If you’re left-handed and want to learn how to crochet, you might have already noticed that most tutorials and patterns are designed for right-handed crafters. But don’t worry—crochet is for everyone, and with the right tips, you can master the craft just as easily as any right-handed crocheter.
This guide will help you get started with left-handed crochet so you can feel confident and comfortable with your stitches.
1. Understanding the Basics of Left-Handed Crochet
Crochet works the same way whether you’re right-handed or left-handed. The main difference? You’ll be holding the hook in your left hand and working the stitches from right to left instead of the traditional left-to-right motion used by right-handed crocheters.
Most patterns won’t change based on hand preference, but you may need to make small adjustments to accommodate the natural way your hands move.
2. Finding Left-Handed Crochet Tutorials
Since most written tutorials and videos are for right-handed crocheters, it helps to find left-handed versions when starting out. Look for:
- YouTube tutorials specifically for left-handed crochet. Many crochet instructors provide mirrored or left-hand-focused lessons.
- Pattern books with left-handed instructions. Some books offer diagrams for both hands.
- Apps and websites that flip right-handed tutorials. Some video players allow you to mirror a video, making it easier to follow along.
3. How to Hold the Hook and Yarn
Holding the hook and yarn correctly can make a huge difference in how smoothly you crochet.
- Hold the hook in your left hand using either the pencil grip (holding it like a pencil) or the knife grip (holding it like a knife).
- Control the yarn with your right hand, wrapping it around your fingers to adjust the tension.
- Keep your hands relaxed—tight tension can make it harder to work stitches.
4. How to Read Patterns as a Left-Handed Crocheter
Most crochet patterns are written without specifying left- or right-handed techniques, so you can follow them as written. However, here are some things to keep in mind:
- Work from right to left. If a pattern tells you to work in a certain direction, remember that yours will be mirrored.
- Diagram adjustments. Some stitch diagrams are drawn with right-handed crocheters in mind, so try flipping them mentally or use a mirror to visualize them in reverse.
- Left-handed charts. Some pattern creators offer left-handed charts—these are great for visual learners.
5. Left-Handed Crochet in the Round
When crocheting in the round, such as for amigurumi or circular projects, you’ll still follow the pattern as written. However, your stitches may naturally lean in the opposite direction compared to a right-handed crocheter.
To keep things neat, use stitch markers to track the beginning of each round and ensure your pattern stays symmetrical.
6. Left-Handed Crocheting for Colorwork and Shaping
If you’re working on color changes, shaping, or special stitches, remember that the placement may be reversed. This is especially true for:
- Corner-to-corner (C2C) crochet patterns
- Tapestry crochet designs
- Shaped garments that follow a specific direction
When following video tutorials, it can help to mirror the video or find a left-handed instructor who explains these techniques in detail.
7. Connecting with Other Left-Handed Crocheters
You’re not alone! There’s a large community of left-handed crocheters who share tips and patterns tailored for left-hand use.
- Join Facebook groups or online forums dedicated to left-handed crafters.
- Follow left-handed crochet YouTubers and bloggers.
- Ask for left-handed guidance in crochet communities—many experienced crocheters are happy to help!
8. Practice, Practice, Practice!
As with any new skill, the key to improving your left-handed crochet is practice. Start with simple stitches like:
- Chain stitch (ch) – The foundation for most crochet projects.
- Single crochet (sc) – A basic but essential stitch.
- Double crochet (dc) – A versatile stitch for many patterns.
Once you feel comfortable, move on to more complex stitches and experiment with different patterns.