Crocheting is a huge hobby in the US. Some studies have suggested tens of millions of people are involved in crocheting in the United States, with plenty of others around the world getting plenty out of the craft.
Some studies have even linked crocheting with improved mental health! There are a lot of people who get a lot out of the hobby including the social aspect of it. There are numerous chances to meet up and attend events and get-togethers based on crafting and crocheting (as well as related hobbies like knitting).
So how can people take crochet classes in the US? What are the skills needed when learning how to crochet and are there a lot of opportunities to get involved? We'll explore more in this guide.
According to a survey conducted by the Craft Yarn Council in the United States in 2020, 18.2 million Americans know how to crochet.
Where to Learn to Crochet in the US
So, if you want to learn how to crochet in the US, what are the options? There are numerous ways to learn how to crochet and while many are taught by friends and family, some others seek out tuition to learn from scratch (or just as a way to get better at their skills).
The US Library System
Libraries are one of the first ports of call if you want to know how to crochet in the US. Though it depends largely upon where in the US you are based, there may well be an option to learn at your local library.
Many libraries in the US offer opportunities to learn crochet, making it an accessible option for beginners. Public libraries frequently host crochet classes or workshops, often free of charge or for a small fee.
These sessions are usually led by experienced instructors or volunteers who guide participants through basic techniques, such as starting a chain, mastering various stitches, and completing simple projects like scarves or granny squares.
Additionally, libraries often provide a communal space where crocheters of all levels can gather to share tips, ideas, and encouragement. For those who prefer self-paced learning, libraries also offer a variety of instructional books that can be borrowed.
The number of libraries in the US has sadly dropped recently, but they form a crucial part of the learning ecosystem and are great for crafts.
Yarn and Craft Stores
Yarn and craft stores are fantastic places to learn how to crochet. Many of these stores offer regular classes for beginners as well as more advanced sessions for those looking to refine their skills and a lot of big cities in the US have multiple craft stores with crochet classes.
Classes are usually small, providing a more personalized experience. Instructors often include knowledgeable staff members or local artisans who are passionate about the craft. These classes typically cover everything from easy crochet stitches to more complex patterns, and since they are held in the store, students have easy access to a wide variety of materials, tools, and yarns.
These are hubs of the community when it comes to craft and a lot of them will also sell knitting equipment (there’s a lot of overlap here). Even if there isn’t specific crochet tuition offered, it is likely you will find meetups and workshops.
Though locally, you might need to look for individual stores offering crochet lessons, it is possible to explore some of the chain hobby stores. Hobby Lobby is one example and they sometimes have craft lessons, but not as many as our next option.
Michaels Stores
Michaels is a nationwide chain of stores offering craft equipment but also lessons. 49 of the 50 states have Michaels locations and there are over 1,000 stores.
Michaels provides materials but they also regularly run workshops on crochet projects, like making hats or blankets. It is always a good idea to check your local store and see what kinds of classes are offered.
Michaels can be a very useful place to learn to crochet and often has a friendly vibe. Michaels staff may also know of other events and ways to learn how to crochet.
Adult and Community Education Centers
Adult education centers across the US frequently offer crochet courses as part of their curriculum. These classes are designed for adults who want to pick up a new hobby or skill, and they cater to all experience levels.
The structured environment of an adult education course provides a comprehensive introduction to crochet, often over several weeks. Additionally, these centers are often affordable, making them an accessible option for many, and they will tend to understand that people have daytime commitments. It’s easier to find evening or weekend crocheting courses at adult and community education centers.
Of course, if you are looking for crochet classes for kids, they are more likely to be found in community centers than the companies specifically targeting adults.
People living in the area can take courses at this adult education center, providing weekly classes and information on basic stitches, pattern reading, the ins and outs of materials, and more.
American Crochet Association
The American Crochet Association is an excellent resource, primarily online, for those who are looking to learn more about crocheting and who want to take online courses. There are a variety of different online courses with the ACA:
| Course/Program | Instructor | Details | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crochet Membership | Various | Access to 14 courses; build crochet knowledge, skill, and community. | $10/month |
| Learn How To Crochet: A Complete Guide For Absolute Beginners | Salena Baca | Comprehensive guide for beginners covering all fundamental crochet skills. | $6/month |
| Crochet Skill Building | Salena Baca | Focuses on improving speed, quality, and reducing mistakes in crochet. | $6/month |
| Crochet Stitch Bundle | Julie King | Includes 30 stitches, 85 video tutorials, and 54 functional patterns. | $6/month |
| My Crochet Career | Salena Baca | Guides on making and selling crochet products, avoiding burnout, and earning a fair wage. | $129 one-time |
| Crochet Instructor Training | Various | Provides everything needed to teach crochet confidently, including lesson plans and techniques. | $129 one-time |
| Crochet Pattern Writing Training | Various | Teaches how to write unique crochet patterns using universal terms, standards, and guidelines. | $129 one-time |
On top of this, there is a big community around the American Crochet Association. People share, buy, and sell patterns and other crochet tips. There is a Facebook group with over 16,000 people involved.
