5 Things Every Crochet Beginner Needs to Know

So you want to learn to crochet? Or have you just started and are struggling? I feel you! When I began to crochet I spent hours online trying to figure out how to make a chain and how to do a single crochet stitch. It can be difficult to begin, but once you get the hang of it you’ll never want to stop! I have compiled a list of what I think are the top 5 things a new crocheter should know.

1. Yarn weight and types of yarn

Every skein of yarn has a particular size or weight. This can be found on the back of the label. Typically the icon will have the number and corresponding size (ex: 4 medium). Depending on your project, the yarn you will use will vary. Size 4 medium weight yarn is very common and my recommended size for beginners. I personally love using Red Heart Super Saver. This yarn is very easy to work with and comes in a variety of colors.

Now you’re probably wondering where that number comes from. The number is because the yarn is that number ply thick. So a size 4 yarn is 4 ply. That means it is 4 thin strands entwined together to make one strand.

With this being said, you probably can infer that a size 6 would be very thick and a size 1 would be very thin.

Yarn can also be categorized according to the type it is. That is the word under the yarn weight number. One type you’ll see written in patterns and on labels is “chunky”. This typically refers to a yarn that is a size 6. Another common category is called “baby weight” this is usually a size 3 and is a softer yarn. My skein of Red Heart Super Saver is a medium size yarn.

2. Hook Sizes and Types

Your hook size can have a big impact on your project! If you are following a pattern be sure to use the hook size it calls for. If you use a size smaller, then the project will come out smaller than expected. The smaller the size hook the smaller your stitches will be. The same goes for if you use a hook that is bigger than what the pattern calls for.

Crochet hooks are categorized by their size. If you are using a U.S. brand hook then the sizing will be based on alphabetical letters. A size A or B is the smallest and increases in size as you go further up the alphabet.

Now here’s where it can get a bit confusing…

Not all brands or patterns will have the alphabetical letter. Some will have a millimeter size. Then there are some hooks that have both!

My absolute favorite crochet set has both written on each individual hook. The kit also provides you with an equivalence sheet to compare the different terms used.

This set is an ergonomic set which means it has good grips on the hook. Some hook you’ll find are just aluminum. Those hooks work well, but I find that over time my hand will begin to hurt using the metal hooks. Ergonomic hooks provide your hand with cushioning to eliminate the soreness (then you can crochet longer!)

I love this set because it’s such a great deal for everything that’s included!

Investing in a good crochet hook set will ensure you have everything you need to create beautiful projects. You can get my favorite set here.

3. Gauge

Gauge can be a very important thing to check if you’re trying to get a pattern exactly to size. This is crucial when making any clothing items. Some patterns will have a gauge at the beginning. This gives you a basis of how tight or loose you need to do your stitches. Normally a gauge is a 4 in by 4 in square. It’ll say that X amount of stitches should be 4 x 4. If your gauge is not matching up you can try to crochet your stitches tighter or looser. You can also change your hook size by going up or down one size.

4. Learning terminology

Crochet has its own language. It can take a lot of practice reading patterns to be able to figure out the meaning of each term. Below I have created a chart to help you learn the terminology.

5. What projects to start with

This can be one of the difficult aspects of learning; trying to decide what project is easy for a beginner. I have a few patterns that I think any beginner could do.

Fall Table Runner

Grandma’s Hot Pad

The One-Stop Beanie

Whatever your first project is crochet with confidence! Don’t be discouraged if you struggle at first- every beginner struggled! (Yes, I did too!!)

Now I hope you’ve gained some knowledge on the basics of crocheting. I look forward to seeing your finished projects! Tag me on social media @SunSandStitch

You can reach me on social media through Instagram, Facebook, Etsy,  Pinterest and this blog!

Happy Stitching!

-Jessica