Craft Blog

In the world of crafting, crocheting has become very popular and provides for a lot of business.  Those who have become avid crocheters are constantly looking for new ideas to inspire their own creativity.  Well, you are in luck if you are one of those avid crocheters who are looking to make their own crochet patterns and maybe even publish them.  Here are some tips on making your own crochet patterns. 

Before you get started, understand that making your own patterns can be somewhat stressful sometimes.  There will always be times where you think that your ideas aren’t good enough, but if keep moving forward your hard work will really pay off.  Sometimes when moments like these occur it is best to just take a breather; go out for a while and come back when you feel a little more relaxed. 

Step 1
There are two things you can do.  You can either draw up your own template, or find one that has already been made.  Since the art of crochet has been around for centuries a template has probably already been made for what you want to do.  Why do more work than you have to?  If someone else has created a template, don’t feel bad using it; just give credit where credit is due.  Templates are great to work with because in most cases they will tell you what pieces you will need and how they work into the pattern.  There are a few different online sites that have crochet templates already made up.  And there are some that allow you to simply make your own if none of theirs are what you’re looking for.

Step 2
After you have your template pattern you will want to go through it and make sure you have all the items you need.  Items such as pattern notes, diagrams, photos, abbreviations, etc.  Make sure you write down the different materials you’ve used, what type of yarn and the size of the hood.  Any extra’s that you might want such as snaps or buttons.  The more detail the better. 

Step 3
You will want to keep a book of basic instructions with you all the time.  Your basic instructions will mostly be in the form of note you write down as you create the model.  Your book will probably have most of your crochet designs.  These instructions are only for you and like I said before, are just notes.  These are just sketches and don’t need to be revised as no one else will see them.  This means you can be as messy or as neat as you want; use abbreviations, or whatever you want.  You just need to be able to read it.

Step 4
Now that you have your own set of instructions, you will start compiling a more detailed instruction guide.  The word "detailed" is crucial at this point.  Make your instructions as easy and as simple to follow as possible.  Try not to use abbreviations as this will allow even the very beginner crocheter to use your patterns, as well as more experienced ones.  If there are certain steps that may be confusing, then try to give suggestions on how to prevent your reader from making errors.  You can also add photos and illustrations as this makes it easier to follow instructions. 

Step 5
Once you have your own template the way you want it to look it’s time to test it out.  Call up some friends that have had no experience with crocheting, and a lot of experience with crocheting.  You can even try it out yourself.  See how well your instructions really are.  In having others test your pattern, you will know without a doubt whether or not your instructions are clear and what needs or doesn’t need to be revised.  If their finished project looks somewhat like yours, then it is a success. 

In a crafters world, the art of crochet has become quite popular.  And if you are into crochet, then most likely you will at some point during your crochet hobby make a baby blanket.  They in themselves are a very popular item to crochet.  Crocheting baby blankets is fairly simple and can make a precious baby gift for a newborn.  The best thing about crocheting a baby blanket is that you can use a variety of different colors; create your own personal look with different stitches and textures; and make it into something you love.  Here are some places to look for help as you begin to crochet your baby blanket.

Where to find Ideas and Patterns
 A local fabric or sewing store.  If you have never crocheted a baby blanket before your best bet will be to find an easy to read and follow pattern from your local sewing store.  They usually have patterns for beginners which have very basic instructions on how to stitch the blanket.  As you get better then you can look for more advanced patterns.
 Try a friend.  If you know someone that is an avid crocheter then why not use that resource?  Invite them over and have them show you some simple stitches, or even better have a crochet party.  Tell them to bring some things they’ve made so you can see them, and then have her help you get started on your baby blanket.  Sometimes instructions from someone first hand are easier to follow than reading a piece of paper.
 Online.  There are some websites you can go to that will give you directions on how to crochet a baby blanket.  Some will be free, and others you may have to pay something or sign up to be a member.  Either way, this gives you a number of different ways to find instructions on how to begin your project.
 Craft Stores.  Along with your local fabric stores, you can also take a look at your local craft stores.  Crochet is truly an art and craft stores will carry materials for you to do your project, and will also sell some great books or magazines that will give you detailed instruction on how to crochet your baby blanket.  You can get everything you need at these types of stores.  Just ask a person working there to help you find what you need and you are on your way. 
 The Public Library.  A lot of people don’t even think about going to their library for information, but this has proven to be a great resource.  Libraries carry information on just about everything.  You should be able to find some books, magazines articles, and most likely pictures of what you are looking for.  The best part about these materials is it’s all free.     

