A year ago, I picked up a crochet hook out of curiosity. I wanted to make something for my friend's baby boys, something tangible, cosy, and cute. Twelve months, countless stitches, and a small mountain of yarn later… here’s what I have learned.
1. Crochet is an entire universe
I thought crochet was just granny squares and blankets, maybe some plushies. Oh, how wrong I was. The craft is so varied: from Tunisian crochet to cables, lace, tapestry, and more. Every week I seem to discover a new technique, and every one feels like opening a new creative door. There is so much I want to try next year!
2. You can crochet almost anything
Once you understand how stitches work, the possibilities explode. I have made clothing, bags, toys and even ornaments. I love experimenting with materials too, macramé cord gives such a beautiful texture (highly recommend for ornaments!), and satin ribbon or fabric strips are next on my list.
Just a note: If you decide to try faux fur yarn (so fun), do not try to do the magic ring technic, just go with chain 2 and crochet into the first chain as many times as you would have in the ring. You will also need to count non stop because you can't see any stitches.
3. Patterns make sense (eventually)
When a pattern tells you to do something in a certain way, there’s usually a reason. I have learned that the “shortcut” I think I’m taking often comes back to bite me five rows later or when assembling pieces. Patience and trust in the pattern pay off. Now while I understand this, I still struggle to remind myself to stick with it.
4. Stitch markers matter
And the little spiral ones? Game changers. You don’t have to unclip them, so they glide along nicely. That said, they’re a bit too small for t-shirt yarn projects and if your project is tiny, like a mini amigurumi, it might fall out. You live and learn.
5. Row counter = sanity saver
The row counter is life. It keeps things peaceful and lets me crochet while half-distracted like when I'm watching a show or chatting on the phone. Aside from hooks (obviously) this is the ONE item I cannot crochet without.
6. Progress sneaks up on you
A year ago, I needed total silence and full concentration for relatively simple stitches. Now, I can whip through patterns that used to intimidate me and even crochet without looking sometimes. It’s wild to realise how your hands just know what to do after enough practice.
7. Balance big projects with quick wins
I have learned not to burn out on huge projects. It helps to alternate between something complex (like a fisherman cable jumper - will I finish it for Christmas?) and a 'quick' win (like a single crochet t-shirt yarn bag). That balance keeps the joy alive.
8. Focus… or not
I have accepted that I can’t focus on only one project at a time or even two really. And that’s fine. Having a few things going keeps me inspired rather than restless.
9. Handmade is valued, when finished well
People notice the difference when something is crafted carefully. Quality finishing makes handmade items stand out, I saw this firsthand when selling at markets. The last few steps of a project always make me want to rush out of excitement but it's important to stay calm and do things well.
10. I can actually get a lot done
Turns out, those little bursts of creativity add up. Stitch by stitch, you end up with a wardrobe, or a whole market stand, before you realise it.
11. Goodbye fast fashion
I have zero desire to buy another sweater, top or scarf. Now that I know I can make something better, using materials I love, it’s not just more satisfying, it can be cheaper too especially if you like natural, premium fibers. Polyester really puts the sweat in sweater…
12. The crochet community is inspiring
There are so many talented crocheters and pattern designers out there. I keep discovering more artists whose creativity just blows me away. The community is generous, supportive, and endlessly inventive.
13. Tunisian crochet is its own magic
Just when I thought I had seen it all.. Tunisian crochet entered my life. It’s a perfect mix of crochet and knitting, and it opens up so many new textures, drapes and shapes.
14. Baby makes = heart melt
Nothing beats crocheting for babies and kids. Everything looks ten times cuter in miniature (and is ten times faster)!
15. Crochet can be interactive
Wearables, tech-integrated yarn, pieces that move or light up, interactive crochet is a thing, and it’s so much fun to explore.
16. Still obsessed
After a full year, the obsession is going strong. My boyfriend is drowning in yarn, but he doesn’t complain as he’s cosy in his handmade beanie and likes seeing me happy. I call that a win-win.
PS: I have put together a carousel post featuring my favourite makes of the year and the stories behind them, you can check it out here.
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