When you’re just starting to crochet, nothing beats having a helpful crochet book at your side to help you along your journey. In this article, we’re sharing our favorite crochet books, specifically chosen with beginners in mind. You’ll find our top picks for super clear how-to guides, handy stitch dictionaries, stylish pattern books, and yes – even some adorable amigurumi books. So grab your hooks and your library card, and let’s get started!
We know how daunting it can be when you’re just starting your crochet journey. With so many techniques, stitches, and patterns out there, knowing where to start can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve curated a list of our favorite crochet books specifically designed with beginners in mind.
Here are our top picks for the best crochet books for beginners, organized into four categories:
- Best for Beginners
- Stitch Dictionaries
- Pattern Inspiration
- Amigurumi and Toys
Best Crochet Books for Beginners
These beginner crochet books will answer any crochet questions that come up, from how to crochet the basic stitches to selecting the best tools and supplies. Keep these on your coffee table, right next to your crochet project bag.
Complete Crochet Course: The Ultimate Reference Guide – Mullett-Bowlsby
With step-by-step instructions for nearly every stitch and skill, this book is one that you’ll find yourself reaching for over and over.
It’s a comprehensive guide to the world of crochet that explains everything from basic stitches to more complicated techniques. It also talks about different types of yarn, the best crochet tools, and how to pick the right ones.
What we particularly liked about this book was how it managed to be both a comprehensive guide and very accessible. The detailed instructions are laid out in a way that feels like a friend is guiding you through every step.
So, if you’d appreciate a book that goes the extra mile to make sure you understand each concept thoroughly, Complete Crochet Course is definitely for you.
A to Z of Crochet: The Ultimate Guide for Beginner to Advanced Crocheter – Martingale
This one is a visual learner’s dream! With close-up photos of stitches, each with detailed explanations – it’s like having a crochet encyclopedia on your bookshelf.
It’s great to keep around for looking up stitches and techniques quickly (especially if you’re already somewhat familiar with the techniques and just need a quick review.)
While A to Z of Crochet does not include patterns, it’s still an informative guide for beginner to advanced crochet techniques.
The Tunisian Crochet Handbook: A Beginner’s Guide – Lipsey
If you’ve been eyeing those gorgeous Tunisian crochet pieces on Pinterest, this is the book for you. Lipsey, a brilliant Tunisian crochet instructor, packs this guide with everything you need to get started. You’ll learn what tools you’ll need to get started, how to begin stitching, and lots more. Plus, you’ll get a collection of modern, elegant Tunisian crochet patterns to try.
I also love how the book includes tutorials for other crochet techniques – not just Tunisian crochet. If you’ve ever felt confused about making a gauge swatch, creating pom poms and tassels, stitching on crochet fabric, etc., you’ll love the helpful explanations right here in this book!
If you are curious about Tunisian crochet and need a book that provides clear, easy-to-follow instructions, then the Tunisian Crochet Handbook is a wonderful choice.
The Crochet Answer Book: Solutions to Every Problem You’ll Ever Face; Answers to Every Question You’ll Ever Ask – Edie Eckman
This gem of a book is like a 24/7 crochet hotline. It covers pretty much every crochet question you might run into, making it a perfect go-to reference book.
You could bounce around the internet looking for crochet answers or ask your friends every time a question comes up…or, you could just keep this incredible reference book handy.
From complicated stitches to deciphering crochet patterns, this book answers pretty much every crochet question under the sun. Full of simple, easy-to-read explanations, you’ll find yourself turning to the Crochet Answer Book for answers again and again!
Best Crochet Stitch Books
Ready to spice up your next crochet project with some new stitches? These stitch books are like crochet dictionaries that will introduce you to a wide variety of new stitches to play with.
Crochet stitch books are a helpful reference for learning new crochet stitches, reviewing ones you may have forgotten, and understanding different ways to use a variety of stitches. Each book below has its own strong points, but they all include over 100 stitches to inspire and help you with your crochet projects.
Crochet Every Way Stitch Dictionary: 125 Essential Stitches to Crochet in Three Ways – Ohrenstein
You’ll find such a variety of beautiful stitches in this book, from lace to textured stitches and so much more. Each stitch includes clear pictures, written instructions, and a chart.
