"What should I crochet first?"
"Is a granny square or amigurumi better for beginners?"
"Can I really do this?"
During the surge in popularity of crocheting with Woobles, you'll notice a tighter connection between terms like amigurumi and beginners when you search the web. It seems we're being fed the notion that amigurumi is the best project for beginners.However, I'd like to share a potentially unpopular opinion: as a complete beginner, working on flat crochet projects is a better step-by-step approach compared to three-dimensional amigurumi.
Next, let's take the most classic flat crochet project, the granny square, as an example to delve into this idea.
Granny Square
First of all, the simplicity of the granny square lies in its repetitive basic stitches. While making a granny square, besides learning the basics, like holding the yarn and hook, tying knots, and wrapping the yarn, you'll mainly focus on learning basic stitches such as the foundation chain (or magic ring), chain stitch, single crochet, double crochet, and slip stitch.
Additionally, because the pattern involves stable and consistent repetition, it’s easier for beginners to count stitches, helping them learn to avoid dropping stitches.
Here's a simple example: the classic granny square involves basic stitches like chain stitches, double crochets, and slip stitches. The main pattern for a classic granny square is primarily double crochets, following a basic rule: work in groups of three into the spaces, separate them with a chain stitch, and at the corners, place three double crochets + three chain stitches + three double crochets. The increased logic is also straightforward: from the second round to the last round, add one cluster in the center space each time.
In fact, the only part that might be difficult for beginners is the first round, which requires learning how to crochet a magic ring. However, this is easily solved; beginners can start with a simple chain instead. Some beginner kits even provide a pre-started piece, which can be a great transition.
The simplicity and repetitive nature of the granny square pattern makes it easier for beginners to count stitches and avoid dropping stitches. Additionally, consistent repetition helps reinforce the steps of double crochet, making the process more familiar and improving crochet skills.
Secondly, granny squares often come with crochet diagrams made up of symbols. After finishing a granny square, beginners will have a basic understanding of these stitches, making it easier to learn and interpret crochet symbols. Then, they can see how these symbols are used in a pattern. Gradually progressing from simple to complex patterns, beginners can explore the basics of the crochet world step by step.
Lastly, the creative nature of granny squares means they are not limited to just what you see in pictures. Beginners can experiment with color combinations, stitch variations, and layout designs without worrying about ruining the entire project.
Amigurumi
Now, let's look at amigurumi. When crocheting amigurumi, you mostly work single crochets in the round, so you need to mark the first stitch of each round. Otherwise, it will be difficult to distinguish the beginning and end. Amigurumi also involves increasing and decreasing stitches in each round to shape the 3D figure, which can be irregular. For beginners, counting stitches correctly and adding or decreasing stitches in the right places can be quite challenging.
In addition to keeping track of each round's stitch changes, achieving the correct shape and size requires good tension control. Too tight, and the piece may be misshapen; too loose, and the stuffing might show. This can be a significant challenge for beginners.
Moreover, amigurumi patterns often involve complex assembly instructions, requiring beginners to know techniques such as sewing parts together, inserting safety eyes, and evenly stuffing the toy. These additional steps can be overwhelming for those still mastering basic crochet.
So, while amigurumi has a cute appearance and various accessories that can bring your favorite characters to life, it demands a high level of precision to match the pattern's image. Otherwise, your finished product may look odd.
In conclusion, comparing the two, the granny square is not only simpler and easier to learn, but also provides a greater sense of accomplishment within the same time investment. While you're struggling to figure out why your amigurumi doesn't look as good as the picture and feeling discouraged, others might be enthusiastically starting their next granny square, having mastered the basic stitches.
In the world of crochet, practice makes perfect is a rule that never fails. Additionally, your interest is the key motivation that keeps you excited and engaged with your projects. So, there are no absolute rules—whether it's a swatch, a dishcloth, a granny square, or an amigurumi toy, if you want to make it, you absolutely can.
