all started one day while I was wasting my time scrolling around social media websites I found a tutorial on how to make a cute rabbit coster and since then I fell in love with crochet.

From shawls and sweater to stuffed toys, blankets, and limitless applications, the world of crocheting goes past the limitation of language and culture opening its doors to millions of people worldwide to share and exchange knowledge and passion.

In this guide, I will be sharing everything I know about "crochet basics" to get you started and join me in my crocheting journey.

Crochet basics

As I was starting even a small trip to the craft store was challenging, and I didn't even know what to get starting. to start this tutorial I will be helping you get familiar with the basics: yarn, hooks and stitches, and the written language of Crochet patterns and diagrams.

The crochet hooks

Hooks are used to pulling the yarn through the loops and they came in several different sizes and shapes. you can choose your hook based on the entended use or the size fo the yarn you need.

Photo by Castorly Stock from Pexels

Every hook out there will have the same parts even if it's designed is different.

Hooks are available in a variety of materials such as steel, aluminum, wood, and even bamboo.

Crochet Hook Conversion Chart
METRIC	US	UK
2.00 mm	-	14
2.25 mm	B/1	13
2.50 mm	-	12
2.75 mm	C/2	11
3.00 mm	-	11
3.25 mm	D/3	10
3.50 mm	E/4	9
3.75 mm	F/5	-
4.00 mm	G/6	8
4.50 mm	-	7
5.00 mm	H/8	6
5.50 mm	I/9	5
6.00 mm	J/10	4
6.50 mm	K/10.5	3
7.00 mm	-	2
8.00 mm	L/11	0
9.00 mm	M/13	0
10.00 mm	N/15	0
11.50 mm	P/16	-
15.75/16 mm	Q	-

Threads and yarn

Photo by Paul Hanaoka on Unsplash

Just like hooks, threads and yarn used to crochet have a large range of variety, and most times our choice of yarn will depend on the kind of project we intend to make

In addition to the hook and yarn, you will need: scissors, large-eyed yarn needle tape measure, and stitch markers

Starting the crochet journey

How to hold the crochet hook

I think that there is no "right way" to hold the hook. it all depends on what you find easier and more practical while crocheting.

The only thing you need to consider is that you will be moving your hand an wrist a lot so you better find a comfortable position.

How to hold the yarn

The same rule goes with holding the yarn. as you should experiment with various positions to find the right balance between firm control and the flow as the yarn is used.

How to get started - the slipknot

Every crochet begins with a slip knot, it is the base and the start of everything. Make a loop from the end of the yarn, with the yarn tail away from you and behind the loop. push the tail through and tighten the loop bu pulling the yarn attached to the main ball. After placing the slipknot on the hook, we are ready to go.

The chain stitch

Now that we made the first step, let's make the first stitch.

1/ With the chin of the hook facing you bring the yarn over the top of the hook, from the back, and down across the throat of the hook. pull down on the slip knot to open a small space.

2/Turn the hook down in half a circle catching the wrapped yarn with the hook, and pull it through the loop already on the hook.

Note: do not pull or tighten the stitch once completed ( the chain formed now are the base of the row.

Keep repeating this and training until the resulting loops become even in their size and shapes

Crochet language 101

-working yarn: the yarn attached to the ball.

-Tail: the short length of yarn extending from the slipknot.

-Front of work: the side closest to you as you crochet.

-Back of the work: the side of the work facing away from you.

-Yarn over: refers to wrapping the yarn from back to front over the top of the hook and down cross the throat of the hook and is abbreviated in patterns as "yo".

-Chain stitch is described as " yarn over hook, pull through one loop" and is abbreviated in patterns as "ch".