Just learnt to crochet and looking for some fun new projects to try out? Take a look at these simple (and free) beginner crochet makes
If you are brand new to crochet and are looking for some inspiration for your first projects, you've come to the right place!
There's nothing better than learning a new craft skill – once you've gotten to grips with the basics, learnt the language of reading patterns and found the best shops to buy your supplies, you'll be raring to get started on a project.
There are plenty of places to find inspiration online (and you can even buy crochet kits!) but to make things nice and simple for you, we've rounded up a selection of our favourite beginner-friendly crochet patterns to help you perfect those stitches and create something to be proud of. All of these projects can be made on a budget, and most can be finished in an afternoon, so you won't have to spend months stitching before you see results.
There are so many great projects to make using basic crochet stitches – from beautiful pieces for your home to stunning garments for your wardrobe. And some of these projects are great for using up spare yarn left over from learning how to crochet, making them a great way to get crafty without generating any waste.
Once you've tried these projects, you'll feel confident to create so much more with your new crochet skills. Crochet is the perfect way to relax after a busy day, and creating something to wear or enjoy in your home is such a satisfying experience.
If you need to brush up on the basic stitches, make sure to check out our guide to how to crochet – it'll take you through step by step of everything you need to know. And we've got brilliant video guides take you through other fun crochet stitches including puff stitch, waffle stitch, linen stitch and alpine stitch.
Happy stitching!
Have you got into crochet? Share your creations with us by tagging @primamag in your pictures on Instagram!
Learn to make a granny square
One of the first projects that many beginner crocheters start off with is a granny square. Although they might look a bit complicated, they are actually really simple to learn how to make and are a great way to practise your basic stitches – and we've got a video tutorial to talk you through every step.
You don't need a ton of yarn to get started with granny squares, short lengths of different coloured wool can be used to make some pretty rainbow patterns! Once you've got the hang of crocheting a granny square, you can use them to make a whole range of fun projects.
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Hanging organiser
A fun crochet project AND brilliant storage? Show us the pattern!
This crochet hanging organiser is a great way to keep your bits and pieces tidy and all in one place. The stripes on each pocket are perfect for using up scraps left by other projects, too.
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Make a cute crochet book sleeve
Once you've mastered the basic granny square, there are so many fun crochet projects you can make.
This crochet book sleeve is an adorable addition to a gift for a friend. It's made using one large granny square folded into an envelope shape, with the book popped inside.
Watch our step-by-step video to learn how to stitch one!
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Stitch a sweet crochet cushion
We love a crochet cushion – it's the perfect way to brighten up your sofa or bed.
You can make up your cushion using granny squares – work them in colours which match your sofa or bed for a perfect bespoke accessory.
We've got a step-by-step video showing you how to make a granny square cushion – click the link below to learn how to make yours!
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Embellish with a lovely crochet flower
How adorable is this little crochet flower? It's such a simple crochet project to start out with and uses just a few basic crochet stitches.
Once you've got the hang of it, you can use the flowers you make in so many different ways. And they're so simple to make, just watch our step-by-step video to learn how.
By changing the yarn weight and size of the crochet needle you use, you can make flowers that can be used as doilies or drink coasters. If you want to get really crafty, you could use jute string as yarn and make eco-friendly dish scrubbers!
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Create a gorgeous baby set
It's much easier than you'd think to crochet baby clothes – and we have the perfect pattern for you. This lovely cardigan has adorable stripe and stitch detail – it's an ideal project for once you know the basic crochet stitches.
This cardigan is part of our free patterns for a cute set for a new arrival. We've got full free patterns for a matching hat and blanket that will go down a treat!
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Try this free crochet baby blanket pattern
This free crochet baby blanket pattern makes for an ideal project for beginners. It follows a simple repeat pattern of stitches to create a chevron wave effect and would look stunning in pretty much any colour-way you could imagine up!
If you're unsure on what type of yarn or wool to use for your crochet baby blanket, check out our handy guide.
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How to crochet a daisy chain garland
How pretty and dainty does this crochet daisy chain garland look!
If you're looking for a project to flex your crocheting skills once you've mastered the basic stitches, this is just the thing.
The daisies are made by creating a base ring and then stitching in rounds with loops of chain stitches to create the petal shapes. The stems and leaves are made with a combination of chain, double chain and triple-chain stitches.
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Create a cute crochet blanket
No home is complete without a handmade crochet or knitted blanket for getting snuggly on the sofa.
This beginner-friendly pattern will help you master double crochet and half treble stitches. It's a great way to use up any leftover yarn you might have from other projects as you make each motif separately and then hand sew them together at the end.
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Make a cute crochet flower garland
Here's another spin on a crochet flower pattern that can be used to make a beautiful crochet flower garland, perfect for decorating your home.
This pattern shows you how to make both a waterlily flower and a chrysanthemum.
Another fun way to use this style of crochet flowers is to make a crocheted brooch!
Knit 2 or 3 of the flowers making each one slightly smaller, stack them on top of each other from largest to smallest and then pinch in the middle to make the petals ruffle up. Secure all flowers together in the ruffled position with some small stitches using a needle and thread, and then attach them to a brooch clasp.
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Crochet a chic summer accessory
Summer is just around the corner, and what better way to update your wardrobe than with a new bag?
This retro-looking crochet bag is so simple and fun to make, it's just a process of crocheting rounds in alternating colours until you get to your desired size, folding it in half and sewing up the open sides. Add on a braided strap, and you're ready to show off your latest crochet creation.
Want to add a sustainable and eco-friendly twist to this project? Try making your own crochet yarn out of old plastic bags.
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How to crochet a bikini for summer
Crochet is a big trend in fashion at the moment. We've already shared some inspiration for awesome crochet vests but how about trying this free pattern to make a crochet bikini to take you into the warmer weather?
The pattern uses chain and double crochet stitch, making it really easy to follow and perfect for beginners.
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Crochet your own Christmas decorations
You can't go wrong with a bit of Christmas crafting, these little crocheted sprouts can be turned into tree decorations or given as gag gifts.
This simple pattern to make one sphere and 3 leaves starts off with a magic ring and double crochet stitches, meaning it's just as easy to make as a granny square.
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