Learn to crochet
What is crochet?
Crochet is a method of making fabric by pulling loops of yarn or thread through other loops with a single hooked tool called a crochet hook. Crochet stitches are completed one at a time, so crocheters can shape flat pieces, tubes and three-dimensional forms such as blankets, garments, lace and stuffed toys.
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Where does the word crochet come from?
The word crochet comes from the French word crochet, meaning small hook. The craft became widely popular in Europe during the nineteenth century, when printed patterns spread.
How is crochet different from knitting?
Crochet is different from knitting because crochet uses one hook and completes each stitch before starting the next, while knitting uses two needles and keeps a whole row of stitches live.
Crochet fabric is generally thicker and sturdier; knit fabric is generally thinner and stretchier.
What tools are used in crochet?
Crochet uses a crochet hook, yarn or thread, scissors and a tapestry needle. Stitch markers, a tape measure and blocking mats help with counting, sizing and finishing.
What can you make with crochet?
Crochet can make blankets, hats, scarves, sweaters, bags, baskets, dishcloths, lace doilies, amigurumi toys, flowers and decorative motifs such as granny squares.
What are the main styles of crochet?
The main styles of crochet include standard crochet, amigurumi, Tunisian crochet, filet crochet, tapestry crochet, mosaic crochet, corner-to-corner crochet and Irish lace. Each style uses the same basic loop-through-loop action with different stitch placements or tools.
Patterns to practise on
How to crochet a classic granny square
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Yarn weight
- Medium (#4)
- Hook size
- 5 mm hook
- Yardage
- 35 yd
Free pattern
Easy moss stitch crochet dishcloth
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Yarn weight
- Medium (#4)
- Hook size
- 5 mm hook
- Yardage
- 100 yd
Free pattern
Simple half double crochet baby beanie in the round
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Yarn weight
- Medium (#4)
- Hook size
- 5 mm hook
- Yardage
- 130 yd
Free pattern
Quick round crochet coaster in cotton
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Yarn weight
- Medium (#4)
- Hook size
- 4.5 mm hook
- Yardage
- 18 yd
Free pattern
Frequently asked questions
Is crochet a hobby or a craft?
Crochet is both: a textile craft used to make functional items and a popular hobby practiced for relaxation.
Can crochet be done by machine?
True crochet is worked by hand. Machines can imitate some crochet-look fabrics, but hand crochet stitches are not machine-replicated in the same way as knitting.
What is a crochet pattern?
A crochet pattern is a set of written instructions or a symbol chart describing which stitches to make, in what order, to create an item.