Now that you know where to find everything you need you can get started.  Remember, if you are a beginner to crocheting and sometimes even when you are not that for these types of projects you will need a lot of patience.  You will most likely have to undo some of your stitching, and might even have to do parts of it over.  Do not get discouraged; once you make it through your first project and get the hang of crocheting you will have accomplished your goal and that’s a great feeling.  Who knows, maybe you will try and tackle something else next time?   

There are so many possibilities with crochet patterns.  And crocheting can be so worthwhile because you’re creating something with your hands that can be used by your friends and family.  And finding free crochet patterns can make your crocheting even more fun, because you’re saving money and finding great patterns to give you guidance.  So, where exactly can you find some of these free crochet patterns online?

If you’re just beginning to crochet, here’s a list of what you will need: a crochet hook, some simple yarn, a basic pattern and a good attitude.  Since you might not be sure what kind of hook, yarn or pattern to buy, here are some suggestions. 

Crochet hooks come in many types and sizes.  Steel crochet hooks range from 3.5 to 0.75 millimeters in the size of the hook, or from 00 to 14 in American sizing. These hooks are used for fine crochet work.  Aluminum or plastic crochet hooks are available from 2.5 to 19 millimeters in hook size, or from B to S in American sizing. These crochet hooks will all vary in prices, ranging from only a few dollars for aluminum or plastic hooks, to over twenty-five. 

Next, you need to find some yarn.  There are five classifications of crochet yarn. They are: super fine; fine; light; medium; bulky; or super bulky.  Each type has its own weight or thickness with roving and bulky yarn being the heaviest.  These types of yarn will also vary in prices, from only a few dollars a skein, to well over fifteen and even more. 

Looking at the prices of supplies, you might be thinking that it’s a good thing you can find patterns for free!  But where can you do that?

First, talk to your friends who also like to crochet.  They can help find some interesting and unique patterns.  You’ll be surprised by how much you can learn from your friend’s crochet patterns and from asking their advice for your own patterns.  Look through their patterns to see if you can get inspiration and ask them for ideas about your own crocheted work.  If you have a specific type of yarn or item that you want to use, then show them the item or yarn and ask them for ideas for patterns. You may be astonished at how much inspiration and help that they can give you.

You can also find many different sources for free crochet patterns online.  There are many websites that offer free resources for crocheting, including ideas, elements, and patterns. These websites can be a great way for you to get some free information about crocheting, so that you can spend your money on other things.  All you need to do is type, "free crochet patterns" into your search bar and hit enter. You will be amazed at the large number of websites that will come up.

Free crochet patterns can make your crocheting hobby even more fun and enjoyable. By taking advantage of the things that you can get free, you will find that you have money to spend on other things like fancy supplies.  This may allow you to buy some crochet materials that you might not have otherwise been able to work into your budget. It doesn’t matter where you get your free crochet patterns.  Be it from friends, family, online, or a crochet class, you are sure to find that you can use crochet patterns to customize your work and make them feel more like you.  And that will be so priceless when, in years to come, you are looking back at your crocheted work and remembering what it meant to you to create it.   

Crochet is a great hobby that men and women alike have been doing for years.  It’s relaxing and productive- you always end up with something that you can use; something to wear or something to clean with.  This article endeavors to explain the virtues of crocheting- it will discuss the uses of crochet and a bit about how it’s done. 

