Ever wondered what your true crochet skill level is?
Whether you’re a newbie just learning to chain or a seasoned pro tackling intricate lacework, knowing your skill level can help you pick the right patterns and grow your crochet expertise with confidence!
You’ve probably heard terms like “advanced beginner” or “confident crocheter” floating around in crochet groups or pattern descriptions, right?
It’s easy to assume there are all sorts of in-between levels when it comes to crochet skills.
But here’s the real scoop—there are actually only four universally recognized skill levels in the crochet world!
Yep, just four.
These are the official categories that industry experts and pattern designers use to communicate how easy (or tricky) a crochet project will be.
So, if you’ve ever wondered whether you’re a beginner, expert, or somewhere in between, this is for you.
Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
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What’s Your Crochet Skill Level?
Before you answer that, let’s clear up a few common misconceptions!
Your crochet skill level is not based on:
- How long you’ve been crocheting (yep, you can totally become an expert in just a few months)!
- The number of projects you’ve finished (you could make 100 scarves and still be at the beginner crochet skill level)!
Your crochet skill level isn’t just about how many projects you’ve made or how long you’ve been crocheting—it’s about what you know and how well you can put that knowledge into practice.
Think of it like this: knowing how to do a stitch is one thing, but being able to consistently use that stitch in complex patterns, with different yarns, and under varying conditions—that’s skill.
It’s a combination of understanding different techniques, stitches, and patterns, and being able to execute them smoothly.
For example, you might know how to do a single crochet, but do you know how to shape a project using increases and decreases?
Can you follow a multi-page pattern with complex variations, techniques, stitches, sections and still keep your project looking polished?
That’s the difference between knowing the basics and mastering your skill.
In short, your crochet skill level reflects how much knowledge you’ve gained over time and, more importantly, how well you can apply that knowledge when creating projects.
Whether you’re working on a simple scarf or a complicated lace project, the ability to take your knowledge and translate it into a finished piece is what truly defines your skill level.
4 Universal Crochet Skill Levels
If you’ve ever skimmed the beginning of a crochet pattern, you’ve probably noticed a skill level listed to give you a heads-up about how challenging it is.
The four levels are:
- Beginner
- Easy
- Intermediate
- Experienced
Each of these categories is based on the stitches and techniques used in a project, so you know what skills you’ll need to complete it.
The Craft Yarn Council defines these levels after gathering insights from industry pros.
Level 1: Beginner
Perfect for first-time crocheters!
You’ll be using simple stitches like chain (ch), single crochet (sc), half-double crochet (hdc), and double crochet (dc) without any shaping or fancy techniques.
- What you’ll make: Washcloths, scarves
- Give it a try: Check out the Griddle Stitch tutorial
Level 2: Easy
Here, you’ll be using basic stitches but with a bit more variety—repetitive stitch patterns, simple color changes, and maybe even some shaping.
- What you’ll make: Hats, cowls
- Give it a try: Try the Ombre Beanie
Level 3: Intermediate
Now we’re stepping it up!
Intermediate projects involve a range of techniques, more intricate stitch patterns, and shaping like increases and decreases.
- What you’ll make: Triangle shawls, simple amigurumi
- Give it a try: Try the Half Circle Wrap Scarf
Level 4: Experienced
This is where it gets complicated.
You’ll be working with intricate stitch patterns, non-repeating designs, multi-colored techniques (hello, tapestry and fair isle!), and detailed shaping.
- What you’ll make: Multi-piece garments, detailed sweaters
- Give it a try: Try Vanna’s Afghan Square
Skill Level vs. Experience
Here’s something to keep in mind: the skill level you can crochet doesn’t always match your overall experience.
- You might complete a super complex project but still not be an expert.
- Or, you may have been crocheting for years and prefer sticking to beginner patterns.
It’s totally possible to crochet an intricate lace sweater after just a few months of learning—or to spend decades crocheting simple projects without advancing.
It all depends on the skills you’ve picked up along the way!
How To Build Your Crochet Skill Level?
To become a crochet expert, it’s all about mastering the basics first, then building your knowledge and skills from there.
Expertise comes from expanding your stitch combinations, tackling new techniques, and experimenting with different fabric structures and project types.
Crochet Skill Building Workshop
If you’re serious about leveling up, we’ve got you covered!
Our Crochet Skill Building Workshop (included in the Crochet Membership) walks you through each of the four skill levels in depth.
- What’s included?
- Video walkthroughs
- Printable lesson handouts
- Skill-building patterns
- Quizzes to test your knowledge
- And a certificate when you finish!
You can get a preview of lesson 1 right here – Lesson 1: Crochet Project & Skill Level Video.
What’s Your Crochet Skill Level?
Curious about where you fall on the skill level spectrum?
Join our community to share your latest crochet project with us, and share your thoughts and questions on crochet skill levels!
Peace + Love + Crochet
Salena
