Stitches

Is taking crochet classes more useful than learning from books?

I would like to learn to crochet and am considering taking a class at the Y (it's $150 for 6 classes). I'm wondering if learning to crochet in this hands-on method would be significantly better than learning from books and videos. Anyone have experience with this?

Public Comments

1. It is easier if you watch someone when learning but they have videos now and tension only comes with practice. Here is a link for you to check out with lots of info and patterns.
2. $150 seems like an awfully high price for classes. Try following the directions in the following web sites. There are some videos and picture instructions. I taught myself how to crochet. It takes awhile to get the gauge right but you just have to keep practicing with it. http://video.google.com/videosearch?q=how+to+crochet&rls=com.microsoft:en-us:IE-SearchBox&oe=UTF-8&sourceid=ie7&rlz=1I7GGIT&um=1&ie=UTF-8&ei=GvOeSc3ZCI-ctwfDl-ibDQ&sa=X&oi=video_result_group&resnum=4&ct=title# http://crochet.about.com/library/blbeginners.htm
3. It depends on what kind of learner you are. Some need to actually see it, some can study books. I do like the idea of an actual class, where all the basics are covered, and you get a good start. Most of the work will come from you with lots of pratice, practice, practice! I do agree that $150 seems a little high for only 6 classes. However, if there is nothing else, you will have to accept it or not. I would let the coordinator of the class know that the price is too high. Sometimes only one class is all you need, just to get the basics of how to hold the hook and yarns, of what all those short abbreviations mean, and where to get more information. After that, some on-line videos may help (careful about YouTube -- not all of them are done very well, or even show you the correct way to do things). How do you learn the best?
4. How do you usually learn best? That method is what will work best for you. If you have learned other skills from books, then a good book with good diagrams may be the best way for you. If you prefer seeing a demonstration, YouTube videos or an instructional DVD may be best. If you need to try it for yourself and have an expert on hand to correct your errors and walk you through the basics--and give advice--perhaps a class is in your crocheting future. Or you might enjoy a combination of multiple methods. I agree that $25 per class is a high price for crochet classes. Does that include a "beginner kit" to make a project on which the entire class will learn together? A book and/or video? Lunch? The kit of pattern, hook, yarn, and other materials would lower the per-hour charge a bit; otherwise, consider the per-hour charge. In many places you would be able to find less expensive (but adequate) classes through the Continuing Education division of your local community college or through Adult Education classes through your public school system. If you decide on a book or similar instruction, I Can't Believe I'm Crocheting is available at most craft stores for under $10 and rudimentary instructions are available at the Crochet Guild of America web site for free (http://www.crochet.org/lessons/lessonr/lessonr.html --for right-handed crocheters; left-handed crochet instructions are also available.) You're on your own for finding a YouTube video that works for you; there are many available (some cause me to grind my teeth; others are excellent). I *can* recommend the DVD of I Can't Believe I'm Crocheting! which is available from Amazon.com at this link: http://www.amazon.com/I-Cant-Believe-Im-Crocheting/dp/B000GD85IU (and from other sources as well; however, you might want to read the user reviews at the bottom of the Amazon.com page). Keep in mind, a book or video may or may not have anticipated the question that becomes critical to you ("OMG! This yarn has a big knot in it that will show in my project. What should I do?"). You can always ask an instructor (well, usually--we've all known the weirdo who comes in, demonstrates, and leaves and refuses to take questions). Or you can come back to Yahoo! Answers and ask it here.
5. Taking classes opens up to a lot of things one doesn't really suspect. One that you will gain friendships that you would not have had before. You will also see the mistakes of others in the class and get first notice on what not to do. Taking on new hobbies can be frustrating and hearing others tell of their same frustrations gives you an awareness that you are not alone. Having said that, reading a book will allow you to go over something you have missed without any hissing and sighing from other people who caught on faster than you. Looking at free videos online will save you money and you can see them over and over again. For the most part when the instructor is finished with the class it will be up to you to learn all of those abbreviations and in order to do that, you will have to read. You know where I am going with this? You will have to read anyway! Go and take a look at the tutorials on http://www.youtube.com and make your decision after seeing all of what there is to offer for free.