Crochet people how easy would it be to...

[Clickityclack]

Make a ripple blanket?
I have never picked up a hook ever but I really really want to make a ripple blanket like the ones on attic24. Once I've learnt would I be able to do it? Or is it just something I need to carry on dreaming about?

[craftynclothy]

There are two terms for crochet stitches (American and English). Once you can chain and do an English treble (US Double) crochet stitch you could do a ripple. It's mainly counting stitches to make sure you increase/decrease in the right places.

[TheWoollybacksWife]

It is quite easy once you have mastered chain and trebles.

The Attic24 blog has step by step instructions with loads of close up photos.

When i made my first ripple I counted the stitches all the time until I worked out that the hills and valleys were always worked on the same group of stitches. After that it was very soothing, sitting and rippling

My advice would be to start quite small, perhaps pram blanket size. My first was double bed size - very challenging but I had been hooking for years

Are you a complete novice? Do you know anyone that can show you the basics? I'm in Northants if that is anywhere near you. I keep offering my services - someone, someday will take me up on it

[CorrieDale]

Is there a knitting group near you? They are generally a great place to make a start on something you don't feel confident with!

[Clickityclack]

Oh woolly that's very kind of you but you're too far away. Yes i am a complete novice, I have no idea at all but I've read a few threads on here and seen some videos so I'm going to try and teach myself hopefully. I think that the ripple effect is just so pretty so I'm determined to do it!

[ThePigOfHappiness]

I made a ripple cushion to start with, it's easier than a full blanket and really rewarding to see it work up so quickly once you get into the swing if it.

[sooperdooper]

I'd start with the basic stitches first before trying the ripple effect :) you'll definitely be able to get there but concentrate on learning the stitches first and try something small first

YouTube has some great tutorials, you'll be addicted in no time!!

[qazxc]

i'd recommend doing a small sampler first til you get the hang of the stitches.
You tube is great when you are unsure as sometimes photos are unclear, having said that the instructions on attic 24 seem pretty clear.
Once you are confident you'll be able to enjoy making your blanket.

[TheSurgeonsMate]

I am just making my ripple sample now. I am not a beginner, as I used to crochet when I was a child. I am a little disappointed with the quality of the fabric I'm producing, and feel I need to raise my game a bit.

That said, the Attic24 pattern is no problem at all to follow.

But as she explains, the VERY HARDEST BIT is the beginning. It's not the way to learn crochet stitches trying to put them onto a lengthy chain. So, find a tutorial that's going to teach you treble stitches in a more forgiving way - into a granny square is easy. You can practice your rythm and tension in forming the crucial treble stitch that way before you start.