Crochet 101: How I Began My Journey and How You Can Too
Crochet is more than just a hobby; it’s a timeless craft that connects us to our past while allowing us to create something uniquely ours. For me, learning to crochet was inspired by memories of my grandmother and her sister, both of whom were talented with their hands. Though my journey started with nostalgia, it has since blossomed into a passion I carry forward with pride.
My Crochet Journey
In 2014, while expecting my second daughter, I felt a deep urge to create. Nesting during this pregnancy was different from my first—I wasn’t just organizing or decorating; I wanted to make something tangible. One day, as I pulled crocheted blankets from the closet, a particular one caught my eye. It was a stunning, one-of-a-kind gift from my grandmother’s sister.
Looking at it, I felt a strong pull to preserve this family tradition. It wasn’t just about learning a new skill. It was about honoring the women in my family and passing something meaningful to my daughters. Armed with this newfound inspiration, I made my way to Michael’s and bought my first skein of yarn and a crochet hook.
Finding My Way With Crochet
Like many beginners, I turned to YouTube for guidance. I discovered a playlist called The Cutzy Crochet Lessons, which taught me the basics: how to hold my yarn and hook, understanding gauge, and mastering essential stitches. These lessons were invaluable and gave me the confidence to move forward.
In the early days, I wasn’t consistent with my practice. Life often got in the way, and my yarn and hooks would sit untouched for months. But every time I picked them up again, I was reminded of how much I loved creating.
Everything changed in 2021. I committed myself to practicing regularly and exploring more advanced techniques. Since then, I’ve discovered just how much joy crochet brings me. It’s been a journey of patience, learning, and, yes, the occasional “frog” (a term for undoing stitches). But each moment has been worth it because I’ve achieved my goal: keeping this family tradition alive and thriving.
Tips and Resources for Beginners
If you’re ready to embark on your own crochet journey, here are some tips and resources to help you get started:
Start Small: All you need is a skein of yarn and a hook. Choose a medium-weight yarn (like worsted weight) and a size H-8 (5mm) crochet hook—it’s a beginner-friendly combination.
Learn the Basics: YouTube is an incredible resource for beginners. I highly recommend the Cutzy Crochet Lessonsplaylist, which covers everything from holding your hook to creating your first stitches.
Find Easy Patterns: Pinterest is a goldmine for free beginner-friendly patterns. Start with simple projects like dishcloths or scarves to build your confidence.
Practice Patience: Crochet takes time and effort to master. Be kind to yourself and enjoy the process. Every stitch brings you closer to your goal.
Join a Community: Look for crochet groups online or in your local area. Being part of a community can provide support, inspiration, and new ideas for your projects.
The Joy of Crochet
Crochet has given me so much more than a creative outlet—it’s connected me to my family’s past, allowed me to create meaningful gifts, and provided a sense of calm in a busy world. Whether you’re picking up a hook for the first time or diving back into a forgotten project, know that every stitch is part of your unique story.
So, grab your hook, choose some yarn, and start your journey today. Who knows where it might lead you?
xoxo
(This post was initially published November 2022 and updated January 2025.)