Have you always wanted to learn how to crochet? Now is a great time! Join me, my friends at Lion Brand, and makers from around the world for Crochet Academy, a 7-week event for aspiring crocheters!
This post contains affiliate links that support the content on TLYCBlog.com. All opinions are my own. Find my Privacy & Disclosures Policy here.
UPDATE: The original Crochet Academy was a live event, executed in late summer 2021. While the event is not running at this time, all tutorials and free patterns are still available. Keep scrolling to access all Crochet Academy content.
Check out the Crochet Academy highlights in this announcement video:
What Is Crochet Academy?
I’ve always loved doing crochet alongs (aka CALs). Crochet Academy builds on the idea of a crochet along by designating a period just for learning.
To keep it simple, Crochet Academy is a 7-week event designed to help guide new and returning makers through the fundamentals of crochet. Beginning July 12th, we’ll explore the basics when it comes to shopping for yarn, choosing the right tools, and how to crochet from the very start. The second half of the event is a crochet along with the 4 new designs I created especially for Crochet Academy. You can also look forward to live events, giveaways, and even a game show!
Here’s a breakdown of important dates:
- Sourcing Materials, now through July 12th. Kits for this fun event are available through Lion Brand beginning July 8th, or source your own yarn, hooks, and notions (keep scrolling for the project supply lists and links).
- Weeks 1-3, July 12-30. Learn the basics of crochet from how to shop for yarn, how to achieve straight edges, and more. We’ll wrap up Week 3 with our first project, a crochet washcloth.
- Weeks 4-7, August 2-27. Join the Crochet Academy Crochet Along. Choose any of the 4 new designs and make them alongside the other Academy participants.
Follow along & share your progress using the CAL hashtag on Instagram – #CrochetAcademy2021
Who Is Crochet Academy For?
There are so many reasons to learn crochet. Living through a pandemic and the subsequent quarantine brought a lot of new makers to the craft, but you might have other motivations. Here are just a few reasons to learn crochet and join Crochet Academy:
- You’ve always wanted to pick up a hobby.
- You learned some basic crochet recently and now you’re ready to go all in.
- You’re a knitter that wants to “get” crochet.
- You used to crochet but you’ve lost some of the knowledge.
- You want to try crochet as a stress reliever.
- You’re interested in starting a side business with crochet.
- You saw someone on Tik Tok crocheting and thought “I could do that!”
- You want a more productive way to binge-watch your favorite shows.
There’s no wrong reason to learn crochet. If you have any interest in getting better with a hook and string, Crochet Academy is for you! Sign up for Crochet Academy HERE.
Crochet Academy Important Dates
Get your calendars out and set some alerts for these important Crochet Academy dates:
- July 1 – Crochet Academy enrollment opens – SIGN UP HERE!
- July 8 – Pattern kits available from Lion Brand and LIVE Instagram event at 5pm ET – SHOP KITS HERE!
- July 12 – Crochet Academy kicks off with new content daily Mon-Fri
- August 2: Crochet Along starts (4 weeks) and Crochet Academy patterns available for purchase
Crochet Academy Posts
Check here daily to see which new post just went live!
Week 1
- Day 1: The Best and Worst Yarns for Crochet Beginners LINK
- Day 2: How & Where to Buy Yarn, In Person and Online LINK
- Day 3: A Beginner’s Guide to Crochet Hooks LINK
- Day 4: 12 Essentials Tools & Accessories for Crocheters LINK
- Day 5: Learn How to Crochet, Step by Step [TUTORIAL VIDEO] LINK
Week 2
- Day 1: How to Increase and Decrease Basic Stitches LINK
- Day 2: Crochet In The Round for Beginners LINK
- Day 3: 8 Crochet Color Changes LINK
- Day 4: Don’t Skip These 3 Crochet Finishing Steps LINK
- Day 5: 4 Easy Crochet Seaming Techniques [TUTORIAL VIDEO] LINK
Week 3
- Day 1: How to Read Crochet Patterns for Total Beginners LINK
- Day 2: Understanding Crochet Gauge LINK
- Day 3: TAKE A BREAK!
