How To: Choose crochet projects

Crocheting is a great hobby. It could even be a great business if you're good enough. But how do you go about figuring out what to crochet? What projects peak your interest, or others' interest? If you know some basic crochet stitches, it may be time to move on to a challenging project. Here are some steps to choosing the right crochet project for you.

You Will Need
* Crochet needles
* Yarn
* A pattern

Step 1: Start easy
Pick an easy project that has simple stitches and just a couple of steps from beginning to end if you are a beginner.

Step 2: Determine gauge
Determine the gauge, or the number of stitches in a square inch. Gauge determines the finished size of a crocheted item.

Baby blankets and scarves are more forgiving in gauge, making them good beginner projects.

Step 3: Choose yarn
Choose yarn, if you are a beginner, that is light in color or sport weight since it will be much easier to see your stitches, making it easier to keep up with the pattern.

Step 4: Move up
Move up to more challenging projects, like sweaters, and jackets, that have to match the correct gauge, if you are more advanced.

Step 5: Look at patterns
Look at the difficulty levels on patterns. Most patterns are rated as beginner, intermediate, and advanced.

When Martha Stewart was released from prison in 2005 she was wearing a crocheted poncho made for her by another inmate.