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How to crochet: a beginner's guide

To start crocheting, get a US H-8 (5 mm) hook and smooth medium-weight (#4) yarn in a light color. Learn the slip knot, the chain (ch) and single crochet (sc), practice on a small square, then make a first project such as a dishcloth or a granny square.

Step by step

1. Get the right tools: A US H-8 (5 mm) hook, one ball of smooth medium-weight (#4) yarn in a light color (dark and fluffy yarn hides the stitches), scissors and a yarn needle.
2. Make a slip knot: Make a loop with the yarn, pull the working yarn through it and slide the new loop onto your hook. Tighten it so it moves but does not fall off.
3. Make a foundation chain: Yarn over (wrap the yarn over the hook from back to front) and pull it through the loop on your hook. That is one chain (ch). Make about 15.
4. Work single crochet: Insert the hook into the 2nd chain from the hook, yarn over, pull up a loop (2 loops on the hook), yarn over and pull through both loops. Work one single crochet (sc) in each chain.
5. Turn and repeat: At the end of the row, chain 1 and turn the work. Work one sc in each stitch of the row below. Count your stitches at the end of each row.
6. Fasten off: Cut the yarn, leaving a 6 in (15 cm) tail, and pull it through the last loop. Weave the tail into the stitches with a yarn needle.

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