As detailed in my previous post, I am comfortable that I have all the supplies required to learn to crochet. Well, perhaps not the coordination, but we will see how that goes. As much as I want to jump in and start making those cute little critters just waiting to be created, I know I need to approach this learning project with intention and patience.
I decided to start with a very simple crochet project – a dishcloth.
So now to look for some online resources. I am committed to using many different sources of instruction. I was happy to find an open education resource from BCCampus, my go-to site for open textbooks. BCCampus uses open technologies to remove the cost of textbooks as a barrier to secondary education. This Introduction to crochet open textbook even contains some review questions for the very beginner.
I joined a publc Facebook group call Crochet Tutorial & Patterns. I have to admit I was drawn to this one by the beautiful colours in the cover photo. Definitely some inspiration there.
I also joined a private Facebook group called The Crochet’dy Bunch With Sigoni Macaroni.
Instagram—I tried to find some tutorials or how-to videos on Instagram, and to be honest, I became discouraged. The fast pace and short video format are not useful to me at this point. I do see going back to Instagram if there is a particular stitch or small task that I need to learn or reinforce. For now, I think YouTube is my friend.
TikTok – these short videos were much more helpful than Instagram. I was surprised that there was such a different. Reflecting on what was different in my experience, the videos I found on TikTok were more engaging and specific. The videos I found on Instagram seem more promotional and show-casing. While beautiful, they did not meet my current needs.
YouTube – Not surprisingly, this is a gold mine of how to videos for newbie crochet learners. Very quickly I was able to find dozens of videos that appear to be very helpful. Such as How to Crochet for Absolute Beginners, How To Crochet | VERY SLOW DEMONSTRATION | Single Crochet Stitch and The 3 BEST Ways To Hold Crochet Yarn for Absolute Beginners + TENSION Tips.
Off to grab the yarn!
What a fun project! I really hope you get to the critters – I always love how cute those turn out! It also amazes me to see how fast people get at crocheting and the projects they develop. Have you started yet? I am excited to see your cloth once its finished!