Introduction to Crochet Projects
Learning to crochet is a lot of fun and there are so many different fun crochet projects for beginners you can try out, from blankets to hats, toys to sweaters, and beyond.
But for people new to crochet, it can be hard to find the best crochet projects for beginners. It's hard to know what projects are right for you in terms of skill level and is easy and quick to complete so you can get a confidence boost right away.
That's why we've collected this list of 35 fun and easy crochet projects for beginners that's also full of tips to get you started.
Before you get started on these fun patterns check out my Crochet Fundamentals course where I teach you everything you need to know as a beginner to hit the ground running on these patterns. Check the class out here and learn to crochet in just 2 days.
Why Choose to Crochet?
Crochet is one of the most beginner-friendly yarn crafts. When you learn how to crochet you only need a crochet hook and yarn, unlike other yarn crafts where you need different colored threads or a different variety of tools. Other than that, there are more reasons to love crochet like:
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- Crochet helps ease anxiety and depression, and reduce stress.
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- Crochet is great for all ages.
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- Crochet keeps your brain healthy.
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- Crochet helps hand dexterity and movement.
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- Crochet can be an additional source of income.
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- Crocheted items make great gifts.
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- Crochet has an active social community.
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- Crochet provides you with a creative outlet.
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- Crochet is fun!
So, if you are looking for a hobby where you can relax and create beautiful useful items, crochet is for you!
How Do You Start Crocheting?
If you want to learn how to crochet, you just need a crochet hook (or several in a range of sizes), some yarn in the right weight to work with your hook, and a basic knowledge of a few crochet stitches.
If you're still working on the basics, our Crochet Fundamentals workshop is a great place to learn. It includes video instruction on everything from how to hold your hook and needles to the basic stitches, finishing tips, skill-building projects, and more.
But if you've got the basics covered and are just looking for some fun crochet projects, read on!
What is the First Project a Beginner Should Crochet?
Choosing what beginner crochet patterns to start with may sometimes be daunting. There are so many beautiful patterns available but what can someone who is comfortable with just the basics do?
You should keep these things in mind when choosing your first pattern:
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- It should be repetitive: pick a project with a single stitch pattern like single crochet or double crochet, or whatever stitch you are comfortable with.
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- It should be square or rectangular: focus on the stitches rather than having to learn increases and decreases.
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- It should be small: instant gratification helps build confidence.
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- The pattern should have pictures or videos to help you every step of the way.
How Do You Know if a Crochet Pattern is Beginner Friendly?
Most crochet pattern makers indicate the skill level of their projects, but if they didn't, a good indicator is if the pattern name or description has the words easy, beginner, or quick.
If you read through the pattern description or look at the pattern itself and note the characteristics mentioned above – using a single stitch, without shaping, small, detailed photos – you're sure to have found a good project for a beginner.
Supplies Needed for Crochet
While there are lots of different things that are nice to have as you continue in your crochet hobby, there's not a lot that is essential to get started with crochet.
Yarn
Beginners typically start with yarns that are thick enough that stitches can be easily seen. Thus, popular choices are (4) worsted or medium, and (5) chunky or bulky.
We suggest the following yarns for new stitchers:
(4) Worsted – Lion Brand Basic Stitch
(5) Bulky – Lion Brand Hue + Me Yarn
For yarn fibers, using cotton yarn, acrylic yarn, or a mix of both are also good options as they are easy to work with and there are a lot of cotton and acrylic yarns that are affordable.
If you prefer working with wool that's a great choice, too, but it can be more expensive than acrylic or cotton yarns.
Crochet Hooks
Most patterns indicate both the yarn weight and crochet hook size you need to use to complete them.
But if ever you find yourself uncertain about what hook to use, typically for worsted weight sizes (I-9) 5.50 mm, (J-10) 6.00 mm, or (K-10.5) 6.50 mm are used.
If you're stitching with bulky weight yarn, crochet hooks in the sizes of (K-10.5) 6.50mm, (L-11) 8.00mm, and (M/N-13) 9.00mm are usually used.
If you still aren't sure what size hook to choose, you can find the suggested crochet hook size on the yarn label.
You might want to start with just a hook or two to make sure you're going to stick with your new hobby, but it's great to have a full set of hooks handy so you are prepared for any project using any yarn. A crochet hook set we love is the Clover Amour crochet hook set.
Yarn Needle
A yarn needle or tapestry needle is an inexpensive and useful addition to your crochet tool kit. You'll use it to weave in yarn ends when you finish your project.
When you crochet projects made up of more than one piece you'll also use your needle to sew seams.
