So, you’ve picked up a hook, grabbed some yarn, and thought “Right then… how hard can it be?”
Firstly – welcome to the crochet club! Secondly – if your first few attempts haven’t exactly gone to plan, you’re definitely not alone. I’ve taught hundreds of people to crochet over the years, and the same beginner crochet problems come up again and again.
The good news? Every one of these common crochet mistakes is totally fixable. Here’s how to get unstuck and enjoy learning to crochet…with fewer tears and more ta-dahs.
1. Common Crochet Mistakes: Using the Wrong Yarn and Hook
Let’s start with a big one. So many people grab a dark-coloured double knit yarn and a little 3mm hook when they first start. Understandable, but tricky.
Dark yarn makes it really hard to see what you’re doing, and tiny hooks don’t give you much room to move. You’ll likely end up squinting at your stitches and wondering why it’s all so fiddly.
Beginner tip:
Choose a bright or multicoloured chunky yarn and at least a 5mm hook. You’ll see what you’re doing and your hook will glide through the stitches. It’s a total game-changer, and one of the easiest fixes for beginner crochet problems.
If you’re not sure what to buy, my Learn to Crochet Kit has everything you need to get started…the right yarn, the right hook, and easy-to-follow instructions (no jargon in sight!).
2. Beginner Crochet Problems: Why Your First Stitches Don’t Look Right
You’ve watched the video, followed the steps, and given it a good go…but your crochet still looks a bit wiggly, wonky, or weird.
Sound familiar?
This is one of the most common crochet mistakes, and honestly, it’s completely normal. Crochet has a rhythm to it, and that rhythm takes time to build. Your hands need practice. Your brain needs patience. And your confidence needs a reminder that it doesn’t have to look perfect straight away.
In the beginning, focus on the feeling of crochet; the flow of the yarn, the gentle motion of the hook, and the sense that your hands are starting to understand what to do. That’s when the magic happens. Your stitches will catch up – I promise!
If you need a boost, my Confidence in Crochet workshop or video download is full of practical tips and gentle encouragement to help you keep going when your brain’s telling you to give up. Because you can do this…it just takes practice and support.
3. Crochet Tips for Beginners: How to Hold Yarn and Avoid Tight Tension
This is so common, especially if you’ve come from a knitting background. Lots of new crocheters think it needs to be just as tight, or they’re worried everything will fall apart if they loosen their grip.
But here’s the thing: crochet should feel smooth and fluid, not stiff and squeaky.
If you’ve been wondering how to hold yarn in crochet, I made a quick Instagram video showing you exactly how I do it — nothing fancy, just a real-life demo of what relaxed tension actually looks like.
There’s no one “correct” way; what matters is that your grip is relaxed and the yarn moves freely through your fingers. You should never be fighting against your hook – when the movement feels rhythmic and natural, your stitches will follow.
4. Crochet Help for Beginners: Why Starting Small Is the Smartest Move
“I want to learn to crochet and make a blanket by next week…”
We’ve all been there! But trying to jump straight into something like a granny square or a full cardigan before you’ve learned the basics can leave you feeling overwhelmed and discouraged.
When learning to crochet, start with something small, simple, and satisfying. You’ll feel so proud finishing your first project, and that boost of confidence will carry you forward.
If you need inspiration, check out this blog post: Beginner Crochet Projects You’ll Actually Finish. It’s full of achievable ideas that don’t take forever and still look fab when they’re done.
5. Crochet Confidence: Don’t Let Someone Else’s Comment Stop You
This is a big one. I’ve met so many lovely people who’ve said things like, “My gran tried to teach me once but said I was hopeless…”
It’s so disheartening, and sadly, those words often stick for years.
If that sounds familiar, please know this: you absolutely CAN crochet.
Maybe you just didn’t have the right teacher, or the right yarn, or the right approach at the time. But it’s never too late to try again, and the right support makes all the difference.
Our friendly Secret Crochet Club Facebook Group is a great place to share your progress, ask questions, and be reminded that you’re not alone. We’re a lovely bunch, and there’s always someone to cheer you on!
Want a bit of help getting started?
If you’ve experienced any of these beginner crochet problems, I’d love to help you through them.
I offer:
- 🧶 1-2-1 Learn to Crochet sessions – relaxed, friendly, and totally tailored to you
- 🎁 Beginner-friendly Learn to Crochet Kit – with everything you need and nothing that’ll confuse you
- 💬 Support, encouragement, and answers to all your “is this normal?!” questions
You’re not alone. These common crochet mistakes don’t mean you’re not bad at it, they just mean you’re learning. If you’re looking for crochet help for beginners, I’m here for you – with sessions, kits, and plenty of encouragement 💛
Read the next blog post – 5 Must have Crochet Tools for Beginners!