How to Crochet for Beginners: Easy Step-by-Step Guide | 101Crochets

Welcome to 101Crochets! 
If you’ve been wondering how to crochet and are looking for a friendly, step-by-step guide, you’re in the right spot.
In this post, we’re going to walk through where to start, how to master the basic stitches, and explore fun projects like the granny square, blankets, half double crochet, and even crocheting beanies.

How to Crochet Beginning: Getting Started

If you’re totally new to crochet, the very first stitch to learn is the chain stitch. It all starts with a slip knot on your crochet hook.

Then, yarn over and pull through the loop. Congrats, you’ve just made your first chain!

Keep going until your chain is the length you want for your project.

Here’s a little tip for beginners:

Choose a medium-weight yarn and a 4 to 5 mm crochet hook. Using light-colored yarn makes it easier to see your stitches, which helps a lot when you’re just starting out.

Mastering the Granny Square

One of the most iconic and beloved patterns in crochet is the granny square. It’s a perfect beginner project because it's repetitive, forgiving, and super versatile.

You can use them to make blankets, crochet bags, or even garments!

Start with a magic ring, or if that feels tricky, join four chain stitches into a ring.

Then work your first round using double crochet stitches grouped in threes, separated by two chain stitches at each corner.

Each round builds on the last, adding more sets of double crochet stitches while keeping the corners consistent.

If you’re looking for a simple granny square, just stick with one color and focus on keeping your stitch count even.

It’s a great way to build confidence before diving into more complex designs.

How to Crochet Blankets

Feeling ambitious? A crochet blanket is a fun way to practice your skills and create something cozy.

You can go patchwork-style by joining multiple granny squares or work in rows using your favorite stitch.

For a warmer and softer blanket, go with bulky or worsted weight yarn.

If you want something breezier, cotton yarn or blends work great too.

Try using half double crochet stitches or double crochet for texture and speed.

Before you go all in, make a little swatch (about 10 x 10 cm) to figure out how many stitches and rows you need.

This helps you estimate the size and yarn needed.

And if you prefer a tighter, denser fabric, use a hook that’s just a bit smaller than what your yarn label recommends.

4. Working with Half Double Crochet (HDC)

The half double crochet (HDC) is a stitch that’s often overlooked but incredibly handy.

It’s denser than double crochet but quicker than single crochet, making it ideal for everything from hats to blankets to crochet bags.

To do it, yarn over and insert your hook into the stitch.

Yarn over again and pull through. You’ll now have three loops on your hook.

One last yarn over, and pull through all three loops.

That’s it! This stitch gives your project a lovely, solid texture while still working up fast.

5. How to Crochet Beanies

Ready to make something wearable? A crochet beanie is the perfect mix of fun and function.

Start with a magic ring, then build out your circle by working a set number of stitches.

Increase gradually — for example, doing 2 double crochet stitches in one stitch — until the crown is wide enough.

Once you’ve got the base, stop increasing and just crochet in rounds until your beanie is the right height.

Join your final round and weave in the ends.

Want to add flair? Try out different stitch patterns like puff stitches or ribbing to give your beanie more texture and personality.

Conclusion

Whether you’re curious about how to crochet a granny square, how to crochet blankets, or eager to learn how to crochet beanies, it all begins with the basics.

Once you’ve got your chain stitch, magic ring, and a few others down, a whole world of creative projects opens up.

Remember, every crochet journey begins with a single stitch.

Take your time, enjoy the process, and don’t be afraid to try new patterns and techniques as you grow.

Happy crocheting, and see you soon on 101Crochets!