Knitting & Crochet
Crochet
Video, web resources, and titles from our catalog are featured on this page.
If you're just starting out or need a refresher, watch the basic videos below (use the CC button to turn on captions). For advanced techniques and more detailed resources, check out the "Online Reference Resources" section for links to helpful websites and video tutorials.
The sidebar has links to information on crochet hooks, common terms, and chart reading.
Slip Knots (or Not) and Fastening Off
Beginning a crochet project most often starts with making a slip knot. Your slip knot does not count as one of your stitches. See below for a video tutorial on different ways to tie a slip knot, or visit The Spruce Crafts for a step-by-step guide.
It is also possible to start your crochet project without a slip knot. See below for a video tutorial, or visit the Stitches n Scraps website for a step-by-step guide.
At the end of your project, you will need to fasten off your yarn.
After you are finished fastening off, you will need to weave the remaining yarn ends into your project. See below for a video tutorial, or visit The Spruce Crafts for more information.
Basic Techniques
Online Reference Resources
- Accessible Patterns IndexAccessible Patterns Index is an index of patterns formatted for blind or low vision crafters. The index links to online patterns and books, both print and digital.
- RavelryRavelry is an extensive database of patterns and yarns for knitting and crochet. There are many filters available for advanced searching. Forums feature conversation and help. An account is required to browse the website.
- The Spruce CraftsThis website covers many hobbies. Their crochet section includes many articles on the basics with lots of photos and clear directions. There's also a section on crochet patterns.
- TL Yarn CraftsTL Yarn Crafts is a YouTube channel. Toni Lipsey, a designer, gives detailed tutorials on a variety of techniques, reviews yarn, and showcases Tunisian crochet. See tlycblog.com for original patterns.
- The WooblesThe Woobles is a plushie-centered crochet resource. Linked here is their YouTube channel, which features crochet tutorials (including left-handed tutorials) and amigurumi for beginners.
Featured Titles
In addition to books and ebooks, BPL also has access to digital crochet magazines in OverDrive. You will need to log in with your library card number and PIN to borrow the titles.
500 Crochet Stitches by Call Number: TT820 .A1192 2015xISBN: 9781250067302Publication Date: 2015500 Crochet Stitches is both a stitch guide and a how-to-crochet primer. The comprehensive pattern library includes 500 crochet stitches, including basic stitches using single and double crochet, trebles, and some new techniques.
Amazing Japanese Crochet Stitches by Call Number: TT819.J3 O39513 2021xISBN: 9780804854061Publication Date: 2021Seven practice projects help you cut loose with some creative application. A technical section demonstrates the stitches step-by-step, so readers can become familiar with crocheting in the Japanese style.
Beginner's Guide to Crochet by Call Number: TT820 .S5224 2015xISBN: 9781446305232Publication Date: 2015Each new crochet stitch is explained in easy steps with accompanying photographs and diagrams and is followed up with a project showing you how to utilize your newfound skills.
Classic Crochet Blankets by Call Number: TT820 .C683 2016xISBN: 9781632503596Publication Date: 2016Practical, timeless, and easy to make, crocheted blankets can turn any house in to a home. Interweave Presents Classic Crochet Blankets shares 18 projects for crochet afghans, blankets, and throws you'll love to make and use.
Complete Guide to Crochet Dolls and Animals by Call Number: TT829 .C66 2021xISBN: 9780804854122Publication Date: 2021From selecting yarns and learning basic crochet stitches to assembling your doll or animal and adding whimsical details, The Complete Guide to Crochet Dolls and Animals makes any amigurumi project possible!
Crochet in a Weekend by Call Number: TT825 .B29365 2022ISBN: 9780811739696Publication Date: 2022By using bigger yarn and hooks, openwork patterns, easy stitches, and other quick-crochet techniques, the patterns in Crochet in a Weekend can all be worked in approximately 10 to 12 hours or less.
Crochet One-Skein Wonders® by Call Number: TT820 .C892 2013ISBN: 9781612120423Publication Date: 2013Edie Eckman and Judith Durant offer 101 exciting crochet projects -- including jewelry, scarves, bags, hats, dresses, and home decor items -- that each use just one skein of yarn.
Crochet Stitch Sampler Baby Blankets by Call Number: TT825 .S546275 2021ISBN: 9780811738750Publication Date: 2021Stitch sampler blankets offer a great canvas for learning new stitches and exploring new techniques in small portions. Each of the 30 patterns includes full written instructions and all the stitch details you need to complete each blanket confidently.
The Finer Edge by Call Number: TT820 .O43 2012ISBN: 9781596685543Publication Date: 2013Demonstrates various techniques, construction methods, and versatile applications for crochet edgings. Learn how edging patterns can be used to create entire fabrics, reformatted to make individual decorative motifs, and more.
The Tunisian Crochet Handbook by ISBN: 9781683359944Publication Date: 2021An introduction to the craft of Tunisian crochet--a unique crochet style that looks more like knitting--with 20 projects for beginners. The book introduces this fascinating and rewarding technique with a wide array of stitches and design possibilities.
Unicorns, Dragons and More Fantasy Amigurumi by Call Number: TT829 .U55 2018xISBN: 9789491643248Publication Date: 2018This book includes crochet designs submitted to the annual design contest at www.amigurumipatterns.net. Beginners as well as advanced crocheters can conjure up these adorable fantasy creatures with a flick of their hooks.
