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Easy Crochet Patterns for Beginners
Looking for crochet patterns for beginners with step-by-step instructions? We’ve got you covered with this collection of projects using simple stitches and basic techniques.
Crochet is a lot of fun and it’s easy to get started because you don’t need a lot of supplies or knowledge to get started. The most important thing is just to pick a project and begin!
If you are a beginner crocheter or just starting out I think you would learn a lot from my Crochet Fundamentals course. I teach you everything you need to know to perfect your crochet skills and techniques and learn those little things that you might feel like you are missing. Check out my entire video course here.
Table of Contents
What is the First Thing a Beginner Should Crochet?
When you’re new to crochet, you’ll want to get the hang of repeating a pattern row by row while maintaining the tension in your working yarn, meaning that your stitches are consistently the same size, not too loose or too tight.
Rectangular pieces like scarves, dishcloths, and baby blankets are great first projects that you can work on even if you only know the basic stitches.
If you want to practice working in the round, then coasters, granny square projects, and hats should also be on your to-be-crocheted list.
I teach you these techniques in my 72 video classes in my Crochet & Knit Essential Skills course. What could be better than learning some crocheting tips and tricks with my amazing instructors? Come crochet along with us free for 2 days!
How to Crochet for Beginners Step By Step
Step 1: Find the Right Pattern for Your Skill Level
When you’re new to crochet, it isn’t practical to jump right into a complex pattern that involves multiple types of stitches, shaping, and a lot of sewing. It’ll only leave you frustrated and confused and won’t leave you with any motivation to keep crocheting.
Beginners should read a pattern they want to work on thoroughly and completely to find out if it matches their skill level. There should be comprehensive instructions, clear pictures, and plenty of tips to guide you in the pattern and/or accompanying blog post.
A beginner-friendly pattern uses basic crochet stitches like chains, single crochet, half double crochet, and double crochet stitches. Typically for your first project, you will want a pattern that uses only one stitch consistently without any shaping, but you can also practice any stitches called for in the pattern before you start and work with whatever you feel comfortable with.
Need step-by-step tutorials walking you through these basic stitches? These are all included in my Ultimate Crochet Stitch Library where I teach you 45 Crochet Stitches. Each video is less than 15 mins so you can learn and practice them all. I am giving access to my community free for 2 days.
Many patterns will use the word beginner or easy in the pattern name, which makes it easier to find simple patterns. But keep in mind that what an experienced crocheter finds easy and what a beginner finds easy might not be the same, so be sure to read through the pattern first to make sure you know how to do what it asks.
Step 2: Pick the Right Yarn
Yarn comes in different weights depending on how thick it is. The pattern will tell you the weight of yarn to use, as well as what kind of yarn the designer used. You can purchase the same yarn if it’s available, or choose a yarn in the same weight category the pattern called for.
For beginners, a good quality worsted/medium-weight yarn is tough to beat. Most beginner-level patterns are worked with this kind of yarn since the stitches and texture are easy to see and the yarn is comfortable to handle.
Knit Picks Brava Worsted, Lily Sugar‘n Cream, and Lion Brand Vanna’s Choice are all great worsted-weight1 yarn options, but whatever you have on hand or can easily buy locally is a great choice to start with.
Step 3: Choose What Crochet Hook to Use
Crochet hooks, like yarn, come in a range of sizes. Hooks can be measured by diameter in millimeters, though they also sometimes have letter or number markings that correspond to their size.
The pattern you’re working will tell you the size of crochet hook you should use. If you are just practicing, you can consult the label of the yarn you want to use for the correct hook size.
While you can buy a single hook or two for your first couple of projects, having a full set of crochet hooks is a great investment if you plan on exploring different patterns as you continue your crochet journey. Our favorite has got to be the Clover Amour set because they are both ergonomic and affordable!
Step 4: Prepare Your Notions and Tools
The preparation doesn’t stop there, however! The following are some of the most common tools that a beginner crochet pattern might require:
Crochet Patterns You Can Make With Only Single Crochet Stitches
Listed below are five free crochet patterns that you can make using just the single crochet (sc) stitch. It’s as easy as it gets!
Single Crochet Square Face Scrubbie Pattern
Designer: Cream of the Crop Crochet
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Premier Yarns Premier Home Cotton
This quick and easy pattern will have you making a dozen of these square face scrubbies. Test out your favorite worsted-weight cotton yarns in different colors to make a quick gift set!