But this book goes beyond other stitch dictionaries in that it explains how to shape these stitches with increases and decreases. This is really unique for a stitch dictionary, and so helpful!
If you love experimenting with stitches and want to design your own patterns one day, I’d definitely recommend Crochet Every Way Stitch Dictionary!
Melissa Leapman’s Indispensable Stitch Collection for Crocheters: 200 Stitch Patterns in Words and Symbols – Leapman
This book is a stitch extravaganza! Perfect if you’re ready to experiment with new stitches or if you’re a designer looking to add some flair to your patterns.
It is worth noting that while this book clearly explains a large variety of stitch patterns and symbol charts, it does not include commentary such as suggestions for how to use the stitches or which yarns will work best.
My favorite part of this book was the combination of written instructions and symbol diagrams. It caters to different learning styles, making it a comprehensive resource. If you’re someone who appreciates a multifaceted learning approach, Melissa Leapman’s Indispensable Stitch Collection for Crocheters is a fantastic choice.
Crochet Stitch Dictionary: 200 Essential Stitches with Step-By-Step Photos – Hazell
This book is an excellent guide if you’re looking to review stitches or find new stitches. It’s broken up into 10 sections, such as basic stitches, bobbles & clusters, post stitches, cable stitches, Tunisian stitches, and more. For each stitch, you’ll also find a finished swatch picture so that you can see how it will look once it’s worked up.
While this book includes written, charted, and pictured instructions, there isn’t necessarily a picture for every single step of every stitch. Even so, Crochet Stitch Dictionary is a handy resource for those who want to expand their crochet vocabulary.
The Step-by-Step Guide to 200 Crochet Stitches – Todhunter
Here’s another fantastic guide for beginners looking to expand their stitch vocabulary. This book breaks down each stitch with easy-to-read instructions, colored photos, and simple diagrams.
Besides the stitch dictionary, you’ll also find tips and instructions for other basic crochet skills, such as color changes and fastening off.
One of our favorite parts of the Step-by-Step Guide to 200 Crochet Stitches is the visual Table of Contents. So even if you don’t know all the names of the stitches, you can glance through the photos in the Table of Contents to find a stitch pattern you’d like to learn.
Best Crochet Pattern Books
Ready to go beyond granny squares and dive into some fun projects? Whether you’re looking for gifts, wearables, or modern decor, these books are truly a treasure trove of well-written, beautiful crochet patterns.
Modern Crochet: Patterns and Designs for the Minimalist Maker – DeBrosse
If you’ve ever heard the stereotypes that crochet is old-fashioned or outdated… well, this book will prove them wrong. Modern Crochet is full of minimalistic, gorgeous patterns that are as aesthetically pleasing as the book itself.
It includes 15 patterns, such as a basket, an infinity scarf, oversized throws, a wall hanging, a scrunchie, and more. In addition, it also includes an online resource library with 25+ video tutorials.
While the book is suitable for all skill levels, some patterns might be a little tricky for first-timers.
What I particularly liked about this book was the modern, minimalistic approach to patterns. Modern Crochet is a great choice if you’re a fan of contemporary designs.
Crochet in a Weekend: 29 Quick-to-Stitch Sweaters, Tops, Shawls & More – Baca
If you’re a fan of instant gratification, this book is your dream come true. It’s filled with quick and chic wearable patterns that you can make in just a weekend. Pick up this book, and before you know it, you’ll have a wardrobe full of your own handmade crochet tops.
The book has 29 patterns, including shawls, sweaters, wraps, tops, and more. I love that Crochet in a Weekend has something for every season.
Handmade Hugs: 55 Giftable Crochet Patterns – Daisy Farm Crafts
If you love giving your crochet projects as gifts like I do, this book is a must-have. It offers a wide range of giftable patterns, from baby blankets to winter accessories, so it’s easy to find the ideal gift for almost anyone.
Not only do the patterns includes easy-to-understand instructions, but they also come with YouTube tutorials.
If you’re someone who finds joy in giving homemade gifts, Handmade Hugs is a treasure trove of ideas.
Modern Crochet Sweaters: 20 Chic Designs for Everyday Wear – Myska
Sweater weather is better with this book in your hands!
This book is filled with beautiful sweater patterns that are available in sizes XS to 5XL. It also includes tips for customization to help you tailor the designs to fit just right.