- Day 4: 5 Beginnner-Friendly Crochet Stitches LINK
- Day 5: Make the Half Moon Washcloth LINK
4 New Free Crochet Patterns
It wouldn’t be a TLYC event without some brand new patterns! I designed each of these to be a stepping stone on your path to conquering crochet. These designs will be available as kits from Lion Brand beginning July 8th and the individual patterns will be available free and for purchase on August 2nd.
Let’s explore each design in order of difficulty from super-easy to slightly-less-easy:
1 // Avon Throw
This is the chunky crochet throw blanket you’ve been dreaming of. By using heavy yarn and basic stitches, your blanket will crochet up quickly with minimal effort. We’ll explore beginner stitches, turned rows, and bobbles in this pattern.
Materials List: 1400 yards (11 skeins) Lion Brand Hue + Me (#5 bulky weight) in the color Desert, 10mm crochet hook, scissors, tapestry needle
2 // Marlo Hat + Scarf
Marlo takes texture to the next level with a combination of stitches worked over two different but complimentary accessories. The hat is a nod to my Barclay Beanie with columns of post stitches stacked on top of a ribbed brim. The scarf, by contrast, makes use of negative space by combining mesh and v-stitches.
Materials List: 1075 total yards (6 skeins) Lion Brand Wool-Ease (#4 worsted weight) in the color Grey Heather, 4mm crochet hook, 5mm crochet hook, 6mm crochet hook, scissors, tapestry needle, blue Clover pom pom maker
3 // Omar Wrap
We’ll go up a level with the Omar Wrap. Triangle scarves are a crochet staple, and the Omar Wrap is one you’ll make again and again. The use of color changing yarn allows us to really focus on the stitching and shaping techniques of this piece. The result is a super squishy shawl you’ll be dying to show off.
Materials List: 645 yards (2 cakes) Lion Brand Mandala Ombre (#4 worsted weight) in the color Cool, 6mm crochet hook, scissors, tapestry needle, locking stitch markers (optional)
4 // Kima Cardi
Last but not least is the Kima Cardi. This cardigan is so versatile. I mean, you can wear this to an outdoor music festival, on a first date, or even out to check the mailbox. It easier to make than it looks and the cozy factor is off the charts.
Size Guide: Pattern includes the sizes listed below. Note: Choose the size most suited to the fit you want. The finished cardigan is designed with 16-22″ of positive ease (meaning it is designed to be dramatically oversized). Size down for a more traditionally fitted cardigan.
- XS/S. Finished bust 50″. Sized for bust 28-34″. 930 yards/ 7 skeins.
- M/L. Finished bust 58″. Sized for bust 36-42″. 1160 yards/ 9 skeins.
- XL/2XL. Finished bust 66″. Sized for bust 44-50″. 1410 yards/ 11 skeins.
- 3XL/4XL. Finished bust 74″. Sized for bust 52-58″. 1685 yards / 13 skeins.
Materials List: Lion Brand Hue + Me (#5 bulky weight) in the color Desert, 10mm crochet hook, scissors, tapestry needle, locking stitch markers (optional)
How To Get Involved
UPDATE: The original Crochet Academy was a live event, executed in late summer 2021. While the event is not running at this time, all tutorials and free patterns are still available. Keep scrolling to access all Crochet Academy content.
Commemorate your crochet discovery with an official Crochet Academy Enamel Pin! Designed in collaboration with Twill & Print, these hard enamel pins make the perfect accent for project bags, jean jackets, and maker backpacks. Snag your pin HERE.
Crochet Academy 2021 Questions
What is a CAL?
A CAL, or crochet along, is a virtual event where makers from around the world work on the same project(s) together. For Crochet Academy, we’ll launch into the crochet along in week 4, after the education portion of the event is over.