The Crochet Guild of America (CGOA)
The Crochet Guild of America (CGOA) is a national organization that was formed in the 90s, dedicated to promoting the art and craft of crochet. For those looking to learn how to crochet, CGOA offers a wealth of resources, workshops, and educational programs designed to cater to crocheters of all levels.
Joining the CGOA not only gives access to expert instruction and a variety of learning materials but also connects members to a community of crochet enthusiasts!
Learning How to Crochet
What skills will you actually learn as someone who enjoys crocheting? There are lots of skills in crocheting and some of the more advanced crocheters may even be able to craft some unique and wonderful items. Many people develop their own style, but the aspects of crocheting for beginners to understand tend to be pretty similar. Most crochet courses follow a similar set of basic skills to build up the fundamentals, and wherever you learn it is likely you’ll focus on some of the following:
How to Start a Crochet Chain
The foundation of almost every crochet project begins with a chain stitch. This simple technique involves creating a series of loops that serve as the base for your work. Mastering this skill is essential, as it provides the structure for more complex patterns and projects.
Types of Stitches
There are many different types of crochet stitches each creating different textures and patterns. The most common include single crochet, double crochet, and half-double crochet. Understanding the differences and when to use each stitch is crucial for bringing your creative vision to life.
How to Knit a Granny Square
A granny square is a classic crochet item that forms the building blocks of many projects, like blankets and scarves. Learning to crochet a granny square involves working in rounds and combining multiple stitches. It’s a great way to practice and master different techniques while creating something both functional and decorative.
Reading Crochet Patterns
Patterns are crucial to the crochet world. They guide you through the steps to create specific designs and items. Consider these your instructions. Being able to read and understand crochet patterns, which often include abbreviations and symbols, is essential for advancing beyond beginner projects.
Finishing Techniques
Beyond the basic stitches, knowing how to finish your work properly is key. This includes weaving in ends and joining pieces together. These skills give your projects a professional and completed look and ensure they last for years to come.
Learn How to Crochet Online
For those who prefer to learn at their own pace or from the comfort of home, online platforms offer a wealth of crochet tutorials. Websites, video platforms, and online courses provide step-by-step instructions on everything from starting a crochet chain to mastering intricate stitches.
Online learning can be particularly beneficial for those with busy schedules or those who want to revisit lessons as needed and many of us have become used to self-guided learning.
YouTube has proven to be a very popular online resource for those who are looking to learn how to crochet as it provides visual instructions.
| Pros of Learning to Crochet Online | Cons of Learning to Crochet Online |
|---|---|
| Flexibility. Learn at your own pace and schedule. | Lack of Hands-On Guidance. No immediate correction or help with mistakes. |
| Accessibility. Access a wide range of tutorials and resources from anywhere. | Limited Social Interaction. Less opportunity to meet and connect with other crocheters. |
| Variety of Content. Choose from numerous styles, techniques, and instructors. | Technical Issues. Potential for internet connection problems or difficulty following along with videos. |
| Cost-Effective. Often more affordable or even free compared to in-person classes. | Less Personalized Instruction. Harder for instructors to tailor lessons to your specific needs. |
| Repeatability. Rewatch tutorials as many times as needed. | Isolation. Can feel more isolated without the in-person craft community and feedback. |
Learn to Crochet with Superprof
Superprof provides an option for people who are looking to learn how to crochet. You can enjoy the benefits of individual, one-to-one tuition at a location that suits you. Our tutors are based all over America, meaning there is likely a crochet tutor you can work with in your local area. It is simple to perform a search and look for crochet lessons in your local city.
Our tutors are flexible, with many offering both online and in-person options to learn. You can also get started no matter what current level of ability you have, so those looking to learn crochet as beginners will still be able to find a teacher to work with. Start your search on Superprof today to begin your next crochet project!
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