Stitch Markers & Row Counters
Stitch markers are useful for a lot of different things as you learn to crochet and beyond.
When you're a beginner, using stitch markers to mark the last stitch in the row can help you keep your edges straight.
When you begin stitching projects in the round, stitch markers will also help you know where the end of the round is.
You can also use stitch markers to help you could rounds between increases or decreases, or you can purchase a row counter for this purpose.
Scissors
When you start crocheting using your regular household scissors will suffice, but once you get into the craft it is better to have a dedicated pair just for yarn or thread.
It's nice to have a small pair of scissors you can keep your tool kit for snipping yarn that other people aren't always running off with.
Common Crochet Stitches
Knowing the six most basic crochet stitches will help you build confidence and be able to complete a range of crochet projects for beginners:
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- Slip stitch
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- Treble crochet
If you need help mastering the basics, check out our Crochet Fundamentals workshop for faster, easier, mistake-free projects!
Free Fun Crochet Projects for Beginners
With crochet, you will have tons of fun projects to choose from, but to help you out we've compiled a list of not just fun projects to do but cute ones to boot that are perfect for beginning crocheters. So be ready with your hook and yarn and start making these easy crochet patterns that are made with just simple stitches!
Crochet Patterns for Absolute Beginners
If you've never made any kind of crochet project before, these patterns are a great place to start!
Crochet a Scarf for Beginners
Designer: Easy Crochet
Yarn weight: (6) Super bulky
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick & Quick
If you've never crocheted anything before, a single crochet scarf is a great place to start. It will give you a lot of practice with the most basic stitch out there, and you'll have a nice warm scarf when you're done!
Double Crochet Washcloth
Designer: Cream of the Crop Crochet
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lily Sugar'n Cream
Practice your double crochet stitches with this super simple and useful washcloth pattern. Because double crochets are bigger than single crochets, this project will work up really quickly and help boost your confidence.
Bernat Dishcloth
Designer: Yarnspirations
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Bernat Handicrafter
Perfect for any beginner, this moss stitch crochet dishcloth will help you practice your skills and yarn tension while giving you a useful household project. Use these handy cloths as washcloths, too!
Lily Sugar'n Cream Potholder
Designer: Yarnspirations
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lily Sugar‘n Cream
Make yourself your very own handmade crochet potholders. The Lily Sugar ‘N Cream Potholder is a perfect beginner project as it is worked with just the basic crochet stitches.
Simple Baby Blanket
Designer: Yarnspirations
Yarn weight: Super Chunky (6)
Suggested yarn: Bernat Baby Blanket
Having a cozy and warm blanket to snuggle up with will always be welcomed. This soft and simple crochet blanket pattern is a perfect gift item or ddition to your nursery.
Free & Easy Crochet Ear Warmer Pattern
Designer: Easy Crochet
Yarn weight: (5) Bulky
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand Hue + Me
Crochet ear warmers or headbands are one of the cutest and easiest crochet projects you can do. This project only uses single and half double crochet. And better yet you can create one crocheted headband within just an hour. Perfect for last-minute gift making.
Simple Crochet Scarf With Tassels
Designer: Jo to the World Creations
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand Pound of Love
This pretty scarf uses one of the most stunning textured crochet stitches out there. It looks complicated but it's just single and double crochet stitches! You'll love this easy and cozy crochet scarf!
Bernat Beachy Keen Cover Up
Designer: Yarnspirations
Yarn weight: (5) Bulky
Suggested yarn: Bernat Maker
This beach cover up is perfect when you want to go to the pool or the beach and be a little bit covered. It's also quick and easy to crochet.
Beginner Crochet Crop Top
Designer: For the Frills
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand LB Collection Superwash Merino
The Skylar Crop Top by For the Frills is the easiest summer crop top you'll ever make! This crochet camisole can be easily worked up and can be customized to fit any size or body type. It's worked flat and only uses half double crochet and hdc in the back loop.
Chunky Ribbed Beanie
Designer: Sarah Maker
Yarn weight: (5) Bulky
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand Hue + Me
The perfect unisex gift for the holidays or any other time. This chunky ribbed beanie pattern is super satisfying to make, as you only need the basic stitches (mostly half double crochet in the back loop) to make this. It's also worked flat. If you are a beginner crocheter this is one of the best projects you can do!
Beginner Projects Worked in the Round
Once you've got a project or two under your belt, it's fun to start expanding your skills with projects that are worked in rounds.
50-Minute Fingerless Crochet Gloves
Designer: Repeat Crafter Me
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Bernat Super Value
Keep your hands warm but your fingers free for crochet with this simple crochet fingerless gloves pattern that you can make in less than an hour. This is a great first project for working in the round.