I already know how to crochet. Can I just join the CAL in Week 4?
Absolutely! The CAL is open to everyone. Feel free to jump in anytime and be sure to share your progress using the CAL hashtag #CrochetAcademy2021.
Will there be videos for the new patterns?
Yes! Each new pattern will have a full tutorial video to teach you how to make the design from the first stitch all the way to blocking. We will learn to read patterns as part of Crochet Academy, so we’ll follow the patterns along with the video.
Can I use my own yarn for the crochet along?
Yes! Use the information from the materials list to swap in any of your own supplies. We’ll talk about gauge and yarn subs during Crochet Academy, so you’ll be able to figure out if you have a suitable substitution.
What are the best crochet hooks for beginners?
We’ll talk more about hooks when Crochet Academy kicks off. For now, I recommend a full set of Clover Amour hooks. The pack is pretty pricey, but you’ll end up wasting money on cheap hooks anyway. You can find the larger sizes of the Clover Amour hooks in plastic here.
Do I need any supplies other than what is listed?
Yes and no. We’ll talk more about finishing supplies during Crochet Academy and, while they’re not 100% required, I do recommend keeping finishing supplies on hand. If you want to get a jump on the event, check out these blocking boards (get 2 packs, trust me) and this garment steamer.
Will the posts and content from Crochet Academy be available after the event?
Yes! None of the links will change, and all Crochet Academy content will be linked in this post. You’re welcome to come back anytime and learn at your own pace.
Can I get the Lion Brand kits in [insert your country]?
Lion Brand does offer international shipping. Shipping costs and times vary by location. Please note that additional fees may apply, such as customs, duties & taxes (including GST/HST/VAT), etc. If you have specific questions about Lion Brand’s shipping policy, email them – [email protected].
Have more questions? Drop them in the comments!
Crochet Academy Pattern Links
Note: All 4 Crochet Academy patterns will be available for free and for individual purchase on August 2nd. The links below are a placeholder for now and will become live on August 2nd.
- Avon Throw Blanket Free Pattern | Tutorial Video
- Marlo Hat & Scarf Free Pattern | Tutorial Video
- Omar Wrap Free Pattern | Tutorial Video
- Kima Cardi Free Pattern | Tutorial Video
Felicia Brunetti says
Hey Tony I would like to join your crochet academy I’ve been watching you on YouTube and that’s where I’m learning right now I am working on a baby blanket doing Tunisian crochet that I’ve been learning from you please right back to me I wanna join your academy I want to learn how to read parents
Linda says
Hi Toni! I love your videos and am excited about the Crochet Academy but I wonder if I can follow it because I’m left-handed. I have done a bit of crochet with basic stitches but I’ve never even thought of making a garment because it seems like I’d need to reverse the pattern. I know this is a big ask, but will you be addressing this at all in your course?
Toni L. says
Hi Linda! Great question. I won’t have any content specific to lefties, but I encourage you to join along. I’ll be going at a slow enough pace and talking through the steps so I think it’ll be ok. When it comes to the cardigan, I went very simple with the design, so there will be no difference for a left or right handed crocheter, promise 🙂
Dani says
I am a lefty too ! I am happy to know this cardigan will work for me. I have never tried to make one for this reason . I look forward to making this. Thank you!!
Linda says
Thank you so much! I signed up this morning and am really looking forward to losing my fear of crochet.
Kerry La Porte says
Hi Linda, I’m left-handed too and came across this resource when I first started crocheting: https://www.mirrorthevideo.com/ It was invaluable for me as a beginner to be able to flip all the right-handed tutorial videos on YouTube to make them left-handed! x
Toni L. says
This is a genius resource! Thank you for sharing this 🙂
Linda says
That is the MOST amazing thing I’ve ever seen. Thank you so much for sharing that, it will change my crochet life!
Nerissa says
Good day, Toni! Just a short question. If I am already subscribed to your emails, do I need to sign up again for the Crochet Academy emails? Am really looking forward to the Academy, and also want to start working on your Tunisian Crochet instructions/videos. Thank you.
