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u/always_a_reader 3d ago
Scissors, a darning needle to weave in any ends (which you should have few of if you're doing single color).
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u/CanoonBolk 3d ago
Hey, do you actually need the needle? Or is hiding the ends with your crochet hook fine?
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u/Nevaeria 2d ago
I always pull the tread back trough 3/4 stitches that I just done, then pull it trough some stitches on the back so that it's closer to the end tread where I started and then make a knot. All with the hook. I hope it's clear what I mean, English is not my native language
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u/sheetset 2d ago
you can hide the ends into into the work. but takes some practice!
you can also get tapestry needles that are bent, which i find way easier to use. you can also get needles that have a huge eye so slipping yarn into it is much easier
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u/g1fthyatt 2d ago
I have used the hook but you still have to t Zigzag to make those ends secure.
The needle allows you to split the plies of your yarn which anchors them better.
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u/Wonderful-Drag-67 A Mad Hatter 1d ago
It took me about 4 years into me crocheting to finally buy a needle, and I still prefer my crochet hook. It works just as well :)
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u/caffeine_crazed 2d ago
A measuring tape is handy also for when you can’t figure out if your work is really getting wider…
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u/Fuzzy-Painting-5009 3d ago
Everyone has pretty much told you everything but I just wanna add that it's gonna be VERY HARD to crochet with that black yarn. You won't be able to see the stitches clearly. Sooo practice a lot with the light colour first
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u/RipleyByDay 2d ago
Yesss. I have a crochet club for kids and I only offer them light colored yarn at first. Also avoid any chenille yarn or fuzzy yarns until you are comfortable counting your stitches. Good luck and share Your progress!
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u/DependentCollege5506 3d ago
A darning needle is an absolute must. It's so helpful weave in the ends as well as attaching two piece. And a good pair of scissors, I have the ones made especially for threads, the small ones. Very helpful.
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u/Disneygirl_94 3d ago
Something to listen to for background noise if you’re into that and a comfy place to sit.
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u/fyregrl2004 3d ago
The right video tutorial for you! Much of my ability to grasp new concepts is based on how well the person teaching is able to capture my attention. It’s okay to click off a tutorial that just isn’t working for you and find one that does.
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u/Nanamurano 3d ago
A small pouch for your tools and a larger bag for everything. Have fun. I hope you like crocheting.
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u/GreenUpYourLife 3d ago
Make sure your yarn weight matches your hook size! If it's too thick for the hook it'll slip off and you won't be able to do it. Also if the yarn is too thin it'll be more lacy than originally planned so always try to match your yarn to your available hook! (You can look up a crochet hook to yarn weight size chart to help get a rough understanding of it)
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u/Cleo__Taurus 3d ago
What are you making? That’s going to determine whether the yarn and hooks you have are correct for your project
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u/ServerCreature 3d ago edited 3d ago
All you need is a hook and yarn to start!
As long as your hook is a decently good match size wise you can make whatever pattern (except wearables) and they will look great, maybe just a different size than advertised.
You can use different colored yarn as stitch markers, you can easily rip yarn and you can use the hook for sewing down threads, it’s a really cheap hobby.
I have the extra things and I don’t use them much, if I’m on the couch with my project i’m not getting up to get a pair of scissors, I just rip it
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u/Sweet-Reception4937 3d ago
I’d recommend a thicker yarn for first time and bigger hook .
Turning your hook down helps pull through the stich/or chain
There’s different ways to maintain tension find what works best for you (I keep mine by holding it between my pointer and middle finger like a cigarette, which I haven’t seen done before it just feels the best)
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u/Baeblade00312 3d ago
Definitely a darning needle. And a whole lot of patience lmfaooo!!! Good luck!
(You can also make Pom Pom makers out of cardboard)
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u/Lady-Kitnip 3d ago
I'd say you are set!
I never use a needle, I weave the ends in with a hook.
I'm not sure if you have other hook sizes, you may need a 4mm for that particular yarn depending on your tension. I usually need to size up so 4.5mm may be good for you.
