Crochet truly has endless possibilities. There are many different stitches, stitch combinations, projects, techniques, and styles. And as beginner, all of the information out there can feel a little overwhelming. Which stitches should you learn first? What technique should you learn next? Where can I find new crochet projects to try? I’ve put together this list of Beginner Crochet FAQs to answer all of the frequently asked questions I’ve received over the past few years. Let’s dive in!

Beginner Crochet FAQs | Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get started with crochet?

It depends on the kind of person you are. If you are excited to start from the very beginning, start by getting familiar with all of the materials you’ll need to get started and start practicing the basic stitches. My 7-Day Learn To Crochet Challenge will teach you everything you need to know about the basics of crochet, from the supplies you’ll need to creating your first project and a whole lot more in between.

You can also check out my Learn To Crochet The Easy Way series if you’d like to learn in the order of your choosing.

But I know that not everyone wants to start by practicing the basic stitches. Some people want to jump right into creating patterns and learning new stitches (that was me!). And for you, I suggest watching YouTube videos and follow along with different patterns. Although you won’t be learning step by step from the very beginning, following along with a video while crocheting project after project will also help you to learn a lot.

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Why are my edges uneven?

The number one reason why your edges are uneven is because you’re either adding or skipping stitches. No matter your experience level, it’s always in your best interest to count your stitches at the end of each row so you know you have the correct amount before moving forward.

This article will teach you how to count your stitches to ensure straight edges every time.

Sometimes that last stitch can be easy to miss, especially if you’re confused about turning chains and where to place your last/first stitch (more on that later).


Why can’t I get the hang of my tension?

This is probably the most frustrating thing for beginners and even those who have been crocheting for a long time. If you’re just starting to learn, tension comes with practice. The more you make, the better you’ll get. Start by making things that you don’t mind will have mistakes. Like washcloths or dishcloths!

I also have a few other resources that might help you learn how to improve and control your tension.

If you’re dealing with tension frustrations and you’re feeling sick of making mistakes, check out my free 3-Day training, Common Mistakes & How To Fix Them.


Does the turning chain count as a stitch?

This is another one of those questions that no matter how hard you dig, you can’t find the answer! That’s why I wrote an article that completely explains why the information you receive about turning chains is so contradicting.

You can find that article on turning chains herethere’s a video tutorial too!


How do I crochet left handed?

If you’re left handed it can sometimes be hard to find patterns and video tutorials. I try my best to include left handed videos with all of my patterns/tutorials over on my YouTube channel.

Here are some general tips for crocheting left handed:

  • Hold your hook in your dominant hand with your yarn in your non-dominant hand.
  • Search for left handed specific videos to see how other left handed crocheters hold their hook and yarn and try to mirror them when you’re starting out

How do I read a written crochet pattern?

The first thing you’ll need to do is learn the crochet abbreviations. Every pattern is written with abbreviations because if they weren’t they would be entirely too long.

You also need to know that there’s a difference between US and UK crochet terminology. So before you start your next project, make sure you know which terminology that designer is using.


How do I finish off a project?

This is also known as tying off, or binding off if you’re a former knitter. To do this:

  1. After you’re finished with your last stitch of your last row, lay your project down with the loop still around your hook
  2. Grab a pair of scissors and cut your yarn about 4-6 inches away from your hook
  3. Use that yarn to yarn over your hook, grab that yarn, and pull it all the way through. Pull tight to secure the knot
  4. Now use your tapestry needle to weave in your ends! – To make sure it’s extra secure, I like to weave in my ends in at least 3 different directions

What does worsted weight yarn mean?

I remember when I first started learning how to crochet, yarn weights confused the crap out of me. Especially when I heard ‘worsted weight’? I always Googled this question and never found an answer so I’m happy to clear things up for you now.

Yarn comes in different weights, lengths, and fibers. You can learn everything you need to know about yarn here.

The weight of the yarn isn’t how much it weighs when you throw it on the scale. The weight actually refers to the thickness of the yarn. Worsted weight yarn is what they called medium weight or #4 category. It’s sometimes called Aran too.


Is crochet the same as knitting?

No, it is not. You’d be surprised how many times I’ve been asked this question or how many people call crochet straight up knitting. They are completely different yarn crafts.

Knitting uses two pointy needles and crochet uses a single hook. The fabric created by both crafts are also very different.


What tools do you recommend?

Crochet Hooks

My absolute favorite crochet hook are Clover Amour hooks, hands down. Back in the day, I used aluminum hooks and I didn’t have any trouble with them but because the Clover Amour hooks were on the pricier side, I wanted to know what the difference was. So I bought a single hook, tried it, and it changed my life! I ended up buying the whole set and that is all I’ve ever used since.

For me personally, the yarn glides so much smoother when I use these hooks and with that, I crochet faster. I love and will always recommend them.

Yarn/Stores

Currently, my favorite place to shop for yarn is online. My favorite places are:

  • LoveCrafts
    • I love this site because they are always running sales and because they have Paintbox Yarns (my favorite!) and many other beautiful yarns that you won’t find anywhere else.
  • Lion Brand Yarn
    • This company also runs a lot of really great sales and Lion Brand Yarn has always been my favorite yarn company because I love practically every yarn line they have.
  • Amazon
    • Amazon is great when you need something fast (if you have Amazon Prime), but the only catch is they like to spike up the prices so make sure you double check with other yarn stores to make sure you’re getting it at a good price. If it’s spiked up too much, I would rather wait for shipping somewhere else.

When I’m not shopping online, I frequently shop at Hobby Lobby for their exclusive yarns.

Notions

A few of necessary notions are tapestry tapestry needles and stitch markers, but definitely get locking stitch markers so it doesn’t fall out and make you lose your place. Trust me. It’s extremely aggravating 🙄

Oh and one more thing! If you have trouble pulling the strand from the center of a skein, you have to try this yarn dispenser. All you have to do is push the stick of the dispenser through the center of the skein and pull from the outside of the skein while you’re crocheting. It’s genius!