How to Crochet for Absolute Beginners: Part 1

Introduction

This tutorial is designed for absolute beginners who want to learn how to crochet. You will learn essential skills such as making a slip knot, holding a crochet hook, chaining, creating a single crochet stitch, and weaving in ends. By the end of this guide, you will have the foundation needed to start your crochet journey.

Chapter 1: Materials You Will Need

Before starting your crochet project, gather the following materials:

• Yarn:

  • Use any basic yarn you have at home or purchase 100% acrylic yarn from a store.

• Crochet Hook:

  • An aluminum crochet hook is recommended. A 5.5 mm hook is ideal for beginners.
  • Consider getting a set with various sizes for different projects.

Chapter 2: Making a Slip Knot

To make a slip knot, follow these steps:

1. Hold the yarn with your left hand, leaving a tail.
2. With your right hand, create a loop with the yarn by twisting it.
3. Insert your thumb through the loop while holding the tail with your index finger and thumb.
4. Pull the tail through the loop to tighten it.
5. Insert your crochet hook into the loop and pull to secure.

Chapter 3: How to Hold a Crochet Hook

Hold the crochet hook as follows:

• Grip the hook with your thumb and fingers at the indent, similar to holding a knife.
• With your left hand, hold the yarn:
  • Pointing your finger as if you're pointing at something.
  • Wrap the yarn around your pointer finger and secure it with your middle finger and thumb.

Chapter 4: Crocheting a Chain

To create a chain, follow these steps:

1. Position the crochet hook away from you.
2. Yarn over by wrapping the yarn around the hook from back to front.
3. Pull the yarn through the loop on the hook. This creates one chain stitch.
4. Repeat the steps to continue chaining until you reach a total of 11 chains.

Chapter 5: Crocheting a Single Crochet

To make a single crochet stitch, do the following:

1. Insert the hook into the second chain from the hook (the second V).
2. Yarn over and pull through the chain. You should have two loops on your hook.
3. Yarn over again and pull through both loops on the hook. This completes one single crochet.
4. Continue inserting the hook into each chain across the row until you have completed 10 single crochets.

Additional Rows

• To start a new row:

  • Yarn over and pull through to create a new chain (this is your turning stitch).
  • Flip your work and continue crocheting into each V.

• Repeat the process for a total of 12 rows of single crochet to create a square swatch.

Chapter 6: Weaving in Your Ends

To finish your project and hide the yarn ends:

1. Chain one and pull the yarn tight.
2. Cut the yarn with scissors, leaving a few inches.
3. Use a sewing needle with a wide opening to weave in the ends:
   • Thread the needle and weave in the yarn back through the stitches.
   • Trim any excess yarn with scissors.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have learned the basics of crocheting, including how to make a slip knot, chain, single crochet, and weave in ends. Remember to practice regularly, take your time, and don't hesitate to unravel and redo stitches if needed. The more you practice, the more comfortable you will become with these techniques. Happy crocheting!