music in video is from demo 2008 by (Latchxe9 Swing) / CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

The art of crochet is a great skill for any knitter to learn (and visa versa). Not only will it allow you to have the satisfaction of finishing projects a little quicker, it will also enable you to expand the possibilities of pattern making. Crochet does tend to use more yarn when compared to a similar knitting project, but it will take a less time as well. This is partly because you are only using one hook as opposed to trying to juggle two needles. It is a great technique for adding embellishments and lace details quickly and easily.

Crochet is easy to learn and the basic chain stitch is the foundation of every crochet pattern. It consists of making a series of small interlocking loops, similar to a cast on row, but hanging loose instead of being put onto another needle.

Here are some instructions to help you get started.

Step 1: Take a length of yarn from your yarn ball and make a slip knot

Tip: Make sure to leave a little extra yarn on the tail so you can easily weave in the end later.

Step 2: Take the yarn connected to the yarn ball in your non-dominant hand.

You may want to weave it through you fingers so you can better control its tension as you go.

Step 3: With you hook facing up, wrap the yarn over the top of you hook.

Step 4: Pull the yarn through the slip knot with the crochet hook.

Repeat steps 3 and 4 until you have the number of stitches you want.

Remember the stitch on the hook does not count.