Beginner's Guide to Crochet - UK (2019-10)

BASIC TECHNIQUES

For every stitch you learn and practise, crochet up a square or

two, using different colours if you want to. Then sew them all

together to make a fab throw that will become a great reference

guide. Try using DK yarn, a 4mm hook and about 22 stitches to

make a 10cm (4in) square, or 33 stitches to make a slightly larger

15cm (6in) square. Make a foundation chain of 22 or 33 chains,

then the turning chain. Then work a double crochet stitch into

each of the 22 or 33 chains to the end. Turn,

make the turning chain and

work a double crochet into

every stitch to the end.

Repeat until you have a

square, then fasten off.

HIP TO BE SQUARE

O

nce you’ve learned to make chains,

you’ll be able to work some crochet

stitches into them. The double

crochet stitch (called single crochet in the

US) is usually the first stitch that crocheters

learn. It’s quick and easy, and there are plenty

of patterns that use nothing else.

The double crochet is a small, short stitch

that creates a dense fabric with almost no

gaps. The resulting fabric is usually quite

thick, firm and warm, so it’s a great stitch for

winter accessories. It’s also useful for items

that need a firm shape, such as amigurumi

toys and homewares. Try making small

squares for dishcloths or you can use larger

ones for cushions.

Crocheters often describe the specific

patterned effect created on the crochet

fabric as a ‘stitch pattern’. If you work rows of

double crochet stitches on every row, back

and forth, you’ll create a simple double

crochet stitch pattern.

Below left is an example of double crochet

stitches worked in one row. Repeat these

rows to create double crochet fabric, shown

below. You’ll see that the stitch pattern

creates rows of ‘v’ shapes. In rows, double

crochet fabric looks the same on the front

and the back, which can be useful. In rounds,

double crochet fabric gives a different effect

on each side. Whichever method you’re

using, a pattern should tell you which is the

right and wrong side.

Work through our guide to learn the double

crochet stitch and then have a go at our cute

frill project on page 39.

(^1) NEAT ROWS
Each double crochet stitch is
worked into each chain stitch,
creating a neat ‘v’ shape along
the side of the stitch and also a
‘v’ shape at the top of the stitch.
Double crochet is abbreviated
as ‘dc’ in patterns.
(^2) DENSE FABRIC
Double crochet fabric is firm,
dense, warm and has a lovely
drape. The small stitches sit
very close together and
create a fine texture.
Row
Fabric
DOUBLE CROCHET
FABRIC
This super-easy stitch forms a dense, sturdy fabric
DOUBLE CROCHET
FABRIC IDEAS
The dense fabric
created using
double crochet
stitches is ideal
for many items,
including stuffed
toys, unlined bags
and even cute
baby garments.