Crocheting is like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket on a rainy day—it’s comforting, calming, and once you get into the rhythm, absolutely addictive! But if you’re just starting out, it can feel a bit overwhelming. Trust me, I’ve been there, staring at that hook and yarn, wondering how on earth people make such beautiful things with just a few loops and stitches. It wasn’t easy at first, and there were moments when I wanted to give up. But I stuck with it because I knew the mental health benefits would be worth it.
And let me tell you, crochet has become such a rewarding part of my life, helping me manage stress and providing a much-needed creative outlet. That’s why I’m passionate about making it as easy as possible for you to pick up that hook and start your own crochet journey. In this post, I’ll walk you through the essentials—the basic supplies you’ll need, some recommended starter kits on Amazon, and a few beginner tips I’ve learned along the way to make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
If you’re curious about the mental health benefits of crochet, be sure to check out my article on how knitting and crocheting have positively impacted my well-being. It’s a great read if you’re looking for a new way to unwind and take care of your mind.
My Must-Have Crochet Supplies for Beginners
When I first started crocheting, I was surprised by how simple the supply list was. You don’t need much to get started, but having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what I’d recommend:
1. A Good Crochet Hook
There are tons of hooks out there, but for your first project, I’d suggest starting with a 5.0mm (H/8) hook. It’s a great size for beginners—big enough to see what you’re doing, but not so big that it’s clunky. Personally, I like the aluminum ones because they glide through the yarn smoothly.
2. Yarn That’s Easy to Work With
Yarn shopping can be a rabbit hole, but to keep things simple, go for a medium-weight yarn (often labeled as “worsted weight”) in a light, solid color. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later when you can actually see your stitches! Light colors are just easier on the eyes when you’re learning.
When picking out your yarn, it’s also important to check the label for the recommended hook size. Most yarn labels will include a small chart that shows the suggested hook size for that particular yarn. This is usually indicated by a crochet hook icon with a number next to it, which corresponds to the size of the hook (e.g., 5.0mm or H/8). Sticking to the recommended hook size ensures that your stitches come out with the right tension, making your project look as intended. It’s a helpful guide, especially when you’re just starting out and still getting the hang of things.
3. Sharp Little Scissors
You’ll need these to snip your yarn when you’re done with a project. I found that a small, sharp pair of scissors works best—they’re easy to carry around, and they make clean cuts without fraying the yarn.
4. A Yarn Needle (AKA Tapestry Needle)
This is for weaving in those pesky loose ends when you finish a project. It’s basically a big, blunt needle with a large eye that’s perfect for threading yarn. I thought this was optional at first—turns out, it’s a lifesaver.
5. Stitch Markers
I didn’t realize how helpful stitch markers were until I started working on more complex patterns. They’re a lifesaver for keeping track of your stitches, especially when you’re working in rounds or need to mark the beginning of a row. Honestly, I never thought I’d need them until I found out the hard way that counting stitches isn’t as easy as it seems—especially when you’re deep into a project. Most of the beginner kits I’ve linked below include stitch markers, and I think they’re totally worth it. They make the whole learning process smoother and way more enjoyable.
6. Measuring Tape
It’s always a good idea to measure as you go, especially if you’re making something that needs to fit, like a hat or a blanket. A soft, flexible tape measure is perfect for this.
Beginner Crochet Kit Comparisons
These kits are all-inclusive and should provide everything you need to go from beginner to intermediate work. I spent some time searching through Amazon to find some of the best-reviewed options out there. To help you pick the right one, I’ve compared a few popular choices that I think are definitely worth considering:
1. Woobles Crochet Kit
What’s Included: This kit is designed specifically for beginners and comes with everything you need to make a cute bunny. You get pre-started yarn, an ergonomic hook, a yarn needle, stuffing, safety eyes, and an easy-to-follow tutorial. The hook is made of durable plastic, which is lightweight and easy to handle for beginners. If Crochet is a bit more on the intimidating side, this is where I recommend you start.
Sizes: The kit is tailored for this specific project, so you’re working with the yarn and hook size that’s perfect for making the bunny.
Special Features: The yarn is pre-started, meaning the hardest part—getting that first stitch going—is already done for you. This is a fantastic feature for beginners who might be a bit nervous about starting.
Reviews: People love how beginner-friendly this kit is, especially the detailed instructions. The only downside noted is that once you finish the bunny, you don’t have materials left to continue practicing, but it’s a great confidence booster.
2. Mecheer Beginner Crochet Kit
What’s Included: This kit is closest to what I started with and includes 12 ergonomic crochet hooks, 9 yarn needles, 25 stitch markers, 6 sewing needles, 1 rowcounter, 1 yarn ring cutter, 1 scissor, a measuring tape, and a handy little storage bag. The hooks are aluminum with rubberized handles, making them comfortable to hold for extended periods.
