When I first learned to crochet, I thought everyone else magically knew what they were doing.

• Their edges were straight.

• Their stitches were even.

• Their projects looked effortless.

Meanwhile, I was replaying YouTube tutorials and wondering why my rectangle looked like an abstract Picasso creation…and not in a good way.

If you’re crocheting, or thinking about starting, here are 15 things every crocheter should know…but no one really tells you.

1. You Will Frog Projects. A Lot.

“Frogging” (ripping out stitches) isn’t failure, it’s part of the process. Even experienced crocheters unravel rows — I truly don’t think there’s been one project where I haven’t frogged in some capacity. Sometimes whole projects. It’s normal. It means you care.

2. Your First Few Projects Won’t Look Like Pinterest

That perfectly styled blanket photo? It’s not someone’s first project. Skill builds over time. So does tension control. Your early pieces are practice. Let them be.

3. Tension Is Everything

Loose tension creates gaps. Tight tension makes stiff fabric. Your hands will eventually find their rhythm. But until they do, inconsistency is expected. And yes — your tension can change depending on your mood or how tired you are.

4. Dye Lots Matter More Than You Think

Yarn from different dye lots can vary slightly in color — even if the label looks identical.

For larger projects like blankets, always buy enough from the same dye lot. (Especially important if you’re making something like a striped throw similar to my Sea Glass & Mist Throw or a textured piece like the Blush & Bobbles Blanket.)

5. Blocking Can Transform a Project

Blocking isn’t optional fluff. It shapes, softens and evens out stitches. Especially for:

• Blankets

• Garments

• Structured pieces

• Motifs/Granny Squares
  

If you’ve never blocked your work, try it once. You’ll be surprised.

6. Cotton and Acrylic Behave Very Differently

Cotton:

• Less stretch

• More structure

• Great for towels and totes

Acrylic:

• Softer drape

• More forgiving tension

• Ideal for blankets
  

This is why I love cotton for pieces like my Easy Peasy Go-To Hand Towel and acrylic blends for cozy throws, like my Carried Away blanket.

7. Your Hook Size Changes Everything

Even going up or down 0.5 mm can dramatically affect drape and feel. If your fabric feels too stiff, try a larger hook. Too loose? Go down a size. Too tight? Go up a size.

Experiment before restarting a full project.

8. Counting Stitches Saves Heartache

If your edges slant, you’re probably adding or losing stitches. Count at the end of every row. Especially as a beginner. I find it helpful to add stitch markers to the first and last stitch of every row. Future you will be grateful.

9. Hand and Wrist Fatigue Is Real

Crochet is repetitive motion. Take breaks. Stretch your fingers - seriously, there are exercises for your fingers, hands and wrists that make a world of difference. Consider ergonomic hooks if you crochet often. Ignoring discomfort leads to longer breaks later.

10. You Don’t Need Every Fancy Tool

You need:

• Yarn

• A hook

• Scissors

• A tapestry needle

Everything else is helpful — not mandatory. Don’t let supplies become procrastination.

11. Color Choice Makes a Bigger Difference Than Stitch Choice

A simple stitch in a beautiful color combination will always look elevated. Before trying complicated patterns, experiment with color palettes. (Some of my favorite pieces were inspired by book imagery and layered tones rather than complex stitch work.)

12. Finishing Details Separate “Homemade” From “Handcrafted”

• Clean edges.

• Even borders.

• Neatly woven ends.
  

These small steps elevate your work dramatically.

13. Small Projects Build Confidence Faster

A completed dishcloth teaches more than an unfinished blanket. Quick wins matter. If you’re looking for something manageable, start with a cotton hand towel pattern or a simple tote before committing to a large throw.

14. Every Crocheter Compares Themselves

It happens. But crochet isn’t a race. It’s rhythm. It’s repetition. It’s quiet progress. Comparison steals joy from something that should feel grounding.

15. Every Stitch Really Does Tell a Story

Crochet holds memory.

• A blanket made during a hard season.

• A tote made before a trip.

• A baby gift made with hope.

It’s more than yarn and hooks. It’s time. Intention. Care. And that matters.

If You’re New to Crochet…

Keep going.

Your hands will learn. Your stitches will even out. Your confidence will grow.

And one day, someone will look at your work and assume you’ve always known what you were doing.

You didn’t.

You just kept stitching.