Crochet 101 - Materials
Before you can crochet anything you need to have the right matierals. This, first & foremost, is going to be at least one hook & some yarn. There are a few more things I would suggest getting your hands on to make the hooking a little easier. Let's get started...
Hooks
Hooks. Gotta have 'em...at least one anyway. They can be bought individually or in sets. They come in various sizes from "Big Blue" (can you guess which one that is?) to too small for eyes to even bother with. Some come with grips or handles; some even light up. They come in metal, plastic & wood. You can find them at Hobby Lobby, Michael's, JoAnn's, even Wal-Mart. (Remeber to use that 40% off coupon if you buy at one of the craft stores.) I prefer Boye brand hooks in aluminum. They have a smoother hook and "pointier" end. But that's me. Everyone has different likes & dislikes. Get out there & find yours! If you're not sure what size to start with I would suggest either an H or I hook...probably both.
Tapestry Needles
I didn't really see the need for these until just a few months ago. Some use them for weaving in their ends. I personally find it easier to just use a much smaller hook. However, They are VERY handy when sewing flowers together or placing flowers or large buttons on a project. They are made by different folks, usually either in plastic or metal. I first only had the plastic needle. It is good for getting into those tight places because it bends a little when needed. The metal needle, obviously more durable, is excellent at digging through thick yarn. Don't be fooled by their blunt ends either...they'll still stick ya'! These are also available in the craft store & your local Wal-Mart.
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Place Markers
Place markers, in my opinion are a must. In my crochet, they are multi-purposed. Yes, they hold my place, especially when working on a hat. I also use them if I have to put down a project for a while. I simply put one in the last stitch I made & it keeps my project from unraveling. Tada! You'll find different varieties and sizes, mostly plastic. I found these at Michael's. They are made by Boye, come in a cute little carrying case, close completely, & are made of flexible plastic. I always prefer the place markers that close all the way, especially if I have to walk away from a project. Just sayin'.
Scissors
Scissors. We've been using them since Kindergarten. You need 'em. I'm assuming you can figure out where to find them.
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Yarn
Now that you've gotten your materials gathered. Let's talk about yarn.
The yarn aisle at your local craft store can be an intimidating place, especially when you don't have a clue what you're looking for. I will tell you, starting out, it's best to stay clear of yarns that are too fuzzy, frilly, or thick. Once you find your groove, then I would start experimenting with different types of yarn.
My all time absolute favorite yarn to work with is "I Love This Yarn!". Yes, that really is the name of the yarn. It is soft, strong, just thick enough, comes in a rainbow of colors, doesn't fray too easily. "I Love This Yarn!" is readily available at Hobby Lobby for under $4.00 a skein. This yarn is also put on sale every 3-4 weeks.
If you do not have a Hobby Lobby near you, some other good yarn choices are Caron Soft, Red Heart Soft, & Lion Brand Vanna's Choice yarns. I have used all of these with great success.
The yarn aisle at your local craft store can be an intimidating place, especially when you don't have a clue what you're looking for. I will tell you, starting out, it's best to stay clear of yarns that are too fuzzy, frilly, or thick. Once you find your groove, then I would start experimenting with different types of yarn.
My all time absolute favorite yarn to work with is "I Love This Yarn!". Yes, that really is the name of the yarn. It is soft, strong, just thick enough, comes in a rainbow of colors, doesn't fray too easily. "I Love This Yarn!" is readily available at Hobby Lobby for under $4.00 a skein. This yarn is also put on sale every 3-4 weeks.
If you do not have a Hobby Lobby near you, some other good yarn choices are Caron Soft, Red Heart Soft, & Lion Brand Vanna's Choice yarns. I have used all of these with great success.