Sizes: Hook sizes range from 2.0mm to 8.0mm, which covers a good variety of yarn weights you might want to experiment with as a beginner.
Special Features: The ergonomic handles on these hooks are great if you have any issues with hand pain or if you just want a more comfortable grip. The storage bag is also a nice touch, keeping everything organized.
Reviews: This kit gets high marks for being comprehensive and well-organized. Users appreciate the comfort of the ergonomic handles, though some mention that the rubber handles can wear down over time with heavy use. The variety of tools makes this kit versatile, allowing you to try out different projects without needing anything extra.
3. Steel Crochet Hooks Set
What’s Included: This set includes a wide range of steel hooks from 0.6mm to 6.5mm, perfect if you’re interested in trying different types of crochet, including lace work. The hooks come in a simple case, and the set also includes stitch markers, a yarn snipper and a measuring tape.
Sizes: This set covers a wide range of sizes, making it versatile for various projects. The smaller hooks are particularly useful if you want to try more intricate designs.
Special Features: The steel hooks are very durable and glide easily through yarn, which is especially helpful for detailed work.
Reviews: Reviewers love the range of sizes, though some mention that the case could be sturdier. The set is praised for being budget-friendly while offering everything you need to experiment with different types of crochet.
4. Mayboos 72 pc Ergonomic Crochet Hook Set
What’s Included: This set offers a large variety of hook sizes, from 2.0mm to 6.0mm, with ergonomic handles that are great for long sessions. They also included aluminum hooks in a wide range of sizes. The set also includes large-eye blunt needles, stitch markers, and a carrying case.
Sizes: The hooks come in a wide range of sizes, making this set very versatile for different projects.
Special Features: The ergonomic handles are a major plus, reducing hand strain. The carrying case keeps everything neat and easy to transport.
Reviews: Users love the comfort of the ergonomic handles, especially for larger projects. Some note that the plastic material of the handles might not be as durable as metal, but overall, it’s a popular choice for those seeking comfort and variety.
5. The Yarniss Complete Ergonomic Crochet Hook Set
What’s Included: This set includes a complete range of hook sizes, from 0.5mm to 10mm, plus ergonomic handles, stitch markers, scissors, measuring tape, and a case.
Sizes: With sizes from 0.5mm to 10mm, this set covers everything from delicate lace to chunky yarn projects.
Special Features: The ergonomic handles and the wide range of sizes make this set ideal for someone looking to explore different types of crochet. The fact that this one has ergonomic handles on some of the smaller sizes can give this set a real advantage.
Reviews: The comprehensive nature of this set is a big hit with users, who appreciate the variety of hook sizes. The ergonomic handles are again praised for comfort, though some users mention that the handles might feel a bit bulky on the smaller hooks.
Top 5 Tips for Beginning Your Crochet Journey
Starting to crochet can be both exciting and a little overwhelming, but with the right approach, you’ll find yourself hooked in no time. Here are my top five tips to help you get started on the right foot:
1. Start with Simple Projects
It’s tempting to dive straight into those beautiful, complex patterns you see online, but starting with something simple like a scarf or dishcloth will help you master the basics without getting frustrated. These projects usually involve basic stitches and allow you to focus on getting your tension and technique just right.
2. Choose the Right Yarn and Hook
As a beginner, opt for a medium-weight yarn (often labeled as “worsted weight”) in a light, solid color. Light colors make it easier to see your stitches, and medium weight is easier to work with. Pair it with a 5.0mm (H/8) hook, which is a great size for beginners—big enough to handle comfortably, but not so large that your stitches get too loose.
3. Learn the Basic Stitches First
Before tackling a full project, spend some time practicing the basic stitches: chain, single crochet, and double crochet. These are the foundation of most crochet patterns, and once you’re comfortable with them, you’ll be ready to move on to more complex designs. YouTube tutorials can be incredibly helpful for visual learners.
4. Practice Consistency
One of the biggest challenges for beginners is maintaining consistent tension throughout your work. Don’t worry if your first few projects have uneven stitches—this is completely normal! With practice, your tension will become more consistent, and your projects will start to look more uniform.
5. Don’t Be Afraid to Make Mistakes
Crochet is a learning process, and mistakes are a natural part of it. If you mess up a stitch or realize your work isn’t turning out as expected, it’s okay to pull it out and start over. Every mistake is an opportunity to learn and improve. Remember, even the most experienced crocheters have had to start over more times than they can count!
Starting to crochet is a journey, and the most important thing is to enjoy the process. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating beautiful handmade pieces in no time. Happy crocheting!
Wrapping Up
Crochet is one of those crafts that’s both soothing and satisfying. With just a few supplies and some practice, you’ll be well on your way to creating beautiful pieces. Start with the basics, take it one step at a time, and most importantly, enjoy the process.
I earn from qualifying Amazon purchases at no additional cost to you!
Thanks for stopping by!
Cas Lin
Small Possibilities
Leave a Reply