How to Crochet

 
How to crochet is a learning process, but rewarding once you learn how. 
The earliest sign of  crochet was around the late 1500's and flourishes
today. Once you get the  hang of the basics, there are so many
different types of crochet to learn.
 

One of the most rewarding experiences is the finished product after you have learned how to crochet.  Many shy away from this very old craft afraid that it will be too complicated.  Learning how to crochet takes practice, practice and more practice.
 
Did you know that the earliest signs of crocheting are as far back as the early 1500’s? Instead of crochet hooks, they used their fingers.  Can you imagine trying to do crochet stitches with your fingers?   The origin of the needlework called crochet has many theories some dating as far back as the time of the Egyptians. The word crochet is from the French word croche, which translates to hook.  The art was first used as a means of making money.  During the Irish famine, the nuns taught the pupils how to crochet and the sale of the articles helped to feed and clothe many.  As the pupils learned how to crochet, styles and patterns became more sophisticated and beautiful.  Thus was born “Irish Crochet”.   Eventually in the 1700 and 1800’s the art of crocheting became a favorite pastime of women of the upper class.  Crocheting was a wonderful pastime for women to gather in sewing circles to gossip, share stories and while away the day as they taught their daughters how to crochet.
  
No matter where or how crochet started, the craft is here to stay. In fact, there is a growing interest in crochet.  Look at the magazines and stores. You see many crochet items such as beautiful prayer shawls, sweaters, vests, coverlets and on and on.  Are you ready to learn how to crochet? The first obstacle is commitment of time to be able to master the basic crochet stitches of single and double crochet stitch and the slip stitch.  Throw in some patience too; you will need it. These stitches form the basis for learning how to crochet some of the more complicated stitches.  Once you are able to complete a single and a double crochet you are on your way to making a treasured article for someone special or for yourself.

Where shall we begin? There are several ways for beginners to learn how to crochet.There are “how to books”, or there might be a friend, neighbor or close relative that could guide you on the "how to crochet" basics you could ask. If you can follow picture diagrams and are able to be self critical there will be plenty for you to practice on on this site.  we offer quite a good selection of books on our site, even "Crocheting for Dummies". Take a look.  You might find one that works for you.  Many of you need the visual aides as well as the hands on experience to feel confident you are learning how to crochet correctly.

In order to begin your journey into the land of crochet, you will need a few things to get
started.  One item would be a medium sized hook like a J or K , or even a larger size just as long as you can get comfortable holding the hook and see the stitches you are making.  The picture to the left show various yarns and hooks, even some row markers.  These are items you will want to gather before your first lesson.Then select a light worsted yarn, or better yet, see if there might be some yarn on sale at the dollar store.  Remember, this is for practice until you learn how to crochet, mastering the basic stitches. Then you will be ready to more on to your first project and read a pattern.  Play with your yarn and learn to hold the yarn loosely and allow it to flow through your fingers.  This is important while you are working the stitches with the hook.  Check each stitch for uniformity, as patterns are precise on how many stitches per inch.  Take the time to learn the very basics first, and then move onto learning how to crochet the first project.  Take your time and have fun.