The patterns are clearly written and are ideal for the enthusiastic beginner and beyond. The only difficult part about Modern Crochet Sweaters is choosing which pattern to start with!
Best Amigurumi Books
If you love cute, tiny crochet projects as much as I do, these amigurumi books are going to steal your heart.
Crochet amigurumi is a Japanese art of creating small creatures out of yarn. These amigurumi crochet books include a variety of different patterns, from animals to food, fun toys, and lots more.
Some of these books are perfect for beginners, while others are better for intermediate crocheters. We’ve noted the appropriate skill level in the descriptions, so just keep reading to find out which is the best fit for you!
Whimsical Stitches: A Modern Makers Book of Amigurumi Crochet Patterns – Epsy
If you enjoy a touch of whimsy in your projects, you’ll love this one. It’s filled with creative, charming patterns that are just too adorable to resist.
This colorful book includes a lot of fun designs that you might not think of when you first imagine amigurumi. The book is divided into themes, including “In the Garden”, “At the Aquarium”, “Down on the Farm”, and “At the Bakery”. Besides the classic amigurumi designs like whales, pigs, and cows, you’ll also find other ideas such as berries, doughnuts, flowers, cupcakes, and so much more!
Epsy breaks down the patterns step-by-step and includes plenty of helpful pictures. Whimsical Stitches is a great book for beginners, though intermediate and advanced crocheters will love making these joyful little creatures, too! The clear, detailed instructions make it a delight to stitch up these charming creatures.
Crochet Cute Critters: 26 Easy Amigurumi Patterns – Zimmerman
This collection of amigurumi critters is a great reference for creating all kinds of adorable critters – from alligators to elephants to unicorns. These cute designs are perfect for snuggling and giving as gifts.
The patterns are easy and a good choice for beginners. You’ll find that many of the techniques within this book are the same or very similar from project to project, so once you make your first crochet animal, they’ll just get easier and easier! However, if you haven’t learned how to do basic crochet stitches already, you may want to do that first before jumping into Crochet Cute Critters.
Crochet Cafe: Recipes for Amigurumi Crochet Patterns – Epsy
This book combines two of my favorite things – food and crochet! From avocados to hot dogs, these crochet food patterns are just too delicious to pass up.
Whether you’re decorating or want to create toy food for a child’s play kitchen, this book is packed with over 30 creative and fun amigurumi food patterns.
Besides the creative designs, we also love that this book is really easy to follow. The explanations are thorough and there are lots of detailed images, so even beginners can use Crochet Cafe.
Kawaii Crochet: 40 Super Cute Crochet Patterns for Adorable Amigurumi – Bradley
This book caught my eye with its unique color-organized layout. Its variety of cute patterns (pencils, baby bottles, rain clouds) had me reaching for my crochet hook.
Besides the color-organized patterns, it also has some pages about color theory as well as the basics of crochet. This book is best for crafters who have some knowledge of crochet already.
One downside you may notice about this book is that some of the patterns are repeated with only slight changes, like different colors and other smaller details.
That said, if you love to make super-cute and colorful amigurumi, Kawaii Crochet is a great choice.
Explore More Crochet Articles
Ready for more? Check out these related articles:
- How to Crochet for Beginners: A Complete Guide
- The 7 Essential Crochet Supplies that Beginners Actually Need
- Best Crochet Hooks for Beginners: Our Top Picks
- How Much Yarn Do I Need for a Crochet Project?
What’s Next?
Pin this post: Save this tutorial to your Pinterest boards so that you can come back to it later.
Leave a comment: We love to hear your feedback. Tell me in the comments below!
Share on Instagram or Facebook: When you make this project, share it on social media and tag me @sarahmaker_. We love to see what you make!
Have questions? Join the Facebook Group!
We hope this article was useful for you! If you have any additional questions, feel free to join my Facebook Group. We created this group for you to share pictures, ask questions, and help each other out.
Similar Posts
17 Free Crochet Octopus Patterns: Fun for All Ages
25 Free Crochet Wall Hanging Patterns
30+ Free Crochet Cowl Patterns To Keep You Warm
15 Free Crochet Bucket Hat Patterns
21 Free Easter Crochet Patterns: Eggs, Baskets, Bunnies, and More
25 Free C2C Crochet Patterns (Blankets and More!)