Crochet · Complete beginner guide
Crochet for beginners
Everything you need to start crocheting — what to buy, which stitch to learn first, the right first project, and how to avoid the UK/US pattern confusion that trips up most beginners.
✅ One hook, one stitch
Unlike knitting, only one stitch is active at a time — nothing falls off. Easier to put down and pick up.
✅ Very low startup cost
A hook (£2–£5) and a ball of yarn (£3–£7) is all you need to start. Under £12 total.
✅ Fast visible progress
A dishcloth or small square in your first session. A scarf in a week. Satisfying from day one.
What to buy to get started
| Item | What to get | Cost | Where |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crochet hook | 5mm aluminium or ergonomic grip hook — ideal for Aran yarn | £2–£8 | Hobbycraft, Amazon, LoveCrafts |
| Yarn | Aran weight (worsted), 100% acrylic or wool-acrylic blend, 100–200g | £3–£7 per ball | Hobbycraft, LoveCrafts, local yarn shops |
| Stitch markers | Locking markers that clip into stitches — for counting and marking round starts | £2–£5 for a pack | Hobbycraft, Amazon |
| Tapestry needle | Blunt-tipped, large-eye needle for weaving in ends | £1–£3 | Hobbycraft, Amazon |
| Scissors | Any small, sharp scissors for cutting yarn | £2–£5 | Already own |
Total to get started: approximately £8–£20. Don't buy a hook set yet — one 5mm hook is all you need for the first month.
A beginner crochet class gives you technique feedback and pattern guidance in person — no UK/US confusion guaranteed.
Find a class⚠️ The UK/US pattern name problem
UK and US crochet patterns use the same words to mean different stitches. A US "double crochet" is a UK "treble crochet" — completely different. Always check whether a pattern is written in UK or US terms before you start, or your stitch count will be wrong from row one.
UK term
Double crochet (dc)
= US single crochet (sc)
UK term
Treble crochet (tr)
Full UK/US conversion table → crochet stitches guide
The stitches to learn in order
Learn these in sequence — each one builds on the last. All UK terms.
Chain stitch (ch)
The foundation of every project. Practice until your chains are even and consistent.
⏱ 30 minsSlip stitch (sl st)
Used to join rounds and move across stitches without adding height.
⏱ 15 minsDouble crochet (dc)
The most important beginner stitch — the building block of most beginner patterns. (US: single crochet)
⏱ 1–2 hrs to feel comfortableHalf treble crochet (htr)
Taller than double crochet, shorter than treble — creates a soft, drapey fabric. Great for hats. (US: half double crochet)
⏱ 30 mins once you know dcTreble crochet (tr)
The tallest common stitch — produces an open, light fabric. Used in granny squares, shawls, and many garments. (US: double crochet)
⏱ 30 mins once you know htrFull step-by-step stitch instructions → crochet stitches guide
Best first crochet projects
Dishcloth / tension square
1–2 hrs
Rows of double crochet in a rectangle. Teaches you to count stitches, turn at the end of rows, and keep tension consistent. No shaping required.
Simple scarf
3–6 hrs
Long rectangle — same as the dishcloth but longer. A chance to practice tension over many rows. Choose a chunky yarn for faster results.
Granny square
30–60 mins each
Introduces working in the round and the treble crochet. Classic pattern, very satisfying. Make multiples and join for a cushion or blanket.
Simple beanie hat
3–5 hrs
Introduces increasing, decreasing, and working in a continuous spiral. A completed wearable garment — huge confidence boost.
Learn the fundamentals with an instructor — crochet classes across the UK from £20.
FAQs
Everything you need to know before you book.