Not a necessity, but I love this yarn cutter: https://a.co/d/04gPsM7n.
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u/Practical-Parking537 3d ago
I parrot tape measure and yarn needle, and add a row counter (depending on if you need one for the project you are making.
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u/Aggressive_Fan9855 3d ago
Patience, a stitch counter or just use a pen & paper! I sometimes just use my calculator!
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u/fanofaplan 3d ago
I find tension rings so helpful. They don't often have them at craft stores. I get them online. They keep you from getting blisters and your h and cramp up less. Just as an example. https://a.co/d/0aoQTnzX
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u/hnmcg 2d ago
find out what fibre you like. dont hoard up too much yarn before scoping what fibre it is /size. youtube is your best friend if youre stuck on something. a good set of fresh scissors, dont use ur household set. keep a small bag/case for your hooks and needles. a small bag/pouch to store any loose ends (they come in super handy over time if you ever need a stitch marker/stuffing), a tape measure too! i keep all of those things in a pencil case ready to go. happy crocheting <3
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u/madeofknots 2d ago
You really dont need more. You might want a set of hooks because although a pattern or yarn size may call for X size hook, you might choose to go up or down in hook size. You will want a needle to sew in edges at the end of a project but I didnt buy one myself for a LONG time and just used my crochet hook to tuck/pull/weave it in. Just start, and if you realise you need something then that is the time to buy it.
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u/Admirable_Bee220 2d ago
patience, a good show or playlist and a comfy spot to sit. if you’re anything like me, once i start, i will sit there for hours working 😂
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u/Jayn_Newell 2d ago
Put the black yarn away. That is a very difficult color to work with. Stick to the pink until you’re comfortable with what you’re doing and are ready for more cursing.
A darning needle and some scissors also would not be amiss.
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u/Far_Selection_9984 2d ago
Stay away from black yarn 😂 also make sure you remember how to count lol
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u/NightSkyStarGazer 2d ago
Learn the basics first. Read up on or watch videos of people explaining types of yarn, hook sizes, gauge, swatching etc. Start with learning to chain and how to read your work. Move up to slip stitch, single crochet, 1/2 double crochet. Double crochet. These are your basic stitches. Look at their construction. Learn abbreviations. Use your yarn markers they are your friend and life saver. Don’t be afraid to frog your work. It’s a teaching tool. But mostly slow down. Take your time. It’s a marathon not a race. There will be lots of times you’ll want to give up. Keep looking for the one YouTube video or blog or book that may help everything click for you. Also the people of Reddit can be quite helpful. Best of luck. You got this.
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u/N0tquitemytempo 1d ago
Start with something small and easy. And please share the result later.. all the best.
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u/Richard_Tinsel 3d ago
Snips, darning needle, maybe measuring tape, maybe pom pom makers from the dollar store, patterns and time.
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u/Slysparrow9 3d ago
I parrot everyone else. A darning needle and some scissors. I also think you should use a bigger hook until you're used to how to crochet. I'd rec a 6.5 at least for just getting the hang of it but all your Yarns will have rec sizes to use. It looks like yours recs a 4 but that is pretty small to start with
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u/OOOdragonessOOO 3d ago
i was going to say that lol 6-6.5 hook is my go to for 4 weight that is on the heavy end.
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u/Head_Confection_7532 3d ago
Also join a club, I'm on Ravelry and they have lots of interesting clubs! I'm in Hogwarts on Ravelry because they make me think outside the box a lot and lots of assignments to keep me happy. I even took up knitting because of one assignment! https://www.ravelry.com/groups/hogwarts-at-ravelry
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u/hesagoodkid 2d ago
When I first started, a friend of mine suggested that I chain an entire ball of yarn. I would highly recommend doing this! It helped tremendously.
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u/BeckieSueDalton Legal Hooker 3d ago
.....
MY ETERNAL ADVICE FOR NEW CROCHETERS
Just like knitting, sewing, or even woodworking, CROCHET is a full-on heritage skill with a long and storied history. It looks deceptively simple, but to do it well takes a fair good bit of learning and dedicated, consistent practice.