Get the Single Crochet Square Face Scrubbie Pattern
Basic Crochet Scarf Pattern
Designer: The Spruce Crafts
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Premier Yarns Premier Anti-Pilling Everyday Worsted
It doesn’t get any easier than this! Crochet your very own, seven-foot long (or however long you want it to be!) basic scarf with only single crochets with this comprehensive and easy-to-understand pattern.
Simple Texture Pillow Pattern
Designer: This Pixie Creates
Yarn weight: (6) Super bulky
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick & Quick
Make your own crochet pillows using just the single crochet stitch! By working your stitches in the back loops only, you can create a gorgeous texture that’ll make your design pop!
Sea Soft Crochet Baby Blanket Pattern
Designer: Easy Crochet
Yarn weight: (6) Super bulky
Suggested yarn: Bernat Baby Blanket
Rectangular projects are a great way to hone your crocheting skills, especially as a beginner. This soft and comfy baby blanket is made entirely of single crochets to create a dense fabric that a little one’s fingers and toes won’t poke through.
Simple Single Crochet Hat Pattern
Designer: Oombawka Design Crochet
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Red Heart With Love
This pattern includes sizing from preemies to adults. It’s a great way to practice working your single crochets in continuous rounds and will make a great gift you can make even as a beginner!
Crochet Patterns You Can Make With Half Double Crochets
Here are five free crochet patterns for beginners that you can make using just the half double crochet (hdc) stitch.
Crochet Modern Beginner Blanket Pattern
Designer: Daisy Farm Crafts
Yarn weight: (5) Bulky
Suggested yarn: Bernat Softee Baby Chunky
Crochet your very first blanket using only half double crochets! Experiment with the size of your crochet hook to find the right drape for your blanket.
Crochet Bucket Hat Pattern
Designer: Crochet Patterns Free
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Patons Classic Wool Worsted
Make your very own ‘90s style bucket hat using only half double crochets! Customize the fit or crochet it in your favorite color– this will definitely be a favorite pattern for any beginner!
Cute and Easy Crocheted Boot Cuffs Pattern
Designer: Skip to My Lou
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Patons Classic Wool Worsted
Add a touch of fun to your outfit with these cute crocheted boot cuffs! They work up quickly and you can make several pairs in different colors to go with all your cold weather outfits.
Beginner Hair Scrunchie Pattern
Designer: You Should Craft
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted
Put your half double crochet skills to work with these adorable scrunchies! These accessories are crocheted in continuous rounds around a hair elastic.
Simple Crochet Dreamy Scarf Pattern
Designer: Daisy Farm Crafts
Yarn weight: (5) Bulky
Suggested yarn: Red Heart Dreamy
Using a modified version of the half double crochet, you can create a soft and beautiful scarf. The pattern works up fairly quickly and features a nice, simple ribbed texture.
Crochet Patterns You Can Make With Only Double Crochets
Ready to work some double crochets? These patterns worked in dc stitches are great for beginners, or anyone looking to finish a project quickly.
Double Crochet Beret Pattern
Designer: Delia Creates
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Patons Classic Wool
This gorgeous beret is a great weekend project for beginners! It’s worked up using only double crochets in joined rounds.
Beginner Crochet Ear Warmer Pattern
Designer: Winding Road Crochet
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Red Heart Super Saver
These cute and easy ear warmers are the perfect thing to work on for beginners. They’re made by crocheting a little rectangle and sewing the short ends together.
Easy Double Crochet Blanket Pattern
Designer: Easy Crochet
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand Pound of Love
Make the easiest crochet blanket in any size you want! It’s worked up using double crochets and you can use any color you want for the stripes to truly make it your own!
Double Crochet All the Way Shawl Pattern
Designer: Wilmade
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Suggested yarn: Caron Cakes
This stunning shawl is made in a basic triangle shape with increases in the first, last, and center stitches to form the shape. The designer adds a fringe detail but the choice is yours.
Easy Fingerless Gloves Pattern
Designer: You Should Craft
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted
Crochet these fingerless gloves in any size for a quick gift for friends and family! They work up quickly with only double crochet and chain stitches.
Feel like you need to brush up on the basics? Our Crochet Fundamentals class is a great jumping off point for beginners who want to polish their crochet skills before moving forward to more complex patterns. Join the class today!
