Your First Crochet Projects
Once you have practiced your chains and basic stitches on scrap yarn, it is time to make something real! The best beginner projects are small, use simple stitches, and work up quickly so you get the satisfaction of a finished object.
1. Dishcloths and Washcloths
Dishcloths are the ultimate beginner project. They are just small squares! You can practice making a square entirely out of single crochets, and then make another one using double crochets. Always use 100% cotton yarn for dishcloths, as it absorbs water and handles heat well.
2. Simple Scarves
A scarf is basically just a very, very long dishcloth. Using a bulky (weight 5) or super bulky (weight 6) yarn with a large hook means you can finish a cozy scarf in just a few hours. It is great practice for keeping your edges straight.
3. Coasters
If you want to learn how to crochet “in the round” (making circles instead of rows), coasters are the perfect starting point. They are tiny and fast, making them great for practicing the “magic ring” technique.
4. The Classic Granny Square
The granny square is an iconic crochet motif. It uses clusters of double crochets worked in rounds. Once you learn how to make one granny square, you can make dozens of them and sew them together into a massive, colorful retro blanket!
Browse our pattern library and filter by “Beginner” to find hundreds of free, step-by-step tutorials to get started!