Where to Learn Crochet: The Best Lessons, Courses and Online Communities
Crochet has never been more accessible. Thanks to YouTube, dedicated online platforms, and a hugely welcoming crafting community, you can go from complete beginner to confident crocheter in just a few weeks — often entirely for free. Here's a guide to the best places to learn, whatever your style.
YouTube: Free and Unbeatable for Beginners
YouTube is probably the single best resource for learning crochet. Being able to pause, rewind, and watch someone's hands in real time makes it far easier to learn than reading instructions alone. Some of the most-loved channels include Bella Coco Crochet (clear, friendly, great for beginners), TL Yarn Crafts (excellent tutorials with a fun personality), Kirsten Holloway Designs (fantastic for detailed stitch work), and Crochet with Tiffany (great beginner series).
Search for the specific stitch or technique you're trying to learn — there will almost always be multiple clear video guides waiting for you.
Online Courses: Structured Learning with Support
If you prefer a more guided curriculum with feedback, paid platforms like Craftsy and Skillshare offer structured crochet courses taught by experienced makers. These are great if you find free tutorials a bit scattered and want a clear progression from basics to more advanced skills.
Many local yarn shops (LYS) also run beginner crochet workshops — often just a couple of hours, perfect for getting the basics established with hands-on guidance.
Books: Learn at Your Own Pace
A good crochet book is something you'll reach for again and again, long after you've moved past the beginner stage. Books like The Crochet Bible and How To Crochet: A Complete Guide for Absolute Beginners cover everything from your first chain stitch to advanced techniques with clear photos and step-by-step instructions.
The advantage of a book over a screen is having it open beside you on the sofa or at a class — no screen glare, no needing to keep tapping to prevent it going dark.
Online Communities: For Motivation and Help
The crochet community online is wonderfully warm and helpful. Reddit's r/crochet is an excellent place to ask questions and share your makes. Ravelry is the go-to platform for discovering and saving patterns and connecting with other crafters. Facebook groups dedicated to crochet are also active and full of encouragement.
Don't underestimate the value of a community — having other crocheters to share WIPs (works in progress), troubleshoot with, and celebrate finished objects alongside is hugely motivating.
Once you've got the basics down, explore our collection of beginner-friendly crochet patterns and find your perfect first project.