Patterns for One-Day Crochet Projects
Crochet Coffee Cozy Pattern
Designer: Nana’s Crafty Home
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Hayfield Bonus Aran
Looking for a quick beginner project? This coffee cozy is an adorable way to hone your crochet skills while keeping your drink warm.
Basket Weave Stitch Washcloth Pattern
Designer: Meg Made With Love
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lily Sugar’n Cream
Create a set of crochet washcloths that stand out using this easy to understand pattern. The basket weave stitch is a great introduction to working post stitches and adding texture to your projects.
Crochet Lavender Bags Pattern
Designer: Ned and Mimi
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton DK
Whether it’s a party favor or an aromatic addition to your home, these lavender bags are a great crochet project to work on for beginners. Switch up the scents or match the colors to your bathroom for that Pinterest aesthetic!
Crochet Rose Pattern
Designer: Naztazia
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton DK
Crochet flowers are great beginner projects that you can also use to add visual interest to your other projects. Decorate your hats, shawls, bags, and more with these crocheted roses!
Grapefruit Coaster Crochet Pattern
Designer: Make and Takes
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lily Sugar‘n Cream
These decorative coasters are a great addition for your coffee table and make great gifts! They’re worked up in joined rounds of three different colors for that distinctive grapefruit look!
Looking for more quick and easy patterns that you can accomplish in a day or over the weekend? Check out our Done in a Day pattern bundle!
Beginner-Friendly Wearable Crochet Patterns
If you’re ready to try your hand and your hook at a garment project, these crochet patterns for beginners step by step get you there! From hats to cardigans and tops, we’ve got you covered with ease.
Beginner Crochet Crop Top Pattern
Designer: For the Frills
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Suggested yarn: Drops Merino Extra Fine
Crochet this simple camisole with just half double crochets! The garment works up pretty quickly and can be customized to fit any size or body type.
Beginner Crochet Cardigan Pattern
Designer: Jewels and Jones
Yarn weight: (2) Sport
Suggested yarn: Knit Picks Heatherly Sport
Crocheting yourself a cardigan is a huge act of self-love! This oversized basic works up quickly and adds a casual touch to any of your fave outfits!
Easy Children’s Crochet Hat Pattern
Designer: Rich Textures Crochet
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Knit Picks Comfy Worsted
Take the stress out of crocheting beanies with this comprehensive pattern! Make a crochet hat for the little humans in your life because the pattern comes in sizes from preemie to child size!
Done in a Day Quick Shrug Crochet Pattern
Designer: Mama in a Stitch
Yarn weight: (5) Bulky
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand Scarfie
There’s nothing like a handmade cozy shrug to snuggle up in on a chilly night. With the double crochet stitches used, you can crochet this quick shrug for you or for a friend in no time!
Art Class Cardi Pattern
Designer: Fiber Flux Blog
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Suggested yarn: Premier Yarns Bloom DK
Granny squares and hexagons are some of the first crochet motifs that beginners learn. Take the granny hexagon to the next level with this pretty, easy scrap-busting cardi!
Crochet Accessories Patterns for Beginners
Bring crochet into your everyday life with these easy crochet patterns for bags, hair accessories, and more.
Shoreline Seeker Tote Pattern
Designer: The Loopy Lamb
Yarn weight: (5) Bulky
Suggested yarn: Bernat Maker Home Dec
This mesh tote is the perfect summer accessory! It’s worked up using half double crochets and chain stitches in a long rectangle with the edges seamed.
Easy Crochet Ear Warmer Pattern
Designer: The Spruce Crafts
Yarn weight: (5) Bulky
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand Hue + Me
These crochet headbands are worked width-wise in one long piece which make for great, quick gifts! They are made with simple stitches and are perfect for someone learning how to crochet in the round.
Beginner Crochet Chapstick Keychain Wristlet Pattern
Designer: Crochet It Creations
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Premier Yarn Premier Anti-Pilling Everyday Worsted
Worked up with only single crochet and chain stitches, this unique crochet project is perfect even for beginners. It’s a cute way to secure your favorite chapstick on the go, and add a pop of color to your keys at the same time!
Crochet Heart Bracelet Pattern
Designer: Happy Berry
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton DK
This cute bracelet is perfect for the little kids in your life! Each heart is worked into a magic circle and when sewn together, make for adorable friendship bracelets!
