Crochet is one of the coziest ways to slow down, get creative, and make something adorable with your own two hands. Whether you want to crochet a plushie, a soft scarf, or a thoughtful handmade gift, the good news is… you really don’t need much to begin.

With just a few crochet essentials (and a little encouragement!), you’ll be stitching in no time. Let’s walk through exactly what you need to get started with crochet — the Okey Dokeys way.

The Basics of Crochet

Crochet is a craft where you use one hook and yarn to create fabric stitch by stitch. It’s simple to learn, relaxing to practice, and honestly… kind of addictive once you get going.

Many beginners love crochet because you can start small, see progress quickly, and make something cute right away — especially with the right tools and beginner-friendly materials.

Essential Crochet Tools and Materials

The best part about crochet? You don’t need a giant supply closet. Every crochet project starts with two main things:

• A crochet hook

• Yarn you actually enjoy working with

That’s it. Simple, soft, and stress-free.

Choosing the Right Crochet Hook

If you’re brand new, we recommend starting with a medium-sized hook — something like:

• 5mm (H-8)

• 5.5mm (I-9)

These sizes are perfect for beginners because they’re easy to hold and work well with the yarn most starter projects use.

Hook materials you’ll see often:

• Aluminum hooks: Smooth and glide-y

• Bamboo hooks: Cozy grip and lightweight

• Plastic hooks: Budget-friendly for practicing

Over time, you’ll find your favorite… kind of like picking your go-to comfy sweater.

Finding the Right Yarn for Your First Projects

Choosing the right yarn makes a HUGE difference when you’re learning.

For beginners, we always suggest starting with super bulky yarn, because:

• The stitches are bigger and easier to see

• Projects work up faster (hello, instant dopamine)

• It’s easier to hold while you practice

But you can totally use whatever you have. Crochet is great, no matter the yarn type! 

At Okey Dokeys, we love soft chenille yarn for beginners because it’s:

• Super cuddly

• Durable enough for lots of practice

• Easy to care for

• Perfect for plushie-style crochet (aka amigurumi!)

If you want the easiest start possible, chenille is your new best friend.

Chenille Yarn - #6 Super Bulky - 100g Skeins

Skin-Safe Super Chunky Chenille Yarn & Certified for Quality

View product

Learning Basic Crochet Techniques

Once you’ve got your yarn and hook, you only need a couple beginner stitches to start making cute things.

The Chain Stitch

The chain stitch is where almost every crochet project begins. You’ll make a slip knot, then pull yarn through the loop again and again to form a chain.

Don’t worry if it feels awkward at first — everyone’s first chain is a little wobbly. You’ll get the hang of it quickly.

The Single Crochet Stitch

Single crochet is one of the most important beginner stitches.

Once you have your chain, you’ll insert your hook, pull up a loop, then pull through to complete the stitch.

This is where crochet starts to feel real… and where your first projects really begin!

Why Crochet Kits Make Learning So Much Easier

If picking supplies feels overwhelming, crochet kits are the easiest way to start.

Okey Dokeys kits include everything you need — yarn, tools, patterns, and step-by-step guidance — so you can skip the guesswork and jump straight into the fun part.

They’re designed to help beginners feel confident from the very first stitch.

Crochet Tutorials = Your Secret Weapon

Sometimes you just need someone to show you what’s happening up close — and that’s where tutorials come in.

Our Okey Dokeys step-by-step videos break everything down slowly and clearly, so you never feel lost halfway through a row.

Think of it like having a crochet bestie right there with you.

Ready to Get Hooked?

With the right crochet essentials, a few beginner stitches, and some cozy support along the way, you’re ready to start your crochet journey.

Remember: every stitch is progress, every project is practice, and you’re going to surprise yourself with what you can make.