Crochet is a process of creating fabric to make shapes or clothing from yarn or thread.  Crocheting is similar to knitting as it consists of pulling loops of yarn through other loops. It differs from knitting in that only one loop is active at one time, and that a crochet hook is used instead of two needles.

Here’s how crochet is done:  crocheted fabric is begun by placing a slip-knot loop on the end of the hook, pulling another loop through the first loop, and repeating this process to create a chain of a suitable length. The chain is either turned and worked in rows, or joined to the beginning of the row with a slip stitch and worked in circles, or rounds. Rounds can also be created by working many stitches into a single loop. Stitches are made by pulling one or more loops through each loop of the chain. At any one time at the end of a stitch, there is only one loop left on the hook.

To start, you’ll need a crochet hook and some yarn.  Since you might not be sure what kind of hook or yarn to buy, here are some suggestions. 

There are many types of crochet hooks available.  Crochet hooks range from 3.5 to 0.75 millimeters in the size of the hook, or from 00 to 14 in American sizing. These hooks are used for fine crochet work.  Aluminum or plastic crochet hooks are available from 2.5 to 19 millimeters in hook size, or from B to S in American sizing.  There are many artisan-made hooks, too, most hand-turned of wood, sometimes decorated with semi-precious stones or beads.  These crochet hooks will all vary in prices, ranging from only a few dollars for aluminum or plastic hooks, to over twenty-five. 

Next, you need to find some yarn.  There are five classifications of crochet yarn. They are: super fine (sock, baby and fingering yarn); fine (baby and sport yarn); light (light worsted and DK yarn); medium (worsted, afghan and Aran yarn); bulky (chunky, craft and rug yarn); or super bulky (roving and bulky yarn).  These types of yarn will also vary in prices, from only a few dollars a skein, to well over fifteen and even more.  Luckily, you can often find great sales on yarn that will bring the cost significantly lower. 

Well, now that you’re familiar with how to crochet, let’s talk about some of the uses of crochet.  Basically, if you can imagine it, you can crochet it.  This doesn’t mean that you’ll be able to find a pattern for it- you may have to be creative and make your own pattern.  But the possibilities are endless with crochet.  You can make any article of clothing, from sweaters and hats to gloves, jackets or even pants.  You can make blankets.  You can make pot holders and dish rags.  You can even make bags and grocery totes.  Many people crochet doll clothes or the dolls themselves.  Others make pet accessories (such as hats or sweaters for their dog) or pet beds. 

There are many uses of crochet.  You’ll find that the more proficient you become at crochet, the more creative you are able to become.  So sit back and get creative!  It will be worth it! 

Knitting and crochet are popular hobbies throughout the United States and the world.  Many people find it relaxing and enjoyable.  It is also a productive hobby that allows people to unwind while also making something with their own hands.  But if you’re just starting out, crochet can be a bit tricky.  Or if you’ve been crocheting for a long time, you may be looking for ways to better your crocheting.  So whether you’re a beginner or an old pro, here are some tips for better crochet.

But first, let’s just review exactly how crocheting is done.  Crochet is a process of creating fabric to make shapes or clothing from yarn or thread.  Crocheting is similar to knitting as it consists of pulling loops of yarn through other loops. It differs from knitting in that only one loop is active at one time, and that a crochet hook is used instead of two needles.

Crocheted fabric is begun by placing a slip-knot loop on the end of the hook, pulling another loop through the first loop, and repeating this process to create a chain of a suitable length. The chain is either turned and worked in rows, or joined to the beginning of the row with a slip stitch and worked in circles, or rounds. Rounds can also be created by working many stitches into a single loop. Stitches are made by pulling one or more loops through each loop of the chain. At any one time at the end of a stitch, there is only one loop left on the hook.