Toni L. says
Hi Nerissa! Great question. I don’t want to overload my main list with Crochet Academy emails, just in case there are folks that aren’t participating. So I made a separate list just for this event. You can join HERE.
Jenny Collins says
Hi Toni, I’ve been watching your videos for at least a year and have purchased several patterns. I’ve made the Daphne Blanket several times. Your yarn reviews are great and tutorials are so helpful. I look forward to Crochet Academy for help reading patterns, guidance on more complicated stitches and encouragement making my first clothing item other than scarves.
Toni L. says
I’m so glad you’ll be joining in, Jenny! There’s always more to learn 🙂
Allison Zwick says
So it was probably in the information above and if so I’m so sorry but what is the cost of the crochet academy (no way is this amazing thing free lol)
Toni L. says
Hi Allison! Crochet Academy is 100% free (aside from any materials you choose to buy). So glad you’re interested 🙂
Deborah Favorito says
Hi, I’m basically a beginner. I want to learn more about crocheting. I did take some lessons, but the instructor had a problem teaching me. I’m left handed, she had never taught a left handed person before. Will this course be difficult for me?
Toni L. says
Hi! I won’t have any left handed content in this course, but there is a plethora of content for leftie crocheters on YouTube, including some stellar “Learn How to Crochet” videos. Those might be a better fit for the actual crocheting, but we’ll learn some techniques that are not specific to being left or right handed in this course that I think could be helpful 🙂
WandaXxxx says
This sounds great. Will this all take place on YouTube? Also, is there a cost to join?
Toni L. says
Hi! This event is 100% free (aside from any materials you choose to buy). The majority of the event will take place through the posts here on my blog. There will be videos for just some of the topics. I’ll send all content updates via the Crochet Academy email list 🙂
Claptrap says
Hi Tony,
I would like to know how much time do you estimate a beginner needs to dedicate each day/week for the course?
Toni L. says
Hi! This event is all about going at your own pace. There’s not really a set amount of time you need to spend on any of the topics – just whatever you feel you need to practice. And the posts will always be there, so you can revisit them as you need to.
Shyanne says
Hey! I’m a part time employee and mom to a 4 month old… can I join and work at it when I’m available to do so?
Toni L. says
Sure can!
Janice says
Hi Toni!
This sounds great! What if I’m left-handed- would this class work for me?
Toni L. says
Hi Janice – I won’t be making left-handed content specifically, but there are a few resources you can use to flip the content horizontally. Flip This is a google chrome extension that allows you to flip a web page at the click of a button. MirrorTheVideo.com allows you to put in a youtube link and flip the video. Hope those prove helpful 🙂
Carol Redlinger says
That time doesn’t work for Me. Will the classes be posted online for viewing when it’s convenient?
Toni L. says
Yes, they will
Liz Vasi says
I would love to join the academy but I am scheduled for major surgery mid July, is it live or will I be able to catch up after my initial days of healing are underway? Sorry for the TMI but not sure if I’ll be up for much the first week or two
Toni L. says
Hi! Crochet Academy is a series of blog posts, and all of the posts will be on my blog forever. You can check back on this post for links to the content as it becomes available and you can jump into the content when it’s most convenient for you. Good luck on your surgery!!
Stacey says
Hi Toni:
Can wait for your Crochet Academy, it sound like just the thing I’m looking for to get a refresher course in crochet. For the CAL are we suppose to make all 4 projects or just pick one?
Toni L. says
Hi! For the CAL, you’re welcome to make as many projects as you like. Pick your favorite 1, 2, 3, or all 4. It’s totally up to you 🙂
Gerri says
Hi Toni,
Do you know the approximate costs the kits will be from Lion Brand.
I have already added my email to the list. Can’t wait!!!
