Any tips for a crochet beginner?

[shepherdchik]

I started crocheting a couple years ago and took pretty well to it but I still need a lot of practice. Any tips or sites would be appreciated. Thanks!

[djohnson43]

Can't give you direct sites but one of the mothers at Sunday school and I were talking a little bit ago and she says she watches videos on you tube and such. That is one thing I never learned to do. Give me needle point, latch hook and cross stitch anytime. 

[Nancy5]

I can't crochet, but if there is a yarn store close to you see if the give lessons.

[lmrbean]

I did crocheting years ago, but stopped once I became busy with raising my children.  I started learning from a friend, but found that "Learn to Crochet" pamphlets were very helpful, especially being able to look at the pictures as I progressed.  You can find them in fabric stores, or can probably download from the internet.  As they say, "A picture is worth a thousand words."

[kapeh12]

When I started, I picked up a thin "getting started" book that showed the basics of the most common stitches.  I used that as a reference until I could remember them on my own.

What I found most useful was finding packages of yarn with pattern instructions for making things - like sweaters, hats, scarves, afghans, etc.  I got good by practicing making afghans - starting with some of the easier looking ones.  I found they make great gifts, and if you live in the north, they keeps you nice and warm while you are making it.

I would suggest trying patterns where you make a bunch of squares, then you sew them together to make the huge blanket/afghan.  These tend provide a suitable challenge, but the squares are small enough to be manageable, and provide adequate repetition.

Good luck with your learning!  I found crocheting to be quite fun.

[tikihut5]

 Red Heart website has free patterns. You can narrow your search down to beginner patterns and such. They also have a learn section. I watched their videos so I can't say how good they are.

[gbabesmom]

Allfreecrochet.com has lots of patterns and tutorials. Youtube is definitely as good one. Good luck!

[Dynamite2013]

If you want to make a pattern I have one that is fairly easy. Get a double pointed knitting needle and after you crochet five loops then take off five onto the knitting needle then crochet the next five then go back and crochet the five you took off after you crochet five more rows then do the same thing crochet five loops then take off five onto the knitting needle and crochet the next five and then go back and crochet the five on the knitting needle. If you like the design then repeat as often as you want except when you get to the end of your pattern then just crochet the rows so you have a solid finish. I make blankets, hats and have made shawls and sweaters but take your time and it should work out well. Good luck.