How to Crochet: For Absolute Beginners

Introduction

• Crochet is a fun and easy craft allowing creativity with yarn and a hook.
• Basic skills: holding yarn and hook, making a slip knot, crocheting a chain, and single crochet stitch.
• Emphasis on practice, creating sample squares to master tension and techniques.

Materials Needed

• Yarn: Start with a thicker yarn, size 4 and up recommended.
• Crochet Hook: Use the size recommended on the yarn label. For size 4 yarn, use a 5.5mm or size I-9 hook.
• Tools: Scissors and a yarn needle.

Holding the Crochet Hook

• Methods: Knife hold and Pencil hold. Choose based on comfort.

Making a Slip Knot

1. Measure approx. 3 inches of yarn.
2. Wrap around index finger, form two loops.
3. Pull back loop over front loop.
4. Pull back loop off finger and tighten slightly.
5. Insert hook into slip knot, ensure tail faces hook.

Holding the Yarn

• Important for tension control; should be relaxed.
• Wrap yarn around pinky, and over index finger.

Crocheting a Chain

• Hold slip knot with thumb and middle finger.
• Yarn over and pull through the slip knot to form a chain.
• Repeat until 21 chains are made. A loose chain is needed for easy work.

Single Crochet Stitch

1. Skip the first chain, insert hook into the next chain.
2. Yarn over, pull through chain (2 loops on hook).
3. Yarn over, pull through both loops (completes one single crochet).
4. Continue to end of chain (20 single crochets total).

Starting a New Row

• Chain 1 to create turning chain (keeps work's edges straight).
• Consistently turn work the same way.
• Insert hook into first single crochet from the previous row.

Finishing Off and Weaving in Ends

• Yarn over at end of project and pull through loop.
• Cut yarn, pull through loop completely.
• Weave ends using a yarn needle through stitches for a neat finish.

Conclusion

• Practice single crochet to create sample squares.
• Construct a blanket by connecting squares.
• Encouragement to practice and to seek further tutorials and patterns.

These notes summarize the key points for beginners starting with crochet, emphasizing basic techniques, necessary tools, and practice. For detailed guidance, refer to the original tutorial and accompanying videos.