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There’s something truly special about creating with your own two hands
There’s a rhythm that ties us to simpler times, to the heart of home, and to the ones we love. Here at Perky Dove, the Handmade Homestead is where I share my love of crocheting and crafting cozy treasures — from soft blankets for our pets to heartfelt gifts stitched with love.
Whether you’re an experienced crocheter or just curious to learn, you’re always welcome here.
How I Got “Hooked”
I can still picture it like yesterday — sitting cross-legged on the floor beside my grandmother’s chair, mesmerized by the soft rhythm of her needlework. Her hands moved with such grace, looping and pulling the yarn through in ways that looked like pure magic to me.
She would hum while she worked, the soft click of her hooks keeping time. I remember thinking, “I want to do that. I want to make something with my own hands just like she does.”
That moment planted a seed in me — and ever since, I’ve been hooked. 🧶
Getting Started with Crochet
New to Crochet? Here’s What You’ll Need to Get Started:
If you’re ready to pick up a hook and try your hand at creating something cozy, here’s a beginner-friendly list to get you started:
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🧶 Crochet Hooks – Try a medium size like 5.0 mm (H-8).
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🧵 Worsted Weight Yarn – Great for beginners. Acrylic blends are affordable and forgiving.
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✂️ Scissors – A small, sharp pair makes snipping yarn easy.
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🪡Yarn Needles – For weaving in ends and finishing up.
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📏 Measuring Tape – Especially helpful for blankets and garments.
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🧷 Stitch Markers – Optional but very helpful when working in rounds or complex patterns.
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📘 Beginner Pattern Books – Start simple with a dishcloth, scarf, or granny square.
💡 Tip: I’ll be sharing beginner-friendly patterns and tutorials right here, so make sure you’re subscribed!
Learning the basics:
If you’re looking for extra help getting started, the Craft Yarn Council has excellent beginner tutorials and explanations for all kinds of stitches and yarn weights.
🧡 Tip for beginners: Don’t pull too tight — loose and relaxed stitches are easier to work with. Mistakes happen — that’s how we learn!
🎁 The Joy of Handmade Gifting
There is nothing like the look on someone’s face when you hand them a handmade gift — especially at a baby shower. I’ve seen eyes light up, hands instinctively reach for the yarn, and people gasp, “Oh my gosh, did you make this?” It’s one of those moments that reminds you why you sat up late finishing those last few rows.
Giving a gift that’s handmade — something soft, comforting, and full of love — is like wrapping up your heart and saying, “Here, I made this for you.” And believe me, it’s always the one that gets passed around the room.
Crochet Kits for Beginner, Learn to Crochet Set, Crocheting Kit, 1500 Yards Crochet Yarn, Crochet Hook Set, Crochet Accessories and Supplies
Stainless Steel Blunt Darning Needles & Bent Tapestry Needles & Sharp Hand Knitting Needles with Wooden Case,Perfect for Crochet/Darning/Yarn/Embroidery Pro...
Ergonomic Crochet Hooks Set with Case for Arthritic Hands
Ergonomic Knitting Needles with Storage Case, Stitch Marker, DIY Hand Knitting Craft Art Tools for Beginners
Stitch Needle Clip Counter 10 Colors (Color Ship Randomly)
for Cross Stitch Cutting Embroidery Sewing Handcraft Craft Art Work DIY Tool(Silver)
Want to explore more fun patterns and ideas? AllFreeCrochet is a treasure trove of free projects perfect for beginners and seasoned crafters alike.
💡 Tips & Tricks for Handmade Success
Over the years, I’ve picked up a few little tricks that make crocheting even more enjoyable:
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Always start with a slip knot you love — it sets the tone for the whole project.
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Use stitch markers generously, especially when working in rounds.
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Keep a yarn bag handy with your hook, scissors, and a project or two ready to grab — it’s perfect for couch time or road trips.
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Practice your tension — loose, even stitches will save you a lot of frustration.
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And most of all, don’t aim for perfection. Handmade isn’t about flawless stitches — it’s about the love you put into each loop.
📬 Stay Connected with the Handmade Homestead
If you love handmade treasures, baby shower gift ideas, or just want to hang out in a cozy creative space — I’d love to stay in touch.
➡️ Or browse the Crochet & Crafts category for more patterns, tips, and heartfelt creations.
So grab a cup of coffee, find a comfy chair, and let’s make something beautiful together. 🪴🧶
Let’s Keep Stitching Together
I designed this tag using Canva — one of my favorite free tools for creating printables, gift tags, and project labels with a handmade touch.
🧶 “Coming Soon”
Stay tuned for my next Handmade Homestead post, where I’ll share an easy pattern for a baby blanket that’s as soft as a cloud and perfect for gifting. ✨
🌸 In Closing…
There’s something deeply special about making things with your own two hands — not just the yarn and the stitches, but the time, the love, and the stories woven into every piece. Whether you’re creating your very first granny square or putting the final touches on a baby shower gift, each loop is a little act of care.
Here at Perky Dove, I hope this becomes a place where you feel inspired to create, to share, and to celebrate the beauty of handmade living. May your hooks stay busy, your heart stay full, and your gifts always bring a smile (and maybe even a few “Did you make this?” moments).
Let’s keep making something beautiful — together. 🧶🕊️
