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What makes crochet so fun as a beginner is that it allows you to learn something quickly and easily. Upon learning slip knots, chains, and single crocheting you can create several projects like granny squares, dishcloths and more.
Below you’ll find free easy crochet patterns for beginners, as well as simple crochet patterns that use only the single crochet stitch. This is a quick guide to crochet projects that were made with beginner crocheters in mind. Enjoy!
What Do I Need to Start Crocheting?
As a beginner, it is important to know what supplies you’ll need to crochet as well as some basic crochet stitches, so you can easily expand your crocheting skills.
Crochet Tools and Supplies
To start crocheting, you will need a few basic crochet supplies:
- Crochet hook: A crochet hook is the primary tool for crocheting. Crochet hooks come in a variety of sizes, from small to large, and are labeled with letters or numbers to indicate their hook size.
- Yarn: You will need yarn to create your crocheted items. Yarn comes in a variety of colors, textures and weights, so choose a yarn that is appropriate for your project. My favorite yarn for beginners to use is a medium weight yarn because it is easy to work with as well as easy to find in stores.
- Scissors: You will need scissors to cut the yarn at the end of each row and to trim any loose ends.
- Tapestry needle: This needle is used to weave in loose ends and to sew pieces together.
- Stitch markers: Stitch markers are used to mark your place in a pattern or to mark the beginning or end of a round.
- Measuring tape: This is useful for measuring your work as you go along, and for ensuring that your finished project is the correct size.
Once you have these supplies, you can start learning more about basic crochet stitches and techniques before you move on to the beginner crochet projects below.
Knowledge of Basic Crochet Stitches & Techniques
As a beginner, there are a few basic crochet stitches you should learn, as well as their abbreviations.
- Slip Knot: A slip knot is the first knot you make when starting a crochet project. It creates a loop that can be adjusted to fit snugly around the crochet hook, allowing you to begin crocheting.
- Chain stitch (abbreviated as “ch”): This is the foundation stitch of crochet, and is used to create the base row for your project. It is created by making a loop with the yarn, and then pulling more yarn through the loop to create a chain. When you are first learning how to crochet, you could make as many chain stitches as you’d like in a row to practice.
- Single crochet (abbreviated as “sc”): Single crochet stitches are a basic stitch that creates a tight, dense fabric. This beginner-friendly stitch is created by inserting the hook into the next stitch, pulling yarn through the stitch, and then pulling yarn through both loops on the hook. Make a single crochet row to practice this stitch.
- Half double crochet (abbreviated as “hdc”): This stitch is taller than the single crochet, but shorter than the double crochet. It is created by yarn over, inserting the hook into the next stitch, yarn over again, pulling the yarn through the stitch, and then pulling the yarn through all three loops on the hook. This is the perfect stitch to use for all types of projects, since it isn’t too big or too small.
- Double crochet (abbreviated as “dc”): Double crochet stitches are a taller stitch that creates an open, lacy fabric. It is created by a yarn over, insert the hook into the next stitch, yarn over again, pull the yarn through the stitch, yarn over again, and then pull the yarn through the first two loops on the hook. Yarn over again, and then pull the yarn through the last two loops on the hook to complete a double crochet stitch. This is the stitch that you’ll find is most commonly used in granny squares.
- Slip stitch (abbreviated as “sl st”): A slip stitch is used to join rounds, create decorative borders or edges, and to finish your work. It is created by inserting the hook into the next stitch, yarn over and pulling the yarn through both the stitch and the loop on the hook.
With these simple stitches, you can create a wide variety of easy crochet pattern designs and projects. As you become more experienced in your crochet journey, you can learn more crochet stitches like advanced stitches and techniques as well.
Take a look below at beginner-friendly crochet patterns that will help you on your path to learning how to crochet. The best part is that they are all free patterns using simple crochet stitches, and most crochet projects below have step-by-step photos to follow along with as well.
Easy Crochet Patterns for Beginners
If you’ve ever been curious about the world of crochet but weren’t sure where to begin, you’re in for a treat! Crocheting is a wonderful and rewarding hobby that allows you to create beautiful and functional items using just a hook and some yarn.
Whether you’re looking to unwind after a long day or unleash your creativity, crocheting is the perfect outlet. Below, we’ll guide you through some fantastic beginner-friendly crochet patterns that will have you stitching with confidence in no time.
Granny Square
Learning about how to crochet a granny square, is a perfect pattern for beginners to start learning about crochet.
This pattern holds a special place in the hearts of crocheters. You’ll master the magic circle, create clusters of double crochet stitches, and witness the evolution of a simple square into a work of art. Assemble your granny squares into blankets, cushions, or even garments – the choice is yours!
Get The Pattern
Cozy Scarf
Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to take on a slightly larger project – the cozy scarf. Scarves are not only fashionable, but also a great way to try different stitches and yarn textures.
This pattern introduces you to chaining, a foundational crochet skill, as well as single crochet stitches. You’ll be amazed at how quickly your scarf grows, and you’ll have a stylish accessory to show off when you’re done
Beginner Beanie
Ready to tackle your first wearable? The beginner beanie is the way to go. This pattern will introduce you to the magic circle, a technique used to start projects in the round, and teach you how to work in continuous rounds. Plus, it only takes about 30 minutes to make!
You’ll also learn how to increase stitches, shaping the beanie as you go. Choose your favorite colors and watch as your creation takes shape, keeping your head warm and cozy during colder months.
Classic Dishcloth
Let’s start with something simple yet practical – the classic dishcloth. This pattern is an excellent introduction to basic crochet stitches. You’ll be working with single crochet and half double crochet stitches, which are the foundation of many crochet projects.
By creating a dishcloth, you’ll get the hang of tension control and stitch consistency, two essential skills for any crocheter. Plus, you’ll end up with a useful item for your kitchen!
Baby Blanket
If you’re feeling more ambitious, a baby blanket is a wonderful project that lets you practice your new skills on a larger scale. While still utilizing basic stitches, this pattern might introduce you to color changes and pattern repeats.
The repetitive nature of creating a blanket allows you to perfect your stitching and rhythm while crafting a treasured gift for a little one.
With these beginner-friendly patterns, you’ll gradually build your skills and gain confidence in your crocheting abilities. Remember that every stitch you make is a step closer to creating stunning and unique handmade items that are made by you!
So grab your hook, pick your yarn, and let your creativity flow as you bring these easy crochet patterns for beginners to life. Happy crocheting!
More Free Crochet Patterns & Guides to Read
Take a look below at some of my favorite guides and free crochet patterns that are perfect to spend a little of your extra time on!
- Four Leaf Clover Crochet Square Pattern
- 10 Top Crochet Stitches Ranked
- 7 Free Crochet Heart Square Patterns
- Guide to Essential Crochet Supplies for Beginners (7 Must Haves)
- Christmas Stockings Made With Crochet Squares