You’ll need two main things to start out: a crochet hook and some yarn.  Crochet hooks come in many types and sizes.  Steel crochet hooks range from 3.5 to 0.75 millimeters in the size of the hook, or from 00 to 14 in American sizing. These hooks are used for fine crochet work.  Aluminum or plastic crochet hooks are available from 2.5 to 19 millimeters in hook size, or from B to S in American sizing.  There are many artisan-made hooks, too, most hand-turned of wood, sometimes decorated with semi-precious stones or beads. 

Next, you’ll need some yarn or thread to start off with.  There are five classifications of crochet thread. They are:
 1 or Super Fine (sock, baby and fingering yarn)
 2 or Fine (baby and sport yarn)
 3 or Light (light worsted and DK yarn)
 4 or Medium (worsted, afghan and Aran yarn)
 5 or Bulky (chunky, craft and rug yarn)
 6 or Super Bulky (roving and bulky yarn)
One simple way to better your crocheting is to simple mix up the types of yarn you use.  If you’ve always stuck to the simple medium or bulky yarns, try thinking outside the box and using a super chunky or super fine yarn.  You’ll be impressed with how much better and/or different your work looks.

Another way to better your crocheting is to add some bling to your items.  As you’re crocheting, throw some beads or jewels on the yarn and incorporated it into your item.  You may need a bead spinner to accomplish this, but you should be able to find one at your local handicraft store. 

Also, your crocheted work will be greatly improved if you tighten your stitches.  Crochet stitches should be the same size as the shank of your crochet hook. If your stitches are larger than the shank of your hook, you are crocheting too loosely.  Focus on improving your stitches and your crocheted work will be much better.  So no matter what your skill may be, there are always ways to improve your crocheted work.  Ask fellow crochet lovers what they think could improve your products.  And before you know it, your crocheted work will be better than ever before! 

If you’re just beginning to learn how to crochet, you may be wondering what kinds of costs are associated with this hobby.  Crochet can be a lot of fun and, if done wisely, can even be fairly inexpensive.  But if you’re just starting out you probably need to know a little bit about crochet and what materials are needed.  So keep reading and learn!

Crochet is a process of creating fabric to make shapes or clothing from yarn or thread.  Crocheting is similar to knitting as it consists of pulling loops of yarn through other loops. It differs from knitting in that only one loop is active at one time, and that a crochet hook is used instead of two needles.

Here’s how crochet is done:  crocheted fabric is begun by placing a slip-knot loop on the end of the hook, pulling another loop through the first loop, and repeating this process to create a chain of a suitable length. The chain is either turned and worked in rows, or joined to the beginning of the row with a slip stitch and worked in circles, or rounds. Rounds can also be created by working many stitches into a single loop. Stitches are made by pulling one or more loops through each loop of the chain. At any one time at the end of a stitch, there is only one loop left on the hook.

The first thing you’ll need to begin your new hobby of crochet is some type of crochet hook.  Crochet hooks come in many types and sizes.  Steel crochet hooks range from 3.5 to 0.75 millimeters in the size of the hook, or from 00 to 14 in American sizing. These hooks are used for fine crochet work.  Aluminum or plastic crochet hooks are available from 2.5 to 19 millimeters in hook size, or from B to S in American sizing. Some of the more popular crochet hooks are made by Boye and Susan Bates.  There are many artisan-made hooks, too, most hand-turned of wood, sometimes decorated with semi-precious stones or beads.  These crochet hooks will all vary in prices, ranging from only a few dollars for aluminum or plastic hooks, to over twenty-five. 

Next, you’ll need some yarn or thread to start off with.  There are five classifications of crochet thread. They are: super fine (sock, baby and fingering yarn); fine (baby and sport yarn); light (light worsted and DK yarn); medium (worsted, afghan and Aran yarn); bulky (chunky, craft and rug yarn); or super bulky (roving and bulky yarn).  Each type has its own weight or thickness with roving and bulky yarn being the heaviest.  These types of yarn will also vary in prices, from only a few dollars a skein, to well over fifteen and even more.  Luckily, you can often find great sales on yarn that will bring the cost significantly lower.  And if you’re just starting out, you will want to start with a simple yarn like light or medium that isn’t too fine and isn’t too heavy. 