Beginner Crochet Hat
Designer: Yarnspirations
Yarn weight: (5) Bulky
Suggested yarn: Caron Colorama O'Go
Bright and funky, this easy crochet hat will surely brighten your day! This beginner-friendly hat is worked in half double crochet and easy decreases to create that beautiful ribbing effect. Finish this hat with a playful pom pom on top for full whimsy and give your hat that playful spirit.
Free & Easy Crochet Cowl Pattern
Designer: Easy Crochet
Yarn weight: (6) Super bulky
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand Hometown
Are you a beginner crocheter looking to try something a bit more adventurous than a just a flat project? Then this crochet cowl is for you! It's mostly half double crochet so it's another good one to try when you're learning new stitches.
Easy Crochet Bucket Hat Pattern
Designer: Sarah Maker
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lily Sugar‘n Cream
Nothing else would make a better addition to your wardrobe than this simple crochet bucket hat pattern. Better yet this pattern is easy and great for beginners as it has step-by-step instructions that you can follow along with.
The Afternoon Market Bag
Designer: The Loophole Fox
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand Color Theory
A sturdy market bag can go a long way, so what better beginner pattern than a usable one? This afternoon market bag free crochet pattern is easy and can work up quickly even if you are watching your shows while crocheting.
Edda Bag Crochet Free Pattern
Designer: Paula M, via We Are Knitters
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lily Sugar‘n Cream
Convenient and easy to store. If ever you are needing an extra bag for shopping, you can whip this light yet durable edda crochet mesh bag that is both stylish and comfortable.
Mosu Bag Free Japanese Knot Bag Crochet Pattern
Designer: Sweet Softies
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand Mandala
The perfect chic and simple bag for the summer. This Japanese knot bag is worked in one piece in moss stitch, making it even easier to stitch!
Portofino Bag Set
Designer: Two of Wands
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton
When you are going for a leisure trip to the outdoors it's essential to have a carry-all bag and water bottle bag handy. This Portofino bag set is a crochet mesh bag set that is quick, stylish, and functional.
Pan Protectors Free Crochet Pattern
Designer: Heart Hook Home
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Knit Picks Dishie
Extending the life or your pans may mean added protection while you store them. These crocheted pan protectors are quick and easy and will keep your pots from scratching in storage. These protectors are worked from the center out in a fun flower shape.
Lily Sugar'n Cream Citrus Slice Coasters
Designer: Yarnspirations
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lily Sugar‘n Cream
These vibrant coasters are any beginner crocheter's dream. Whichever color you choose they will definitely be conversation starters and keep your table safe from water rings.
Easy Crochet Can Cozy
Designer: Sarah Maker
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lily Sugar‘n Cream
This crochet can cozy will help you keep your beverage cooler while you enjoy the outdoors. Better yet it has a fun pattern, and it is a quick crochet project that can be finished within an hour.
Free Soap Saver Crochet Pattern
Designer: Jess (What I Made Last Weekend)
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lily Sugar ‘n Cream Worsted Weight Yarn
Save up all your soap scraps and put them together in this crochet soap saver pouch, or use it with a fresh bar for extra scrubbing action. These little bags make a great gift with a nice bar of soap, and they stitch up fast.
Granny Square Projects for Beginners
You might not think of granny squares as being good projects for new crocheters, but they're actually pretty easy as they are made with just double crochet stitches and chains. Here are a few of our favorites for beginners.
Granny Cuff Bracelet
Designer: Felted Button
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton
Looking for an easy pattern where you can use up the leftover yarn in your stash? This is the perfect beginner pattern for you! It can also be a simple little gift where you can make several in just a short time.
Movie Night Cocoon Cardi
Designer: Two of Wands
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton
Whether you are wanting to get cozy on the couch, go out to a lazy brunch with the girls, or watch a movie at the local theater, the Movie Night Cocoon Cardi is the perfect partner for a cozy night in or out. It's like a blanket you can wear made of one big granny square!
Crocheted Baby Mat
Designer: Christelle Ledoux, via Schachenmayr
Yarn weight: Fine Weight (2)
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand Oh Baby
Granny square blankets are great because you're only working on one square at a time, which is nice when you're just learning. This pretty mat or blanket is perfect for a little one in your life.
Red Heart Crochet Granny Square Beret
Designer: Yarnspirations
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Red Heart Super Saver
Granny squares aren't limited to blankets and other flat surfaces. This quick and easy project is worked using the granny stitch in a round. No matter what color you make it in, you will surely look chic while wearing it.
