There are a few more basic things to consider before you begin your first crochet project. The type of material of yarn matters as I wrote about in this previous post. Some types of yarns are easier to work with than others, especially when just starting out. Here are 5 other basic tips to know for beginners.
Yarn Color
We all know how many various colors of yarn there are, and it makes it difficult to choose, but when just starting out, you will want to use a yarn that is light in color. This will make it easier to see your chains and stitches. When using a darker colored yarn, it is sometimes difficult to see each stitch. The last thing you want to do is get to the end of a long row and find that you do not have the correct number of stitches for that row. It is also sometimes difficult to see previous row’s stitches when you are working with a variegated color, so try to stick to solid colors when first learning to crochet. If you are looking for a great yarn to start learning with, check out Lion Brand. (Sponsored Link)
Always Make a Gauge or Tension Swatch
Making a gauge (or tension) swatch is always a good idea. The last thing you want is to get to the end of the project and find that it is not the correct dimensions. This is extremely important especially when crocheting items such as clothing or hats (you wouldn’t want a hat way too big so it falls down over your eyes. You also wouldn’t want it way too small that it would not fit on your head). If you are just crocheting a simple scarf, and aren’t really following a pattern, then the swatch is not necessary. These kinds of rectangular projects are a great way to practice the art of crochet and “gauge” how loose or tight you crochet. Once you are familiar with the size of your crochet stitches, you will know if you should generally use the hook size a pattern recommends, or if you should use a larger or smaller one. If your stitches are on the tight side, you will probably want to use a larger hook. If they are loose, you may want to use a smaller hook.
Yarn Weight
When first learning to crochet, you will want to use a medium (4), worsted weight yarn. It is generally the easiest to work with. Size 2-0 are (for me) the most difficult to work with. You more than likely don’t want to learn how to crochet doing a small intricate detail project. Size 5 can be easy to work with depending on the material of the yarn. Try to stay away from “fuzzy” or “textured” yarn, and it should be relatively easy. Size 6 can be difficult to manipulate the yarn through the stitches of your previous row, so I would stay away from this super bulky weight when first learning to crochet.
Start With Rectangular Projects
To start along on your crochet journey, you will want to get some practice in by starting with simple rectangular objects, such as scarves, blankets, and shawls. There are so many different stitches you can practice by making these simple shaped objects, and they will all give you a different looking piece. Start by single crocheting, then move to double crochet, half double crochet, etc. Once you have the art of rectangular shapes learned, then you may want to start working in the round. A simple project for learning to work in the round is making coasters. You can make a simple, flat, one-color coaster while learning how to increase.
If you need help finding good quality, affordable yarn to start your first project, check out Lion Brand yarn. It is one of my absolute favorites! Not only because they have so many different types of yarn, but also so many beautiful color choices.
Happy Crocheting!
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