My crochet patterns follow the Craft Yarn Council guidelines for crochet skill levels. They will help you to determine if the pattern you are interested in, appropriate for your level of expertise. But remember, labeling yourself is never a good thing. These skill levels should be guidelines and never discourage you from trying something you have never tried before and learn new techniques. There are four different crochet skill levels:
Level 1: BEGINNER
Projects for first-time crocheters using basic stitches. Minimal shaping.
We all started here. Crochet patterns marked with a beginner skill level are best for crocheters that have just started learning how to crochet. They use very basic crochet stitches as chain, single crochet, slip stitch, half double crochet and double crochet. They can read patterns with simple straightforward instructions giving them chance to learn stitch abbreviations. They can do simple shaping which comes handy when working in rounds in cylindrical shapes.
Projects: scarfs, simple amigurumi toys, blankets made of basic stitches, dishcloths.
Level 2: EASY
Projects using yarn with basic stitches, repetitive stitch patterns, simple color changes, and simple shaping and finishing.
Now that you’ve mastered basic crochet stitches you can finish simple crochet items and start shaping them with basic increase and decrease stitches. You know how to change a color and how to attach a new ball of yarn. Since basic crochet stitches are not a problem anymore you can put them together in repetitive patterns making beautiful fiber textures.
Projects: Baby booties made with a thick yarn, hats, simple baby rompers.
Level 3: INTERMEDIATE
Projects using a variety of techniques, such as basic lace patterns or color patterns, mid-level shaping and finishing.
Into this category belongs patterns with more advanced stitch combinations and more complex crochet techniques like different cable stitches and lace which makes knowing how to read more complicated instructions essential. You will be able to achieve colorful garments changing multiple yarn colors and crocheting wearable garments that you will simply love and be happy to wear.
Projects: baby booties, baby rompers, sweaters, cardigans, complex amigurumi, crochet mandalas.
Level 4: EXPERIENCED
Projects with intricate stitch patterns, techniques and dimension, such as non-repeating patterns, multi-color techniques, fine threads, small hooks, detailed shaping and refined finishing.
This is the most advanced level of skill in crochet, but there is always something to learn and expand your knowledge even further. Experienced crocheters confident in their work. They can watch TV and crochet at the same time without missing a stitch. Their hands will do the work without much thought and they can create beautiful items with perfect finishing.