Beginner Crochet Granny Triangle Bandana
Designer: HayHay Crochet
Yarn weight: (2) Fine
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand Oh Baby
Sweet and delicate, this bandana is a crochet granny triangle that will leave you wanting to make more. The pattern is very simple and easy to follow, just the perfect pattern for beginners!
Beginner Patterns with Fun Shapes and Stitches
Don't let the shapes and crochet stitches used in these fun projects deter you; they're still pretty easy to stitch and oh so much fun!
Reusable Cotton Crochet Face Scrubbies Free Pattern
Designer: Sarah Maker
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton
Washable and reusable, the perfect crochet pattern for an eco-friendly skincare routine. They use puff stitch, which is actually a really fun and useful stitch to know and so nice to bring a little scrubby action to your washcloth.
Pineapple Planter
Designer: A Crafty Concept
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand Color Theory
Pineapples are a sign of welcome, they represent hospitality and warmth. These puff stitch pineapple planter cozies would be perfect for your front porch or entryway!
Fallen Leaves Crochet Coaster Pattern
Designer: Stitch by Fay
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lily Sugar‘n Cream
These pretty leaf coasters are a perfect addition to your fall decor, or stitch up a set in soft greens for spring. They are so easy and quick to make you'll have a whole set ready even before an hour passes, so you can make them in all the colors you like!
Caron Candy Cane Ornament
Designer: Yarnspirations
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Caron Simply Soft Yarn
This might not look like a simple project, but it really is! It's made with crochet chains with a few double crochet stitches worked in. You can finish a bunch to decorate your tree or your holiday gifts in no time.
Fall Leaf Garland
Designer: The Cookie Snob
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton
Here's another pretty leaf pattern that's nice for beginners to practice their stitch work. Though one leaf hardly takes any time at all it includes single, half double, double and treble crochets to get the leaf shape. So fun!
Free Crochet Heart Applique Pattern
Designer: Sarah Maker
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand Mandala Ombre
This flat crochet heart pattern comes in three sizes and uses single, half double, double and treble crochet stitches to make the shape. It can be a decoration piece, added on to a blanket or clothing, joined onto a garland, or even used as a coaster.
Red Heart Checkers Board Game
Designer: Yarnspirations
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested Weight: Red Heart Super Saver
Practice changing colors to make this fun checkerboard you can play with. The board is worked in strips that are sewn together, and the checkers work up in a flash.
Lily Sugar ‘N Cream Bath Pouf
Designer: Yarnspirations
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lily Sugar‘n Cream
Add a handmade pouf to your home spa experience. The pattern is easily made with multiple double crochet stitches creating a ripple to shape the pouf.
Red Heart Smiley Emoticon Key Chain
Designer: Yarnspirations
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested Weight: Red Heart Super Saver
Grab your hook and create these little happy emoticon key chains. These are perfect inclusions for gifts for kids.
Spiral Scrubbie
Designer: Crochet Patterns Only
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lily Sugar‘n Cream
It doesn't take much to create this spiral scrubbie, you can even use scraps to create a fun color combination. It is quick and easy and you will love making it!
Leaf Sprout Cable Tie & Bookmark Crochet Pattern
Designer: Once Upon a Cheerio
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton
This little sprout cable tie can also be used as a bookmark. It uses single, half double and double crochet stitches to make the leaf. So quick, easy, and useful!
Wheatsheaf Crochet Backpack
Designer: Salena Baca, via American Crochet Association
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton
This fun project uses shell stitches to give it it's fun design. If you've never worked this stitch before there are video tutorials in the pattern to guide you every stitch of the way.
Bernat Bath Mat
Designer: Yarnspirations
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Bernat Handicrafter
Bring life to your bathroom with the fresh and modern vibe of the Bernat bath mat crochet pattern. The fun textured stitch makes the bath mat even more absorbent.
Are You a Beginner Crocheter and Want to Expand Your Crochet Skill Set?
Need more help with the basic stitches and how to get started in crochet? Our Crochet Fundamentals class takes you from beginner to a more confident crocheter in no time. These videos will help you with stitches, skills, finishing techniques and more to give your skills a boost.
Get ready to stretch your crochet creative muscles with the Ultimate Crochet Stitch Library! Level up your crocheting skills by learning more stitches. This collection offers you creative freedom with 45 variations on the single crochet stitch, half double crochet stitch, double crochet stitch, and treble crochet stitch.
Mix and match any stitch with any pattern for endless possibilities!
Looking for more great crochet pattern: 40+ Free Crochet Bucket Hat Patterns, 30 Free and Cute Crochet Hat Patterns for Girls, 55 Fun Pot Holder Crochet Patterns