Finally, you will eventually need a pattern for whatever it is you want to make.  If you’re just starting out, you may want to keep it simple by making scarves or blankets that only require you to make a rectangular shape (no pattern needed).  But eventually you’ll want to move on to hats or sweaters or bags and then you’ll need a pattern.  Patterns vary greatly in price.  They can be found online for free or purchased in your local handicraft store.  Be creative and look for ways to save money in crochet by finding free patterns, buying yarn on sale, and using a middle-grade crochet hook. 

If you’re just starting to learn to crochet, you should know that there are a few common mistakes that almost everyone makes.  Luckily, there are ways to avoid them, if you know what to look for.  So this article will inform you of a few of the mistakes to avoid when crocheting, and hopefully will help you rectify them. 

Tension:  Of all the mistakes beginners make, one of the most common is obtaining even tension in their crochet work.  This stems from the fact that the beginner is doing something new and different. That is stressful! And when we are stressed, what do we do? We tighten our muscles. We tighten the muscles in our shoulders, our neck, ultimately our arms and hands. When our hands become tense and tight we grip the crochet hook and yarn with a death grip and have a hard time loosening up.  So when you’re learning to crochet, try to remain relaxed and loose.  Also try to pay attention to how tightly or loosely you are stitching, and then try to continue that tension throughout. 

Not counting stitches: As basic as it sounds, this is a common mistake. You really do have to count stitches as you go until you are sure you know where to place all of your stitches.

Being afraid to rip out: This is a big problem with some people. They feel that they have worked so hard on something that they HATE to rip out any work.  Don’t be afraid to rip out your errors.  It may be painful to do it now, but in the long run when you’re looking back at your finished product, it will really make a difference. 

Uneven edges: This comes from a combination of errors. Usually not counting and making sure you are completing enough stitches in a row, and secondly from not knowing where to place your last stitch.  Just try to pay attention better.

Being afraid to learn a new stitch: Now this is a little silly, but it happens.  If you’re afraid to work a new stitch on a new project, get out that old discarded yarn, something that is disposable but useable.  Then practice your new stitch.  Even if you make mistakes at the beginning, it won’t matte because you’re just practicing and you can, if you decide to, just throw out your practice cloth when you’re finished. 

Ending off correctly: This is a common mistake in beginners, so it is not surprising.  After your last stitch is complete, pull up a loop, clip the thread/yarn and pull the end through the loop. Cinch down tightly but not to the point of "puckering" your finish. Thread a tapestry needle with tail, the choice of needle size will depend on the medium used. Weave the needle through the base of stitches in the last round/row, weaving through the stitches, splitting the fibers if possible. Make sure it doesn’t show on the right side. Skip a thread, then weave back in the opposite direction. You only need to weave in either direction for approx. an inch or less. Clip end and stretch your work so the end slips inside and disappears.

Use safety pins:  Some people just don’t seem to realize how great safety pins can be when you’re crocheting.  They can help when making a long foundation chain, by placing a safety pin in after a designated number of stitches to keep count easily.  You use them when working afghans or similar patterns, by placing a safety pin after a designated number of rows to keep track easily. You can also use them to mark where corner increases are made to avoid mistakes.  Or finally, when you’re finished working, you can place a safety pin in the last stitch worked to keep your stitches intact. 

Crochet is a process of creating fabric to make shapes or clothing from yarn or thread.  Crocheting is similar to knitting as it consists of pulling loops of yarn through other loops. It differs from knitting in that only one loop is active at one time, and that a crochet hook is used instead of two needles.  If you’ve just decided that you’d like to learn to crochet, you probably have a lot of questions.  What kinds of materials do you need; how do you start to crochet; what kinds of things can you create, etc.  Luckily, this article can answer all those questions and teach you the most basic way to crochet.

First, you need to gather up your materials.  You will need: a crochet hook, some simple yarn and a good attitude (you’ll need a pattern later, but not until you’ve gotten the hang of it).  Since you might not be sure what kind of hook or yarn to buy, here are some suggestions. 

