Must-have guide to essential crochet stitches, techniques, projects and tips for total beginners, or those wanting a recap.

Get your crochet off to a flying start with 8 simple projects and multiple techniques. 

In this complete course, crochet expert Claire Montgomerie covers everything you need to get started: essential tools and materials, how to hold your hook, make your first stitches, fasten off and read a pattern. Clear step-by-step photographs and a handy fold-out flap with crochet abbreviations make it accessible for all, whether you are hooking your first stitch or revisiting the basics.

Take small steps and familiarize yourself with the terminology and techniques to master the essentials of crochet in no time at all. Claire combines helpful, friendly guidance with 8 colourful modern projects, each one teaching and consolidating a new technique from increasing and decreasing to changing colour and joining seams. Choose from:

1. eco-friendly washcloths and make-up pads
2. an eye-catching chevron blanket
3. a colourful scarf with tassels
4. a ribbed beanie with a pompom
5. a mesh shopping bag
6. intricate flower coasters that can be worn as brooches or hair slides
7. a jazzy granny square blanket or pillow cover
8. a loveable cuddly toy.

Embark on your crochet journey and have fun creating your own crocheted wearable accessories and home décor items with all things bright and woolly.