Over 30 years ago, I stumbled upon a crochet book that changed my life. I honestly don’t remember its name or how I came to own it, but it became my gateway to the art of crochet. This book contained the names and illustrations of every stitch, and it was my only guide as I taught myself how to crochet. There were no crochet tutors for beginners, no internet back then, and no video tutorials to make the process easier. It was just me, a hook, some crochet threads, and that trusty book.
Despite the challenges, I found crochet fascinating and quickly fell in love with it. I persisted, and now, decades later, I can crochet just about anything I set my mind to. Interestingly, while I mastered the craft, I never quite mastered teaching it to others. Over the years, people have approached me to learn, but I’ve come to realize that teaching might not be my strong suit. Perhaps it’s my lack of patience or teaching skills. Thankfully, in today’s world, some amazing tutors make learning crochet easy and enjoyable for beginners.
In this post, I want to celebrate these incredible crochet tutors by curating a list of 10 professionals who can help beginners take their first steps into the wonderful world of crochet. Whether you’re wondering how to start your first stitch, which stitches to learn first, or how to master single crochet, these tutors have you covered. Plus, I’ll share my top picks for the best crochet hooks for beginners, so you’ll have all the tools you need to start your crochet journey with confidence. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
10 Crochet Tutors for Beginners
If you’re just starting your crochet journey, having a patient and skilled teacher can make all the difference. With so many talented crochet tutors for beginners available online, learning this craft has never been easier. Here’s a curated list of 10 exceptional tutors who specialize in teaching beginners step-by-step, ensuring you feel confident from your very first stitch.
1. Bella Coco Crochet (Sarah-Jayne Fragola): Known for her calm and friendly teaching style, Bella Coco offers a wealth of tutorials on YouTube. Her beginner series covers everything from holding the hook to creating your first chain stitch, making her an ideal tutor for absolute novices.
2. Crochet with Tiffany Hansen: Tiffany’s tutorials are designed to take the intimidation out of learning. Her easy-to-follow videos walk you through beginner stitches and fun starter projects like scarves and dishcloths.
3. The Crochet Crowd (Mikey): Mikey’s engaging personality and clear instructions make him a favorite among beginners. He teaches foundational stitches, shares troubleshooting tips, and provides plenty of encouragement along the way.
4. Blossom Crochet (Heather): Heather’s modern and minimalist approach to crochet tutorials is perfect for today’s crafters. She specializes in teaching beginners how to create stylish projects with basic stitches.
5. Hooked by Robin: With her approachable style, Robin makes crochet accessible for everyone. Her beginner-friendly tutorials focus on simple stitches and practical projects that build confidence.
6. Kristin Omdahl: Kristin offers detailed tutorials for beginners looking to master the basics while learning a touch of design flair. Her videos are perfect if you want to create something beautiful right from the start.
7. B. Hooked Crochet (Brittany): Brittany combines clear instructions with actionable tips to help beginners succeed. She also offers free patterns that are perfect for practicing your newly learned skills.
8. Jayda InStitches: Jayda’s fun and engaging lessons bring a sense of joy to learning crochet. Her tutorials for beginners include step-by-step guides to mastering basic stitches and creating small, manageable projects.
9. Crochet Guru (Bobbie Thompson): Bobbie’s stitch-focused tutorials are great for beginners who want to take things slow. She explains each step in detail, ensuring no one gets left behind.
10. Crochet by Ellej: Ellej combines short-form Instagram tutorials with more detailed YouTube guides, making her lessons perfect for those who enjoy quick tips and deeper dives.
Each of these crochet tutors for beginners brings something unique to the table. Whether you prefer video tutorials, written instructions, or a mix of both, you’re sure to find a teacher here who fits your learning style. So grab your yarn or crochet thread and hook, pick a tutor, and start creating!
What Crochet Stitch Should Beginners Learn First?
When starting your crochet journey, it’s essential to begin with the right stitches. If you are learning from crochet tutors for beginners, they will likely recommend simple stitches that build a strong foundation for your skills. Here are the top stitches every beginner should learn:
1. The Chain Stitch (CH): The chain stitch is the first stitch every crocheter learns. It’s the backbone of most projects and teaches you how to handle the yarn and hook effectively. Crochet tutors for beginners often emphasize mastering this stitch as it sets the stage for all others.
2. The Single Crochet Stitch (SC): Single crochet is the most straightforward stitch after the chain stitch. It’s perfect for beginners because of its simplicity and versatility. Many crochet tutors for beginners guide their students to start with this stitch to build confidence and create firm, tight stitches.
3. The Double Crochet Stitch (DC): After the single crochet, the double crochet stitch is a great next step. It’s taller and creates a more open texture, making it ideal for larger projects like blankets and shawls. Learning this stitch early on will expand your project possibilities.
Why Start With These Stitches?
- They are simple and repetitive, helping you build muscle memory.
- These foundational stitches are used in countless patterns.
- Even with just these stitches, you can create beautiful and functional items.
If you’re learning from one of the crochet tutors for beginners I mentioned earlier, they will guide you step by step through these stitches. Remember, crochet is a skill that improves with patience and practice, so take your time, enjoy the process, and watch your skills grow!