If you’ve been to the store yet, you’ll know that crochet hooks come in many types and sizes.  Steel crochet hooks range from 3.5 to 0.75 millimeters in the size of the hook, or from 00 to 14 in American sizing. These hooks are used for fine crochet work.  Aluminum or plastic crochet hooks are available from 2.5 to 19 millimeters in hook size, or from B to S in American sizing. Some of the more popular crochet hooks are made by Boye and Susan Bates.  There are many artisan-made hooks, too, most hand-turned of wood, sometimes decorated with semi-precious stones or beads.  These crochet hooks will all vary in prices, ranging from only a few dollars for aluminum or plastic hooks, to over twenty-five.  Since you’re just starting out, it’s probably best to get a fairly cheap aluminum or plastic hook. 

Next, you need to find some yarn.  There are five classifications of crochet yarn. They are: super fine (sock, baby and fingering yarn); fine (baby and sport yarn); light (light worsted and DK yarn); medium (worsted, afghan and Aran yarn); bulky (chunky, craft and rug yarn); or super bulky (roving and bulky yarn).  Each type has its own weight or thickness with roving and bulky yarn being the heaviest.  These types of yarn will also vary in prices, from only a few dollars a skein, to well over fifteen and even more.  Luckily, you can often find great sales on yarn that will bring the cost significantly lower.  Since you’re just starting out, you will want to start with a simple yarn like light or medium that isn’t too fine and isn’t too heavy. 

Now that you’ve got your basic supplies, here’s what you do next.  Make a slip-knot loop and place it on the end of your hook.  Pull another loop through the first loop.  Repeat this process until you have created a chain of loops on your hook.  When you’ve reached a length that you like, you can do one of following things: turn the chain the other way and attach more loops to the loops you already have on the hook; or join the row at the beginning with a slip stitch and create more stitches in a loop rather than a row.  You should only ever have one loop left on the hook.  Continue this process until you feel comfortable making rows.

Once you’ve figured out how to make rows, the rest is easy and comes with more practice.  Now that you’re an old pro, you can find patterns to make hats, sweaters, socks, mittens, bags, doll clothes, etc.  Patterns can be found online for free or for a price, or at your local handicraft store.  Good luck and have fun!

Knitting and crochet are popular hobbies throughout the United States and the world.  Many people find it relaxing and enjoyable.  It is also a productive hobby that allows people to unwind while also making something with their own hands.  And because it’s so popular, there are many options of color, style, and yarn type, it can be difficult to choose.  The color, type, and quality of the crochet thread or yarn that you use can make or break your creation so it is important to understand the types of crochet thread and their intended uses.  This article will hopefully help you understand how to choose your crochet yarn or thread. 

First, you should know that cotton crochet thread is the most popular and durable type of thread. It washes up easily without much shrinkage and is easy to work with. Synthetic threads on the other hand are pretty to look at but difficult to work with and need special precautions to clean.

Next, you need to determine the type of crochet thread you would like to work with.  There are five classifications of crochet thread. They are:
 1 or Super Fine (sock, baby and fingering yarn)
 2 or Fine (baby and sport yarn)
 3 or Light (light worsted and DK yarn)
 4 or Medium (worsted, afghan and Aran yarn)
 5 or Bulky (chunky, craft and rug yarn)
 6 or Super Bulky (roving and bulky yarn)
Each type has its own weight or thickness with fingering being the lightest. The term `ply’ on the label indicates the strands of thread that create the yarn for example two ply thread has two strands entwined and three ply has three strands entwined.

If you are new to crochet, it is advised to start off with beginner’s thread so you learn to crochet properly and don’t run into difficulty due to the type of thread you are trying to learn on. In general, the bigger the size of the thread, the better and easier it is to crochet with. So a crochet beginner should start with a large size thread, such as medium, bulky or super bulky yarn. When your skill has improved, then switch to finer types of thread.  Once you have mastered the steps of crochet, you can then advance to lighter weight threads. Your projects will appear more refined and skilled due to the intricate thread used.