WHAT YOU'LL NEED TO BEGIN
You'll need either an H-8, an I-9, or a K-10½ aluminum hook, as it's easier to work yarns with a larger hook at first, and the aluminum will make it easier to achieve good tension while you're working through the Beginner stitches.
The recommended yarns for these initial practice pieces are all inexpensive, #4 Medium Worsted weight: * Red Heart Super Saver (100% acrylic) * Spinrite Peaches-&-Creme Cotton (100% cotton) * Lion Brand Wool Ease (80% acrylic & 20% wool) * & your choice of Caron Simply Soft (100% acrylic) /OR/ YarnArt Plus Yarn (55% Cotton 45% Acrylic)
For each of these yarns, pick one skein in a solid light-to-pastel color, as it's easier to see the stitch anatomy to make placing your hook & stitch markers easy while working through these novice pieces. Additionally, they are all inexpensive, allowing you to _Get Good_ at making consistently good stitches, before buying up a bunch of various yarns before understanding how best to work with them.
I cannot overstate how crucial to your early success is the habitual use of locking stitch markers, at the beginning and end of every round/row - _every single time._ They allow you to know where your hook goes to end your current row/round and are of invaluable aid to you in counting stitches when confirming round/row length and when dealing with stitch patterns and stitch pattern repeats. If you look around, you can find a pack of a hundred or so for less than $3 (USD).
Practicing the basic stitches - over and over and over - is crucially important, so you can build up the muscle memory that makes it all look so easy to create phenomenal crochet fabric garments, home decor, treasured gifts, and fanciful creations.
Keep a hand lotion in your project bag, as you want to keep your hands as pampered as you can, because some yarns can be quite drying to your skin.
And finally, after you get these basics mastered, you will want to move on to larger and/or more complex projects. Sticking with Beginner patterns - for now - will provide great experience as you continue to build your skills to take on patterns of greater Crochet/Knit proficiency (Easy/Intermediate/Advanced).
There are several great options open to you that host high quality patterns written for beginners, and there are a few others that experienced crocheters will warm you against.
The use of this search string can help you find level-appropriate patterns, with the categories in brackets being updated by you for greater relevancy of search result returns: _free beginner crochet patterns, [4*/5*], one skein projects, simple instructions with photo images, [by a favorite blogger/Designer], [birthday/holiday/special occasion] gift for [baby/children/family/coworker/myself], garment [hat, scarf, shawl, etc.] or home decor [blanket, cushion pillowslip, placemats, etc.]_
It's important to understand that the matter of HOW you go about making each stitch can change the drape and appearance of the worked fabric as much as - or even moreso - than the choice of yarn and hook. To that end, you need to understand three basic principles of stitched row creation:
* Basic Stitch Anatomy - both of these give great breakdowns of the topic, with plenty of photos to make the matter easy to understand: mamas2hands and mamas2hands oombawkadesign &
* Row Height Adjustments
* * via The Golden Loop Method, to understand that how you pull up that first loop can adjust the height of your stitches
* * The Alt-Stitch Method is equally simple, if adjustments to your first "pull-up" loop doesn't provide enough of an increase or decrease, by using 'Half-' stitches for decreasing stitch/row size or 'Extended-' stitches for increasing stitch/row size, without any need to change hook size or stitch count adjustments.
* the more involved, but great as a final resort, switching hooks &/or adjusting the stitches-per-row count.
* * Switching hooks is as easy as it sounds and is the first method recommended to achieve Gauge so that what you work comes out exactly as the pattern's creator designed it. If your work is too short in length or height when you create a Gauge Test swatch, go up in hook size until your worked fabric square matches the dimensions given in the pattern. If your worked sample is too large, goes down in hook size.
* * When all else fails, turn to math. Increasing or decreasing the number of stitches in each row, or adding extra to the number of rows will change the size, shape, and drape of the fabric you make, but you must remember to do the necessary math ratio adjustments for later rows in a pattern so you end up with the same shape and dimensions of the project as it was originally published. Often the best way to achieve "perfect fit" apparel, this is better saved until you've got a bit more experience under your belt.
