In my dictionary, crochet hooks and yarn/thread aren’t considered crochet accessories. An accessory is one of those things that you don’t really need in order to crochet, but have it anyway. My favorite crochet accessory is my handy dandy 3 in 1 needle threader!! That’s the one I have shown to the right. It helps me thread my yarn and thread (no matter what size it is) into my needles. Although I’m young with decent vision (okay, I do wear glasses), it would take me forever to get the yarn through the eye of a needle without my beloved needle threader.

So what is your favorite crochet accessory? Maybe a favorite stitch marker or ball winder?

1. Pick the right color to work with. When you first start crocheting certain colors of yarn make it easier to see the stitches and others make it dreadfully hard. Try to avoid using very dark colored yarns such as black and very light light colored yarns such as white.
2. Pick the right type of yarn. You don’t need fancy yarn when you first learn to crochet. In fact the facy yarns such as eyelash yarn and boucle will make it harder for you to learn and see your stitches. Stick to ordinary, simple and cheap yarn.
3. Use a big hook. Bigger hooks make it easier to see stitches. As you may notice by now, being able to see the stitches is a big part of learning to crochet.
4. Have fun. So what if this sounds cheesy. Don’t crochet if you’re not having fun doing it! Studies show that crocheting is actually good for your health, but if it’s stressing you out, it’s probably a good idea to take a break.
5. Ask Rachel (me) for help. Don’t be ashamed to ask for help if you need it. I won’t bite. There’s nothing more dreadful than being frustrated over something hard to understand (I’ve been there). You can also find more help in the Crochet Tutorials section.

Do you have a crochet tip for beginners to share?

In the spirit of “Back to School” season, here is a pattern for a simple pencil case! Feel free to mix and match colors. This is a beginner pattern, so color changing is not needed, but you can always change colors anywhere in the pattern to create stripes or ever make the flap or button a different color. This pencil case can also be used as a crochet hook case or even a glasses case. Let your imagination run wild!

Skill Level:

Finished Size: 3″ (7.5 cm) wide, 8″ (20 cm) tall
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Crocheted gifts can be nice, when given to the right person, but what happens when they aren’t appreciated? Some crocheters spend hours, days, or even months to finish a project and on top of that spend who knows how much money on the yarn. Not everyone understands the hard work, effort, and labor, us crocheters put into our work! Personally, this is why I rarely give crocheted gifts. I’m so afraid that my preciously crocheted hat, scarf, shawl or what not, will end up in a dusty closet never to worn by the person I gave it to. Perhaps it’s all about finding the right person who will appreciate it.

Do you give crocheted gifts?