Crochet Resources

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Putting a knot in place so that your crochet does not unravel

The measurement of a specific number of stitches per row & rows per inch using a specific stitch, yarn & hook. 

It is essentially a reference swatch used to show stitch scale and desired tension within a particular project to help the crocheter achieve the correct sizing within their project.

How tight you make your stitches. 

Primarily tension is determined by how tightly you pull your working yarn, but it is also influenced by your hook size and your overall style of crocheting. Tension directly influences gauge

When working a crochet piece from side to side, you will need to work a turning chain each time you turn your work to start the next row. This turning chain ‘lifts’ the next row of crochet to the correct height before you start with the actual stitches for that row. 

Wrap the yarn from back to front over the hook

Used to group stitches. For example, (sc, dc) in the same stitch means you should work a single crochet and a double crochet into the specified stitch.

Repeat stitch pattern 

Think of a crochet pattern as a series of actions written in a simple code. You don’t need to memorize everything—you just need to understand how to read it step by step.

• Materials – Yarn, hook, tools
• Abbreviations – The “code” used
• Notes – Helpful tips
• Instructions – Step-by-step actions

👉 Focus on one section at a time.

• ch – chain
• sc – single crochet
• dc – double crochet
• sl st – slip stitch
• st(s) – stitch(es)

👉 Refer to "Common Crochet Abbreviations" above for a more complete list. Keep this nearby—no need to memorize.

Example: Ch 10, sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc across (9)

Translation:

• Chain 10
• Single crochet in 2nd chain from hook
• Continue single crochet across
• You will have 9 stitches total

👉 Parentheses = stitch count

• *... * = repeat sequence
• ( ) = repeat or stitch count

👉 Take repeats one step at a time.

“ch 1, turn” = chain, then flip your work

1. Read one step
2. Do the step
3. Pause and check

👉 Slow = confident

• Read pattern before starting
• Count stitches every row
• Mark your place as you go
• Rereading is normal

Materials: Any yarn + appropriate hook

Pattern:

• Row 1: Ch 11
• Row 2: Sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc across (10). Ch 1, turn
• Row 3–10: Sc in each st across (10). Ch 1, turn

What You’re Practicing:

• Reading abbreviations
• Following rows
• Counting stitches

👉 You should have a simple square when finished!

✨ You’re not reading words—you’re reading actions. ✨

Whether you’re just getting started or building on your skills, a few simple tips can make your crochet experience smoother, more enjoyable, and a lot less frustrating. These are the same tips I share with my students—because I’ve been there too!

Start simple and set yourself up for success. I always recommend beginning with a cotton yarn in a lighter color—it makes it so much easier to see and understand your stitches as you’re learning. Pair it with the recommended hook size on the label, but remember—comfort matters more than perfection. If your stitches feel tight or hard to work into, it’s absolutely okay to go up a hook size.

Also, how you hold your hook and yarn is completely personal. There’s no one “right” way to do it—what matters most is finding what feels comfortable and natural in your hands.

Your stitches don’t need to be perfect—they just need to be consistent. That’s what creates a clean, even fabric.

If your work feels stiff or hard to insert your hook into, try going up a hook size. If it feels too loose or floppy, try going down a size. Practicing on small swatches is a great way to build confidence before starting a full project.

One of the most helpful habits you can build early on is counting your stitches regularly. A quick count at the end of each row can save you a lot of frustration later.

It’s also helpful to use a stitch marker (or even a paperclip or yarn of another color!) to mark the first or last stitch of your row/round. This makes it much easier to stay on track and recognize where your row/round begins and ends.

If your edges are starting to slant or your project is getting wider or narrower, don’t worry—this is very common. It usually means a stitch was accidentally added or skipped at the beginning or end of a row.

Another common issue is missing the last stitch or accidentally working into the turning chain. Taking a moment to identify your stitches before starting the next row can make a big difference.

Before you begin a project, take a minute to read through the pattern. You don’t need to understand everything right away—just get a sense of what’s coming.

Look for repeated sections (often marked with asterisks *) and check if there’s a stitch count at the end of each row. When in doubt, take it one step at a time—patterns become much easier with practice.

A few simple tools can make a big difference:

• Stitch markers to keep your place 
• A yarn needle for weaving in ends 
• A piece of paper and pencil (or even a note on your phone) 

These small additions can help you stay organized and confident as you work.

Every crocheter—no matter their experience—has to undo stitches sometimes. It’s part of the process!

If something doesn’t look quite right, gently pull back your stitches and try again. Taking your time here helps protect your yarn and keeps things from getting tangled. Think of it as learning, not starting over.

Start with small, manageable projects that let you practice one new skill at a time. Bookmarks, scarves, and granny squares are all great options.

Finishing a project—even a simple one—builds confidence and helps you see your progress.

• Take photos of your work—you’ll be amazed at how much you improve 
• If you pause a project, leave your hook in or make a quick note about where you left off 
• Not all yarn feels the same, even in the same category—give yourself time to adjust

If you get stuck on a stitch or technique, I’ve created short, easy-to-follow videos to guide you step by step. You can find them throughout this page and on my Instagram and YouTube channel @JFPHandmadecrafts whenever you need a refresher.

Crochet is more than just yarn and a hook—it’s a craft with a rich history, global influence, and plenty of surprising details along the way. Whether you’re just getting started or already hooked (pun intended!), here are some fun facts to deepen your appreciation for this creative art form.

Crochet has been around for centuries, becoming especially popular in Europe during the 1800s. The word crochet comes from the French word meaning “hook,” which is exactly what we use to create every stitch.

• Crochet cannot be replicated by machines—every piece you make is truly handmade. 
• You only need one hook to crochet (unlike knitting, which uses two needles). 
• Crochet typically uses more yarn than knitting for the same project.

Crochet is practiced all over the world, and different regions even use different terminology. For example, US and UK stitch names don’t always match—which can be confusing at first, but also fun to learn! Crochet is used globally to create everything from clothing and accessories to home décor and intricate lacework.

Crochet isn’t just creative—it’s also calming. Many people find that crocheting helps reduce stress, improve focus, and create a sense of accomplishment. It’s a wonderful way to slow down while still making something beautiful and useful.

• The chain stitch is the foundation of most crochet projects. 
• Granny squares became especially popular in the 1970s and are still loved today. 
• Textured stitches like bobbles and puffs are designed to add dimension and personality to your work.

Crochet goes far beyond scarves and blankets. You’ll find it in:

• Amigurumi (crocheted stuffed toys, originally from Japan) 
• Fashion and runway design 
• Yarn bombing (crochet used as public art!) 
• Textured stitches like bobbles and puffs are designed to add dimension and personality to your work.

As you’re learning, remember: every stitch you make is part of a long tradition of handmade craft. The more you practice, the more these small details and fun facts will start to feel meaningful in your own work.