You’ve come to the perfect place if you’re looking to learn more about crochet. From understanding the difference between knitting and crochet to ascertaining what tools you’ll need, you’ll find everything you need to get started here. Crocheting is a very stress-relieving and portable hobby, so no matter where you are you can take out your hook and yarn and get started.
What is crocheting?
Crochet means small hook in French, it’s a technique where fabric is interlocking through loops of yarn using a hook. It's for any and everyone and is a perfect way to start being creative and crafty at home. From children to the elderly, everyone can enjoy this hobby. To start you need patience and determination to learn the craft, but the results are wonderful. Once you’ve got into a flow of the basics, you’ll be crafting all sorts of projects in no time.
A fun magazine fact, the word crochet first appeared in Penélopé, a Dutch magazine in the 1820s. It wasn’t until the 1840s when it appeared in British journals.
What is the difference between crochet and knitting?
It’s understandable if you’re not sure about the difference between these two crafts. They have a lot of similarities but also significant differences. Both crafts use yarn or fibre to create the projects and they also both use patterns to create the designs, yet one of the key differences is the tools they each use - knitting uses two pointy needles, whereas crochet uses a single hook. Additionally, crochet can only be done by hand, whereas knitting can use a knitting machine. Another significant difference is that each stitch is finished before the next one has started, however, knitting keeps many stitches open at a time.
What crochet tools do you need?
When you start, getting the right tools is key to creating a beautiful project with ease. There are two main tools, your yarn and your hook. But both of these tools come in a variety of sizes, colours and preferences. A hook, which is also referred to as a crochet needle, can be made from a variety of materials such as metal, wood, bamboo and plastic, it just depends what you prefer to use. When choosing a hook you want to ensure it matches your yarn weight, we recommend starting with a size 4.5mm. For beginners, we recommend that you choose a mid-weight worsted yarn, as this will be the best and easiest to work with at first, and then you can change the yarn you are using once you become more familiar with the craft.
What crochet patterns can you start with?
The best part is that even beginners can make beautiful designs. From blankets and scarves to hot drink cosies and washcloths, there’s a wide variety of patterns you can begin with. To start with, we recommend you get a hold of a few basics such as slip stitch, chain stitch and double crochet stitch. From there you can create beautiful gifts for yourself or your loved ones.
If you’re stuck for ideas and are ready to start crafting beautiful designs for yourself, friends and family, then we recommend grabbing yourself a magazine to discover the free patterns month after month. Here at Pocketmags, we have a range of helpful digital magazines available to download instantly that'll not only give you guidance with your first patterns but inspire your designs each season. Take a look at our 3 best selling crochet magazines and why we think they would be great for you.
1. Inside Crochet magazine
From funky pom-pom scarfs to cosy, yet stylish skirts, Inside Crochet magazine delivers a brilliant selection of free patterns that you'll love every month. Alongside a huge selection of patterns perfect for a beginner, you'll find the latest news to keep you in the loop with the crafting world. But that's not all, each month you'll discover Inside Crochet's top seasonal picks, book reviews, where to buy beautiful artisan yarn and everything you need to know about basic stitches and techniques.
Price: From £2.92 per issue
2. Crochet Now magazine
On the hunt for step-by-step tutorials? Crochet Now brings you expert advice, dazzling patterns and tips for beginners that are sure to inspire you. The UK's number one crochet publication, Crochet Now magazine is perfect for those who are starting and are looking for a complete rundown of the basic stitches for more patterns. From shawls and cushions to clutch bags, you can expect to learn everything there is to know and ways to take your skills to the next level with this digital magazine.
Price: From £2.69 per issue
3. Simply Crochet magazine
Looking for stylish makes for your home? Get hooked on handmade with Simply Crochet magazine. From the makers of Simply Knitting and Mollie Makes, you'll discover seasonal patterns to be crafting all year round. You'll enjoy exciting ideas to inspire you from dolls and jumpers to blankets and accessories, there's a design for everyone. Delivering the latest news in the community, you'll never miss out on the hottest trends and go-to shows and events. Featuring oh-so cosy fashion, present ideas and a different technique in every issue, Simpy Crochet is perfect for beginners.
Price: From £4.23 per issue
If you’re still looking for more beginner crochet tips or even more beautiful patterns, be sure to browse our sewing & knitting category to discover our fantastic range of magazines.