How to Start Your First Crochet Stitch: A Step-by-Step Guide
Learning how to start your first crochet stitch can feel intimidating, but with guidance from crochet tutors for beginners, it becomes a manageable and enjoyable process. While I’m not a crochet teacher, here’s my attempt to guide you as you get started. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your first crochet stitch, along with some tips to avoid common beginner mistakes.
Step 1: Make a Slip Knot
- Take your yarn and create a loop, leaving a 4-6 inch tail.
- Insert the hook into the loop, then pull the working yarn (attached to the skein) through to form a knot.
- Tighten the knot gently around the hook, but make sure it’s loose enough to slide smoothly.
Tip: Beginners often pull the slip knot too tight, making it difficult to start the chain stitch. Keep it snug but not restrictive.
Step 2: Create a Foundation Chain
- Hold the hook in your dominant hand and the yarn in the other. Wrap the yarn over the hook (this is called a yarn over).
- Pull the hook through the loop on your hook to create your first chain.
- Repeat this process to make a chain of 10-15 stitches.
Common Mistake: Pulling the chain too tightly can make it hard to work the next row. Focus on even tension to create consistent stitches.
Step 3: Start Your First Stitch
- Turn your chain so you can work into the top loop of each chain stitch.
- Insert the hook into the second chain from the hook to begin your first single crochet stitch.
- Yarn over and pull the yarn through the loop, leaving two loops on your hook.
- Yarn over again and pull through both loops to complete the stitch.
Tip: If the stitch feels uneven or difficult to pull through, it’s likely due to inconsistent tension. Relax your grip and let the yarn flow more naturally.
Beginner Mistakes to Avoid:
- Skipping the Foundation Chain: Don’t rush past this step; it’s the base of your project.
- Tight Stitches: Tight stitches are hard to work with and lead to uneven rows. Practice maintaining a loose grip.
- Wrong Hook Size: Using a hook that’s too small for your yarn can cause frustration. Refer to the yarn label for recommended sizes.
Tips for Success:
- Practice each step slowly and repeat until you feel comfortable.
- Watch tutorials from crochet tutors for beginners to see the techniques demonstrated clearly.
- Start with light-colored yarn, as it’s easier to see the stitches.
With consistent practice, you will master how to start your first crochet stitch and move on to more complex patterns. Remember, every expert crocheter was once a beginner, so enjoy the process and celebrate your progress!
5 Crochet Hooks Every Beginner Should Have
Choosing the right crochet hook can make a huge difference when starting your crochet journey. Beginners often ask, “Which hooks should I start with?” To make things easier, here’s a list of the top five crochet hooks that every beginner should consider.
1. Susan Bates Silvalume Crochet Hook Set: These hooks are lightweight and have an inline design, which helps beginners maintain consistent stitches. The smooth aluminum surface allows the yarn to glide effortlessly, making it a great choice for learning basic stitches.
2. Clover Amour Crochet Hooks: Clover Amour hooks are known for their ergonomic design and comfortable grip. They are ideal for beginners who want to avoid hand strain while practicing. The brightly colored handles also make it easy to identify hook sizes.
3. Boye Aluminum Crochet Hooks: A classic choice, Boye hooks have a rounded tip and a tapered throat, which are beginner-friendly features. They work well with various yarn types and are widely available at an affordable price.
4. Furls Odyssey Hooks: If you’re looking to invest in a premium hook, Furls Odyssey hooks are an excellent option. They’re designed for comfort and efficiency, making long crochet sessions enjoyable for beginners.
5. Tulip Etimo Crochet Hooks: These hooks are a favorite among many crocheters, thanks to their soft grip and smooth aluminum finish. They are particularly great for beginners learning basic stitches like the chain and single crochet.
Disclaimer: Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. Your support helps keep this blog running—thank you!
Why Having the Right Hooks Matters
- The right hook prevents hand fatigue and discomfort.
- Smooth, well-made hooks make it easier to work with yarn, especially when learning new stitches.
- Comfortable hooks allow beginners to focus on mastering techniques rather than struggling with tools.
Starting your crochet journey with these beginner-friendly hooks will ensure a smoother learning experience. Combine them with guidance from crochet tutors for beginners, and you will be ready to tackle any project with confidence!
Finally!
Learning to crochet is a journey, and one of the best ways to grow your skills is by learning from skilled tutors. Whether it’s through video tutorials, step-by-step guides, or personalized lessons, the right guidance can make all the difference. Remember, even the most experienced crocheters started as beginners, and practice is key.
So, don’t be discouraged if things feel tricky at first—keep practicing, and soon you will find yourself creating beautiful pieces. I would love to hear about your favorite crochet tutors! Share them in the comments below so others can benefit too.
And if you would like more tips and inspiration, don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter for helpful crochet advice delivered straight to your inbox. Happy crocheting!
Would love to join
Hi Cheryll all you have to do is check out the section where I linked the 10 tutors. Click on the links to check them out and see which of them is suitable for you. Best regards.