Crochet Hair Scrunchies Pattern
Designer: Happy Berry
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton DK
Elevate your elastics and hair bands with crochet! This quick and easy pattern will have you making scrunchies by the dozen in no time!
Simple Crochet Appliqué Patterns
Applique crochet projects are fun to make and stitch on to other projects, or larger ones can be used as washcloths or scrubbies. Check out these easy patterns and see what you can embellish!
Crochet Pineapple Appliqué Pattern
Designer: Easy Crochet
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lily Sugar‘n Cream
Appliqués are a great way to create beautiful flat pieces that you can use to decorate your other projects. This pineapple appliqué is easily made with just single crochets. You can even make a bigger one to use as a coaster for all those summer drinks!
Lavender Crochet Appliqué Pattern
Designer: Golden Lucy Crafts
Yarn weight: Cotton Thread Size 10
Suggested yarn: Aunt Lydia’s Classic 10
Flowers are great options for appliqués because of their delicate appearance. You can add these crochet lavenders to your totes or use them for scrapbooking!
Pansy Flower Crochet Pattern
Designer: Yarn and Chai
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted
This pansy flower appliqué is an exercise in switching colors and paying attention to details. You can add small embellishments to the center of the flower like beads and embroidery to make it pop.
Crochet Strawberry Appliqué Pattern
Designer: Raffamusa Designs
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton DK
Strawberries are always a favorite in the crochet world and these appliqués are no different! They’re super fun to make and are great additions to cardigans, baby blankets, and more!
Crochet Fern Leaf Appliqué Pattern
Designer: Attic 24
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton DK
These crocheted fern leaves would make a great wreath if you put a bunch of them together, or they make great bookmarks on their own. They’re made with just chain and slip stitches so you can make a handful in just one sitting
Easy Amigurumi Patterns
Lots of people get into crochet because they want to make little toys and animals. The good news is, amigurumi projects are great for beginners, because they use basic stitches. As long as you know how to work in the round (or are ready to learn) these sweet projects are totally accessible for you.
Little Pumpkin Crochet Pattern
Designer: Petals to Picots
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted
These adorable crochet pumpkins work up pretty quickly so you can make a whole patch to decorate your home for the fall!
Amigurumi Crochet Whale Pattern
Designer: Hooked by Robin
Yarn weight: (6) Super bulky
Suggested yarn: Premier Yarns Premier Anti-Pilling Bulky
Whales are such a fun beginner amigurumi project! This one is worked in the round with the fins and tail attached at the end.
Howl The Littlest Ghost Pattern
Designer: Cafe del Craft
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Hayfield Bonus Aran
Halloween or not, this teeny tiny ghost makes for a cute keychain or charm that you’ll fall in love with! It works up quickly with only 16 joined rounds.
Jumbo the Bee Crochet Pattern
Designer: Curious Papaya
Yarn weight: (7) Jumbo
Suggested yarn: Loops & Threads Sweet Snuggles
This adorable, huggable amigurumi bee is a great pattern to work on for beginners! Practice working in the round and switching colors and you’ll find yourself with a jumbo bee in no time!
Dumpling Kitty Pattern
Designer: Sarah Sloyer, via Ravelry
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand Vanna’s Choice
If you’re still wondering what your first crochet amigurumi project should be, these dumpling kitties are your answer! The pattern makes a little cat that’s around 4 inches tall and sits nicely wherever you put it!
Want to Learn More about Crocheting Amigurumi?
There’s a whole big world of amigurumi crochet out there, and it’s a great niche in crochet that lots of people love. Whether you have kids who love stuffed animals, want to make toys for friends, or are looking for a charity project, making an amigurumi is a great option.
Our Amigurumi workshop teaches everything you need to know to get started in this fun craft, from basic stitches and techniques to learning patterns you can easily modify to make your own cuddly creatures.
Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
As an expert and enthusiast, I have access to a vast amount of information on various topics, including crochet patterns for beginners. I can provide you with information on the concepts mentioned in this article. Here's what I found:
Crochet Patterns for Beginners:
Crochet is a fun and accessible craft that doesn't require a lot of supplies or prior knowledge to get started. This article offers a collection of easy crochet patterns for beginners, using simple stitches and basic techniques. It covers a wide range of projects, including scarves, hats, blankets, accessories, amigurumi, and more.
