Discover the Best Crochet Classes in NYC
Crochet is a type of fiber art that, similar to knitting, consists of using yarn to create beautifully patterned textiles such as hats, mittens, scarves, bags, and blankets. Unlike knitting, which uses a set of two long needles to stitch fabric together, crochet uses a single hook to loop stitches directly onto a piece of fabric. Crochet hooks come in a variety of sizes and materials, just as yarn comes in various weights and types of material, and it's important to choose the correct type for your project. For example, for larger projects made with heavier yarns – such as afghans or rugs – it is better to use a large plastic hook; while for delicate projects – like baby clothes, lace, and doilies – you would be better off with a small hook made of wood to help prevent the yarn from sliding off. Crochet patterns will tell you what stitches to use for your project as well as the yarn weight and size hook required.
Why You Should Learn Crochet in NYC
Are you looking for something fun and relaxing to do in your free time? Crochet is a perfect hobby for relieving stress while being productive and expressing your creativity. Instead of watching T.V. or scrolling through social media, you can try crochet as a better, more stress-reducing activity. Some individuals even find the repetitive motions involved in crochet to be meditative or therapeutic.
Another bonus is that learning crochet will give you the ability to create beautiful and useful textiles for yourself and others, such as winter accessories or baby items. Many crocheters gift their one-of-a-kind items to friends and family for birthdays, winter holidays, baby showers, housewarmings, etc. You can even make a side hustle out of selling your crochet on websites like Etsy, Amazon Handmade, or Facebook Marketplace. If you find the right niche, you could even make a part or full-time job out of selling your crochet. For instance, baby toys or stuffed toys are among some of the bestselling crocheted items on Etsy.
In addition to being a fun hobby, learning to crochet will plug you into a larger community of fiber artists and crafters. You can join a local crochet club to meet regularly with crocheters who work on projects together and share tips and tricks to help each other improve. Your local library and Facebook Groups are good places to start when searching for a crochet club near you. The Crochet Guild of America is another club worth looking into as a way to connect with crocheters on a larger scale. As a national non-profit organization, The Crochet Guild of America provides members the opportunity to increase their crochet knowledge and connect with others, as well as access to a library of unique designs and patterns. You can join a local chapter to connect in person with crocheters in your area, attend informative meetings and workshops, and have the opportunity to donate items such as crocheted afghans and clothing to local charities.
In-Person Crochet Classes & Schools in NYC
If you would like to take an in-person crochet class, you may be interested in Tabletop Accessories offered at 92nd Street Y in Manhattan. While not a traditional crochet class, Tabletop Accessories will give you the opportunity to apply crocheting techniques to unique items like napkin rings, as well as the chance to put your other creative skills to use while making jewelry and accessories. This class is for all skill levels ages 18 and older and is conducted over four sessions, two and a half hours each. Students are required to purchase some of their own supplies, for which a list will be provided. A proudly Jewish organization, 92nd Street Y welcomes people of all backgrounds to participate in the large range of classes taught by talented instructors at their community center.
If you are looking for a large variety of fiber arts in-person classes besides crochet, New York City is the place to be. NYC has a wide range of sewing and textile classes, including Beginner Quilting at the Brooklyn Craft Company in Greenpoint Brooklyn. In this one-day workshop, beginners ages 18 and older will learn quilting techniques such as batting and binding, how to assemble a "quilt sandwich," how to quilt on a sewing machine, and how to finish the edges of your quilt. Brooklyn Craft Company is a craft workshop that offers several types of creative classes, including embroidery, knitting, crochet, sewing, and quilting, as well as paper crafts, jewelry making, drawing, painting, and photography, to name a few.
Another in-person offering held at Brooklyn Craft Company is their Knit a Striped Summer Top course. Beginners with basic skills (you must be able to cast on and complete a knit-stitch) are welcome in this class, as are more intermediate knitters. Individuals will make a sleeveless tank with cotton yarn in this three-session workshop and will learn how to knit the stockinette stitch, how to knit stripes, how to create a sweater body, and how to assemble the components. You will walk away with the knowledge and ability to construct a basic shirt from start to finish.
If you would like to expand your sewing skills you might be interested in the Knit Jumpsuit class held at the New York Sewing Center, located in the heart of the garment district in Midtown. Beginners aged 10 and older will learn how to sew a fun and comfortable jumpsuit out of knit fabric appropriate for casual or formal occasions. Students will learn about different types of fabrics and supplies in addition to sewing and cutting techniques. Materials and supplies such as the sewing machine, basic sewing tools, and knit fabric are provided. For the Knit Jumpsuit class, you will need basic sewing skills, such as is taught in the New York Sewing Center's Sewing 101 class – a beginner-friendly class for individuals who are just picking up the needle and thread for the first time or those who need a refresher. In Sewing 101 students will learn how to use a sewing machine and sew a skirt or pants from a commercial pattern.
If you are looking for a way to connect with other sewers while completing your own project, you can attend the Social Sewing class offered by Gotham Quilts. This class gives sewers of all skill levels the opportunity to work on their own projects while sharing ideas and getting inspiration from others. Sewing machines, a design wall, cutting mats, and irons, are provided, as well as a knowledgeable instructor. Individuals can sign up for any of the numerous four-hour sessions available. Gotham Quilts, located in Midtown, Manhattan, is a quilt shop that hosts quilting classes and events.
Virtual Crochet Classes & Schools
While in-person crochet classes are often held at craft stores, fiber arts workshops, or community centers, virtual classes can be taken from anywhere, as long as you have a computer and Internet access. Virtual classes offer the flexibility to work from the comfort of your own home that many learners appreciate. In addition to saving you time by eliminating your commute to class, you may find more options with online crochet classes since you are not limited to your area. The drawback to taking a virtual crochet class is that you often have to provide your own materials and supplies.
The class Virtual Workshop: Crochet Hexagon Motifs, offered by Brooklyn Craft Company, is for all skill levels to learn how to crochet geometric shapes, similar to granny squares but in a hexagon motif. Students will learn how to crochet in the round to create these hexagons, which is a great launching pad for completing other crochet projects.
Individuals who want to expand their fiber arts skills can also check out Introduction to Weaving offered by the Chicago Botanic Garden. In this beginner-friendly class for ages 18 and older, individuals will learn how to weave using traditional tapestry approaches and techniques. If you don't already have a loom, don't fret as your teacher will instruct you how to create one out of cardboard. The class consists of eight two-hour sessions and a supply list will be sent in advance.
If you want to expand your needlework repertoire even more you can attend Sewing 101: Basics by the New York Sewing Center. This class is for beginners ages 10 and older with no prior sewing knowledge or for those who just need a refresher on their sewing skills. Students will learn how to use a sewing machine to sew a skirt or pants from a commercial pattern. Fabric and supplies are to be provided by the student.
Private Group Crochet Classes in NYC
Are you looking for a unique interactive experience for your team or group? CourseHorse offers private group crochet classes for NYC that are delivered live online. Even if there are no crochet classes listed publicly at the moment, you can reach out through their contact form on the website to learn about what options are available.