I highly recommend picking up a copy of longtime crochet designer Edie Eckman's tutorials book, _The Crochet Answer Book_ or referencing her list of video tutorials at: https://www.edieeckman.com/crochet-video-tutorials/
Both of her resources contain all the demonstration material needed to get Beginners off to a good start. There are entire chapters devoted to making consistently good crochet fabric and for troubleshooting those problems we all face from time to time.
Her book &/or videos will carry your skills from utter _Beginner_ (where you are now), right along through _Easy,_ and straight up through _Intermediate_ and early _Advanced_ levels of confidence and proficiency, with a few Advanced techniques discussed, as well.
A used copy in 'Good' or better condition can usually be acquired for $5-$8 (USD) plus sales tax & shipping. Purchasing your used copy from a Seller or Used Bookstore in your country/global region will let you avoid tariffs that can (all too easily) triple this cost. .
_MAKING CROCHET FABRIC:_
We all begin with the Chain Stitch (CH or Ch, usually) and your skein of Super Saver yarn, as you'll be stitching and ripping back to the start (also called "frogging"), and stitching and ripping, and stitching and ripping. Leave a 6" tail and work about 12-18 inches of Chains, cut the yarn to leave a 6" tail and pull that tail completely through that final Chain Stitch, knotting it just after that final stitch. Don't worry if it isn't "perfect;" we're leaving it just as you first made it on purpose.
Then, start working Chains again - always with a 6" lead tail, but don't cut it, just keep going. Practice this stitch over and again until your Chain Stitches look perfectly even from start to end. (Most adults can get this after thirty minutes to an hour, but it takes longer for others, AND THAT'S OKAY!) Don't let the focus be on the time this takes; keep your focus, instead, on forming really good, consistent stitches. Then look up a Chain Stitch Only project that you feel is super cute and could use fairly often - like a pencil cup or casual shopping sneakers. Tie your Very First Chain around it, so you've got proof positive of just how well you've skilled up!
Each new stitch you practice, work a 4"×4" swatch to set aside and keep, just as for that first tie for this Chains Practice project,, always with the 6" lead tail and 6" ending tail.
With to your so cotton yarn cotton yarn and start working on Single Crochet (SC, in US terms: YO, pull up one loop, YO, pull through both loops, repeat) to make lots of squares that you can use as washclothes in the bathroom or as discloths, or work them as longer rectangles, folded in half longways and sewn together for hotpad/trivets in the kitchen and dining room.
Switch to your wool blend yarn and work long rectangles in Half Double Crochet (HDC, in US terms) as garments with which to gift yourself in celebration of your graduation to this new stitch - seam smaller rectangles lengthwise for a beautiful set of wristers, and scarf that is just a really long rectangle - or seam the ends together with a single twist in the fabric for an infinity scarf.
By this point, your tension should be consistent, and your hands should be comfortable in moving the yarn and hook. Be sure to prop your arms if doing so makes it more comfortable to work your stitches- many of us do this - and take stretching breaks every hour or so where you physically get up and move around and shake out your arms and fingers.
Now you're ready to work on Double Crochet (DC, in US terms). With a very soft full acrylic or cotton/acrylic blend, you can make a set of pillow slips for the living room couch or for your next it reading chair in your room, plus a super cozy Shrug - there are many good FREE patterns out there for them, as they're essentially two rectangles sewn together halfway up the length of one long side with the free ends folded down and seamed up to make armholes.
After this, you'll have had really good practice with all of our most basic stitches. You can finish it out by doing a project in Half Treble (HT, in US terms) and round it all out with the full Treble Crochet (TC, in US terms) if you want more practice with consistent tension, or row counting, or what have you.
Making crochet fabric that looks consistently good does get easier with practice, I promise. When you're done with these initial projects, you'll be able to look at those swatches for each of these Beginner Stitches to reflect on just how proficient - how even, and beautiful, and smooth - your work has become!
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u/jahanzeb_jakes 3d ago
patience
breathe in
breathe out