Easy First Projects
Start at the top and work down. Each project adds one new skill.
Simple Dishcloth
BeginnerA flat square in one stitch. The best first project for learning even tension.
Easy Scarf
BeginnerA long rectangle that teaches rows, turning chains and counting stitches.
Coasters
BeginnerSmall circles that teach working in the round, finished in one sitting.
Granny Square
EasyThe classic motif. Make one, or join several into a blanket or bag.
Basic Beanie
EasyYour first wearable: increases in the round, then straight rounds to length.
Amigurumi Ball
EasyA stuffed sphere that teaches the shaping every amigurumi toy is built on.
The Stitches Beginner Patterns Use
Almost every beginner pattern is built from these five stitches.
Chain (ch)
The foundation row almost every pattern starts with.
Slip stitch (sl st)
Joins rounds and moves the hook without adding height.
Single crochet (sc)
Short and dense. Used for dishcloths and amigurumi.
Half double crochet (hdc)
Medium height. Quick, warm fabric for hats and blankets.
Double crochet (dc)
Tall and open. Granny squares and fast scarves.
What You Need to Start
Yarn
A smooth, light-colored worsted weight (category 4) yarn. See the yarn weight guide for what each weight is for.
Hook
A 5 mm (H-8) hook suits worsted yarn. The crochet hook sizes chart converts US, UK and metric sizes.
Notions
Scissors, a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, and a few stitch markers to mark the start of each round.
Reading the pattern
Patterns are written in abbreviations with a stitch count after each row. The crochet stitch guide explains every one.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest crochet pattern for beginners?
A dishcloth or a plain scarf. Both are flat rectangles worked in one stitch, so you can focus on even tension and counting stitches before you learn shaping.
What yarn and hook should a beginner buy?
A smooth, light-colored worsted weight (category 4) yarn and a 5 mm (H-8) hook. Light colors make stitches easy to see, and worsted weight is thick enough to handle comfortably.
How do I read a beginner crochet pattern?
Patterns use abbreviations such as ch, sc and dc, and list the stitch count at the end of each row or round. Work one row at a time and check your count before you turn.
How long does it take to learn crochet?
Most people learn the chain and single crochet in an afternoon and finish a first project within a week. Granny squares and beanies usually follow within a few weeks.