I’ve been knitting for about seven years, and I’m confident with my stitches. I’m actually making things I used to dream of making. Since I’ve accomplished my knitting dream, it’s time to try something else - Crochet! This is definitely going to be interesting…..FUNNY even! Try not to laugh too hard, though. Remember that I’m a beginner. The last time I tried crochet was 20 years ago, and I’ve never really followed a crochet pattern before.
To get started with crochet, I pulled up the Bernat website, and clicked on the “New to Craft” button, then checked out the “Learn to Crochet” page. I grabbed a crochet hook, some bright orange yarn, and practiced some stitches. Then, I looked for Beginner Crochet Patterns by Bernat. I chose to try the “Handicrafter Cotton Dishcloth“, because the pattern said, “Fun and easy dishcloth pattern that anyone can handle.” Sounds like the right one for me! 
After starting over a few times, I was able to get a good flow. Check it out:
I then went to my favorite online knitting forum, and asked some crocheters for their advice on my first attempt. They said that I was doing well, but one of my stitches was wrong. I was working “in the chain” instead of “in the space”. But, I liked the lacy look, so I finished the cloth the “wrong way”. At least, I knew what NOT to do. (tee-hee) I decided to make another cloth the right way. You can’t have too many dishcloths!
Here’s my “wrong way” dishcloth. Isn’t it pretty?
So, now that I had practiced a while, I was ready for a REAL crochet project. When searching for “Beginner Crochet” on the Bernat pattern books page, I found lots of nice options. I decided to use the Bernat Pattern Book #542029 – Spa Bonus Book to make a nice set for my bathroom. I really need a new bathroom rug, and the matching cloths and tissue box cover will be nice too. I’m so excited to get started!
- Shandeh
“wrong” way or not it looks fantastic! great job
Thanks Karen! I’m very happy with it.
That is the wonderful thing about crochet – if it is even & nice looking, it is right. No matter where you put the hook!
You’re right! That’s the hardest part of the craft, and the most fun too.
As I tell my crochet students – “You are the one who has to be happy with it.”
I happen to like lacy dishcloths – they help the soap to foam.
You did an excellent job on your first crochet project. You should be nothing but proud of yourself!
Thanks Donna Lynne!
I’m enjoying using the dishcloth I made, and have made a few more now. I think it’s good that I made the first one the “wrong way”. Now, I’ll always remember that it was my first crochet project.
I think your dishcloth is beautiful! I love your “wrong way” stitch too. Its lovely.
Thanks Rose! I’m enjoying using my “wrong way” cloth.
I agree with everyone else – the ‘wrong’ dishcloth looks amazing. I love the setup for your photo shoot too!
Thanks Jen! I love my cow creamer. My MawMaw had one when I was a little girl, and I always loved it. She actually used it at the dinner table, too! It was such a fun thing to have. So, when I grew up, I HAD to have one! It was neat including it in this photo.