Gerri
Toni L. says
Hi! I’m not sure, but they’ll be out tomorrow 🙂
Charlotte says
Hi Toni, I’m so glad you are starting this Academy. I’ve been crocheting for years but always have trouble getting gauge with yarn & stitch.. I think this will be a fun & informative class and I’m so excited to start..
Bennie says
Hi Toni,
Congrats on Crochet Academy. What an awesome way to teach others a new skill.
I have enjoyed your lives and look forward to many more.
Bennie
Stuart says
I don’t do Instagram (barely do Facebook). How much of a disadvantage will that be for the Academy classes?
Toni L. says
None. All of the content will be on the blog, so you’ll still have access to all of it.
Dawn says
I’m a lefty too, but I think I will be ok following. I’m getting use to tutorials that I have to crochet the opposite side. Lol I just ordered my yarn for the Omar Wrap and the Kima Cardi. It was quite expensive for me as I am on a budget. I won’t be able to buy anymore yarn for the projects. Is that going to be a problem? All I have on hand is like 4 weight acrylic yarn🤦♀️
Toni L. says
Hi! You don’t have to purchase new yarn for any of these projects. You are welcome to use what is in your stash 🙂
Dana says
Hi, Toni,
I loooove your videos! They’re so clear (both in terms of the video and your narrations)!
I’m allergic to wool. Do you have recommendations for choosing non-wool yarns for these projects, other than matching thickness? Thank you for doing this series!
Toni L. says
Hi! Matching the yarn thickness will be the most important part of swapping out any yarns mentioned for these patterns. I will be talking yarn subs later in Crochet Academy, as well 🙂
Roni says
Hi Toni! Super excited about the Academy starting soon! I’ve been reading the emails and on the blog searching for a supply list for the weeks before the projects. Is there one?
I’m from Germany so thinking to would be best to purchase local for what I don’t already have.
Thanks!
Toni L. says
Hi! There’s a materials list under the photo of each pattern in this blog post.
Sydney says
I’ve been crocheting for about 2 1/2 years…I bought the Kima Cardigan kit and can’t wait to make it along with others. I’m also interested in learning what I don’t know…I just kind of jumped in and figured things out as I went so this will be fun. Thank you!
Nicole says
Hi Toni, I am signed up for crochet academy and I already purchased the yarn for the project through your link from lion brand because I thought that’s what we were supposed to do, it didn’t include to pattern, can I still get it if I’m not ordering a kit? I ordered some hooks and pom pom maker through Amazon on your links on here also. I’m new to this and I’m confused 😕
Toni L. says
Hi! Please check the confirmation email you received from Lion Brand – there will be a button that links to your PDF pattern. If you mean that you’ve purchased yarn separate from the Lion Brand kits, then you will have to wait for the patterns, which will be available August 2nd.
Donna O'Hair says
Hi Toni,
I am so glad to find a way to “start over!” I have been crocheting for about 5 years, and have learned a lot , but have made many yarn mistakes. Looking forward to learning from one of the bests!!
Ashleigh Byrer says
Hi, Toni! SO excited for this. Does buying the kits directly from your Lion Brand link support you financially at all? Just trying to figure out where I want to get my yarn! Thanks
Toni L. says
Hi! Purchasing kits through the links I provide does generate a small commission 🙂
Christine says
Hi Toni,
I realize it’s not part of the pattern, but would I be able to add some kind of closures (loops and buttons, or hooks, or??) after I’ve made, or while I’m making, the cardigan? Looking forward to advancing my crochet skills! After learning the basics by making lots of washcloths, including some with Tunisian crochet using your tutorials, I’ve just finished my first project – your stash basket in Thick & Quick “Hudson Bay” – and it’s gorgeous! I intended for it to be a gift, but I don’t think I can give it away lol.
Toni L. says
Hi! So glad you’ll be joining the Crochet Academy CAL 🙂 Yes, you will absolutely be able to add closures to the cardigan.
Amy says
OMG, just ordered my yarn and pattern for the cardigan in Haze. I’m excited to get started on this with you and the others!
