The month of March has been designated as Crochet Month and what a fun month it can be! If you don't know how to crochet, now's the time to grab a crochet hook and give it a try. If you've tried to learn to crochet in the past but just couldn't get the hang of it, don't give up yet, as there are new ways to learn and one may be just right for you.
Learn to Crochet From the Internet
If Grandma or Aunt Grace isn't around to pass down the craft, learning via the internet is a good option. There are many free videos and other photo tutorials available on the internet to teach you how to crochet. Some crafters have done a complete series of tutorials, starting with the chain stitch that is the foundation of all crochet, through the basic single and double crochet, and on to more detailed stitches.
A simple search will bring up dozens of teaching tools, so even if the first one doesn't make sense to you, keep looking. Not all teaching methods are the same, and you may have to sit through a few before finding the teacher that makes it all 'click' for you.
Help From the Hobby Store
If you're more of a hands-on person, consider looking for free crochet lessons in your community. In-person lessons may be more suitable since you can ask questions of your instructor and have her look at your piece as you work alongside each other. Some craft stores offer to teach customers to crochet but if yours doesn't, ask them to consider offering crochet lessons. Since March is Crochet Month, it would be a good time for them to take advantage of the publicity.
Adopt a Grandma
Many church groups also get together periodically to crochet for charity or new babies in the congregation and would likely welcome new stitchers. If craft stores or church groups aren't an option in your area, look to the local nursing home or assisted living center. I'm sure there's more than one resident that would enjoy the company and love the chance to be useful in sharing her craft. You'll both probably get a lot more out of it than just crochet lessons.
What Supplies Are Needed?
If you're just starting out, don't spend a lot of money on fancy yarns (some are difficult to work with anyway) or hand carved crochet hooks. Pick up a single crochet hook in a common size or a cheap set of plastic hooks to get you started. Instead of textured yarn that knots easily or makes stitches difficult to see, buy a skein of inexpensive worsted weight acrylic yarn. More information on how to choose crochet hooks and yarn here and here.
What's a Good Beginner Crochet Project?
Once you've learned the basic stitches, it's time to decide on a project. Rather than go head-on into that intricate bedspread made out of thread or the afghan big enough to cover a football field, think small. Dishcloths and simple scarves are good beginner projects that are useful as well. Look here for more ideas on what projects are suitable for the novice, then work your way up to the fancier stitches and family heirlooms as your comfort level and experience grow.
Crochet Isn't Just a Winter Craft
It may seem odd to have March designated as Crochet Month since we're headed into spring, but crochet is popular year round, not just in the winter months. Of course it's nice to work on a blanket or afghan across your lap when there's a nip in the air, but there are many crochet projects that you can make that won't add further discomfort when temperatures soar. Need ideas? Look here.
More from Marie Anne:
Crochet Hooks: Wood, Plastic or Metal
