Crochet Basics for Confident Beginners
Start crochet with confidence through Stitch Ledger's basics hub covering stitches, gauge, abbreviations and how to read patterns for beginners.
A crochet companion magazine
Learn Crochet, Patterns and Charity Making
Start with the basics
Browse by shelf
Each shelf below opens its own page with every article it holds: start where your next project needs you.
Start crochet with confidence through Stitch Ledger's basics hub covering stitches, gauge, abbreviations and how to read patterns for beginners.
Find trustworthy free crochet patterns for blankets, hats, scarves and toys, plus smart tips for reading instructions, checking gauge and choosing yarn.
Join the charity crafting tradition from Warm Up America started by Evie Rosen in 1992 with seven by nine sections and easy ways to give now.
Learn by watching step by step crochet lessons in the spirit of original video pages, from starting chains to finishing handmade projects today.
Shelf 01
Stitches, abbreviations, gauge and pattern reading: the shelf every beginner consults before starting a project.
Learn slip knot, chain, slip stitch, single, half double, double and treble crochet with clear definitions, uses and simple ways to practice each stitch.
Understand what crochet gauge means, how to make and measure a swatch, count stitches and rows, and adjust hook or tension when gauge differs.
Shelf 02
9 available back issue guides from 2012 to 2014 plus a guide to free patterns shared today: pick a project with steady technique.
Revisit Fall 2012 Issue 1 with weekend throw, hats in the round, baby blankets and Halloween trick or treat bags for first confident projects.
Explore Winter 2012 Issue 2 with quick colorful gifts, cozy cowls, holiday patterns and the Purple Stitch Project for warm seasonal making joy.
Discover Issue 3 crocheted cables, textured scarves and wraps, soft baby blankets and a Valentine wreath for learning rich stitch texture today.
Enjoy Spring 2013 Issue 4 motif magic with Super Squares tote, crocheted quilts and projects for home and fashion style to make now.
Shelf 03
Blankets, hats and comfort items for neighbours and hospitals: what charities request and how to give.
Shelf 04
Step by step lessons, half double crochet in close-up and errata notes: correct tension, edges and counting.
Master half double crochet step by step, see where it fits between single and double, and use it for hats, scarves and cozy blankets with ease.
Understand why pattern corrections happen, revisit the Issue 1 beanie mix up, and learn what to do when a pattern changes mid project today.
From the charity shelf
Warm Up America sections, Project Linus blankets, chemo caps and preemie hats: size ranges and fibre notes before you start.

Open an issue
Each dossier below revisits one back issue or one skill page: open the one that matches your next make.
Revisit Fall 2012 Issue 1 with weekend throw, hats in the round, baby blankets and Halloween trick or treat bags for first confident projects.
Bundle up with Fall 2013 Issue 6 Red Scarf Project, foundation stitches and ziggety zag afghans for cozy cold weather giving and heartfelt charity.
Stitch Fall comfort with Issue 7 Christmas at Sea scarf for seafarers, linked stitches and warm afghans and lap robes to share with neighbors.
Relax with Summer 2013 Issue 5 lacy shawls, Project Linus baby blanket and airy summer throws for warm weather comfort and gifts to cherish.
Discover Issue 3 crocheted cables, textured scarves and wraps, soft baby blankets and a Valentine wreath for learning rich stitch texture today.
Stitch Ledger record of Issue 11 (May 2014): a designer's March 23, 2014 account of filming technique videos on a smartphone at her dining table.
Understand what crochet gauge means, how to make and measure a swatch, count stitches and rows, and adjust hook or tension when gauge differs.
Master half double crochet step by step, see where it fits between single and double, and use it for hats, scarves and cozy blankets with ease.
About Stitch Ledger: how the magazine reads its sources and who the guides help. The small print lives on the legal notice page.