The Best Crochet Kits for Beginners

Ready to pick up a self-taught hobby? For those seeking versatility, we might suggest crochet. The tools and techniques are minimized, and, therefore, more accessible. And unlike knitting, the technique of crochet allows for a breathable fabric—especially in yarn blends with cotton or bamboo—that lends itself beautifully to warm weather.

For beginners, a crochet kit will often come equipped with everything you need in a given project: a hook, a few skeins of yarn, and the instructions (called a "pattern") you need to get started. Some kits may include other notions like a sewing needle, hardware, or a pre-printed label that says "I made this." You'll learn the basics: how to make a slip knot, make a foundation chain, and work in single crochet. Plus, you'll use the basic set of stitches in such projects: double and treble crochet. The process for each one is similar as they involve wrapping the yarn a different number of times to make loops, which in turn, produces a textured fabric.

Crochet goes beyond granny squares. Makers of modern kits, such as Wool and the Gang, offer stylish accessories like handbags and espadrille sandals, as well as sun hats, backpacks, and baskets. They even offer kits in amigurumi, which are crocheted dolls and anthropomorphic miniatures. Their patterns come in a streamlined design, many of them in modern hues.

Pick one of these artisanal kits and get started today—any one of them will teach you how to make a slip knot, foundation chain, and work all kinds of stitches.

This crossbody-style bag is made in the ripple stitch detail with a slinky shoulder strap. Plus, there's enough "Sunkiss Gold" colored raffia leftover to stitch a matching card holder.

Shop Now: Wool and the Gang "Salada" Bag Crochet Kit, $34, woolandthegang.com.

On breezy days, this top is made to be effortlessly chic. Choose your color of pima cotton: "Pearl Gray," "Terracotta," "Canyon Rose," and dozens of others, then start stitching. Ideal for beginners, the kit is complete with sizing charts for a just-right fit.

Shop Now: We Are Knitters "Verë Tee" Crochet Kit, $72, weareknitters.com.

What could be cuter than a stuffed animal? This kit includes everything you need to bring the iconic children's book character, Miffy the rabbit, to life amigurumi-style. It'll be cherished for generations.

Shop Now: Stitch & Story "Classic Miffy" Amigurumi Crochet Kit, $49, amazon.com.

Bundle up in this oversize blanket. Soft, chunky, and easy to crochet with, the yarn is perfect for cold-weather projects. In this kit, you'll learn the basics as well as how to turn over your work, add a new ball, and weave in your ends.

Shop Now: Wool and the Gang "Oh So Quiet" Blanket Crochet Kit, $218, woolandthegang.com.

Stay warm and comfortable in this cardigan with an open front. Stitch yours in one of their modern colors: "Avocado," "Firebird," or "Hot Pink" among others. Best of all, this yarn is washable and it may even help prevent any shedding that may naturally occur.

Shop Now: Loopy Mango Big Cotton Crochet Cardigan DIY Kit, $176, loopymango.com.

Courtesy of crafter Anne Weil, these bunnies can hippity-hop on everything from cupcakes to living room mantels and kids' room garlands.

Shop Now: Flax and Twine Crochet Mini-Bunny Kit, $22, flaxandtwineshop.com.

On warm days, slip into a pair of these sandals. Select your sole size, and stitch raffia into a sling-back shape and tie-front detail.

Shop Now: Wool and the Gang "Calypso" Espadrilles Crochet Kit, $55, woolandthegang.com.

Ideal for any beginner, a scarf makes a great first crochet project. You'll learn how to work the butterfly puff stitch that's featured throughout this gradient scarf.

Shop Now: Lion Brand Yarn Puffed Up Fringe Scarf, $29.97, lionbrand.com.

For toting laundry, accessories, or other loose items, this basket is made using the waistcoat stitch plus a decorative edge with the crab stitch. However you crochet, it adds a homespun touch to your home.

Shop Now: Lion Brand Yarn Waistcoat Basket Crochet Kit, $28.47, lionbrand.com.

For home décor, try your own take on a faux sheepskin rug. It's made with their "Cheeky Chunky" 100 percent pure merino yarn.

Shop Now: Wool Couture Company Woolly Rug Crochet Kit, $109.86, woolcouturecompany.com.