Andrew says
Hi Toni.
My name is Andrew. I’m brand new to crochet although I’ve purchased some hooks, yarn and books in the past but still get a bit intimidated. I’m very excited to Crochet Academy. I love your videos and get so inspired to start my journey, so this is going to be great to actually start. Thank you for this, I can’t wait!!
Best,
Andrew
Toni L. says
I’m so glad that you’re joining us, Andrew! Can’t wait to crochet with you 🙂
Anna H. says
Hi Toni! I learned to crochet and knit as a child but turned out to be a better knitter than crocheted.I’m a Knitter but really want to learn to crochet better. My goal is to have straight and even edges, learn to read a pattern . Thank You for doing this! Looking forward to Crochet Academy!
Cornelia says
Hi Toni,
I’m from Europe and had problems finding a yarn substitution that suits your projects and me. As I’m not good at the gauge calculation (yet 😉 ) I was looking for similar yarn (80% Acrylic, 20% Wool and for 10mm hook, for example) but couldn’t find it. So I was looking for Lion Brand over here in Europe and found lovecrafts.com. I purchased the yarn for all 4 projects (Yes, I’ll be trying to make all of them in August 🙂 ). I had to replace the “Mandala Ombre Yarn” with just “Mandala” (perhabs it’s the same anyway) but was able to find all the others. Maybe this is helpful for anyone else from europe. (Btw. they offer makers to sell their patterns there aswell, just in case you wan’t to expand 😉 ) Can’t wait for the acadamy and projects to start.
BR, Cornelia
Cindy says
Hi Toni 👋 – I am a totally new crocheter and so happy you are doing Crochet Academy!! I learned of this thru discussion threads on Eat Sleep Knit’s Ravelry Group as you are one of the featured designers for the Q3 CAL 😻😻😻 I will be making the Sweet Granny Square Blanket ( squee). I also took some inspiration from your Short’s Brewing beverage on the IG feed – had to try it, pretty tasty 😋. I see you are in Columbus; I am in Lexington, MI…we could have a “ maker meet up “ in Detroit for those in the vicinity, for a craft brew hop…just sayin’…it’s an option 🤪🍻
Janalyn Johnson says
The anticipation builds each day when I get my email notifications!!!! I re-read the posts as each is filled with so much good stuff!!! can’t wait til tomorrow!!!!
Adrian E. says
I’m so very excited. I learned to crochet 35 years ago. I’ve made some beautiful blankets but never have been able to make baby items or learn Tunisian crochet. I still can’t seem to get started again. Thank you for take time and sharing your gift.
Mary says
I signed up for you crochet academy to learn to Tunisian crochet. I know how to crochet. Although I am probable rusty because it’s been awhile since I crocheted. Also I just found your emails as they went into my junk mail for some reason . Is it to late to. Catch up? And I am not even sure if this is where I should be asking this question. Help!
Toni L. says
Hi! You can absolutely catch up. All of the posts are available to view whenever you want to 🙂
Cj says
I’ve been watching your Tunisian crochet and intro to crochet videos and I love them so much! I mostly knit and haven’t touched crochet since I was a kid, so having these videos as a resource has been great. I got ahead of myself and started working on the gauge swatch for the Avon throw, but it’s off by an inch, so I’m curious about if you have any tips for that. Of course, I can wait until the CAL to find out. Thanks!
Toni L. says
Hi! So excited about your enthusiasm 🙂 When you say “off”, is it too big? Or too small? And in what direction? Feel free to email me and we can work through the gauge issue.
Suzan Sabatucci says
Tried to download the cardigan pattern from the initial Crochet Academy blog but I got this message:
This site can’t be reached
Check if there is a typo in kima-cardi-free-chunky-crochet-cardigan-pattern.
If spelling is correct, try running Windows Network Diagnostics.
DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN
Toni L. says
Hi! Thanks for letting me know the link was broken. The link is fixed and now goes to the free pattern, available on the blog.