First Thing a Beginner Should Crochet:
When you're new to crochet, it's recommended to start with simple projects that allow you to practice repeating pattern rows while maintaining consistent tension in your stitches. Rectangular pieces like scarves, dishcloths, and baby blankets are great first projects that can be worked on using basic stitches. Additionally, working in the round with projects like coasters, granny squares, and hats can also be beneficial for beginners.
How to Crochet for Beginners Step By Step:
The article provides a step-by-step guide for beginners to get started with crochet. Here are the key steps mentioned:
Step 1: Find the Right Pattern for Your Skill Level
- It's important for beginners to choose patterns that match their skill level and provide comprehensive instructions, clear pictures, and helpful tips.
- Beginner-friendly patterns typically use basic crochet stitches like chains, single crochet, half double crochet, and double crochet stitches.
- It's recommended to start with patterns that use only one stitch consistently without any shaping, but you can also practice other stitches called for in the pattern before starting.
Step 2: Pick the Right Yarn
- Yarn comes in different weights, and the pattern will specify the weight of yarn to use.
- For beginners, a good quality worsted/medium-weight yarn is often recommended, as it is easy to work with and the stitches are easy to see.
- Some suggested yarn options for beginners include Knit Picks Brava Worsted, Lily Sugar'n Cream, and Lion Brand Vanna's Choice.
Step 3: Choose What Crochet Hook to Use
- Crochet hooks come in different sizes, which are measured by diameter in millimeters.
- The pattern will indicate the size of crochet hook to use, and you can consult the label of the yarn for the correct hook size.
- It's beneficial to have a full set of crochet hooks if you plan on exploring different patterns in the future.
Step 4: Prepare Your Notions and Tools
- In addition to yarn and crochet hooks, there are several common tools that a beginner crochet pattern might require, such as scissors, tapestry needles, stitch markers, and a tape measure.
Crochet Patterns You Can Make With Only Single Crochet Stitches:
The article provides a list of crochet patterns that can be made using only the single crochet (sc) stitch. Some examples include a square face scrubbie, a basic scarf, a texture pillow, a baby blanket, and a simple hat. These patterns are great for beginners to practice and master the single crochet stitch.
Crochet Patterns You Can Make With Half Double Crochets:
The article also includes a list of crochet patterns that can be made using only the half double crochet (hdc) stitch. Some examples include a modern beginner blanket, a bucket hat, crocheted boot cuffs, a dreamy scarf, and more. These patterns are suitable for beginners who want to explore the half double crochet stitch.
Crochet Patterns You Can Make With Only Double Crochets:
The article provides a list of crochet patterns that can be made using only the double crochet (dc) stitch. Some examples include a beret, an ear warmer, a blanket, a shawl, and fingerless gloves. These patterns are great for beginners who want to practice and create projects using the double crochet stitch.
Patterns for One-Day Crochet Projects:
For those looking for quick and easy crochet projects that can be completed in a day, the article offers patterns such as a coffee cozy, a basket weave stitch washcloth, lavender bags, a crochet rose, and a grapefruit coaster. These patterns are beginner-friendly and perfect for those who want to create small projects in a short amount of time.
Beginner-Friendly Wearable Crochet Patterns:
The article includes wearable crochet patterns suitable for beginners. Some examples are a crochet crop top, a crochet cardigan, a children's hat, a quick shrug, and an art class cardi. These patterns allow beginners to create garments and accessories with ease.
Crochet Accessories Patterns for Beginners:
The article provides crochet patterns for various accessories that beginners can make. Some examples include a shoreline seeker tote, an easy crochet ear warmer, a chapstick keychain wristlet, a heart bracelet, and crochet hair scrunchies. These patterns are beginner-friendly and can add a touch of crochet to everyday life.
Simple Crochet Appliqué Patterns:
The article offers simple crochet appliqué patterns that beginners can make. Some examples include a pineapple appliqué, a lavender appliqué, a pansy flower, a strawberry appliqué, and a fern leaf appliqué. These appliqués can be used to decorate other projects or used as standalone items.
Easy Amigurumi Patterns:
For those interested in making amigurumi (crocheted stuffed toys), the article provides easy amigurumi patterns suitable for beginners. Some examples include a little pumpkin, a crochet whale, a little ghost, a jumbo bee, and dumpling kitties. These patterns are great for beginners who want to try their hand at making cute and cuddly toys.
I hope this information helps you understand the concepts mentioned in the article. If you have any specific questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!