It’s a good idea to always have some extra thread or yarn on hand for the project you’re working on.  You never know when something will happen or you misjudge the amount of thread you need and you find yourself out of thread before you complete the project.  If this occurs and you have to go find another skein of yarn or thread, you run the risk of not being able to match the color.  When buying colored thread you should always match the dye lot. Different dye lots will have slightly different color tones and it might be enough to ruin the final look of your piece.  Avoid that problem all together by buying an extra ball at the onset.

One thing that you should know is that the price of yarn and thread often reflect the quality.  It is tempting to want to save money on thread, but it can ruin your piece if you use the cheap stuff. The appearance will suffer and it will not hold up to wear and washing as well.  So just bite the bullet and buy good quality stuff. 

By following these tips you should be able to choose the appropriate yarn and end up with a beautifully crocheted piece.  Have fun! 

Knitting and crochet are popular hobbies throughout the United States and the world.  Many people find it relaxing and enjoyable.  It is also a productive hobby that allows people to unwind while also making something with their own hands.  But crocheting can also become expensive if you’re not careful about what you purchase.  Luckily, there are many options to help you keep your costs down.  This article will give you some tips on costs to expect if you crochet, and give you some ideas of how to keep them lower and some ideas about crochet in general.   

Crochet is a process of creating fabric from yarn or thread. The word is derived from the Middle French word croc or croche, meaning hook. Crocheting, similar to knitting, consists of pulling loops of yarn through other loops. Crochet differs from knitting in that only one loop is active at one time, and that a crochet hook is used instead of two needles.

Crocheted fabric is begun by placing a slip-knot loop on the hook, pulling another loop through the first loop, and repeating this process to create a chain of a suitable length. The chain is either turned and worked in rows, or joined to the beginning of the row with a slip stitch and worked in rounds. Rounds can also be created by working many stitches into a single loop. Stitches are made by pulling one or more loops through each loop of the chain. At any one time at the end of a stitch, there is only one loop left on the hook.

When you’re just starting out in your new hobby of crochet, there are a few things that you’ll need to buy right off the bat.  First, you’ll need some type of crochet hook.  Crochet hooks come in many types and sizes.  Steel crochet hooks range from 3.5 to 0.75 millimeters in the size of the hook, or from 00 to 14 in American sizing. These hooks are used for fine crochet work.  Aluminum or plastic crochet hooks are available from 2.5 to 19 millimeters in hook size, or from B to S in American sizing. Some of the more popular crochet hooks are made by Boye and Susan Bates.  There are many artisan-made hooks, too, most hand-turned of wood, sometimes decorated with semi-precious stones or beads.  These crochet hooks will all vary in prices, ranging from only a few dollars for the aluminum or plastic hooks, to over twenty-five. 

Next, you’ll need some yarn or thread to start off with.  There are five classifications of crochet thread. They are:

 1 or Super Fine (sock, baby and fingering yarn)
 2 or Fine (baby and sport yarn)
 3 or Light (light worsted and DK yarn)
 4 or Medium (worsted, afghan and Aran yarn)
 5 or Bulky (chunky, craft and rug yarn)
 6 or Super Bulky (roving and bulky yarn)

Each type has its own weight or thickness with fingering being the lightest. The term `ply’ on the label indicates the strands of thread that create the yarn for example two ply thread has two strands entwined and three ply has three strands entwined.  These types of yarn will also vary in prices, from only a few dollars a skein, to over fifteen.  Luckily, you can often find great sales on yarn that will bring the cost significantly lower.  

Finally, you will eventually need a pattern for whatever it is you want to make.  Patterns also vary in price.  They can be found online for free or purchased in your local handicraft store.  Be creative and look for ways to save money in crochet by finding free patterns, buying yarn on sale, and using a middle-grade crochet hook.