We have all seen the trendy crochet creations on TikTok under the hashtag “crochettiktok”. Recently, the Balaclava has been on everyone’s “for you page” with its many variations and styles. The close-fitting garment covers only a person’s head and neck except for parts of the face. The Balaclava is not the only popular design on TikTok under the hashtag; there are tops, hats, bags, scarves, and even dresses. If you are just starting to crochet, you may want to hold off on such complex projects. Learning the basics won’t be hard if you follow my advice. So, without further adieu, let us unravel the art of crocheting some beginner projects.
Before picking up a crochet hook and yarn, you need to decide what you want to make. Some top 3 cute patterns I would recommend for beginners would be a patchwork cardigan, a cat ear beanie, and a simple blanket. I have used the videos before for my crochet projects, so they are tested and approved. Here are some basic stitches to get you started: the single crochet, half double crochet, and double crochet. For my left-handed beginners like myself, I didn’t forget about you all; there are some videos for you too: single crochet, half double crochet, and double crochet.
Now let’s get into what supplies you need to start crocheting and where to find what you need. All items mentioned can be found at Walmart or Michaels. FYI, I recommend Michaels because they have a reward program to earn vouchers for buying yarn. To start the supplies list, you will need yarn. Whatever you choose to make will determine what kind of yarn and crochet hook you need. Once you decide on your project and pick a yarn you like, look on the back of the yarn label and see what size crochet hook you need. You could start with one of the cheaper aluminum hooks if you are on a budget. I recommend the ergonomic crochet hooks with a soft handle if you want to take on crocheting as a hobby. If you have a hard time remembering your stitch count like me, I will say to buy stitch markers so you can keep track of where you are in your project. A darning needle is also necessary for finishing off your crochet projects. You don’t want your ends coming undone and ruining your entire project (Like I have done a few times before) so get that $1$ plastic needle to save yourself the heartache. The last two items you might have around your house that are necessary are scissors and a tape measure. Start off with what you need and don’t hurt your pockets like I did with any pretty color yarn I saw, yes I do have many colors to choose from but did I really have to spend $40 on yarn? Mmmm debatable.
The patchwork cardigan has recently gained some attention because Harry Styles wore a Jonathan Anderson patchwork cardigan that inspired a collection of patchwork cardigans videos on YouTube. All it takes to recreate the cardigan is to take a bunch of squares and sew them together to make one cardigan. I can’t lie, I even tried to do one myself, but the Styler girlies can have that one. Recently, I made a cat ear beanie for my friend; it was one of the quickest and easiest projects. Mixing colors to make a Calico cat pattern for my friend had to be one of my favorite projects I have done thus far. Last but certainly not least, a blanket is another simple project. Make sure you buy a soft yarn that won’t make you feel itchy; you’ll thank me later. All you have to do to make a blanket is take a big square or rectangle and make it to your desired length, and there you have it, your favorite blanket. Now that I have given you some advice on crocheting, it is time for you to go be great! These 3 crochet projects and 5 items will start you on a crochet frenzy that will lead to handmade additions to your wardrobe and home!