How to Crochet (Right or Left Handed)

This series of videos will demonstrate the basics of crochet. I encourage you to test out each of these stitches before beginning your first official pattern. You're more than welcome to contact me through the comment section or my email if you get stuck or have any questions. Enjoy! :)

Right hand: first video. Left hand: second video

I added a pattern for a washcloth, I encourage you to use it as a way to practice each of these stitches. Why a washcloth? Because they're small but still functional, and if it isn't beautiful, that's more than okay. :) The pattern uses the most common stitches, but feel free to experiment with the less commonly used ones as well.

MOST COMMON STITCHES:

Guide to Hooks: A quick guide to explain different types of hooks and the ways they can be used.

Guide to Yarn: A very basic guide to the most common types of yarn. (There are many other types of yarn, but as a beginner you really only need to know what is sold at your local stores.) I encourage you to experiment and see what style of yarn you like the best.

Basic Slip Knot: The slip knot is almost always used to begin crocheting, it is truly one of the very first things you will ever need!

How I hold my yarn: Keep in mind there is not a 'right' way to do this. You have to find what is comfortable and effective for you.

Foundation Chains (Ch): The chain stitch is used as the foundation for the rest of the piece, and, depending on the pattern, chains my be used throughout the piece as well. I encourage you to practice making long chains to get a feel for gauge/pattern.

Single Crochet (sc): One of the smaller stitches used in crochet patterns, very common for a tightly crocheted product.

Double Crochet (dc): A very tall stitch that is commonly used on more loosely crocheted items. Typically a bit faster than the single crochet stitch, however many believe it uses a bit more yarn. (Most of the time this is true, however it depends on the pattern as well.)

Slip Stitch (sl): Almost invisible stitch, often used for joining pieces or moving the yarn over a bit. (It's hard to explain unless you've encountered it in a pattern.)

AND

Finishing/Fastening Off: What do you do with that last stitch? It's really not that hard, I promise. :)

LESS COMMONLY USED STITCHES

Half Double Crochet (hdc): Sort of in between the height of a single crochet and double crochet.

Treble Crochet (tc): An EXTRA tall double crochet-style stitch.

 


WASHCLOTH PATTERN:

With MC: (main color)
ch 26
 Row 1: sc in second ch from hook and all the way across. ch 2, turn. (25 sc)
Row 2: dc in first sc, and each sc across. ch 1, turn. (25 dc)
Continue in this manner until piece measures 7 inches
Final row: sl st across, fasten off.